Official 2010 Emmy Predictions

The show is about to finally begin! I've given my insight into each category, so without further ado, here are my final predictions for tonight's ceremony.*

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

Winner: Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family

Spoiler: Ty Burrell, Modern Family

Personal Favorite: Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family

Oustanding Writing for a Comedy Series

Winner: Matt Hubbard, 30 Rock, "Anna Howard Shaw Day"

Spoiler: Ryan Murphy, Bard Falchuk and Ian Brenna, Glee, "Pilot"

Personal Favorite: Greg Daniels and Mindy Kaling, The Office, "Niagara"

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

Winner: Jane Lynch, Glee

Spoiler: Julie Bowen, Modern Family

Personal Favorite: Jane Lynch, Glee

Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series

Winner: Ryan Murphy, Glee, "Pilot"

Spoiler: Jason Winer, Modern Family, "Pilot"

Personal Favorite: Ryan Murphy, Glee, "Pilot"

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

Winner: Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory

Spoiler: Tony Shalhoub, Monk

Personal Favorite: Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

Winner: Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie

Spoiler: Toni Collette, United States of Tara

Personal Favorite: Tina Fey, 30 Rock

Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series

Winner: Matthew Weiner and Erin Levy, Mad Men, "Shut the Door. Have a Seat."

Spoiler: Robin Veith and Matthew Weiner, Mad Men, "Guy Walks Into an Advertising Agency"

Personal Favorite: Matthew Weiner and Erin Levy, Mad Men, "Shut the Door. Have a Seat."

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Winner: Terry O'Quinn, Lost

Spoiler: Andre Braugher, Men of a Certain Age

Personal Favorite: Terry O'Quinn, Lost (but only because I haven't gotten to see Aaron Paul in season three of Breaking Bad yet)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

Winner: Sharon Gless, Burn Notice

Spoiler: Christina Hendricks, Mad Men

Favorite: Arhie Panjabi, The Good Wife

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series

Winner: Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad

Spoiler: Michael C. Hall, Dexter

Personal Favorite: Jon Hamm, Mad Men

Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series

Winner: Jack Bender, Lost, "The End"

Spoiler: Lesli Linka Glatter, Mad Men, "Guy Walks Into an Advertising Agency"

Personal Favorite: Jack Bender, Lost, "The End"

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series

Winner: Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife

Spoiler: Glenn Close, Damages

Personal Favorite: January Jones, Mad Men

Outstanding Drama Series

Winner: Mad Men

Spoiler: Lost

Personal Favorite: Mad Men

Outstanding Comedy Series

Winner: Modern Family

Spoiler: Glee

Personal Favorite: Modern Family

*I make no guarantees on my predictions. I may act like an expert, but this show is often times impossible to predict.

Currently watching:
The 62nd Primetime Emmy Awards

Emmy Nominee Analysis: Series

Tonight! The Emmy festivities will begin shortly, so before I post my final predictions, it's time to look a little more closely at the shows that will be competing for the title of Best Comedy Series and Best Drama Series.

Outstanding Comedy Series


Frontrunners:
Modern Family - When competing for an award for the best comedy series on television, it helps to be the best comedy series currently on television. The freshman series puts a twist on the traditional family sitcom, meaning that Emmy voters can vote for something safe and comfortable, while still feeling hip and cool.
Glee - The series has already proved itself to be a strong competitor at all the previous award shows. Even though it's first season has received mixed reviews, clearly Glee is a force to be reckoned with.
30 Rock - Never underestimate a show about TV with a three year Emmy streak. Voters have proven they love 3o Rock over and over again. Despite a "weaker" fourth season, the series could still come out on top.

The Rest:
Nurse Jackie - It may have been a surprise nominee, but a directing nomination means that Edie Falco isn't the only thing Emmy voters love about this series.
Curb Your Enthusiasm - The Emmys loved Seinfeld, and the reunion on this season of Curb gives the series a small chance at victory. Even with that help, the show lacks the buzz of the three newcomers and the previous wins of 3o Rock.
The Office - There is no way this show could win after such an awful season. Even the Emmys aren't that cruel.

Outstanding Drama Series



Frontrunners:
Mad Men - The series has won for the past two years, and it certainly hasn't dwindled in quality. In fact, season three of Mad Men was probably the show's best. If Mad Men loses tonight, it would not be a reflection of the show's performance this year. Rather, it would be in order to honor a finished series (Lost) or congratulate a new one (The Good Wife).
Lost - The final season of this epic series was not the best, but it probably had the most buzz. Everyone seemed to be talking about Lost this year. Season six was not on par with the Emmy-winning first season, but it could still win as a final farewell and a general celebration of the series as a whole.

Dark Horse:
The Good Wife - The network drama has certainly proven itself worthy of being listed among its cable competition. Five acting nominations and a writing nomination means that The Good Wife is more than just a nominee. It's a serious player in this category and could be one of the biggest surprises of the night.

The Rest:
Dexter - Lots of buzz surrounded Michael C. Hall and John Lithgow this season, which could push the series into the winner's circle. But most likely the show will have to settle for the acting victories (Lithgow has already won Guest Actor, while Hall remains a serious competitor in Lead), while Mad Men reigns for another year.
Breaking Bad - Unfortunately, this brilliant drama series will always be in competition with the other AMC series, Mad Men. They are both so well done, but besides Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad seems to always get overlooked.
True Blood - The melodramatic and campy series should just be thankful it was able to break the Emmy nomination curse for vampire shows. It may be popular and addictive television, but it is certainly not on the same level of quality as its competitors.

Coming Soon: My official prediction list!

Currently watching:
Sons of Anarchy Season 1
Episode 3 - Fun Town

Emmy Nominee Analysis: Lead

The Emmys are almost here! It's time for some final analysis before the awards are handed out tomorrow evening. The lead actors seem to have no clear winner yet, while the lead actress categories are all but locked up. Only time can tell who the final victors will be.

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series


Frontrunners:
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock ("Don Geiss, America, and Hope") - He's won for the past two years, but this year may be the year another actor can end Baldwin's streak. His episode isn't as strong as his previous two but never count a 30 Rock contender out of the race.
Tony Shalhoub, Monk ("Mr. Monk and the End") - Shalhoub already has three Emmys for playing Monk, and this year's two hour series finale could easily bring him a fourth.

Dark Horse:
Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory ("The Pants Alternative") - The man has to win an Emmy eventually. His work is brilliant, and this year he's entered the competition with another very funny episode. Perhaps with 30 Rock buzz dying a little and a lack of other strong competitors, Parsons could take home the trophy tomorrow night.

