2006 TV AWARDS
2006 TV Awards
As I have done for the last few years….here are my year end awards. Some post just the top DVDs, some post their top movies. Others post their top books. Me, I post it all. To start, here is my top television awards. This is the most comprehensive of the bunch seeing how television has become a fervent passion of mine over the course of the last few years.
Before I start, just a note: those eligible for these categories must have either been aired during the summer or fall seasons of 2006, or have been produced to air during such seasons. And now….
Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy
Jenna Fischer as Pam Beesly in The Office
Allyson Hannigan as Lily Aldrin in How I Met Your Mother
Rashida Jones as Karen Fillipelle in The Office
Jaime Pressley as Joy Turner in My Name is Earl
Judy Reyes as Carla Espinosa Turk in Scrubs
Nadine Velasquez as Catalina in My Name is Earl
Winner: Allyson Hannigan in How I Met Your Mother
The obvious choice would have been Jenna Fischer who delivers week in, week out in The Office, but since coming back for the Fall season, Fischer’s Pam has found herself less of a presence, especially after her stunning performance in The Office’s Season Finale. The women of Earl have been consistent, especially Velasquez, but ultimately it is Hannigan who has shined this season on How I Met Your Mother. The most improved show of the new year, How I Met Your Mother has found a perfect role for Hannigan’s quirky humor, separating her just enough from Jason Segal’s Marshall to have her own personality.
Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy
Donald Faison as Chris Turk in Scrubs
Neil Flynn as The Janitor in Scrubs
Ed Helms as Andy in The Office
Dule Hill as Gus in Psych
John C. McGinley as Perry Cox in Scrubs
Jeremy Piven as Ari Gold in Entourage
Winner: Ed Helms in The Office
In a few short episodes, Ed Helms has injected the perfect sense of competition, comedy and awkwardness back into The Office. The perfect opponent for the over-the-top Dwight, Helms is raising the level of quality of The Office. For proof, look no further than the final episode of the season, “A Benihana Christmas.”
The Scrubs actors are not to be discounted. Great each and every year, McGinley and Faison are just as strong as the show’s lead Zach Braff. Although the premiere of the season has hurt their chances for this award, the end of the season may bring a different opinion. One surprise is the strong performance by Neil Flynn who continues to make the Janitor a more complex, more entertaining character than a simple antagonist for all those around him.
One can also not forget Jeremy Piven whose Ari Gold continually steals the spotlight on Entourage. This is a performance that will continue to be remembered. And who thought that Dule Hill would be remembered passed The West Wing. Underused in the show’s final seasons, Hill has knocked his role of Gus out of the park with great comedic timing and fantastic chemistry with Psych’s star James Roday.
Best Animated Series
American Dad
Family Guy
The Simpsons
South Park
Winner: American Dad
Animated comedy has a surprising trend this past year. Shows that seemed to have run their course have struck back with a vengeance, while once greats seem to falter. Family Guy and The Simpsons used to be the marquee animated shows at the start of the century. Now, they have become shells of their former self. The nostalgia of Family Guy’s return has worn off and The Simpsons don’t know what to do with itself.
And yet, after a decade, South Park is back. Having ridden a storm of controversy involving Scientology, Muslim Cartoons and World of Warcraft, South Park is better than ever. The social satire and on the nose parody continues to be funny time after time. But one show has continually impressed me this year. American Dad was weak when it first premiered. While it would have been a nice consolation had Family Guy not returned, their dual premiere resulted in an overshadowing effect. American Dad palled in comparison. It almost looked like a cheap rip-off of Family Guy. But then, something happened. The show found its voice. Now in its third season, American Dad surprises with smart comedy, great political commentary and fantastic film references all while telling a great story. This and South Park are the best two animated shows on television right now.
Best Guest Actress in a Drama
Busy Phillips in E.R.
Christine Lahti in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Kathy Najimy in Numb3rs
Robin Weigert in The Unit
Laura San Giacomo in Veronica Mars
Nora Zehetner in Heroes
Winner: Robin Weigert in The Unit
Phenomenal on Deadwood, Weigert was nominated for an Emmy for her role as Calamity Jane. The most complex character, Weigert crafted a stupendous performance that has lead to many recent appearances on other hit television shows. A recent guest star on Numb3rs, Weigert shined in a heart wrenchingly complex episode of the underappreciated The Unit. A performance that stayed with me and makes an impact, even if it is just one of many episodes of the series.
Best Guest Actor in a Drama
Ed Asner in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Ed Begley Jr. in Veronica Mars
Judd Hirsch in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
David Morse in House, M.D.
Kevin Rankin in Friday Night Lights
Forest Whitiker in E.R.
Winner: Judd Hirsch in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
What a difficult category. Each of these actors deserves to win. Rankin knocked it out of the park each and every week as the quadrapelegic roommate of Jason Street, forcing the QB to embrace an uncertain future. Whitiker, sure to win an Oscar this year, shined on E.R. as a man gripped with legal troubles and a life thrown into shambles. This is just one of the many stellar performances Whitiker had this year (the others are The Last King of Scotland and The Shield.) Morse injected an interesting element into House and captured the right tone to combat the crabby doctor. Ed Begley quickly became the lovable dean at Hearst College before becoming Veronica and Keith Mar’s friend and future case.
And Studio 60 had to fantastic veteran actors, in great roles, delivering great performances. Ed Asner brought a great deal of levity to his character of the chairman of NBS in “The Christmas Show” episode, but it was Judd Hirsch that set the tone for the series. As Wes, Hirsch set the tone for the series, set the stage for the characters and brought a sense of urgency to a role that seemed a bit dated. Just a fantastic year for male performances in dramas.
