Burnett recognized as TV innovator

"Survivor" creator Mark Burnett will receive the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences' first "Innovation in Television Award," recognizing his work in the world of reality TV, officials said today.

"Mark is one of the driving forces behind reality television and has played a major role in introducing millions of Americans to a new TV genre," said Steve Mosko, chairman of the Television Academy Foundation. "It was without question that he should be the first recipient of this award, which was designated to recognize a creative force in the industry that has had significant and groundbreaking impact on the television landscape."

Burnett, 46, will receive the award during the 28th annual College Television Awards Gala on Saturday at Culver Studios.

In addition to "Survivor," Burnett has produced reality shows such as "The Apprentice," "The Contender," "Rock Star: INXS" and "Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader?"