The 26th Annual News and Documentary Emmy Awards were presented by the National Television Academy at a black-tie ceremony at the Marriott Marquis hotel in New York City. Newsmakers and industry executives presented awards to broadcast journalists. United Nations Undersecretary-General Shashi Tharoor presented two awards on behalf of the International Academy of TV Arts and Sciences.

A Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Sheila Nevins for her contributions to the art of the documentary. CBS News anchor and correspondent Dan Rather received a special tribute in recognition of his 55 years as a correspondent and anchor. Those who participated in the tribute included Ted Koppel, Brian Williams, former Secretary of Defense William Cohen, Susan Zirinsky, Rick Kaplan, Tom Bettag, and Marvin Kalb. NBC News correspondent Tom Brokaw made a special tribute via video. The late Peter Jennings' contributions to broadcast journalism were also remembered during the event.