Best Reality Show
1 vs. 100
Deal or No Deal
Hell’s Kitchen
Top Chef
Winner: Top Chef
I don’t watch that many reality shows (so comments are welcome) but from what I do watch, there is only one clear winner. Although Hell’s Kitchen is entertaining, Top Chef is riveting, engrossing and all about the skill. Since when did a TV competition actually result in a real competition and not some popularity contest. A refreshing and entertaining show, Top Chef is some of the best reality TV has to offer.
Best Supporting Actor in a Drama
John Billingsley as Egan Foote in The Nine
Zach Gilford as Matt Saracen in Friday Night Lights
Robert Knepper as T-Bag in Prison Break
Masi Oka as Hiro Nakamura in Heroes
Robert Sean Leonard as Dr. James Wilson in House, M.D.
Steven Webber as Jack Rudolph in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Winner: Steven Webber in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Another strong category, this almost had a tie for winner. Masi Oka shines as Hiro Nakamura. He is the glue and the heart of Heroes and keeps the viewer entertained with the right amount of humor, love and just plain ole kick-ass actions. A true hero, Oka inhabits the Japanese warrior and makes him the best new character on television this year. Yet, Steven Webber delivered such a fantastic performance week after week on Studio 60 that he is hard to not declare the winner. Webber managed to make a seemingly one-dimensional antagonist into the most complex and interesting individual on a show filled with them. Webber stands out from the pack with fantastic performance after fantastic performance and really hits as the best cast member on the talented Studio 60 crew.
While Billingsley may have been the best thing about The Nine, his work was not enough to save the fairly slow show. Gilford may be one of the best on Friday Night Lights, but it is hard to really single out his strong work from the rest of the cast. Robert Knepper is just deliciously evil and vile as T-Bag, but ultimately, his performance is not weighty enough to capture the award. The only other performance that could have captured the prize was Robert Sean Leonard. His character of Wilson has taken on an increased role on House and in doing so, raised the level of the show’s quality.
Best Supporting Actress in a Drama
Lisa Edelstein as Dr. Cuddy in House, M.D.
Elizabeth Mitchell as Juliette in Lost
Sandra Oh as Christina Yang in Grey’s Anatomy
Katee Sackhoff as Kara Thrace in Battlestar Galactica
Sarah Wayne Callies as Sarah Tencredy in Prison Break
Chanda Wilson as Miranda Bailey in Grey’s Anatomy
Winner: Katee Sackhoff in Battlestar Galactica
Sackhoff has delivered fantastic performances year after year, but this year her emotions were stretched to the limit. From an unrequited love, to a failing marriage and a confused motherly moment, Sackhoff captured each with subtlety and aplomb. Kara seemed that she would explode at any moment, and yet at the same time Sackhoff administers such restraint that her character is so tense that she is vulnerable. Just marvelous work.
The two actresses from Grey’s Anatomy have each had a banner year, but they were overshadowed by the vastly improved Lisa Edelstein. Finally given a role, Edelstein infused House with a feminine authority that was sorely lacking. Her Dr. Cuddy finally became the foil for House that she should have been all along, to great results.
Elizabeth Mitchell was the best thing about Lost’s new mini-season. She was smart, engaging and delivered the fullest performance. It’s just a shame that the rest of the show could not hold up.
Best Guest Actor in a Comedy
Corbin Bernsen in Psych
Wayne Brady in How I Met Your Mother
Charles Eston in The Office
Jarret Grody in Help Me, Help You
Martin Landau in Entourage
John Leguizamo in My Name is Earl
Winner: Martin Landau in Entourage
As a washed up, old film producer, Landau reminded viewers why he deserved the Oscar for Ed Wood. Confused, vengeful, hilarious and clueless at the same time, Landau crafted a memorable character that could more than hold his own with Jeremy Piven’s Ari Gold. A hard task for nearly all those that grace Entourage’s screen.
Best Guest Actress in a Comedy
Elizabeth Banks in Scrubs
Roseanne in My Name is Earl
Melora Hardin in The Office
Kirsten Nelson in Psych
Amy Sedaris in My Name is Earl
Nancy Walls in The Office
Winner: Kirsten Nelson in Psych
Bound to be moved up to a full-time cast regular when Psych returns to finish out its first season, Nelson is a great character actress that is finally getting a role she can relish. As the police chief, Nelson hangs on the border of laughter and acceptance each and every time, having the role to be not truly the straight woman to Shawn Spencer, but also the source of comedy from time to time.
Best Writing in a Drama
Peter Berg for “Pilot” from Friday Night Lights
Carlton Cuse & Damon Lindelof for “I Do” from Lost
Paul Haggis & Bobby Moresco for “Pilot” from The Black Donnellys
Aaron Sorkin & Eli Attie for “B-12” from Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Rob Thomas for “Spit & Eggs” from Veronica Mars
Bradley Thompson & David Weddle for “Exodus Part II” from Battlestar Galactica
Winner: Paul Haggis & Bobby Moresco for “Pilot” from The Black Donnellys
Now this has not come out yet, but nearly everything about it rocks. A great cast, great directing, The Black Donnellys was one of the best pilots for this recent season of television. So, why the win for writing? Well what Oscar winners Haggis and Moresco did with Donnellys was craft an interesting structure to a very straightforward story. This added depth and mystery to what could have been a simple mobster tale. Almost operatic in the way the script structures, these two have crafted a great pilot for what is hopefully going to be a great show when it premieres Monday Nights at 10 on NBC in March.
