Emmys Revamp Telecast, Move Five Categories Out of Primetime

Washington: The Television Academy has approved a major overhaul of the 78th Emmy Awards telecast, shifting five award categories out of the NBC primetime broadcast in a bid to refresh the show and make room for more entertainment segments.

According to Variety, the Academy’s Board of Governors voted to move the categories to ceremonies scheduled for September 5 and 6, reducing the number of awards presented during the live telecast from 26 last year to 19 this year.

The affected categories include Writing for a Variety Series, Supporting Actor and Actress in a Limited/Anthology Series or Movie, and directing and writing categories for limited series or movies.

The decision has drawn criticism from the Directors Guild of America, SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America, which said the move “devalues the contributions” of key creative professionals.

Television Academy chair Cris Abrego said the changes aim to improve the viewing experience by allowing more space for performances, comedy segments and acceptance speeches, while maintaining balance across creative disciplines.

He acknowledged concerns from industry bodies, adding that the Academy plans to engage with affected guilds while ensuring the awards remain relevant to evolving audiences.

The Academy also said the ceremonies traditionally known as the “Creative Arts Emmys” will be rebranded, with all events — on September 5, 6 and 14 — presented simply as the “Emmys”.

The 78th Emmy Awards will air live on NBC and stream on Peacock on September 14 from the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.