The Rest:
Steve Carell, The Office ("The Cover Up") - He's never won an Emmy before, so I don't see why the academy would choose to finally award him now after the worst season in The Office's history. Expect him to be a frontrunner next year when he finishes his final season on the show.
Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm ("Seinfeld") - Since he's playing himself, he's not really seen as much of an "actor" on his show. However, his episode, featuring the cast of Seinfeld, boosts his chances a little bit.
Matthew Morrison, Glee ("Mash-Up") - His episode submission is absolutely terrible (it includes two rap numbers), he's overshadowed by the younger actors, and he's not very funny. Unless the Emmys go absolutely crazy over Glee this year, he has no chance.

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series


Frontrunners:
Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie ("Pilot") - She has been predicted to win this Emmy since Showtime announced that Falco would be headlining a new comedy series. Emmy voters loved her on The Sopranos, and that love will carry over to Nurse Jackie.
Toni Collette, United States of Tara ("Torando!") - Collette scored a very deserving win last year and has come back for more. Her episode is probably the strongest of the group, as she rapidly transitions into all of her multiple personalities during a tornado. She could easily take the award from Falco.
Tina Fey, 30 Rock ("Dealbreakers Talk Show #0001") - As long as she's in the running, Tina Fey will always have a solid chance to win. This year she submitted one of her funniest performances ever on a show that the academy has shown lots of love for in the past.

Dark Horse:
Lea Michele, Glee ("Sectionals") - Michele still has a chance to win, since this category has recently seemed to favor newcomers (Felicity Huffman, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, America Ferrera, Toni Collette). Also, Glee has received a lot of attention this year, which could help the award go in Michele's favor.

The Rest:
Amy Poehler, Parks & Recreation ("Telethon") - Perhaps voters just don't "get" Parks, since they failed to nominate the series, even though it was one of the strongest comedies on television this season. Unlike the other contenders, Poehler doesn't have the necessary support to come out victorious in this race.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, New Adventures of Old Christine ("I Love What You Do For Me") - She's already been rewarded for this role, and it's unlikely that Emmy voters will choose her canceled series over her strong competitors.

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series


Frontrunners:
Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad ("Full Measure") - Cranston is undefeated at the Emmys for his role on Breaking Bad. He could easily pull off a threepeat this year with another strong season under his belt.
Michael C. Hall, Dexter ("The Getaway") - He won at the Golden Globes and the SAG Awards for this season of Dexter. It looks like this could finally be the year that Hall wins the Emmy he's deserved since the first season of Six Feet Under.
Jon Hamm, Mad Men ("The Gypsy and the Hobo") - Somehow Mad Men has won Outstanding Drama Series two years in a row without ever winning an acting award. Hamm has definitely performed well, but he always gets bested by Cranston. Perhaps his intense episode submission will seal the deal this year.

Dark Horse:
Hugh Laurie, House ("Broken") - Laurie is long overdue, and the dramatic two hour season premiere (which takes places in a mental hospital) is probably his best shot at finally winning.

The Rest:
Kyle Chandler, Friday Night Lights ("East of Dillon") - The man certainly deserves the award, but it seems unlikely to happen since it took the academy four seasons to finally give him a nomination. But we can still hope for a surprise upset!
Matthew Fox, Lost ("The End") - Fox does a great job in the series finale, but the episode is two and a half hours long. His performance could easily be overlooked because of everything else going on in the episode.

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series


Frontrunners:
Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife ("Threesome") - The woman has it all. She has the buzz. She has the Golden Globe. She has the SAG. She has an Emmy from ER. And most importantly, she deserves all of it.
Glenn Close, Damages ("Your Secrets Are Safe") - Close has dominated this category for the past two years. She's won every year she's been eligible for Damages. This year she faces her toughest competition with a weak episode and a less buzzed about season of Damages. But the woman is unstoppable and could easily take home her third consecutive Emmy.

Dark Horse:
Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer ("Maternal Instincts") - Many people believe Sedwick is long overdue for an Emmy, and apparently (I don't watch The Closer) her episode submission this year is her best yet.

Wild Card:
Connie Britton, Friday Night Lights ("After the Fall") - Britton has never competed in the Emmys before. Now that the voters will have to watch her in an episode of Friday Night Lights, they won't be able to deny that she talent. Unfortunately, she was nominated in the season that didn't show case her abilities as well as the previous ones. She most likely won't be able to defeat the likes of Margulies and Close, but she still has a chance.

The Rest:
January Jones, Mad Men ("The Gypsy and the Hobo") - Her episode is fantastic and really showcases her abilities as an actress. Still, opinions about her performance are very divided, which prevents her from being as strong of a contender as she should be.
Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: SVU ("Perverted") - Hargitay has already won and isn't as popular as she used to be. Several critics question her nomination and believe that she has overstayed her welcome in this category.

Coming Soon: My thoughts on the nominees for Outstanding Comedy and Drama Series

Currently watching:
Sons of Anarchy Season 1
Episode 2 - Seeds

Emmy Nominee Analysis: Supporting

Emmy week is finally upon us! The winners will be announced Sunday night, but until then I'll be providing a little insight into all of the major categories. Keep reading to find out who's in the lead and who doesn't even have a chance.

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series


Frontrunners:
Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family ("Fizbo") - At this point, it seems to be a battle between the men of Modern Family. Stonestreet's stronger episode puts him slightly ahead of Ty Burrell.
Ty Burrell, Modern Family ("Up All Night") - But it would be no surprise to see the hilarious Burrell take the trophy on Sunday night. He's definitely earned it as one of the breakout stars on the hit comedy series.

Dark Horse:
Chris Colfer, Glee ("Laryngitis") - Colfer gives a great dramatic performance, but his episode lacks the comedic elements that put the Family men in the lead. Still, the Emmy love for Glee this year could carry over in a victory for the young actor.

Wild Card:
Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men ("Captain Terry's Spray-On Hair") - I only count him as a wild card because he was a major surprise win last year. Everyone predicted last year's host, Neil Patrick Harris, to take home the trophy, but Cryer stole it from him. There's always a chance he could do it again this year to the men of Modern Family.

The Rest:
Neil Patrick Harris, How I Met Your Mother ("Girls vs. Suits") - He's already won two trophies at this year's Creative Arts Emmys. Perhaps voters will feel they've rewarded him enough for one year and don't need to honor him for a lackluster season of Mother.
Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Modern Family ("Family Portrait") - He's comically overshadowed by most of his show's cast, and he has virtually no chance this year.

Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series


Frontrunner:
Jane Lynch, Glee ("Power of Madonna") - This category is probably the biggest lock of the night. Lynch gave one of the funniest and most buzzed about performances of the year, and she will be rewarded for that.