Best Writing in a Comedy
Jon Beckerman & Rob Burnett for “Pilot” from The Knights of Prosperity
Jennifer Cellota for “A Benihana Christmas” from The Office
Brent Forrester for “Merger” from The Office
Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant for “The Convict” from The Office
Michael Pennie and Danielle Sanchez for “South of the Border Parts Uno and Dos” from My Name is Earl
Tad Quill for “My Coffee” from Scrubs
Winner: Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant for “The Convict” from The Office
The two comedy geniuses from across the Atlantic head over to the USA to join in the creative process for the show they helped spawn. The hit creators of the U.K. “The Office,” Gervais and Merchant brought their unique humor to the U.S. for Michael Scott and company. Although not the best episode of the series, Merchant and Gervais crafted a unique show that stands out during this season. The comedy was a bit harsher than normal, the jokes cut a bit deeper and the revelations were just more insightful. With a slightly melancholy tone, Gervais and Merchant added depth to an already deep U.S. sitcom.
Best Directing in a Comedy
Marc Buckland for “South of the Border Part Dos” from My Name is Earl
Rob Burnett and Robert Duncan McNeil for “Pilot” from The Knights of Prosperity
Pamela Fryman for “Slap Bet” from How I Met Your Mother
John Inwood for “My Mirror Image” from Scrubs
Harold Ramis for “A Benihana Christmas” from The Office
Ken Whittingham for “Merger” from The Office
Winner: Harold Ramis for “A Benihana Christmas” From The Office
Sure to be a fan favorite for years to come, “A Benihana Christmas” defined what The Office is about. The off-color jokes and over-the-top but true to life office shenanigans could not have been captured if not for the veteran comedy director’s touch. Ramis was able to nicely construct the show’s three plus storylines and in doing so craft an effective story. What could have simply been jokes was cohesive and tender, a great story that displayed the unique charm that makes the U.S. version of The Office as a great show in its own right.
Best Directing in a Drama
Feliz Enriquez Alcala for “Exodus, Part II” from Battlestar Galactica
Peter Berg for “Pilot” from Friday Night Lights
Paul Haggis for “Pilot” from The Black Donnellys
Thomas Schlamme for “The Cold Open” from Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Rob Thomas for “Spit & Eggs” from Veronica Mars
Robert Young for “Unfinished Business” from Battlestar Galactica
Winner: Robert Young for “Unfinished Business” from Battlestar Galactica
What an episode of television. “Unfinished Business” raised the great season of Battlestar Galactica to epic proportions. Character driven and brutal, “Unfinished Business” took a break from the show’s larger scale metaphors and focused just on the characters and their lives. Yet, at the same time, the show managed to say something more, something about the humanity within us all. Deeply moving and heart wrenchingly effective, this is the single best hour of television this year.
Best Lead Actor in a Comedy
Zach Braff as J.D. in Scrubs
Steve Carell as Michael Scott in The Office
Brad Garrett as Eddie in Til Death
Jason Lee as Earl in My Name is Earl
James Roday as Shawn Spencer in Psych
Winner: Steve Carell in The Office
Steve Carell has done something remarkable. He has made Michael Scott likable. What was once merely a pathetic character has become a deeply complex, pathos-driven man that is incredibly true to life. Moments peppered throughout the show have built to a powerful picture of a lonely man constantly grasping for affection. Yet, this is just one way to view Michael Scott. Because of Carell’s performance there is so much more that can be said that there could be papers one day written on the pathos of Scott and his British counterpart David Brent.
Best Lead Actress in a Comedy
Sarah Chalke as Elliot in Scrubs
America Ferrara as Betty Suarez in Ugly Betty
Tina Fey as Liz Lemon in 30 Rock
Cobie Smulders as Robin in How I Met Your Mother
Mary Louise Parker as Nancy in Weeds
Winner: America Ferrara in Ugly Betty
The one episode I saw of Ugly Betty and America Ferrara impressed me so much that she got nominated in this category. When compared to the other actresses she was the only one that stood out, whose performance was just pitch perfect that I had to give her the nod. Sure I don’t follow the show because it just isn’t my cup of tea, but I can’t help but respect it and the actress at the center of it all.
Best New Show
Friday Night Lights
Heroes
Jericho
Psych
Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Winner: Friday Night Lights
Perhaps my favorite show, Friday Night Lights is not only the best new show, but it is the best show you’re not watching. Everyone I have suggested it to have found it riveting and powerful. Emotionally relevant and character driven, this is a show not about football but about life. The performances are the most realistic of any program on television, perhaps of all time and the chemistry between its leads are just amazing. Watching the show forces one to leave their lives behind for just about an hour and instead become one of the faithful in the stands of Dillon, Texas waiting with all of the Panthers for each Friday night. There is a reason that this was on the AFI top ten list, and will probably win a Peabody, it has heart and the characters to express it.
Best Ensemble in a Comedy
Entourage
How I Met Your Mother
My Name is Earl
The Office
Scrubs
30 Rock
Winner: Scrubs
The Office stepped up its game this year, but Scrubs still has the best ensemble cast on television. Each cast member seems to raise the others game. Zach Braff, John C. McGinley, Donald Faison, Judy Reyes, Ken Jenkins, Neil Flynn and Sarah Chalke all fly through the comedy with ease, but they can also capture the perfect hint of drama when the scene calls for it. An incredibly wide range of emotions are conveyed throughout Scrubs and these seven guide the audience through the wacky and the deeply moving with aplomb and energy.
Best Single Episode of a Comedy
“Slap Bet”- How I Met Your Mother
“Pilot”- The Knights of Prosperity
“South of the Border”- My Name is Earl
“A Benihana Christmas”- The Office
“Merger”- The Office
“My Mirror Image”- Scrubs
Winner: “Pilot”- The Knights of Prosperity
How I Met Your Mother raised its game this year, as did The Office. Both have had stellar seasons that resulted in memorable moments, character defining events and comedic events that sent me to the floor, rolling with laughter. Despite My Name is Earl’s rough year, they have finished the first half of the season with an incredibly strong two part show that had the same charm of the programs first season. Scrubs is always a great comedy, that produces quality episodes that are laugh a minute every week.
