Emmys 2015: ‘Jane the Virgin,’ ‘Orange Is the New Black’ to still submit as comedies

Did you really think that there was going to be something resembling long-lasting change when it comes to the 2015 Emmy Awards? Well, think again. As it turns out, at least a few of the shows potentially impacted by the recent alteration in the rules are going to submitted in the same exact way as they’ve been in the past.

Specifically, we are talking here about comedies. In case you missed it, the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences recently made it clear that they now are defining this category as something 30 minutes or less. If any other show wants to gain entry, it has to be approved by a nine-person committee. This rule has been put into place in an effort to try and minimize the number of shows that are really going all out to compete in different categories, just for the sake of raising their odds at a nomination.

We can confirm specifically that “Jane the Virgin” is one hour-long show that is sticking with its comedy designation. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Academy CEO Bruce Rosenblum confirmed that The CW is already making an effort here:

“These are not hard-and-fast rules … We received a call from Mark Pedowitz at The CW, and they’ll be submitting Jane the Virgin as a comedy.”

Meanwhile, a source tells the publication that both “Shameless” and “Orange Is the New Black,” which both have submitting as comedies in the past despite their dramatic elements, will do so again for the 2015 edition of the awards show. We’re not entirely sure they will make it in with the new rules. We feel like as a whole, “Jane the Virgin” is much more comedic in tone, and is a better exception to the rule.

Given that we’re fascinated by such stories, we will have further news all about the Emmys in the near future. Also, sign up today to score some other TV updates on all we cover via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: Emmys.)