Dark Horse:
Julie Bowen, Modern Family ("My Funky Valentine") - If anyone could take down Lynch this year, it's Bowen. She had a good year and submitted her best episode, but it's still not going to happen. Maybe next year, Julie.

The Rest:
Jane Krakowski, 30 Rock ("Black Light Attack") - She's definitely deserving of the award, but too many strong newcomers kick Krakowski out of the running this year.
Sofia Vergara, Modern Family ("Not in My House") - If she had submitted a different episode, she might have had a fighting chance.
Holland Taylor, Two and a Half Men ("Give Me Your Thumb") - It was a surprise to see Taylor return to the race this year, and it would be an even bigger surprise to see her win over the other much more deserving actresses.
Kristin Wiig, Saturday Night Live ("Host James Franco") - I doubt the Emmys will reward a variety series performance over the rest of the competition, especially in such a weak season of SNL.

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama


Frontrunners:
Terry O'Quinn, Lost ("The Substitute") - In the show's final season O'Quinn gave the standout performance as the show's ultimate villain. He's already won for the role of John Locke, and this season a whole new element was added to his character(s). Lost has received a great amount of attention this year as the series came to its grand finale, and this could push O'Quinn towards another deserving victory.
Aarol Paul, Breaking Bad ("Half Measures") - Paul was predicted to come out on top last year but failed to beat Michael Emerson. This year he still has a legitimate shot; he gives a critically acclaimed performance on one of the best dramas on television, and it would be fantastic to see him win. He certainly deserves it.

Wild Card:
Andre Braugher, Men of a Certain Age ("Powerless") - The man already has a few Emmys under his belt as well as a few more nominations. It would be no surprise to see his barely noticed, yet highly praised performance win him another trophy.

The Rest:
Michael Emerson, Lost ("Dr. Linus") - Emerson submitted a great episode, so he still has a pretty good chance of winning. Looking at the final season of Lost as whole though, Locke's storyline clearly overshadows Ben's, which is why Emerson lacks O'Quinn's frontrunner status.
Martin Short, Damages ("You Haven't Replaced Me Yet") - Short is a respected comic actor who truly excelled in his dramatic role on Damages. However, he will most likely be overlooked for much more buzzed about roles from much more buzzed about shows.
John Slattery, Mad Men ("The Gypsy and the Hobo") - Slattery is great, but his performance is not quite on the same level of drama as the other contenders.

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series


Frontrunners:
Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men ("Love Among the Ruins") - She was able to break into the Lead Actress category for the same role last year, which is something the rest of these women haven't done. She could be the first actor on Mad Men to earn an Emmy. Finally.
Christine Baranski, The Good Wife ("Bang") - She may not be the best actress on the show, but she is the oldest and most respected. She gives a strong performance, and the Emmys love veteran actors, lawyers, and The Good Wife.

Wild Card:
Sharon Gless, Burn Notice ("Devil You Know") - Burn Notice may not seem like typical Emmy material, but Gless is another respected veteran actress. She's a previous Emmy winner for Cagney & Lacey, so she could definitely steal this category based on that alone.

Dark Horse:
Christina Hendricks, Mad Men ("Guy Walks Into an Advertising Agency") - Several critics have her picked to win, but I see her more as an underdog in this category. It still stuns me that Hendricks got recognized in a season where she was absent for a significant amount of time but not for season two, where she had her strongest material ever.

The Rest:
Archie Panjabi, The Good Wife ("Hi") - Unfortunately, her acting is too subtle to be recognized by Emmy voters, no matter how much everyone else loves her.
Rose Byrne, Damages ("Your Secrets Are Safe") - She could have been very competitive in this category, but her episode submission was weak. Plus, Emmy love for Damages has dwindled this year.

Coming Soon: My analysis for comedy and drama leads

Currently watching:
Dead Like Me Season 2
Episode 5 - Hurry

Emmy Reactions: Surprises, Snubs, and More

For the first time in a long time, television critics seem pleased with the Emmy nominations. Several outdated, repeat nominees (Sally Field, Entourage, etc.) were exchanged for fresh faces, and even some older but not yet recognized contenders broke through. The main complaints were the omissions of Sons of Anarchy's Katey Sagal (I haven't seen the show, but now I plan to do it very soon) and the new comedies Community and Cougar Town (I never connected with either of them, and I'm not surprised that Emmy voters didn't either). Out of the 60 nominations I predicted, I got 43 correct (not including my seventh spots, five of which made it into the actual top six), which just barely comes out to a passing percentage. Considering I only got one less than Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello, I think I did just fine. It was a morning filled with shock, disappointment, and even tears (at least for me). Here's an overview of what happened.

Surprises:


Kyle Chandler & Connie Britton, Friday Night Lights (Lead Actor & Actress in a Drama Series) - This was easily the biggest shocker of the entire morning. I literally did not believe it when I heard Chandler's name. I was so confused. For years I had heard all about the great Friday Night Lights and how it always got snubbed at the Emmys. Then before I could even process Chandler's nomination in my mind, I heard Connie Britton's name. At this point I might have started crying. I watched seasons one through three for the first time this summer, so I wasn't a fan of the show when it had been snubbed in the past. After watching it, I clearly understood why everyone was so upset. These actors are two of the strongest dramatic leads on television, and I cannot express how ecstatic I am to see them finally rewarded for it.

Nurse Jackie (Comedy Series) - Everyone assumed Edie Falco would make the shortlist for lead comedy actress, but no one expected the series to earn a nomination as well. It took the spot of previous Showtime nominee, Weeds (a spot most critics predicted would belong to The Big Bang Theory).

True Blood (Drama Series) - It's not very often that vampire shows get noticed at the Emmys (re: Buffy). True Blood managed to break into the drama category despite having zero other nominations in the acting, writing, and directing categories.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Modern Family (Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series) - It's nothing against Ferguson; he's hilarious on Modern Family. But as far as most critics were concerned, Ferguson was farther down on the contenders list than Rico Rodriguez. He got nominated instead of Ed O'Neill (who should have submitted in the lead category), which means O'Neill is the show's only adult cast member without a nomination.

Favorites:


Chris Colfer & Mike O'Malley, Glee (Supporting & Guest Actor in a Comedy) - The best father-son duo on television earned nominations in their respective categories. Colfer was more of a surprise, considering he's only 20 and competing against actors like Neil Patrick Harris and Eric Stonestreet. But the two deserve it because they give the most heart warming performances on the show.

January Jones, Mad Men (Lead Actress in a Drama) - Words cannot describe how happy I was when I heard her name called. Finally Jones managed to earn a nomination after three seasons of phenomenal work. It's a shame Margulies is such a lock for the win, because I would love to see the Emmy go to Jones or Britton instead.