So, why a show that hasn’t even premiered been declared the best single episode of comedy this season? Well, because it rocks. It is hysterical and features not only a great ensemble but the best cameo of the year- Mick Jagger-making fun of himself! Pure comedy gold, this show has a vibe that is partly Scrubs, partly the Office and partly My Name is Earl with a bit of the absurdity of Arrested Development tossed in for good measure. If you liked the tone of Little Miss Sunshine, you will want to become one of the Knights of Prosperity. I have, five times thus far,
Best Ensemble in a Drama
Battlestar Galactica
Friday Night Lights
Heroes
House, M.D.
Lost
Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Winner: Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Each of these shows has a remarkable cast. Some have marquee stars, others merely TV stalwarts, but what Studio 60 has above all others is an intelligent crew that seems to be their characters. Perhaps the characters are simply crafted because of the actors, or perhaps it is the other way around, but regardless, it is the ensemble of Studio 60 that has kept me watching. When the show had a rocky start, I couldn’t find anything incredible to enjoy. Some of the episodes were good (episode two, “The Cold Open” for example) and others were just disappointing. But the cast kept me hoping, and finally Aaron Sorkin caught up. Perhaps I have the executives to thank for that. Or maybe the knock of cancellation. Instead I think it’s the wonderful cast lead by Matthew Perry and Bradley Whitford and featuring Steven Webber, DL Hughley, Sarah Paulson, Amanda Peet, Nate Cordry and Timothy Busfield. This is a dream team that has finally paid off.
Best Lead Actress in a Drama
Kristen Bell as Veronica Mars in Veronica Mars
Connie Britton as Tami Taylor in Friday Night Lights
Mary McDonnell as Laura Roslin in Battlestar Galactica
Sarah Paulson as Harriet Hayes in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Kyra Sedwick as Brenda Lee Johnson in The Closer
Winner: Mary McDonnell in Battlestar Galactica
One cannot watch Battlestar Galactica and not be impressed. Week in and week out McDonnell delivers a measured performance of a wounded woman leading an all but lost people. President Laura Roslin has gone through a lot, but McDonnell has held poise throughout, making the character a complete woman that I would support in almost every race. Except against Bartlet for America of course.
Best Lead Actor in a Drama
Kyle Chandler as Eric Taylor in Friday Night Lights
Matthew Fox as Jack Shepard in Lost
Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House in House, M.D.
Denis Leary as Tommy Gavin in Rescue Me
Wentworth Miller as Michael Scofield in Prison Break
Edward James Olmos as William Adama in Battlestar Galactica
Winner: Kyle Chandler in Friday Night Lights
Perhaps the toughest category to award a winner, each of these actors are phenomenal in their own right. Fox has delivered the best work of his career, and his time on Lost in an otherwise lackluster six episode mini-season. Hugh Laurie continues to bring Dr. House to new levels of complexity with each pill he pops. Denis Leary continues to make Tommy Gavin a tragic figure- this time figuring out his life and relationships while being haunted by his son’s death. Wentworth Miller has continued to deliver on Prison Break, especially in moments when Michael has come up to unexplainable issues in his ironed out plan. And Olmos is the veteran that can do it all. He is strong, tender, nostalgic and vulnerable at just the right time. He is William Adama, and he is an Admiral.
But Kyle Chandler has done something incredible. He has delivered a performance so career defining that he becomes his character. All other performances form his past have melted away and now all I can picture him as is Coach Eric Taylor. He, along with Connie Britton, has the most realistic relationship on television, but he is also a well rounded individual. He is a coach, but he is also a father figure to these young men, and Chandler portrays both with certainty and fullness that I couldn’t imagine he would otherwise.
Best Single Episode of a Drama
“Exodus, Part II”- Battlestar Galactica
“Unfinished Business”- Battlestar Galactica
“Pilot”- The Black Donnellys
“Who’s Your Daddy”- Friday Night Lights
“The Christmas Show”- Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
“Spit and Eggs”- Veronica Mars
Winner: “Unfinished Business”- Battlestar Galactica
As I said before, this is the best single episode of the season, in any show, and perhaps the best I have seen ever. This is just a complete episode and a series defining moment. Characters, relationships, life and themes are addressed amongst the backdrop of boxing. And yet, the implications are much grander than a win or a loss. The emotion builds slowly, sometimes to brutal effects. So perfect, this hour of television just cannot be topped this season. I cannot remember the last time I finished watching an episode of TV and was more emotionally drained or mentally gripped. This could win Battlestar a second consecutive Peabody, and hopefully get it that deserved Emmy nomination.
Best Comedy Series
Entourage
How I Met Your Mother
My Name is Earl
The Office
Scrubs
Winner: The Office
Not only is The Office the most improved show of the season, but it is the funniest. I am consistently entertained and consistently want to rewatch it. The characters have become so well developed that the humor leads to belly laughs. What was once chuckles has evolved into a total laugh fest that also forces one to think. Just great.
Best Drama Series
Battlestar Galactica
Friday Night Lights
Lost
Rescue Me
Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Winner: Battlestar Galactica
Each and every one of these shows deserve some sort of award. But Battlestar Galactica is simply the best of the bunch. It is epic in every sense of the word. Simultaneously emotional and thought provoking, this is the analogy for the times we are living in and perhaps life itself. That may be too far for a TV show to delve, but this show proves that it can go there. I watched the second half of the second season in one day, and I am just as impressed with the first half of season three. Watch this show because it is the best on television. No question about it. So say we all.
Thanks for those that have stuck with it and enjoy. I’ll have the film one at some point, but this is my love and these are the shows that I think everyone should be watching. Keep on watching and keep on enjoying….we are in a renaissance of TV greatness….keep tuning in!
