The last program, which next week takes over the 8 p.m. Thursday slot vacated by "Seinfeld," became the most honored comedy series ever, winning its fifth consecutive best comedy Emmy by beating such stiff competition as "Seinfeld" in its last year on the air and the hyperpublicized "Ally McBeal."

The show's star, Kelsey Grammer, won his fourth Emmy for best actor in a comedy, and costar David Hyde Pierce won his second best supporting actor Emmy.

(David E.) Kelley's comedy-drama "McBeal" did not win in any major categories, but in an upset, his lesser-known legal series, "The Practice," won best drama after less than two full seasons on the air. Meanwhile, a talented member of its ensemble, Camryn Manheim, won best supporting actress.