See Also: Marc Cherry (Creator) People Guide

After gaining success, both critically and with its viewing numbers, Desperate Housewives has one last hurdle to jump—that of US television's equivalent to the Oscars, the Emmys.

One award that Desperate Housewives could be nominated for is outstanding comedy. The category was won by Frasier for five consecutive years until 1998. Since then a different program has won each year, and 2005 may very well be claimed by creator Marc Cherry's show. But Cherry admitted that he agonized over what category the show should even aim for. "We don't fit in with the other dramas at all," he told Hollywood Reporter. "We're really a weird fit wherever you put us. It's just such apples and oranges."

After such success so far, it'd be easy to expect big wins from the show. But Cherry is remaining cautious. "You can never predict these things," he said. "Some great shows like Moonlighting are always bridesmaids, and we can't put the cart before the horse—we haven't even been nominated yet. I mean, for a first-year show like us to get even a few nominations, I'll be ecstatic—and everyone here would be thrilled. We're keeping our expectations modest."

However, there is some precedent for a show like Desperate Housewives not to do very well. "Nobody should stupidly assume that Desperate Housewives is automatically going to kick Emmy butt," Tom O'Neil, author of The Emmys, said. "The cliffhanger of this Emmys is: Can a soap opera get votes and win? Dallas, Dynasty and Knots Landing never won, so this is no slam-dunk."

One category that the show is expected to dominate is the award for best comedy actress, with all the core housewives expected to be nominated. Hollywood Reporter said that Teri Hatcher is the forerunner to win after grabbing a Golden Globe earlier this year. Other actresses tipped to be in this category are Jane Kaczmarek from Malcolm In the Middle, Patricia Heaton from Everybody Loves Raymond, Lauren Graham from Gilmore Girls, Debra Messing from Will & Grace and Kirstie Alley for Fat Actress .

The Emmy process is only just beginning. On June 6 the nomination process will start, but the awards show won't occur until September 18. It is customary for shows that are nominated to take out advertisements in the Hollywood press, and Get Desperate! will be report on any nominations and media coverage that take place over the summer for Desperate Housewives.

You can read more on the TV programs and cast members tipped for nomination at Hollywood Reporter. Its website also has an Emmy section with an overview of current news and key dates in the Emmy nomination process.

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