HBO Max celebrated a major night at the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards with a star-studded afterparty at San Vicente Bungalows in West Hollywood, bringing together more than 100 actors, creators and other members of the HBO Max family.
The celebration followed a successful evening for the network and streaming platform, which entered the awards with 122 nominations and finished the night with 21 wins. Among the evening’s top honors were Outstanding Drama Series for “The Pitt” and Outstanding Limited Series for “DTF St. Louis.” Jean Smart also made Emmy history, earning her fifth Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series award for “Hacks.”
The afterparty featured an impressive guest list that reflected the breadth of HBO Max’s programming. Attendees included Noah Wyle, Jean Smart, Mark Ruffalo, Jason Bateman, David Harbour, Linda Cardellini, Richard Gadd, Carrie Coon, Lisa Kudrow, Steve Carell, Rachel Sennott, Emma D’Arcy, John Oliver and George R.R. Martin.
Music kept the celebration going throughout the night, with DJ Bella Fiasco setting the tone before Grammy-nominated electronic duo The Knocks took over the soundtrack. The entertainment extended beyond the dance floor with a karaoke activation that became a popular gathering spot for guests.
Food and drinks were equally central to the evening. Michelin Guide-recognized Good Alley served modern Chinese dumplings, while Los Angeles favorite Howlin’ Rays brought its signature Nashville hot chicken nugs and waffles to the party. Guests also received a taste of Henry’s Secret Ice Cream, which made its pop-up debut with flavors including Passionfruit & Coconut Sorbet, Milk & Honey and German Chocolate Cake.
The ice cream experience included a special take-home pint of Buttered Caramel Popcorn, a custom flavor created exclusively for the event.
One of the night’s most distinctive installations came from LA-based ice artist Leslie Kirchhoff, founder of Disco Cubes. A seven-foot sculptural ice installation transformed the Bungalows’ fountain into a dramatic centerpiece that also served as a caviar and martini bar. Another caviar experience was tucked inside the elevator, pairing traditional caviar offerings with chilled Ketel One vodka.
Guests could also try their luck at a custom claw machine stocked with vintage HBO merchandise and playful house-party essentials.
The celebration brought together HBO Max talent, friends and industry figures for an evening that matched the platform’s awards-season success with a distinctly Los Angeles party atmosphere. From acclaimed performances and major Emmy wins to elaborate food, music and entertainment, the afterparty offered a fitting finale to one of television’s biggest nights.