The Television Academy plans to reduce the number of Emmy categories that are awarded during its primetime Emmy telecast on Sept. 14. On Thursday, the Academy’s Board of Governors voted to shift five categories to the earlier Emmy ceremonies on Sept. 5 and Sept. 6: Writing for a variety series, supporting actor and actress in a limited/anthology series or movie, directing for a limited series/anthology or movie and writing for a limited series/anthology or movie.
By trimming the number of awards presented in primetime to 19 (compared to 26 handed out last year), the org said it’s making a concerted effort to revitalize the ceremony — which rarely has time to include any entertainment due to the tremendous number of kudos that have to be handed out.
TV Academy chair Cris Abrego told Variety that he hopes moving out some awards creates more leeway for musical performances, comedic bits and unexpected acceptance speeches.
“We’re really excited to flex more creativity into the show,” he said. “This is not new, but the Academy’s always been committed to delivering an Emmy telecast that celebrates television, and also creating the best possible viewing experience. But it needs time, and that’s where we really want to find time to create an incredible night of entertainment that celebrates all of the Emmy winners.”
