Emmys Preview: ‘Happy Days,’ ‘SNL,’ ‘The West Wing’ Cast Reunions and Jelly Roll’s ‘In Memoriam’ Performance

As a long-time TV enthusiast who has witnessed the evolution of television from black and white to high definition, I am thrilled for this year’s Emmy Awards. The idea of merging iconic stars with their beloved characters is an ingenious move that promises to stir a wave of nostalgia among viewers like myself.


Prepare for a dash of nostalgia during the 76th Emmy Awards on Sunday – yes, the second one this year! However, there’s a twist to it. Unlike the previous ceremony in January that centered around cast reunions, this time, the producers are combining iconic actors and their characters from the past and present.

This indicates well-known television mothers such as Meredith Baxter (“Family Ties”), police officers like Jimmy Smits (“NYPD Blue”), lawyers like Gina Torres (“Suits”), doctors like Zach Braff (“Scrubs”), TV antagonists like Giancarlo Esposito (“Breaking Bad”), and many others (and these are merely a few of the names that have been confirmed to participate).

Dionne Harmon, an executive producer for Jesse Collins Entertainment, expressed that the reaction to the content released in January was exceptional, and it seemed as though viewers truly resonated with the sense of nostalgia. With this in mind, the team aimed to recreate that nostalgic feeling during Sunday’s show without simply repeating the same approach. Instead, they concentrated on popular TV shows from January and will focus on individual characters from various series for Sunday’s broadcast.

As a cinephile, I find myself echoing the sentiments of Rouzan-Clay. Instead of aiming to outdo our previous work, we sought to create something distinctively unique. Our goal was to celebrate television in a manner that felt fresh and engaging, so that viewers could appreciate it as more than just a repetition.

When it comes to television cops, you might not initially picture Niecy Nash in your mind. But with ‘Reno 911!’, we aimed to showcase a diverse array of TV personalities, from moms and cops to villains. We believe this unique representation will spark a moment of recognition in viewers – I remember that person!

This doesn’t exclude the possibility of some original cast members appearing together again on the program. Ron Howard and Henry Winkler are planning to reminisce about “Happy Days” for its 50th anniversary, and they will do so at a real set recreation of the show’s iconic Arnold’s Drive-Inn.

Collins wondered if you felt our selection for the jukebox was on point,” he expressed. “It seems there’s much more to discuss about it.

On September 15 (Sunday), the live broadcast airing at 8 p.m. Eastern Time/5 p.m. Pacific Time on ABC (with a replay available on Hulu the following day) will commemorate the 50th anniversary of “Saturday Night Live” with a special tribute. Unlike the show “Friends”, it won’t have a tribute for its 30th anniversary, but there might be another iconic reunion. Although the producers haven’t confirmed a “The West Wing” tribute, they hinted at something big and memorable.

As a movie aficionado, I can’t help but notice the buzz surrounding the 25th anniversary celebration for “The West Wing.” Last week, ABC officially unveiled an impressive lineup of cast members who will be part of this special event: Martin Sheen, Allison Janney, Dulé Hill, Janel Moloney, and Richard Schiff are just a few of the familiar faces we’ll see.

In addition, Catherine O’Hara, a star from “Schitt’s Creek,” is set to appear at the event as a presenter. It’s possible that she might collaborate with hosts Eugene and Dan Levy during the show.

Regarding the Levys, the creators remained silent about how they plan to start the Emmy Awards, except for revealing that it will focus on comedy.

Collins mentioned, “They’re going to give you everything you’re hoping for at the start, that’s for sure.” He added, “The initial part they’ll present on the show will establish a fantastic mood…” This content has been specifically crafted by them. It’s a first-time event, and they’re the first father-son duo hosting the Emmys. I believe everyone is going to find it appealing.

The producers were developing ideas around the “characters” theme when they discovered the Levys, winners of Emmys for their portrayal of a father and son in “Schitt’s Creek.” It then struck them that this pairing was an ideal match.

From our initial encounter with them, there was an instant feeling among us that it was the right decision. Their enthusiasm following that first meeting mirrored precisely what we had anticipated they’d contribute to our event on Sunday.

Simultaneously, Collins and his group disclosed that Jelly Roll is planning to temporarily halt his ongoing concert tour to attend the Emmys and perform in the In Memoriam segment.

Harmon stated that he will temporarily leave his tour for just one day before immediately resuming his journey once completed,” explained Harmon. “We are incredibly thankful for this, as Jesse put in quite an effort to make it happen!” (Paraphrased)

Music director Rickey Minor expressed, “I believe the choice of which song he performs will move everyone deeply. It always makes me tear up when I listen to it. At home, be sure to keep plenty of tissues handy.

The producers have additionally arranged an exclusive section featuring John Leguizamo to delve into some of the groundbreaking nominations and victories this season. (Notably, “Shogun” has set a record by garnering the most wins for a program in one year, while several more potential wins on the upcoming broadcast could make history.)

Collins mentioned that they’ll incorporate real-time elements into the performance. A standout moment featuring John Leguizamo will kick off a festive segment highlighting recent transformations. However, as various other aspects you’ve discussed unfold, they plan to deal with them within the context of the show.

Three days remain before the performance, and everything appears set, but surprises can still occur. “We’re feeling fantastic,” Harmon stated. “The stage has been constructed, seating assignments have been distributed, and the scripts are being exchanged rapidly.

Today, the intensity of preparation ramps up as more gifted individuals arrive to practice. As we’ve been discussing for quite some time, today is when we finally witness these concepts being put into action. This marks the beginning of our filming sessions.

Regarding logistics, Collins and his team mentioned that the show might be temporarily postponed due to potential live disruptions from protesters or others. Essentially, they’ll adjust as necessary because “the show must go on.” The security crew at both the Emmys and the Peacock Theatre are well-prepared to ensure a smooth event without any issues.

As we approach the upcoming presidential election, I’m fully aware that there might be some political discussions taking place both on and off stage by presenters and award recipients alike.

Harmon pointed out that the charm of this production lies in its unpredictability, since nobody knows exactly what the actors will say. Occasionally, they might use their role as a means to express their thoughts or feelings. Whatever happens, happens, and we’ll handle it gracefully.

Quipped Collins: “We don’t have a plan, but we have concepts of a plan.”

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2024-09-12 20:48