Emmys Removes Categories From Telecast, Including Two Limited Acting

Key Points:

• The Television Academy will reduce the number of Emmy categories presented during the primetime telecast on Sept. 14 from 26 to 19, moving five categories—including writing and supporting actor/actress in limited series or movies—to earlier ceremonies on Sept. 5 and 6.
• The decision aims to revitalize the Emmy telecast by freeing up time for more entertainment elements like musical performances and comedic bits, with TV Academy chair Cris Abrego emphasizing a balance across disciplines and a better viewing experience.
• The DGA, SAG-AFTRA, and WGA jointly expressed displeasure, stating that removing categories from the primetime broadcast devalues the contributions of the artists the awards are meant to honor.
• The Academy is dropping the "Creative Arts" distinction for the earlier ceremonies, now referring to all three events simply as the "Emmys," and is working with NBC and producers Jesse Collins Entertainment to creatively fill the extra time on the main telecast.
• Outreach to guilds is planned to address concerns, with the Academy highlighting the need to evolve the ceremony to remain culturally relevant and engaging amid changing audience habits; the 78th Emmy Awards will be hosted by Mariska Hargitay and air live on NBC and Peacock.