2011 Road to the Emmys coverage launches

Variety kicks off its Road to the Emmys coverage for 2011 today with our opening preview section, which features the following:

-- Kate Hahn writes about how diversity in casting isn't always emulated in the stories the TV shows tell.

-- In the first of a series of behind-the-scenes pieces, Cynthia Littleton reports from a "Modern Family" table read.

-- Paige Albiniak writes about how, with a new contract to broadcast the Emmys, broadcast networks are still trying to hold off cable from awards dominance.

-- The new wheel contract is also an inspiration for Steve Heisler's piece on how the Emmys are largely prevented from bringing back a host — even a successful one like Jimmy Fallon.

-- Returning Emmy nominees eligible for 2011 honors are summarized in this verb-free chart from yours truly.

-- Susan Young writes about one-and-done series that are hoping for Emmys despite cancelation after a single season.

-- Karen Idelson writes about how product intergration has become artful enough that it doesn't damage the Emmy hopes of those who do it.

-- Finally, Stuart Levine and I have a chat about our takeaways from the 2010-11 TV season as we look ahead to this year's kudos.

This is just day one of the pre-nominations phase of coverage, which continues almost daily with 15 separate sections through June 21. Enjoy!