Spears and Olsen snubbed by Emmys

Britney Spears' acclaimed stint on US sitcom 'How I met your Mother' hasn't earned her an Emmy nod - she and Mary-Kate Olsen's guest TV spots won't be among those competing for gold.

Both stars have been left off the top 10 list of Emmy semifinalists in the Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series category.

Instead, Sarah Silverman is a favourite for her part as an obsessed stalker in Monk, alongside Oscar nominee Amy Ryan for her star turn in 'The Office'.

Others on the list include Carrie Fisher and Edie Falco for '30 Rock', and Polly Bergen and Shirley Knight for 'Desperate Housewives' guest spots.

The awards will be handed out on September 6.