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series - Kristin Chenoweth, Tina Fey, Jane Lynch, and Betty White are all in the same category together. COULD THERE BE A MORE AWESOME CATEGORY?! I didn't think so.

"Niagara" - The Office (Writing for a Comedy Series) - I just really really want Mindy Kaling to win an Emmy. Mainly because I love everything she says on Twitter.

"The Son" - Friday Night Lights (Writing for a Drama Series) - It's a miracle FNL was able to break into such a solid category. It really says something to be listed alongside the Lost finale and two episodes of Mad Men. "The Son" was such a phenomenal hour of drama.

Archie Panjabi, The Good Wife (Supporting Actress in a Drama Series) - I need to catch up on The Good Wife ASAP. Everyone (correctly) predicted that name recognition would guarantee Christine Baranski a supporting nomination for the series, but I'm more excited to see Panjabi on the list. From what I saw of the first season, she was my favorite character.

Matthew Fox, Lost (Lead Actor in a Drama Series) - What an amazing tribute to the show's final season after six years of great work!

Elizabeth Mitchell, Lost (Guest Actress in a Drama Series) - This might be my favorite nomination. I'm considering it the Academy's official apology for ignoring this last year:



Snubs:


Sandra Oh & Chandra Wilson, Grey's Anatomy (Supporting Actress in a Drama Series) - Oh has received a nomination for every year of the show's existence, and Wilson only has one less. Yet both disappeared completely from the race this year. It's too bad, because I think Oh especially earned her spot. If I could, I would give her the trophy right now.

Chloë Sevigny, Big Love (Supporting Actress in a Drama Series) - Since her Golden Globe win last year, Sevigny has appeared on almost every critic's prediction list. Still, it's no surprise that she didn't get nominated, because none of the wives of Big Love have ever earned a nomination (despite seriously deserving one). Instead the show received two well-earned guest actress spots for Sissy Spacek and Mary Kay Place.

Friday Night Lights (Drama Series) - It was amazing that Kyle Chandler and Connie Britton finally got recognized, but I don't understand why the series didn't get a nomination. It's also a shame that Zach Gilford didn't get a nomination for his outstanding guest work in "The Son."

Parks & Recreation (Comedy Series) - The show's hit sophomore season was shut out by newcomers and previous winners. Though it earned a spot for lead actress Amy Poehler, the hilarious Nick Offerman will have to settle for his TCA nomination.

What?!


Matthew Morrison, Glee (Lead Actor in a Comedy Series) - I really don't get it. He's not funny (nor is he really even the show's lead). In fact, his character is pretty much despised by most fans for his awkwardness and constant rapping. Surely other actors were more deserving.

19 nominations for Glee - I enjoy the show, and it certainly has some great moments. But is it really worthy of nineteen nominations? That's more than any other series this year, including Mad Men, 30 Rock, and Modern Family. It got recognition where it was deserved (Jane Lynch, Lea Michele, Colfer, O'Malley, Chenoweth, etc.), but the Emmy love for Glee this year was a bit excessive.

Andre Braugher, Men of a Certain Age & Sharon Gless, Burn Notice (Supporting Actor & Actress in a Drama Series) - I'm not going to say anything about the quality of either performance, since I have seen neither show (though both seem to be getting positive reactions to their nominations). Rather, I am just confused about how they got nominated. They had little to no buzz and appeared on nobody's prediction lists. I suppose it's nice to have a few wild cards thrown in every now and then.

The full list of nominees can be found on the Emmys website.

Currently watching:
Six Feet Under Season 4
Episode 1 - Falling Into Place

Emmy Wish List: Series

It's all been leading up to this! I complete my Emmy Wish List with this year's best shows on television. These comedies and dramas are unlike anything else on TV. They utilize fantastic actors to create unique characters with their genius writing. Every element is in the right place. These shows are the reason I love television so much.

Outstanding Comedy Series


30 Rock - Anyone who says that this was a bad year for 30 Rock clearly stopped watching about halfway through the season. "Dealbreakers Talk Show #0001," "Anna Howard Shaw Day," "Lee Marvin vs. Derek Jeter," and "The Moms" were some of the show's greatest episodes. Despite a rush of strong comedy newcomers, the series was able to maintain the level of greatness it's established the past three years.

Better Off Ted - Never heard of it? That's too bad. But it's probably because Ted was barely noticed while it was on the air. The ridiculous workplace comedy makes me laugh more than any other show on this list and features a hilarious ensemble, including Jay Harrington, Portia De Rossi, and Jonathan Slavin (who unfortunately didn't submit himself for Emmy consideration).

Glee - To be quite honest, this season's most hyped comedy almost didn't make my list. The writing is inconsistent, the characters are flat, and the continuity is nonexistent. The freshman series had a whole slew of problems with its first season that I will most likely save for another blog post. But when Glee is good, it's great. The show's best episodes deliver with strong comedy, touching drama, and fun musical numbers. No other show on television can do the same.

Modern Family - This year's best new show may also be the best comedy of the year. Many have claimed that Modern Family redefined the traditional family sitcom and brought it to the 21st century. There isn't a single weak link in the show's large ensemble cast, and sub-par episodes were few and far between.

Parks & Recreation - Parks surprised everyone by becoming one of this year's funniest shows. It surpassed The Office this season in terms of quality and comedy. As the second season progressed, the characters began to take form, and comedic stars like Nick Offerman and Aubrey Plaza were born.

Ugly Betty - The series experienced a creative resurgence during its fourth and final season. Betty has always been a little different, but that's what makes it so great. The series ended on a high note with several strong episodes that left me in tears week after week.

Honorable Mention: Party Down & The United States of Tara

Outstanding Drama Series


Breaking Bad - As I've said several times, I haven't gotten to see season three, so Breaking Bad's inclusion on my list may be a bit premature. But the first two seasons are incredible, and apparently the show just keeps getting better. Even if season three was half the quality of season two, it would still earn a spot here.

Damages - No season can match its first, but the legal thriller is still amazing. With time jumps and plot twists like nothing else on television, Damages knows how to deliver drama. Plus, it doesn't hurt to have incredible actresses like Glenn Close and Rose Byrne headlining the series with Lily Tomlin and Martin Short as guest stars.

Friday Night Lights - Only nine episodes have aired so far on NBC, but I can already tell that season four is my favorite season since the first. The move to East Dillon High was a refreshing change that the show needed. Kyle Chandler, Connie Britton, and the rest of the cast continue to deliver with the intense realism they've had for three years.

