Gold Derby: Emmy Spotlight

Reality shows, hosts and nonfiction

Vince Bucci / Associated Press

By Tom O'Neil Even though reality shows dominate prime-time TV, they have a relatively small presence at the Emmys. Programs are divided into one category for competitive shows, another for non-competitive, plus there's a race for hosts. Separately, there are nonfiction categories for series and specials more like documentaries.

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Reality Program

Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times

Here's proof that Hollywood (1) is crazy and (2) spends recklessly. Many of TV's most trashy shows have not only filled out forms to compete for the industry's highest award, but they've also paid $400 to $800 entry fees: "Jersey Shore," "Jon & Kate Plus 8," "Keeping Up With the Kardashians" and the "Real Housewives" shows of Atlanta, New Jersey, New York City and Orange County.

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