As I have done for the last few years….here are my year end awards. Some post just the top DVDs, some post their top movies. Others post their top books. Me, I post it all. To start, here is my top television awards. This is the most comprehensive of the bunch seeing how television has become a fervent passion of mine over the course of the last few years.
Before I start, just a note: those eligible for these categories must have either been aired during the summer or fall seasons of 2006, or have been produced to air during such seasons. And now….
Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy
Jenna Fischer as Pam Beesly in The Office
Allyson Hannigan as Lily Aldrin in How I Met Your Mother
Rashida Jones as Karen Fillipelle in The Office
Jaime Pressley as Joy Turner in My Name is Earl
Judy Reyes as Carla Espinosa Turk in Scrubs
Nadine Velasquez as Catalina in My Name is Earl
Winner: Allyson Hannigan in How I Met Your Mother
The obvious choice would have been Jenna Fischer who delivers week in, week out in The Office, but since coming back for the Fall season, Fischer’s Pam has found herself less of a presence, especially after her stunning performance in The Office’s Season Finale. The women of Earl have been consistent, especially Velasquez, but ultimately it is Hannigan who has shined this season on How I Met Your Mother. The most improved show of the new year, How I Met Your Mother has found a perfect role for Hannigan’s quirky humor, separating her just enough from Jason Segal’s Marshall to have her own personality.
Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy
Donald Faison as Chris Turk in Scrubs
Neil Flynn as The Janitor in Scrubs
Ed Helms as Andy in The Office
Dule Hill as Gus in Psych
John C. McGinley as Perry Cox in Scrubs
Jeremy Piven as Ari Gold in Entourage
Winner: Ed Helms in The Office
In a few short episodes, Ed Helms has injected the perfect sense of competition, comedy and awkwardness back into The Office. The perfect opponent for the over-the-top Dwight, Helms is raising the level of quality of The Office. For proof, look no further than the final episode of the season, “A Benihana Christmas.”
The Scrubs actors are not to be discounted. Great each and every year, McGinley and Faison are just as strong as the show’s lead Zach Braff. Although the premiere of the season has hurt their chances for this award, the end of the season may bring a different opinion. One surprise is the strong performance by Neil Flynn who continues to make the Janitor a more complex, more entertaining character than a simple antagonist for all those around him.
One can also not forget Jeremy Piven whose Ari Gold continually steals the spotlight on Entourage. This is a performance that will continue to be remembered. And who thought that Dule Hill would be remembered passed The West Wing. Underused in the show’s final seasons, Hill has knocked his role of Gus out of the park with great comedic timing and fantastic chemistry with Psych’s star James Roday.
Best Animated Series
American Dad
Family Guy
The Simpsons
South Park
Winner: American Dad
Animated comedy has a surprising trend this past year. Shows that seemed to have run their course have struck back with a vengeance, while once greats seem to falter. Family Guy and The Simpsons used to be the marquee animated shows at the start of the century. Now, they have become shells of their former self. The nostalgia of Family Guy’s return has worn off and The Simpsons don’t know what to do with itself.
And yet, after a decade, South Park is back. Having ridden a storm of controversy involving Scientology, Muslim Cartoons and World of Warcraft, South Park is better than ever. The social satire and on the nose parody continues to be funny time after time. But one show has continually impressed me this year. American Dad was weak when it first premiered. While it would have been a nice consolation had Family Guy not returned, their dual premiere resulted in an overshadowing effect. American Dad palled in comparison. It almost looked like a cheap rip-off of Family Guy. But then, something happened. The show found its voice. Now in its third season, American Dad surprises with smart comedy, great political commentary and fantastic film references all while telling a great story. This and South Park are the best two animated shows on television right now.
Best Guest Actress in a Drama
Busy Phillips in E.R.
Christine Lahti in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Kathy Najimy in Numb3rs
Robin Weigert in The Unit
Laura San Giacomo in Veronica Mars
Nora Zehetner in Heroes
Winner: Robin Weigert in The Unit
Phenomenal on Deadwood, Weigert was nominated for an Emmy for her role as Calamity Jane. The most complex character, Weigert crafted a stupendous performance that has lead to many recent appearances on other hit television shows. A recent guest star on Numb3rs, Weigert shined in a heart wrenchingly complex episode of the underappreciated The Unit. A performance that stayed with me and makes an impact, even if it is just one of many episodes of the series.
Best Guest Actor in a Drama
Ed Asner in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Ed Begley Jr. in Veronica Mars
Judd Hirsch in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
David Morse in House, M.D.
Kevin Rankin in Friday Night Lights
Forest Whitiker in E.R.
Winner: Judd Hirsch in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
What a difficult category. Each of these actors deserves to win. Rankin knocked it out of the park each and every week as the quadrapelegic roommate of Jason Street, forcing the QB to embrace an uncertain future. Whitiker, sure to win an Oscar this year, shined on E.R. as a man gripped with legal troubles and a life thrown into shambles. This is just one of the many stellar performances Whitiker had this year (the others are The Last King of Scotland and The Shield.) Morse injected an interesting element into House and captured the right tone to combat the crabby doctor. Ed Begley quickly became the lovable dean at Hearst College before becoming Veronica and Keith Mar’s friend and future case.
And Studio 60 had to fantastic veteran actors, in great roles, delivering great performances. Ed Asner brought a great deal of levity to his character of the chairman of NBS in “The Christmas Show” episode, but it was Judd Hirsch that set the tone for the series. As Wes, Hirsch set the tone for the series, set the stage for the characters and brought a sense of urgency to a role that seemed a bit dated. Just a fantastic year for male performances in dramas.
