A clerical error by the Television Academy in 2002 caused the most important episode of Buffy's seven seasons to go unrecognized. Since then Buffy the Vampire Slayer has become one of the most influential television shows in history and studied more than any other pop culture property in the world. However, despite its influence and longevity, it was never awarded an Emmy during it's run due to a blatant error.

The show's fan base is as enthusiastic today as it was over a decade ago and its influence upon writers and the television community is palpable. While it is possible that Buffy was a phenomena like Van Gogh which was only fully appreciated post mortem, the truth is that Buffy's most notorious and celebrated episode (Once More With Feeling) was supposed to be recognized by it's peers.

In retrospect, it is unlikely that any single episode in history has missed its fair due for recognition more than this one and as a result, BtVS has never fully been accepted in the mainstream as a member of its peerage with other formative programs of the Golden Era of Television such as The Sopranos.

A lifetime achievement award for Joss Whedon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and the entire cast and crew of Buffy the Vampire Slayer would be a commendable and easily deserved award that would be commensurate with the dedication and talent that brought down barriers in popular culture for decades.