Lost - The final season didn't give all of the mythological answers viewers were looking for, but the show's final two and a half hours were emotionally satisfying. The series became less about science fiction and mysteries and more about the characters and the love they experienced with one another.

Mad Men - Just when we thought the two-time Emmy-winning series couldn't get any better, season three delivered drama on a completely different level than the years before. Jon Hamm and January Jones gave their best performances of the series, and the writing (as well as everything else) was truly excellent. It's hard to imagine anything else topping that.

Parenthood - When casting Peter Krause and Lauren Graham, it's hard to go wrong. This Spring's new show gave an interesting look into family life and found an amazing actress in the young Mae Whitman. The series has the potential to do great things in the years to come.

Honorable Mention: Southland & Big Love

Coming Soon: My predictions for the 2010 Emmy nominations!

Currently watching:
Six Feet Under Season 3
Episode 9 - The Opening

Emmy Wish List: Lead Drama

These are some of the best people on TV. They are what make watching television so great. Without them we would not have extraordinary characters like Don Draper and Patty Hewes. We couldn't tell the stories of the scorned politician's wife or the vigilante serial killer. They pour their hearts into every scene and deliver every line with power. These twelve men and women are truly outstanding actors and actresses.

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series


Connie Britton, Friday Night Lights - I just watched the first three seasons earlier this summer, and I am stunned that Britton has never received an Emmy nomination. She gives one of the best dramatic performances on television, and the fourth season is no exception. Apparently the end of this season is some of her best work yet, so I can't wait to watch it!

Glenn Close, Damages - There's a reason the woman already has two Emmys for her portrayal of Patty Hewes. This season Close took the character to a whole new level. Patty often screams and throws tea cups, but Close is best when she shows the emotional vulnerability that lies beneath the powerful lawyer.

Lauren Graham, Parenthood - The best moments of this new show are between Graham and her on-screen daughter, Mae Whitman. She perfected her role as the flawed mother who can't always keep it together.

January Jones, Mad Men - Saturday Night Live hosting aside, Jones is a phenomenal actress. For some reason her performance is divisive among Mad Men fans, some of whom claim she's wooden and can't act. That's something I cannot comprehend. Please watch "The Gypsy and the Hobo" and see Betty Draper break down as she exposes her husband as the liar he really is.

Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife - I gave up The Good Wife about halfway through the season because I didn't have time for it. That was a mistake (which I plan to amend very soon, thanks to summer reruns). From what I saw, Margulies is deserving of all the buzz. She headlines the hit drama with strength and intensity that's already earned her a Golden Globe and a SAG award.

Jeanne Tripplehorn, Big Love - You can't blame an actress for poor writing. This season of Big Love was certainly much worse than those before, but it takes an exceptionally talented actress to remain strong throughout a weak year. I probably hated Barb for most of the fourth season, but I still loved Tripplehorn.

Honorable Mention: Regina King, Southland & Anna Gunn, Breaking Bad

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series


Kyle Chandler, Friday Night Lights - Coach Taylor cracks me up. Seriously. Maybe it's because I'm from Texas, but I find myself laughing at him because he reminds me so much of the coaches at my high school. And he has a little bit of my dad in him too. Chandler's portrayal of the East Texas football coach is truly flawless.

Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad - Like I've said before, since I just recently got into Breaking Bad, I haven't gotten to see season three yet (which is primarily why Anna Gunn didn't make my top six in the previous category). But now I definitely understand why Cranston has won in this category the past two years. Even the man's coughs are Emmy worthy (he plays a man with terminal lung cancer).

Michael C. Hall, Dexter - So far I've only gotten to see season one. Season four is Emmy eligible this year. Clearly I'm a little behind on Dexter. Still, I included Hall on my list because his work on the first season is so brilliant, and I've heard it only gets better.

Jon Hamm, Mad Men - This year Don Draper's home life and work life fell apart, and I loved every second of it. Hamm probably did his best work this season, which is saying a lot.

Ben McKenzie, Southland - The rookie cop did a lot of growing up this season. The gritty cop show is underrated, as is McKenzie's performance.

Timothy Olyphant, Justified - Justified is another show that I couldn't find the time to keep watching, so I had to give it up after a few episodes. But it only took me those few episodes to decide that Olyphant's performance is Emmy worthy.

Honorable Mention: Peter Krause, Parenthood & Matthew Fox, Lost

Coming Soon: My picks for the best comedy and drama series of the year

Currently watching:
Six Feet Under Season 3
Episode 6 - Making Love Work

Emmy Wish List: Supporting Actor

There are so many different options when it comes to supporting roles. Yet, one show from each respective genre dominates half of these two categories on my ballot. Supporting Actor in a Comedy was without a doubt the hardest list to create (many thanks to the cast of Modern Family, who completely screwed me over by refusing to submit as leads). Great arguments could be made for almost 20 different actors. Ensemble comedies like Modern Family, Parks & Recreation, and Party Down offer several competitors. Chris Colfer (Glee), Mark Indelicato (Ugly Betty), and Keir Gilchrist (United States of Tara) all gave touching portrayals of three (very different) gay teens, but I felt they weren't comedic enough to compete against their funnier peers. Then past nominees such as Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother) and Tracy Morgan (30 Rock) got overshadowed by an influx of hilarious newcomers. And my list of contenders doesn't even include the much-praised supporting actors from Community, Cougar Town, and Nurse Jackie (I feel like a broken record at this point)! Unfortunately, the academy only allows six nominees (seven, if there's a tie). Ted Danson (Bored to Death) was definitely the toughest omission from my top six, and I'm still not entirely convinced that I made the right decision. But my list doesn't matter anyway!

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series


Aziz Ansari, Parks & Recreation - Ansari's Tom was my favorite part of season one. Season two gave the actors the chance to become more comfortable in their characters' skin, and Chris Pratt and Nick Offerman, as well as a few others, emerged as new comedic delights for the series. Still, Ansari was able to keep up with his costars as the dim-witted, wannabe ladies' man.

Ty Burrell, Modern Family - Phil Dunphy may not be that bright, but Burrell is a brilliant comedic actor. He's the shows most quotable character (which is saying a lot) and also its most lovable. Burrell portrays the dullness so well and plays off of his costars (especially Julie Bowen) excellently.

Nick Offerman, Parks & Recreation - RON EFFING SWANSON! He hates government. He loves breakfast foods. He is hilarious. Ron Swanson was the breakout character of this season, and Offerman has already begun to earn some recognition in the form of a Television Critics Association nomination.

