The Emmys' Awkward Charity Gimmick Nearly Ruined the Show

It's hard for Hollywood to come off as down-to-earth, despite the fact that the industry is less glamorous and full of more blue-collar professionals than some might think. However, especially on the occasion of awards shows, and particularly when those ceremonies take place during challenging times (such as in a climate of political and economic uncertainty), it's understandable that the Television Academy would want to minimize any perception of elitism or self-congratulation. The Emmys' first effort to humble itself for a general audience was to hire Nate Bargatze, the down-home, clean-cut comedian known for poking fun at his own intelligence, as host.