Best Reality Show
1 vs. 100
Deal or No Deal
Hell’s Kitchen
Top Chef
Winner: Top Chef
I don’t watch that many reality shows (so comments are welcome) but from what I do watch, there is only one clear winner. Although Hell’s Kitchen is entertaining, Top Chef is riveting, engrossing and all about the skill. Since when did a TV competition actually result in a real competition and not some popularity contest. A refreshing and entertaining show, Top Chef is some of the best reality TV has to offer.
Best Supporting Actor in a Drama
John Billingsley as Egan Foote in The Nine
Zach Gilford as Matt Saracen in Friday Night Lights
Robert Knepper as T-Bag in Prison Break
Masi Oka as Hiro Nakamura in Heroes
Robert Sean Leonard as Dr. James Wilson in House, M.D.
Steven Webber as Jack Rudolph in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Winner: Steven Webber in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Another strong category, this almost had a tie for winner. Masi Oka shines as Hiro Nakamura. He is the glue and the heart of Heroes and keeps the viewer entertained with the right amount of humor, love and just plain ole kick-ass actions. A true hero, Oka inhabits the Japanese warrior and makes him the best new character on television this year. Yet, Steven Webber delivered such a fantastic performance week after week on Studio 60 that he is hard to not declare the winner. Webber managed to make a seemingly one-dimensional antagonist into the most complex and interesting individual on a show filled with them. Webber stands out from the pack with fantastic performance after fantastic performance and really hits as the best cast member on the talented Studio 60 crew.
While Billingsley may have been the best thing about The Nine, his work was not enough to save the fairly slow show. Gilford may be one of the best on Friday Night Lights, but it is hard to really single out his strong work from the rest of the cast. Robert Knepper is just deliciously evil and vile as T-Bag, but ultimately, his performance is not weighty enough to capture the award. The only other performance that could have captured the prize was Robert Sean Leonard. His character of Wilson has taken on an increased role on House and in doing so, raised the level of the show’s quality.
Best Supporting Actress in a Drama
Lisa Edelstein as Dr. Cuddy in House, M.D.
Elizabeth Mitchell as Juliette in Lost
Sandra Oh as Christina Yang in Grey’s Anatomy
Katee Sackhoff as Kara Thrace in Battlestar Galactica
Sarah Wayne Callies as Sarah Tencredy in Prison Break
Chanda Wilson as Miranda Bailey in Grey’s Anatomy
Winner: Katee Sackhoff in Battlestar Galactica
Sackhoff has delivered fantastic performances year after year, but this year her emotions were stretched to the limit. From an unrequited love, to a failing marriage and a confused motherly moment, Sackhoff captured each with subtlety and aplomb. Kara seemed that she would explode at any moment, and yet at the same time Sackhoff administers such restraint that her character is so tense that she is vulnerable. Just marvelous work.
The two actresses from Grey’s Anatomy have each had a banner year, but they were overshadowed by the vastly improved Lisa Edelstein. Finally given a role, Edelstein infused House with a feminine authority that was sorely lacking. Her Dr. Cuddy finally became the foil for House that she should have been all along, to great results.
Elizabeth Mitchell was the best thing about Lost’s new mini-season. She was smart, engaging and delivered the fullest performance. It’s just a shame that the rest of the show could not hold up.
Best Guest Actor in a Comedy
Corbin Bernsen in Psych
Wayne Brady in How I Met Your Mother
Charles Eston in The Office
Jarret Grody in Help Me, Help You
Martin Landau in Entourage
John Leguizamo in My Name is Earl
Winner: Martin Landau in Entourage
As a washed up, old film producer, Landau reminded viewers why he deserved the Oscar for Ed Wood. Confused, vengeful, hilarious and clueless at the same time, Landau crafted a memorable character that could more than hold his own with Jeremy Piven’s Ari Gold. A hard task for nearly all those that grace Entourage’s screen.
Best Guest Actress in a Comedy
Elizabeth Banks in Scrubs
Roseanne in My Name is Earl
Melora Hardin in The Office
Kirsten Nelson in Psych
Amy Sedaris in My Name is Earl
Nancy Walls in The Office
Winner: Kirsten Nelson in Psych
Bound to be moved up to a full-time cast regular when Psych returns to finish out its first season, Nelson is a great character actress that is finally getting a role she can relish. As the police chief, Nelson hangs on the border of laughter and acceptance each and every time, having the role to be not truly the straight woman to Shawn Spencer, but also the source of comedy from time to time.
Best Writing in a Drama
Peter Berg for “Pilot” from Friday Night Lights
Carlton Cuse & Damon Lindelof for “I Do” from Lost
Paul Haggis & Bobby Moresco for “Pilot” from The Black Donnellys
Aaron Sorkin & Eli Attie for “B-12” from Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Rob Thomas for “Spit & Eggs” from Veronica Mars
Bradley Thompson & David Weddle for “Exodus Part II” from Battlestar Galactica
Winner: Paul Haggis & Bobby Moresco for “Pilot” from The Black Donnellys
Now this has not come out yet, but nearly everything about it rocks. A great cast, great directing, The Black Donnellys was one of the best pilots for this recent season of television. So, why the win for writing? Well what Oscar winners Haggis and Moresco did with Donnellys was craft an interesting structure to a very straightforward story. This added depth and mystery to what could have been a simple mobster tale. Almost operatic in the way the script structures, these two have crafted a great pilot for what is hopefully going to be a great show when it premieres Monday Nights at 10 on NBC in March.
