An impressive statistic: From 1998-2003 ABC's "The Practice" won at least one guest acting Emmy for six consecutive ceremonies. On Sunday night (Sept. 12) the departing legal drama made it seven straight years as both William Shatner and Sharon Stone picked up shiny prizes at the Creative Arts portion of the 56th annual Primetime Emmy Awards.

The outstanding guest actor and actress in a drama series prizes were the first Emmys for Stone and Shatner, erasing memories of the multiple Razzie Awards won by each. Stone, a previous Golden Globe winner and Oscar nominee, picked up her Emmy on her first shot (beating fellow "Practice" guest star Betty White), while Shatner was also nominated in 1999 for a guest starring spot on "3rd Rock from the Sun."

The Shatner Emmy should provide a boost for the fortunes of ABC's "Practice" spin-off "Boston Legal," as the occasionally maligned thespian's character, quirky lawyer Denny Crane, moves from featured player to full-blown star. The other "Boston Legal" lead, James Spader, is up for his own Emmy when the main ceremony is telecast live on ABC next Sunday (Sept. 19).

During its guest Emmy winning streak, "The Practice" has also provided award opportunities for Alfre Woodard, Charles Dutton, Michael Emerson, James Whitmore, Beah Richards, Edward Herrmann and John Larroquette.

On the comedy side, the guest acting awards also went to two decorated actors best known for their film work. "Quiz Show" and "Do the Right Thing" character actor John Turturro won for his work on USA Network's "Monk," where he played the brother of Emmy winner Tony Shalhoub's title character.

Oscar nominee Laura Linney ("You Can Count On Me") picked up the prize for her late season arc on NBC's "Frasier." It was the actress' second career Emmy, having won in 2002 for Showtime's "Wild Iris."