Rico Rodriguez, Modern Family - He may be young, but that doesn't mean he can't be one of the funniest actors on television. Much like Manny (who acts like a 50-year-old man), Rodriguez seems to have the comedic ability of someone three times his age. The child actor deserves to be recognized alongside the older and well-respected comedians.

Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family - This straight actor plays probably the most over-the-top flamboyant gay man on television. Yet Cam is real. And he's hilarious. Nobody else could pull it off like Stonestreet, and he consistently inspires the most laughter on Modern Family.

Michael Urie, Ugly Betty - Though he is arguably the least "comedic" of the six, Urie did a fantastic job in his final season as Marc St. James. He had several heart-warming moments connected to Justin's coming out story but still kept the laughs coming with costar Becki Newton.

Honorable Mention: Ted Danson, Bored to Death and Chris Colfer, Glee

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series


Michael Emerson, Lost - Last year, he finally won the Emmy he deserved. This year, he continued his tradition of excellence as the eerie Benjamin Linus. Though this season did not showcase his talent as much as previous seasons have, Emerson still delivered, especially in the always great Ben-centric episodes.

Josh Holloway, Lost - Sawyer is arguably the character who has experienced the most growth throughout the series. He went from an angry con man to the loving head of security to the man who lost the love of his life. He had several strong moments this season (most of which were with the fabulous Elizabeth Mitchell), and the series finale's most emotional scene was his reunion with Juliet.

Terry O'Quinn, Lost - Last season the man of faith transformed into the villain of the entire series. This season, whether he was playing John Locke or the Man in Black/Smoke Monster, O'Quinn gave one of the best performances of the year. The flash-sideways world gave him the opportunity to portray the goodness of Locke against the intense evil of the monster.

Aaron Paul, Breaking Bad - Since I just finished watching the first two seasons earlier this summer, I have not yet gotten to see the third (and Emmy-eligible) season of Breaking Bad. But what I have seen is absolute greatness. Paul's Jessie unexpectedly became my favorite character on the show, mainly because of his captivating performance. And from what I've heard, season three just gets better.

Martin Short, Damages - I would never have expected Short to appear on a list of dramatic actors, but his work on the third season of Damages has earned him a spot. The comedian displayed his range as the lawyer opposing Patty Hewes with a story as twisted as the series. Throughout the season his character grew and Short showed great depth as more of that story became exposed.

John Slattery, Mad Men - Roger Sterling gets some of the best lines on the show. But it's not just the writing that makes them so great. Slattery steals every scene and makes it his own. He may not be the show's most dramatic actor, but he fills a necessary role in the series and does it exceptionally well.

Honorable Mention: Michael Cudlitz, Southland and Matthew Rhys, Brothers & Sisters

Coming Soon: My picks for the lead comedy roles

Currently watching:
Six Feet Under Season 3
Episode 1 - Perfect Circles

Emmy Wish List: Supporting Actress

I love my supporting actresses, so making this list proved to be more difficult than I had anticipated. There are several names that it pains me to leave off, but I could not deny the talent that these twelve women possess. My inability to remain interested in Community, Cougar Town, and Nurse Jackie also caused the absence of a few fan favorites (Alison Brie, Busy Phillips, Merritt Wever, etc.). Though the women on this list may not be the leads of their shows, they certainly are the stars that make us laugh and cry the most.

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series


Lizzy Caplan, Party Down - Best know for her roles in Mean Girls and True Blood, Caplan does her best work as a struggling comedian working at a catering company. She may not be as over-the-top as her cast mates, but her character is genuine and truly funny. "Party Down Company Picnic" and the season finale stick out as her strongest episodes.

Jane Krakowski, 30 Rock - Krakowski's neurotic, narcissistic Jenna never fails to crack me up. This season had her doing great work with James Franco, Jan Hooks as her mother, and Will Forte as a drag queen. As long as 3o Rock is on the air, Jenna's craziness will always keep me laughing.

Jane Lynch, Glee - Believe it or not, Lynch has been on the scene for quite a while. Her role as the scathing Sue Sylvester has finally made her a household name. Week after week she delivers the show's greatest moments in a single line. I may not particularly enjoy Glee's attempts to humanize Sue, but Lynch's performance perfects the balance of evil and human.

Megan Mullally, Party Down - I recently read a critic's blog that described Mullally's performance on Party Down as the worst on the show. I must say that I strongly disagree. She fit perfectly into the group this season as Jane Lynch's replacement and usually makes me laugh the most each episode. Whether she's sexually pursuing a party guest, accidentally snorting cocaine, or supporting her daughter's acting career, Mullally is constantly hilarious.

Sofia Vergara, Modern Family - This year's funniest new show will be a strong contender in several categories. Vergara wields a thick accent and a great sense of comedic timing. She doesn't let the strong male cast overshadow her, and her talent truly shines.

Vanessa Williams, Ugly Betty - Like Sue Sylvester, Williams plays a great villain whose best weapon is the one-liner. In fact, some of Wilhelmina Slater's best moments involve only a simple glare or raise of the eyebrow. An Emmy would be the perfect reward for four years of great work on an amazing television program.

Honorable Mention: Elizabeth Perkins, Weeds and Aubrey Plaza, Parks & Recreation

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series


Morena Baccarin, V - There's a strong possibility that all of my other picks for this category will earn actual nominations. Unfortunately the same fate is not likely for Baccarin. I chose her because she showed such a great transformation in Anna, the alien queen, as she began to experience human emotion. She exhibits such alien-like qualities that it's hard to believe she's actually human.

Rose Byrne, Damages - Byrne has done a fantastic job for three seasons. She is able to hold her own and showcases herself alongside her talented costar, Glenn Close. Though I believe last season was her strongest, Byrne continued to deliver superb work in what is arguably the lead role on Damages.

Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men - Moving from lead actress to supporting was a smart decision. If she had remained in the lead category, I most likely would not have included Moss in my list. Though seasons one and two focused quite a big on Peggy and her journey through the ad agency, the fantastic third season centered around the Draper family as it fell apart. Moss executed her supporting role exceptionally well and continued to perform excellently in scenes with Jon Hamm and the other men.

Sandra Oh, Grey's Anatomy - The series has certainly dwindled in quality, but Oh's talent keeps increasing. This season was her strongest yet as she delivered episode after episode the most consistent performance on the show. It's stunning that despite being nominated for every season of Grey's, she has never actually won an Emmy.

Chloë Sevigny, Big Love - Say what you want about the fourth season of Big Love, but it's still one of best-acted dramas on television. It's strength lies with its women. Though Ginnifer Goodwin continues to give an excellent performance each year, Sevigny pulled through this rougher season as the star. She took Nicki, my least favorite of Bill's three wives, and made made her my favorite character of the entire series.

