For Nate Bargatze, the Tennessee-born comic who’s become one of America’s most beloved stand-up performers, hosting the 77th Emmy Awards represents the culmination of a career built on understated charm and everyman relatability.

Known for his commitment to clean humor, Bargatze had a series of successful comedy specials, like “The Greatest Average American” and “The Tennessee Kid.”

After decades in the business, he shot to fame after his 2023 “ Saturday Night Live” appearance . His 2024 tour crowned him the highest-grossing comedian of the yea r.

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Kenan Thompson, host Nate Bargatze, Mikey Day, and Bowen Yang during the “Washington’s Dream 2” sketch on Saturday, October 5, 2024. Will Heath / NBC

Now, Bargatze is approaching his hosting duties with

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