Dolphin Talent’s Acting + Industry Guide

What Does it Take to Win an Emmy?

And the winner is…

The 62nd Primetime Emmy Awards took place on Sunday, August 29th.  Though many watched out of curiosity for  the glitz, glamour and ensemble a celebrity may bring, many more watch out of sheer delight at the acknowledgement of such talented individuals for their outstanding accomplishment in the realm of television.

So as we all stared in awe at the spectacle of such a special night, here is a little insight into how someone qualifies for an Emmy in the first place.

1. First a an eligible individual affiliated with the show being entered may apply until April 30th.  All shows that originally premiered on television between June 1st, 2009 and May 31st, 2010 from 6 PM - 2 AM are considered eligible.  An  individual’s eligibility is based upon screen credit.

2. It is up to the applicant to select which specific competition they are entering.  In the case of last Sunday, one would select 62nd Primetime Emmy Awards.  There are several other Emmy competitions as well that include Daytime Emmy Awards or the LA  Area Emmy Awards.

3. Next the general area or discipline must be selected and then the specific category.  Producers may enter their programs for nominations in all categories, while an individual may enter themselves for specific individual awards.  For example, one might select Cinematography as the general area with the specific category of a one hour series.

4. Ballots are then posted on June 4th for all of those members of the Academy of Arts and Sciences to vote on the nominees.  All members can vote on best program nominations.

5. Nominees were announced on July 8th from the Academy’s Leonard H. Goldenson Theatre.

6. Volunteers from the Academy’s active members are asked to serve as judges.  Judging took place over the next month to determine the winners in each category.

7. Ballots are returned from judges and everyone waits in anticipation until the Emmy Awards are held and televised for all to watch.

Hopefully, this has given you a little perspective into the process involved in winning an Emmy!  One day it might be you!

-Jenn