The TV Academy rejected the petition for the “Schmigadoon!” from Apple. move from submitting Outstanding Comedy Series to the Scripted Variety category, Variety learned exclusively.
He had been reported that the streamer had filed an official petition to move the show to the new scripted variety category where it would face off against “A Black Lady Sketch Show”, “Saturday Night Live” and “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver”. However, the news seemed premature, with the Television Academy confirming that the petition was denied and Apple was informed.
Read: Variety Awards circuit for the latest Emmy predictions in all categories.
The scripted variety category is open to series of at least six episodes. It is defined as shows that are “predominantly scripted or loosely improvised” and “low-key scenes, satires, musical numbers, monologues, comedic stand-ups, skits, etc.” Last year, Netflix’s “Murderville” was denied entry into the category, then titled variety sketch series.
That seems to be the Emmys’ good call, like “Schmigadoon!” has ongoing story elements and recurring characters. The second season focuses on Melissa and Josh, now married, and parodies the musical “Chicago.”
While the second season received positive reviews from critics, it will still have to fight for one of eight spots in an outstanding comedy series where two flagship Apple series are already in competition – the two-time winner “Ted Lasso” and freshman comedy-drama “Shrinking.”
The musical comedy series, created by Cinco Paul and Ken Daurio, just aired its season finale on May 3, coming off its first season where it won four Emmys – original music and lyrics (which it won), production design for a narrative program (half hour), musical composition for a series (original dramatic score) and choreography for a scripted program.
At least one song is in the running this time around – “Bells and Whistles”, which is sung by Jane Krakowski.
Performers are also eligible to submit, such as comedy lead actors Keegan-Michael Key and Cecily Strong, the latter of whom is also up for supporting the “Saturday Night Live” comedic actress.
Emmy nominations are due May 9.