There will be no big parties for the Emmy Awards this September.
The Television Academy announced this morning that the Creative Arts Emmys — which precede the big Emmys by a week– will be held virtually, somehow, over three nights beginning September 12th.
The actual Emmys, set for September 20th, will likely also be virtual. The Academy is not going to stuff 12,000 people into the Microsoft Theatre at LA Live.
The Academy also cancelled the Governor’s Ball that follows the Emmys. Instead they’re contributing $1 million to the Actors Fund.
We knew the parties were over when HBO cancelled its big soiree at the Pacific Design Center. This is too bad because I’d planned on stalking Issa Rae. I love her show. So she’s breathing a sigh of relief!
From the press release: “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,” said Television Academy Chairman and CEO Frank Scherma. “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.”
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. “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,” he said.
