The First-Ever Virtual Emmys: What Can You Expect?

Awards ceremonies in the time of COVID-19 certainly don't look the same as they did during so-called “normal" times. So what can we expect from the 72nd Emmy Awards this year? Will there be a host? Will the ceremony itself be live as usual? Read on to learn more about what we know, and what we predict might be thrown into the mix.

1. Yes, the Emmys will go on

Good news: The Emmys ceremony will happen this year. (Because the show must go on!) Normally held in downtown Los Angeles at the Microsoft Theater, this year's show is all-virtual — you can tune in on Sept. 20 on ABC. There's no need to worry about getting a ticket to see it in person — watching from their sofas, everyone will technically have the same best seat in the house. 

2. There will still be a host!

Jimmy Kimmel will act as the (virtual) master of ceremonies, cutting away to the nominees and winners in real-time (live from their homes, of course). Will he sing? Will he dance? We hope so — even though Kimmel won't be playing to a packed auditorium, he'll still have a huge audience from around the world.

3. We predict surprise guests

Some veterans of the industry haven't been able to attend the in-person ceremonies due to advanced age or health conditions. But with the all-virtual ceremony, all the stars will be able to join the festivities from the comfort of their homes. We predict that we'll be seeing familiar faces that haven't been on the Emmys in quite a while. Among those set to appear are Oprah Winfrey, Anthony Anderson, Issa Rae and America Ferrera. 

4. Who really wore it better?

This year, there will be no traditional red-carpet walk. But the Emmys have advised nominees and attendees that “our informal theme for the night is 'come as you are, but make an effort!'" So how glitzy will folks decide to get for their closeup? No one knows for sure, but it looks like we'll see some fun DIY outfits from the stars' homes on September. 20. 

5. It will likely be a time to learn about equity

Racial injustice and ways to increase representation in the entertainment industry are hot topics and for good reason. The Emmys has rolled out a series of related op-eds in recent months (including this piece by the founder of BET) — so it's likely that there will be screen time during the ceremony to talk about ways that the industry can increase representation and be more inclusive of Black actors, directors, writers and other creatives.

Tune in to the virtual ceremony on Sunday, September 20 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.