Veep. Silicon Valley. Archer. Prison Break. The Americans. And, at least in past years, Game of Thrones. Some of the best television starts airing in April. Todd VanDerWerff explained why:

• To qualify for the Emmy awards, half a show’s season must have aired before May 31^st, and the entire season must be complete by the time of nominations in June.
• By airing in April shows ensure that they just about make the requirements – while remaining fresh in the minds of award voters.
• Channels like Netflix – which release all their episodes in one batch – normally have their prestige shows come out in May for the same reason.
• This explains why House of Cards will see its entire season become available on May 30^th – a day before the deadline for Emmy contention.
• For the first time since its debut Game of Thrones won’t air until the summer, and so won’t be eligible for the 2017 Emmys. This has left the field for some awards wide open.

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