LOS ANGELES -- "Six Feet Under," "The Shield" and "24" rode a wave of Emmy enthusiasm for innovative and daring television dramas in nominations announced Thursday.
Veteran contenders including "ER," "NYPD Blue" and "The Practice" were shut out of major categories as Emmy voters overcame their usual reluctance to recognize new programs and stars, with Michael Chiklis, Kiefer Sutherland and Jennifer Garner among first-time nominees.
"Six Feet Under," HBO's family drama with a funereal twist, received a leading 23 prime-time Emmy nominations, including nine acting bids for its ensemble cast and guest performers along with a best drama series nomination.
Series creator Alan Ball welcomed the recognition for TV newcomers.
"I think that's exciting because things are always evolving," he said.
"There's so many great shows on television it's hard when some old favorites don't come back. But I think it's a good thing."
Chiklis said his best actor nomination for FX's gritty police drama "The Shield" represents a triumph over bias.
"I hoped that academy voters weren't swayed by the dogma that was being thrown around. Fortunately, they weren't," said the actor, whose series has been criticized for its explicit depiction of crime and corruption.
Fox's "24," which played out one day of political intrigue and action over an entire season, was rewarded for its boldness with a best drama bid and best actor nomination for star Sutherland.
HBO received a leading 93 nominations, while NBC was close behind with 89.
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