The Emmys: Mapping the Future

I do not watch the award shows, but the outcome can tell us a little about what the television industry may support in the future. In that regard, it is unfortunate that Netflix did not come away with much in the way of Emmy Awards this week since I believe the company has done very well with the creation of new programs, such as House of Cards and Orange is the New Black, as well as offering a lifeline to other shows, such as The Killing.  That said, I am glad that Kevin Spacey, Robin Wright, Reg E. Cathey, and Kate Mara from House of Cards were at least nominated for awards, which is still an impressive feat. I should add that House of Cards had 22 nominations in the last 2 years and 4 wins in the more minor categories, and the same goes for Orange is the New Black with 12 nominations this year and 3 wins.  So in no way were these programs ignored.  

I should also add that I was very happy to see Amy Poehler and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, the twin heroines of comedy television, nominated as lead actresses in a comedy series even if they did not win.  Parks & Recreations continues to be ignored for all its great work, but at least they are on the board (11 nominations over the years and 0 wins). 

Yet I was most pleased to see Fargo's Billy Bob Thornton, Martin Freeman, and Allison Tolman nominated, with Fargo winning in the Outstanding Miniseries category (and garnering 18 nominations this year with 3 wins).  What an amazing show Fargo turned out to be, and I for one look forward to a second season with (sadly in a way) a new cast, location, and story.  TV doesn't get much better, and the Emmy Awards recognized this.  Maybe not enough, but Fargo had its day in the sun, which is much appreciated up north.