Int'l Emmys honor Spielberg

The International Emmy Awards typically honor the top television programs produced outside of the United States, but two Americans were among the honorees selected to be lauded during a gala ceremony last night.

The International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences selected producer-director Steven Spielberg to receive its Founders Award for his "long and distinguished career in television."

Although noted for his acclaimed films, from "Jaws" to "Schindler's List," Spielberg began his career directing episodes of such TV series as "Night Gallery" and "Colombo." His later TV projects included the long-running medical drama "ER," the animated series "Animaniacs" and the miniseries "Band of Brothers."

Ronald S. Lauder, a former U.S. ambassador to Austria, was named as the recipient of the academy's Directorate Award for fostering the development of independent television broadcasting in six Central and Eastern European countries.

Other award categories include best actor, best actress, comedy, arts programming, children's programs, documentary and other formats.

British television productions dominated the field, garnering 17 of the 36 nominations. The British detective series "Vincent" (Granada) was nominated in two categories - for best drama series and best performance by an actor, Ray Winstone.

Germany and Brazil each had five nominations, while France had three and Norway two. Japan, China, Sweden and the Netherlands had one apiece.

The academy is the largest organization of global broadcasters, with more than 500 members from nearly 70 countries.