BEFORE THE SHOW... IT ALL BEGINS ON THE RED HOT CARPET, AS TOM BERGERON AND MARIA MENOUNOS CO-HOST ABC's EMMY AWARDS PRE-SHOW, "COUNTDOWN TO THE EMMYS 2004"

Comedian George Lopez, "Extreme Makeover" Stylist Sam Saboura, and Muppet Stars Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog Will Help Capture the Exclusive Interviews, the Fashion "Aaahs!" -- and Faux Pas! -- and All the Excitement of Television's Biggest Night

Tom Bergeron, host of "America's Funniest Home Videos," and Maria Menounos, "Entertainment Tonight" correspondent, will co-host "Countdown to the Emmys 2004." The hour-long pre-show will air live to the East Coast SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 (7:00-8:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network. The 56th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards Telecast will air immediately following.

"We've truly assembled the 'A' team in front of and behind the camera. And we're ready to bring viewers all the glamour and excitement of the Emmy Awards ceremony," says executive producer Andy Friendly. "Tom and Maria are the perfect pair for making sure the viewing audience doesn't miss a thing."

Adding comedy, color and style commentary to the show will be four correspondents:

George Lopez, star of his own ABC sitcom, "George Lopez," is one television's funniest men. He will undoubtedly find the most humorous elements of the event and give a unique, up close view of the red carpet experience.

Sam Saboura, celebrity stylist and star of "Extreme Makeover," will assess and critique the dazzling designer gowns, suits and accessories on display, as the celebrities make their way down the red carpet.

The dynamic duo of Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog - for years one of Hollywood's most recognizable couples -- know how to make an entrance. They will interview celebrities from the red carpet in pure-Muppet style.

Roger Goodman directs the show. Andy Friendly is executive producer. "Countdown to the Emmys 2004" is produced by Andy Friendly Productions.