Best Writing in a Comedy
Jon Beckerman & Rob Burnett for “Pilot” from The Knights of Prosperity
Jennifer Cellota for “A Benihana Christmas” from The Office
Brent Forrester for “Merger” from The Office
Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant for “The Convict” from The Office
Michael Pennie and Danielle Sanchez for “South of the Border Parts Uno and Dos” from My Name is Earl
Tad Quill for “My Coffee” from Scrubs
Winner: Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant for “The Convict” from The Office
The two comedy geniuses from across the Atlantic head over to the USA to join in the creative process for the show they helped spawn. The hit creators of the U.K. “The Office,” Gervais and Merchant brought their unique humor to the U.S. for Michael Scott and company. Although not the best episode of the series, Merchant and Gervais crafted a unique show that stands out during this season. The comedy was a bit harsher than normal, the jokes cut a bit deeper and the revelations were just more insightful. With a slightly melancholy tone, Gervais and Merchant added depth to an already deep U.S. sitcom.
Best Directing in a Comedy
Marc Buckland for “South of the Border Part Dos” from My Name is Earl
Rob Burnett and Robert Duncan McNeil for “Pilot” from The Knights of Prosperity
Pamela Fryman for “Slap Bet” from How I Met Your Mother
John Inwood for “My Mirror Image” from Scrubs
Harold Ramis for “A Benihana Christmas” from The Office
Ken Whittingham for “Merger” from The Office
Winner: Harold Ramis for “A Benihana Christmas” From The Office
Sure to be a fan favorite for years to come, “A Benihana Christmas” defined what The Office is about. The off-color jokes and over-the-top but true to life office shenanigans could not have been captured if not for the veteran comedy director’s touch. Ramis was able to nicely construct the show’s three plus storylines and in doing so craft an effective story. What could have simply been jokes was cohesive and tender, a great story that displayed the unique charm that makes the U.S. version of The Office as a great show in its own right.
Best Directing in a Drama
Feliz Enriquez Alcala for “Exodus, Part II” from Battlestar Galactica
Peter Berg for “Pilot” from Friday Night Lights
Paul Haggis for “Pilot” from The Black Donnellys
Thomas Schlamme for “The Cold Open” from Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Rob Thomas for “Spit & Eggs” from Veronica Mars
Robert Young for “Unfinished Business” from Battlestar Galactica
Winner: Robert Young for “Unfinished Business” from Battlestar Galactica
What an episode of television. “Unfinished Business” raised the great season of Battlestar Galactica to epic proportions. Character driven and brutal, “Unfinished Business” took a break from the show’s larger scale metaphors and focused just on the characters and their lives. Yet, at the same time, the show managed to say something more, something about the humanity within us all. Deeply moving and heart wrenchingly effective, this is the single best hour of television this year.
Best Lead Actor in a Comedy
Zach Braff as J.D. in Scrubs
Steve Carell as Michael Scott in The Office
Brad Garrett as Eddie in Til Death
Jason Lee as Earl in My Name is Earl
James Roday as Shawn Spencer in Psych
Winner: Steve Carell in The Office
Steve Carell has done something remarkable. He has made Michael Scott likable. What was once merely a pathetic character has become a deeply complex, pathos-driven man that is incredibly true to life. Moments peppered throughout the show have built to a powerful picture of a lonely man constantly grasping for affection. Yet, this is just one way to view Michael Scott. Because of Carell’s performance there is so much more that can be said that there could be papers one day written on the pathos of Scott and his British counterpart David Brent.
Best Lead Actress in a Comedy
Sarah Chalke as Elliot in Scrubs
America Ferrara as Betty Suarez in Ugly Betty
Tina Fey as Liz Lemon in 30 Rock
Cobie Smulders as Robin in How I Met Your Mother
Mary Louise Parker as Nancy in Weeds
Winner: America Ferrara in Ugly Betty
The one episode I saw of Ugly Betty and America Ferrara impressed me so much that she got nominated in this category. When compared to the other actresses she was the only one that stood out, whose performance was just pitch perfect that I had to give her the nod. Sure I don’t follow the show because it just isn’t my cup of tea, but I can’t help but respect it and the actress at the center of it all.
Best New Show
Friday Night Lights
Heroes
Jericho
Psych
Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Winner: Friday Night Lights
Perhaps my favorite show, Friday Night Lights is not only the best new show, but it is the best show you’re not watching. Everyone I have suggested it to have found it riveting and powerful. Emotionally relevant and character driven, this is a show not about football but about life. The performances are the most realistic of any program on television, perhaps of all time and the chemistry between its leads are just amazing. Watching the show forces one to leave their lives behind for just about an hour and instead become one of the faithful in the stands of Dillon, Texas waiting with all of the Panthers for each Friday night. There is a reason that this was on the AFI top ten list, and will probably win a Peabody, it has heart and the characters to express it.
Best Ensemble in a Comedy
Entourage
How I Met Your Mother
My Name is Earl
The Office
Scrubs
30 Rock
Winner: Scrubs
The Office stepped up its game this year, but Scrubs still has the best ensemble cast on television. Each cast member seems to raise the others game. Zach Braff, John C. McGinley, Donald Faison, Judy Reyes, Ken Jenkins, Neil Flynn and Sarah Chalke all fly through the comedy with ease, but they can also capture the perfect hint of drama when the scene calls for it. An incredibly wide range of emotions are conveyed throughout Scrubs and these seven guide the audience through the wacky and the deeply moving with aplomb and energy.
Best Single Episode of a Comedy
“Slap Bet”- How I Met Your Mother
“Pilot”- The Knights of Prosperity
“South of the Border”- My Name is Earl
“A Benihana Christmas”- The Office
“Merger”- The Office
“My Mirror Image”- Scrubs
Winner: “Pilot”- The Knights of Prosperity
How I Met Your Mother raised its game this year, as did The Office. Both have had stellar seasons that resulted in memorable moments, character defining events and comedic events that sent me to the floor, rolling with laughter. Despite My Name is Earl’s rough year, they have finished the first half of the season with an incredibly strong two part show that had the same charm of the programs first season. Scrubs is always a great comedy, that produces quality episodes that are laugh a minute every week.
