The Critics Choice Association and nonfiction producers’ organization NPACT Monday opened submissions for the third annual “Critics Choice Real TV Awards,” which recognize programming across broadcast, cable and streaming platforms.

Submissions will be accepted through May 14, with nominations announced on June 2. Winners will be announced on June 21, with the format of the awards presentation still to be determined.

“Over the past year, producers, networks and streamers across all genres of nonfiction banded together to keep our industry going and audiences engaged and entertained through unprecedented times. Now more than ever, the achievements of our community deserve to be celebrated,” said Michelle Van Kempen, executive producer for NPACT, the trade association for nonfiction production companies doing business in the U.S.

Bob Bain, who will serve as one of two co-executive producers, said: “We may not have clarity yet on what our awards show will look like, but what’s crystal clear is how this segment of entertainment not only survived the pandemic, but rose to new heights of prominence and popularity. Reality and nonfiction television provided solace, connection and a pathway to different worlds, delivering vital entertainment when it was needed most.”

The Critics Choice Real TV Awards were launched in 2019 when the CCA and NPACT joined forces to create a large-scale awards platform dedicated to giving the unscripted genre critical attention and support.

Shows are eligible for nomination if at least six episodes premiered between June 1, 2020, and May 31 of this year to at least 50% of the total potential U.S. television market.

A nominating committee made up of CCA members with expertise in nonfiction, unscripted and reality programming will determine the nominees. Winners will be chosen by a vote of the CCA membership.

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