The 2020 Creative Arts Emmys will be held virtually over several nights in September, and the Governors Ball events for both the Emmys and Creative Arts Emmys will not take place this year because of concerns about COVID-19, the Television Academy announced Monday.
The academy also announced a $1 million gift to an industry fund for coronavirus relief and confirmed that the 72nd Emmy Awards is still set for Sept. 20.
“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.”
The CEO 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 re-emerges, we will continue to support our more than 24,000 members and our community through this donation and our Academy’s programs and resources, Scherma said.
Since March 18, The Actors Fund has provided more than $12.5 million in emergency financial assistance to 10,598 people who work in performing arts and entertainment, according to the academy.
The Creative Arts Emmys honor artists and craftspeople in categories across all genres, including reality, variety, documentary, animation, comedy, drama, limited series and movies. The format for the virtual awards is still under discussion.
While the Television Academy and its 2020 Emmy broadcast partner, ABC Television Network, also continue planning for the 72nd Emmy Awards telecast on Sept. 20, questions remain about the format and precautions that will need to be taken to keep nominees, guests and crew safe.
However, the academy said in a statement that Scherma and the production team are committed to delivering a show that “honors television’s unparalleled role throughout 2020 in bringing people together during a worldwide pandemic as well as acknowledge and support the unprecedented national and global demand for social justice and equality.”