So, why a show that hasn’t even premiered been declared the best single episode of comedy this season? Well, because it rocks. It is hysterical and features not only a great ensemble but the best cameo of the year- Mick Jagger-making fun of himself! Pure comedy gold, this show has a vibe that is partly Scrubs, partly the Office and partly My Name is Earl with a bit of the absurdity of Arrested Development tossed in for good measure. If you liked the tone of Little Miss Sunshine, you will want to become one of the Knights of Prosperity. I have, five times thus far,
Best Ensemble in a Drama
Battlestar Galactica
Friday Night Lights
Heroes
House, M.D.
Lost
Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Winner: Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Each of these shows has a remarkable cast. Some have marquee stars, others merely TV stalwarts, but what Studio 60 has above all others is an intelligent crew that seems to be their characters. Perhaps the characters are simply crafted because of the actors, or perhaps it is the other way around, but regardless, it is the ensemble of Studio 60 that has kept me watching. When the show had a rocky start, I couldn’t find anything incredible to enjoy. Some of the episodes were good (episode two, “The Cold Open” for example) and others were just disappointing. But the cast kept me hoping, and finally Aaron Sorkin caught up. Perhaps I have the executives to thank for that. Or maybe the knock of cancellation. Instead I think it’s the wonderful cast lead by Matthew Perry and Bradley Whitford and featuring Steven Webber, DL Hughley, Sarah Paulson, Amanda Peet, Nate Cordry and Timothy Busfield. This is a dream team that has finally paid off.
Best Lead Actress in a Drama
Kristen Bell as Veronica Mars in Veronica Mars
Connie Britton as Tami Taylor in Friday Night Lights
Mary McDonnell as Laura Roslin in Battlestar Galactica
Sarah Paulson as Harriet Hayes in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Kyra Sedwick as Brenda Lee Johnson in The Closer
Winner: Mary McDonnell in Battlestar Galactica
One cannot watch Battlestar Galactica and not be impressed. Week in and week out McDonnell delivers a measured performance of a wounded woman leading an all but lost people. President Laura Roslin has gone through a lot, but McDonnell has held poise throughout, making the character a complete woman that I would support in almost every race. Except against Bartlet for America of course.
Best Lead Actor in a Drama
Kyle Chandler as Eric Taylor in Friday Night Lights
Matthew Fox as Jack Shepard in Lost
Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House in House, M.D.
Denis Leary as Tommy Gavin in Rescue Me
Wentworth Miller as Michael Scofield in Prison Break
Edward James Olmos as William Adama in Battlestar Galactica
Winner: Kyle Chandler in Friday Night Lights
Perhaps the toughest category to award a winner, each of these actors are phenomenal in their own right. Fox has delivered the best work of his career, and his time on Lost in an otherwise lackluster six episode mini-season. Hugh Laurie continues to bring Dr. House to new levels of complexity with each pill he pops. Denis Leary continues to make Tommy Gavin a tragic figure- this time figuring out his life and relationships while being haunted by his son’s death. Wentworth Miller has continued to deliver on Prison Break, especially in moments when Michael has come up to unexplainable issues in his ironed out plan. And Olmos is the veteran that can do it all. He is strong, tender, nostalgic and vulnerable at just the right time. He is William Adama, and he is an Admiral.
But Kyle Chandler has done something incredible. He has delivered a performance so career defining that he becomes his character. All other performances form his past have melted away and now all I can picture him as is Coach Eric Taylor. He, along with Connie Britton, has the most realistic relationship on television, but he is also a well rounded individual. He is a coach, but he is also a father figure to these young men, and Chandler portrays both with certainty and fullness that I couldn’t imagine he would otherwise.
Best Single Episode of a Drama
“Exodus, Part II”- Battlestar Galactica
“Unfinished Business”- Battlestar Galactica
“Pilot”- The Black Donnellys
“Who’s Your Daddy”- Friday Night Lights
“The Christmas Show”- Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
“Spit and Eggs”- Veronica Mars
Winner: “Unfinished Business”- Battlestar Galactica
As I said before, this is the best single episode of the season, in any show, and perhaps the best I have seen ever. This is just a complete episode and a series defining moment. Characters, relationships, life and themes are addressed amongst the backdrop of boxing. And yet, the implications are much grander than a win or a loss. The emotion builds slowly, sometimes to brutal effects. So perfect, this hour of television just cannot be topped this season. I cannot remember the last time I finished watching an episode of TV and was more emotionally drained or mentally gripped. This could win Battlestar a second consecutive Peabody, and hopefully get it that deserved Emmy nomination.
Best Comedy Series
Entourage
How I Met Your Mother
My Name is Earl
The Office
Scrubs
Winner: The Office
Not only is The Office the most improved show of the season, but it is the funniest. I am consistently entertained and consistently want to rewatch it. The characters have become so well developed that the humor leads to belly laughs. What was once chuckles has evolved into a total laugh fest that also forces one to think. Just great.
Best Drama Series
Battlestar Galactica
Friday Night Lights
Lost
Rescue Me
Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
Winner: Battlestar Galactica
Each and every one of these shows deserve some sort of award. But Battlestar Galactica is simply the best of the bunch. It is epic in every sense of the word. Simultaneously emotional and thought provoking, this is the analogy for the times we are living in and perhaps life itself. That may be too far for a TV show to delve, but this show proves that it can go there. I watched the second half of the second season in one day, and I am just as impressed with the first half of season three. Watch this show because it is the best on television. No question about it. So say we all.
Thanks for those that have stuck with it and enjoy. I’ll have the film one at some point, but this is my love and these are the shows that I think everyone should be watching. Keep on watching and keep on enjoying….we are in a renaissance of TV greatness….keep tuning in!