Beyond the big four

Cable Ate the Emmys!

As far as we're concerned, that should've already happened, what with ground-breaking shows like "The Wire," "Rescue Me" and "Damages," just to name a few dramas, dotting the schedule.

But, as Ray Richmond writes in THR, cable's just now coming into its own, as far as benchmark primetime awards are concerned. When the Emmy nominations are announced in July, expect such developments as:

A nomination for HBO's superb "In Treatment." Dark and intense? Talky? Sure! But we were more intrigued by listening to other people whine five nights a week than we ever thought possible. And incidentally, who knew Josh Charles had it in him? Now we do.

Laura Linney, three-time Oscar nominee, will likely rack up her third Emmy for "John Adams," with the miniseries likely to continue HBO's unparalleled domination in the category.

"Mad Men," which has done more for AMC's rebranding than a million themed-movie nights could, will rock.

"Pushing Daisies" -- one of the only new network shows worth watching during this past truncated season -- could get recognized alongside "Curb Your Enthusiasm" (four nominations, no wins) and "30 Rock" (reigning champ).

We haven't officially kicked off the rants about what will be left off the Emmy list, but we're gearing up for it. Two words: "The Wire." Check back later for the beginning of many fist-shaking hissy-fit-throwing commentaries.