20 Shows Shortlisted for Emmy Noms

Semifinalists for the Primetime Emmys' top series prize were announced yesterday, and the early list may be more interesting than the final nominees. Though the Emmys are often an awards ceremony criticized for overlooking new, edgy, or smaller shows, their comedy and drama shortlists for this year prove: they're at least thinking about change.

On the drama side, past Emmy favorites "Boston Legal," "Grey's Anatomy," "House," and "Lost" make the list, as well as new or overlooked series like "Damages," "Dexter," "Friday Night Lights," "Mad Men," "The Tudors," and "The Wire."

In comedy, the big surprise is "Family Guy" joking its way out of the animation category and into competition with live-action series. Quahog's favorite family is joined by "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "Entourage," "Flight of the Conchords," "The Office," "Pushing Daisies," "30 Rock," "Two and a Half Men," "Ugly Betty," and "Weeds."

A blue ribbon panel (incidentally, we're actively seeking placement on a blue ribbon anything, so give us a call) from the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences are set to screen episodes of each show over the weekend, with the final nominees announced on July 17.

What favorite show of yours has been snubbed by the Emmys in the past? (Ours is "Gilmore Girls." Such brilliance, ignored!)