Emmy Awards venue changed again as worries over Delta variant mount
Los Angeles, California - It’ll be another year with a different look for the Emmy Awards.
As concerns grow about the rapid spread of the Delta variant, the Emmy Awards will be staged outdoors, instead of in the traditional Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. Last year's event was mostly virtual, with Jimmy Kimmel hosting from the Staples Center.
The Television Academy made the announcement about the change in venue on Tuesday, adding that the show will incorporate an "indoor/outdoor" model that will be located at LA Live’s Event Deck. Organizers said that the outdoor space will provide more options for "socially distanced audience seating."
There will also be a limit to the amount of guests, despite invitations having been already mailed out.
"Following discussions with health and safety experts for Los Angeles County and the Emmy ceremonies, the Television Academy has concluded that we must further limit the number of nominees attending the Creative Arts Emmys on September 11 and 12 as well as the 73rd Emmys on September 19," the Academy said in a statement.
"Although invitations have just been mailed out, nominated teams of three or more will now be limited to no more than four tickets per nomination."
"Unfortunately, this means not all nominees will be able to attend this year’s awards,” the statement continued. "We recommend those on nominated teams coordinate between themselves and identify how they will allot their four tickets before they RSVP."
"The health and safety of our nominees is of paramount importance," the Academy concluded. "Conversations are ongoing, and we will provide further information as it is available. The Television Academy appreciates everyone’s understanding as we continue to navigate the Covid-19 Delta variant."
In Los Angeles County, the positivity rate of Covid-19 cases is at 4.4%, according to the public health director, Barbara Ferrer.
The 73rd annual Emmy Awards will be hosted by Cedric the Entertainer and will take place on September 19.
Cover photo: 123RF/mishella