Even in a time when media is increasingly fragmented and audiences are dispersed across platforms, live television events still command a uniquely powerful place in our culture. They create common reference points, spark conversations not just on social media but in real life, and they remind us all that television is not just content but communication. This extraordinary power also defines the Emmy Awards telecast — a night when our entire creative community and the audiences who love it come together to recognize excellence and celebrate the craft and collaboration that make television possible, all while reaffirming the importance of this medium in our lives.
In this issue, 13-time Emmy-winning producer-director Ben Winston takes writer Margy Rochlin behind the scenes of his variety special Wicked: One Wonderful Night. Winston has also produced the Grammy Awards since 2021 and is the executive producer and creative director for the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games — events that will once again demonstrate television’s unparalleled ability to unite audiences not just across the United States but across the globe.
Because whether it unfolds live — in a single, unrepeatable moment — or through the series that accompany audiences over years and shape entire generations, television at its best creates connection. And it is a showcase of humanity and human achievement that cannot be replicated by technology. As the Academy continues its work to understand and responsibly engage with emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, our focus remains clear: to advocate for our community while reinforcing the enduring value of human creativity and connection. Technology will continue to evolve, but the power of television remains irreplaceable. It is our responsibility to ensure that this medium, and the shared experiences it creates, continue to thrive — for our industry and for audiences around the world.
This chair letter originally appeared in emmy magazine, issue #2, 2026.
