Marcello Hernández Flirts With ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Star Zendaya at the Emmys While Tom Holland Is Right Beside Her
Awards shows have a unique way of transforming even the most rehearsed moments into unpredictable entertainment the moment a comedian takes the stage. Presenters are typically expected to introduce a category and step aside, but occasionally, someone decides to add a little extra flair to the event.
That was the vibe ‘Saturday Night Live’ star Marcello Hernández brought to the Emmy Awards on Monday night. Making his debut at the ceremony, Hernández took the stage to present the award for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series, but not before engaging the audience with a series of shoutouts to some of the biggest stars present.
He kicked things off by greeting Harrison Ford, who was nominated for best supporting actor in a comedy series for ‘Shrinking,’ before turning his attention to Zendaya, who was seated alongside her husband and ‘Spider-Man’ co-star, Tom Holland. What followed became one of the most memorable unscripted moments of the night.
“I want to say hi to Zendaya! You’re a beast and you’re amazing, and I saw you and I wanted to play it cool, and I’ve decided I can’t do that,” Hernández said, prompting laughter from the audience. “So, I would like to invite you and Spider-Man to have dinner at my house.”
Both Zendaya and Holland erupted in laughter at the unexpected invitation, with cameras capturing their genuine reactions as it unfolded in the Peacock Theater. Hernández continued, moving on to greet Oscar Isaac, who was nominated for best actor in a limited series for ‘Beef,’ joking that since Isaac’s real surname is also Hernández, “we could be cousins” and promising to see him at Christmas to cook whatever he wanted.
Marcello Hernández invites Zendaya and Tom Holland to dinner at his house while presenting at the #Emmys:
“I saw you and I wanted to play it cool, and I’ve decided I can’t do that. So, I would like to invite you and Spider-Man to have dinner at my house.”
(via NBC/EMMYS) pic.twitter.com/97ipJ8EQqu
— Variety (@Variety) September 15, 2026
The dinner invitation came during a significant night for Zendaya, who was both a nominee and a presenter. Earlier in the evening, she took the stage to present the award for Lead Actress in a Comedy Series, which ultimately went to Jean Smart for her historic fifth win for ‘Hacks.’
Zendaya was nominated for Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in ‘Euphoria,’ marking her sixth and final nomination for portraying Rue after winning the category in both 2020 and 2022. Although she didn’t take home a third trophy this time, the event provided fans with a rare glimpse of her and Holland enjoying a night out together in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Zendaya debuted a chic pixie haircut for the occasion, styled in Prada and accessorized with Mikimoto jewels, before reuniting with Holland inside the venue, creating a genuine date night vibe mixed with business. Holland was also making his first appearance at the Emmys, joining his wife for the evening.
Hernández wrapped up his bit with a final greeting to Matthew McConaughey, referencing advice from his “Cuban tía metiche” about one day getting to hang out with the actor if he worked hard enough. This entire sequence fit seamlessly into the broader trend of spontaneous celebrity interactions that often dominate award season discussions as much as the actual wins.
For a night filled with historic achievements and heartfelt speeches, Hernández’s playful dinner invitation provided a refreshing moment of levity, ensuring that Zendaya and Holland will remember the offer for a long time.
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