Emmys 2013: With 14 nominations, Netflix gains credibility

It’s not a TV channel. Most of its viewers don’t use a television to watch its programs. It won’t even say how many people view its shows.

But none of that stopped the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences from showing a lot of love for Netflix. Its original content programming garnered 14 Emmy nominations.

“House of Cards,” the political drama that Netflix premiered earlier this year, received nine nominations, including best drama and best actor and actress for stars Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright. The new episodes of “Arrested Development” were kind of snubbed, but Jason Bateman did get a nod in the best comedy actor category.

Emmys 2013: Top nominees | Complete list | Recap | Winners timeline

For Netflix, the nominations are yet another sign that its streaming service has arrived as a legitimate platform for not only old movies and TV shows, but compelling original content.

“Great television is great television regardless of where, when and how it is enjoyed,” said Ted Sarandos, Netflix chief content officer, in a statement.

PHOTOS: Top nominees

If history is any guide, Emmy wins don’t usually translate to bigger ratings, and Netflix may soon find that out regarding subscribers. HBO has been winning Emmys for what seems like forever and its subscriber numbers have been relatively flat for the last several years.

But with over 30 million Netflix subscribers, the nominations are more about stature than dollars for Netflix. The company spent a lot of money on Emmy campaigns because it was important to send a message to the creative community. Emmy nominations and recognition from critics will make it easier for Netflix to bring more big names into its tent.

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Complete list of Emmy nominations

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Follow Joe Flint on Twitter @JBFlint.