Chandra Wilson, Grey's Anatomy - Originally Oh was the only Grey's actress to earn a spot on my ballot. After the intense two hour season finale, it was impossible to omit Wilson. For years, she has given one of the best performances on the show. In that finale she gave the performance of her lifetime as the strong and secure Dr. Baily that we all know and love quaked in fear from a shooter and watched one of her doctors die.

Honorable Mention: Mae Whitman, Parenthood & Amy Brenneman, Private Practice

Coming Soon: My picks for Outstanding Supporting Actors

Currently watching:
Six Feet Under Season 1
Episode 8 - Crossroads

Emmy Wish List: Guest Acting

The Guest Acting categories contain a vast number of possibilities. The comedy ones were especially hard to narrow down to six, but I eventually made a final list. It's difficult to compare one-episode performances to multi-episode arcs, but certain actors leave a greater impression in a single episode than others make in an entire season. Though stunt casting is often criticized, several of the big names are the best in their respective categories. Again, obviously I can't watch everything on television (though I certainly try) so I apologize for any significant omissions.

Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series

James Franco, 30 Rock - He may have been playing himself (sort of), but that doesn't mean he wasn't hilarious! Making fun of yourself is always funny, especially when you squint a lot and have an affair with a Japanese pillow.

Steve Guttenberg, Party Down - Interestingly enough, two actors made it into this category playing caricatures of themselves. Guttenberg was less over the top than Franco but starred in perhaps the funniest episode of Party Down to date.

Neil Patrick Harris, Glee (Bryan Ryan) - The Broadway star strutted his stuff on the hot musical show and performed an excellent rendition of Aerosmith's "Dream On." Thanks to NPH, the episode stands out as one of the best among the season's weaker (in my opinion) second half. His nomination here also makes up for his likely omission from a future Emmy Wish List of mine...

Rob Lowe, Parks & Recreation (Chris Traeger) - Most critics have been praising Adam Scott's guest appearance on Parks, but Rob Lowe is (surprisingly) the funnier of the two. It's refreshing to see him move on from his dramatic work on Brothers & Sisters to something much more enjoyable.

Mike O'Malley, Glee (Burt Hummel) - If it were up to me, I would give him the Emmy right now. His work with Chris Colfer is phenomenal. The only thing working against him is his largely dramatic role forced into a comedic category.

Fred Willard, Modern Family (Frank Dunphy) - The casting here was spot on. His chemistry with Ty Burrell was perfect. Let's hope there's plenty more Willard in Modern Family's future.

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series


Christine Baranski, The Big Bang Theory (Beverly Hofstadter) - Playing Leonard's Sheldon-like genius mother was enough to earn Baranski a nomination last year. This year Leonard's Sheldon-like genius mother got drunk.

Elizabeth Banks, 30 Rock (Avery Jessup) - All I can say is I hope this season's finale means that Banks will be staying around 3o Rock for a while. I understand that she has a movie career to attend to, but her role as Jack's lover, the right wing political pundit, may be her best yet.

Kristin Chenoweth, Glee (April Rhodes) - Emmy winner Kristin Chenoweth (I love saying that) gave yet another Emmy-worthy performance in her first episode of Glee as the washed up ex-show choir star. From boxed wine to Broadway show tunes, her guest appearance was the funniest of the entire season.

Jan Hooks, 3o Rock (Verna Maroney) - For years Elaine Stritch has been the go-to 3o Rock mother for guest actress nominations, but this year we were introduced to Jenna's mother. After a duet with Jenna and a pair of lopsided boobs, I'm ready for Hooks to take her place.

Megan Mullally, Parks & Recreation (Tammy Swanson) - Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally used their off-screen marriage to create onscreen chemistry as ex- husband and wife on Parks. Her evil librarian paired with his deadpan anti-government government official provided great comedy in the show's hilarious second season.

Betty White, Saturday Night Live - The woman can't be stopped. She hosted the best episode SNL has seen in years. Sure, it was also thanks to return of several SNL favorites, but it wouldn't have been possible without Betty White.

Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series


Henry Ian Cusick, Lost (Desmond Hume) - Desmond is the heart of Lost, there's no doubt about it. In its final season, he brought the castaways together in the flash-sideways world, causing them to remember their previous lives on The Island. Without him, many of the season's greatest scenes would not have been possible.

Ted Danson, Damages (Arthur Frobisher) - Danson has been pretty consistent with the quality he delivers on Damages. When the drama needs comic relief, he can provide it, but when his role demands intensity, he performs just as well.

Zach Gilford, Friday Night Lights (Matt Saracen) - Two words: "The Son." I never expected Gilford to move me in one episode as much as Connie Britton has for three seasons. The man made me cry three times in 45 minutes. He needs an Emmy. Now. There's even a Facebook group.

Jared Harris and Robert Morse, Mad Men (Lane Pryce and Bert Cooper) - I'm lumping the two of them together because I don't really have much to say about either, except that they are great parts of Mad Men's excellent ensemble (it's been almost a year since I saw the third season, so give me a break). Morse's old Cooper keeps me laughing, while it was interesting to see the British Pryce fit into the American world of Sterling Cooper.

John Lithgow, Dexter - Unfortunately, I have not yet gotten to see the fourth season of Dexter. So Lithgow is here out of obligation (and a lack of other strong contenders, which could also be due to unfinished viewings of other series, such as Breaking Bad). He will most likely win the Emmy, so I would feel foolish to leave the much buzzed-about performance off of my list.

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series

Allison Janney, Lost (Mother) - A divisive performance in a controversial episode. I'm on team "'Across the Sea' Was Amazing." I'm also on team "I Love Allison Janney No Matter What She Does." Many argue that the episode relied on Janney's stunt casting, but her portrayal of the mother of the good and evil of The Island was fantastic.

Elizabeth Mitchell, Lost (Juliet Burke) - Her reconnection with Sawyer in the series finale is one of my favorite scenes in the series. Her destruction of the bomb in the season five finale (which was thankfully replayed several times this season) is also one of the best. Unfortunately, Elizabeth Mitchell was overlooked last year as a Supporting Actress, so hopefully that won't happen again this year (unlikely).

Kiernan Shipka, Mad Men (Sally Draper) - Yes, I'm 100% serious. Go back and watch the episode when Gene dies and tell me she doesn't deserve a spot on this list. I dare you.

Sissy Spacek, Big Love (Marilyn Densham) - The Oscar-winner lent her talents to the polygamy drama as the woman who fought against Bill's campaign and casino. Though season four may not be the show's best, Spacek played an excellent villainess for the Henrickson clan.

