Created in 2026, the Legacy Award will be presented to television programs that have made a “profound and lasting impact” on audiences and remain relevant to society, culture and the industry.
The Academy last introduced an award of this significance with its Television Academy Honors Award in 2007, recognizing programming that drives positive social change.
Candidates for the Legacy Award shall be selected annually by the Governors Award committee (to be renamed the Special Awards Committee) and presented to the Board of Governors for a vote. Entries may be made by members of the Board of Governors, the Special Awards Committee or individuals who may suggest recipients in a letter to the Television Academy.
As with the Governors Award, engraved Emmy statuettes will be bestowed upon the recipients of the Legacy Award.
“The Legacy Award celebrates groundbreaking programming — programs that have stood the test of time delivering stories that continue to engage audiences and featuring iconic and timeless characters with multigenerational appeal,” said Television Academy Chair Cris Abrego. “The award allows the Academy to honor more of television’s rich history and acknowledge the storytellers whose work has resonated with viewers and continues to entertain legions of fans around the globe.”