Creative Arts Emmys Go Virtual, Are Primetime Emmy Awards Next?

The next incarnation of the Academy Awards has been delayed, but the Primetime Emmy Awards are still moving forward. What won’t be occurring are live versions of the Creative Arts Emmy Awards. They side ceremonies to the main Emmys telecast will now occur virtually.

Originally set for Sept 12-13, the Television Academy revealed that the Creative Arts Emmys will now take place over several undetermined nights in September instead. How the awards will be handed out is still in “development.” The Creative Arts Emmys recognize artists and craftspeople in categories across all genres including reality, variety, documentary, animation, comedy, drama, limited series and movies. Major awards such as Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program and Outstanding Reality Program are traditionally handed out at the Creative Arts Emmys.

Additionally, the Television Academy revealed that the traditional Governors Ball events that have followed the Creative Arts and Primetime ceremonies will not go forward. In a statement, they noted, “The decision was made as a precautionary measure to protect the health and safety of Emmy winners, nominees and guests during the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Television Academy Chairman and CEO Frank Scherma added, “This has been an incredibly challenging time for our industry; and though we are now making plans to get back to work, we know there are many still suffering from the work stoppage caused by the coronavirus. As we strive to do the right thing for our community with these changes to our annual events, the Television Academy is also pleased to support those still in need with a $1 million donation to The Actors Fund COVID-19 Relief Fund.”

The Television Academy noted that Scherma said that the gift will add to a pipeline of support for those in the entertainment industry who are struggling to meet basic needs due to layoffs, employment furloughs and other impacts of the pandemic, remarking, “As the industry reemerges, we will continue to support our more than 24,000 members and our community through this donation and our Academy’s programs and resources.”

According to the organization over $12.5 million in emergency financial assistance to 10,598 people who work in performing arts and entertainment.

The 72nd Primetime Emmy Awards are still scheduled for September 20, 2020 on ABC. Discussions regarding the format and production of the Emmys are currently evolving. The Television Academy says “Scherma noted both the Academy and ABC are committed to delivering a show that honors television’s unparalleled role throughout 2020 in bringing people together during a worldwide pandemic as well as acknowledge and support the unprecedented national and global demand for social justice and equality.”

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