The Television Academy has announced the introduction of its first major new award in nearly 20 years. Dubbed the “Legacy Award,” the distinction will recognize television programs “that have made a profound and lasting impact on audiences and remain relevant to society, culture, and the industry.”
Oversight of the new award will fall to the Governors Award committee — recently renamed the Special Awards committee — which will determine the eligible candidates each year. The Television Academy’s Board of Governors will then vote on final selections. Submissions may come from board members, the Special Awards committee, or any individual who formally submits a letter for consideration.
“The Legacy Award celebrates groundbreaking programming — programs that have stood the test of time delivering stories that continue to engage audiences and featuring iconic and timeless characters with multigenerational appeal,” said Television Academy chair Cris Abrego. “The award allows the Academy to honor more of television’s rich history and acknowledge the storytellers whose work has resonated with viewers and continues to entertain legions of fans around the globe.”
Like current Governors Award recipients, Legacy Award honorees will receive an engraved Emmy statuette. According to the Academy, the award presentation could take place at a variety of events, including the Creative Arts Emmys, the main Emmy telecast, the Televerse gathering, or the organization’s Hall of Fame ceremony.
To qualify, a program must have aired at least 60 episodes over a minimum of five seasons and demonstrate “continued or sustained relevance, influence or inspiration” within its genre, for audiences past or present, and/or for broader society and culture. Franchises spanning multiple series will be evaluated as a single entity and may receive only one Legacy Award. No program will be eligible to receive the honor more than once.
The Television Academy last introduced a major award category in 2007 with the launch of the Television Academy Honors, which spotlight programming that fosters positive social impact. Other notable distinctions presented by the Academy include the Hall of Fame, the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award, and the Governors Award.
What did you think of this news? What are some shows you feel should qualify for this new Emmy Award from the Television Academy? Please let us know in the comments section below and on Next Best Picture’s X account.
