Emmy twitter prank highlights new forms of communication

Even if you were not watching the 64th Emmy Awards last night, there is a chance that social media informed you of an incident that took place involving comedian Tracy Morgan passing out on stage and encouraging non-viewers to turn to the ABC – the network airing the award ceremony. Anyone that did switch over saw Morgan laying on the stage and host Jimmy Kimmel ensuring viewers that the comedian was ok and was just exhausted.

Anyone that has just joined the telecast could immediately tell something was amiss as Morgan stayed on his back on the stage as the award for Best Writing for a Drama was announced and the “Homeland” winners arrived to accept. Turns out the entire incident was a prank from Kimmel and everyone viewing just moments prior was involved in it.

The host had been promising some type of prank on his late show over the last week and halfway through the show was the time. Kimmel called Morgan out and had him lay down. He then asked viewers and celebrities in attendance to tweet Tracy Morgan just passed out on stage at the #Emmys. Turn AMC on Right now.” Twitter handles from Stephen Colbert, Joel McHale and Bill Simmons were among those that spread the word.

The ruse was a way to get more viewers and it worked. Fred Graver, the creative director for Twitter’s TV Partners and the person behind the Twitter TV handle, reported that 25,000 tweets happened instantly when Kimmel asked for it.

Communication happens in the blink of an eye  – whether its personal or business in nature. Bring-your-own-device policies are putting messaging devices in the hands of employees that can be used anywhere. Telecommunication companies like CTI Technology can help incorporate mobile devices into unified communication options and improve how companies stay connected.

Telecommunication companies like CTI Technology can help incorporate mobile devices into unified communication options and improve how companies stay connected.