Why ‘Heated Rivalry’ isn’t eligible for the Emmy Awards

“Heated Rivalry” launched a worldwide phenomenon when it premiered in November.

“Heated Rivalry” launched a worldwide phenomenon when it premiered in November. But despite the TV series’ massive popularity, it won’t be taking home any awards when the 78th Emmy Awards airs this September.

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The Television Academy announced its full list of nominees for the upcoming awards show on July 8. Each year, there are always surprises and snubs. But one of the hottest series of the 2025-26 season is already guaranteed to be excluded from the list, and it comes down to the Emmy Awards specific eligibility rules.

According to the Emmys’ rules and procedures, foreign television production is ineligible “unless it is the result of a co-production (both financially and creatively) between U.S. and foreign partners, which precedes the start of production, and with a purpose to be shown on U.S. television.”