Lily Tomlin, Damages (Marilyn Tobin) - Damages has great guest stars involved in its season-long mysteries. Lily Tomlin was no exception as the mother who would do anything to protect her family. Anything.

Evan Rachel Wood, True Blood (Sophie-Anne) - "Yahtzee!" The vampire queen of Louisiana will most likely be my only nomination for the series (which I believe is extremely melodramatic and over-acted... but highly addicting), but that's because in just two small appearances she quickly became one of my favorite characters on the show. I can't wait for more Sophie-Anne in season three.

Coming Soon: My picks for Outstanding Supporting Actresses

Currently watching:
Breaking Bad Season 2
Episode 8 - Better Call Saul

Emmy Wish List: Writing

This is the first year that I've actually taken a close look at the Emmy submissions for writing, and it's interesting to see what epsiodes different shows submit for consideration. For example, Big Love submitted "Blood Atonement," the controversial Mexico episode that was the most prominent example of the show's weakness in its fourth season. Then The Office throws out "Scott's Tots" for consideration, which, in my opinion, may be the worst episode the series has ever aired. When selecting my favorites for the two categories, it pretty much came down to the episodes this TV season that stuck out in my mind the most. Unfortunately, a competitive comedy writing category prevented more than one episode of 3o Rock from making my list, but the one that did make the cut is certainly a standout even among a great season. The comedic strength this year also did not allow better episodes of The Big Bang Theory ("The Adhesive Duck Deficiency") and How I Met Your Mother ("The Playbook") to enter the category, because they come from weaker seasons that were unable to measure up to more powerful newcomers. My only regret is that there was no room for The United States of Tara's "Torando" or an episode from the hilarious second season of Parks & Recreation on my list. Also, it should be noted that I have not seen the fourth seasons of Dexter and Friday Night Lights or the third season of Breaking Bad, hence their absence from this list.

Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series

Glee, "Pilot" (Ryan Murhpy, Brad Falchuk, Ian Brennan) - Glee has had its ups and downs in its first season, but it started off on the right foot. The pilot episode revealed the heart of the show, entertained us with exciting musical numbers, and introduced us to Sue Sylvester. Only a few episodes have been able to surpass the quality of the very first.

Modern Family, "Pilot" (Steven Levitan, Christopher Lloyd) - It was either this or "Fizbo." I decided on the pilot episode because I've seen it at least three times, and I still laugh in all the right places. From the very beginning Modern Family has proven that it's just as funny (if not funnier) than comedy champs 30 Rock and The Office.

The Office, "Niagara" (Greg Daniels, Mindy Kaling) - I'm not just including this episode because I would love to hear the phrase "Emmy winner Mindy Kaling" in more than just my dreams. The hour-long wedding episode was the one highlight from the worst season The Office has ever endured. This great episode reminds us of everything we love about this show, even though it was part of such a poor season.

30 Rock, "Anna Howard Shaw Day" (Matt Hubbard) - I almost included the Tina Fey-penned "Lee Marvin Vs. Derek Jeter" but decided that although I have an undying love for Tina, this was a funnier episode. This Valentine's Day special had me laughing from beginning to end and sticks out as one of my favorite 30 Rock episodes of all time.

Ugly Betty, "Hello Goodbye" (Silvio Horta) - This is probably the only atypical spot on my ballot. All of the other episodes/series have a chance of getting noticed, while Ugly Betty will go unrewarded. Unfortunately, the series finale ("Hello Goodbye") was not even the creatively resurged fourth season's strongest episode, but I would still consider it one of the best. It tied together several dangling plot lines and the brought forth the laughter and emotions that one can expect from Betty. Afterward I felt emotionally satisfied but realized I was going to miss this show very much.

Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series

Damages, "The Next One's Gonna Go In Your Throat" (Todd Kessler, Glenn Kessler, Daniel Zelman) - Damages finales are usually the best episode of the season, and the third season was no exception. As always, the future and present stories came together and solved the mysteries with several shocking twists along the way. The fact that this may be the last episode of Damages ever is upsetting, but at least the series went out with a bang.

Grey's Anatomy, "Sanctuary" (Shonda Rhimes) - No matter how much any given season of Grey's Anatomy disappoints its viewers, Shonda Rhimes never fails to deliver on her finales. This finale especially. It was probably the most intense two hours of my life; I sat on the edge of my seat and was shaking the entire time as many characters' lives hung in the balance. Definitely the best finale of the year that had everyone (even non-Grey's viewers) talking.

Lost, "The Substitute" (Elizabeth Sarnoff, Melinda Hsu Taylor) - The series finale was too divisive to make my list. Though it delivered emotionally, "The End" lacked several mythological details that fans desired. Instead, I included "The Substitute," which was probably my favorite episode of the show's final season. Locke-centric episodes ("Walkabout" for example) are always among the strongest in any season. This episode revealed the secret behind The Numbers and showed an interesting juxtaposition of the on-island and off-island forms of John Locke.

Mad Men, "Shut the Door. Have a Seat." (Matthew Weiner, Erin Levy) - Mad Men is the only series to earn multiple spots on my list, and it's deservedly so. The third season surpassed all high expectations and produced one of the strongest dramatic seasons I have ever seen. All the drama came to a head in the season finale when Betty left Don, and Don created his own advertising agency. It left us all wanting more and eagerly anticipating season four.

Mad Men, "The Gypsy and the Hobo" (Marti Noxon, Cathryn Humphris, Matthew Weiner) - Without a doubt, this was the best episode of the season. Jon Hamm and January Jones delivered the performances of their lifetimes. And of course there was the infamous incident of Joan and the vase...

Coming Soon: My picks for the Guest Acting categories

Currently watching:
Breaking Bad Season 1
Episode 4 - Cancer Man

The Ups & Downs of the Golden Globes

Well, the film side of the Golden Globes were pretty predicable (I guessed 7 out of 10 categories correctly), but the television categories were full of surprises (just 4 out of 8). Regardless of my prediction success, I enjoyed last night's show. As usual, the celebrities were drunkenly providing us with laughter all night (Felicity Huffman and T-Bone Streep), and several of my favorite shows and actors received awards. Of course, we can't always get what we want, so I'll just complain about it on here. Enjoy.

My highlights of the evening:

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Mini-Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television

Chloë Sevigny, Big Love

With season 3 of Big Love fresh in my mind, Sevigny's performance stands out the most. I love Jane Lynch on Glee, and I was truly shocked that she didn't win. But Sevigny acted her heart out this season, and she deserves her Globe. This is why comedic and dramatic actresses shouldn't be clumped into the same category.

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series - Drama

Michael C. Hall, Dexter

I've only seen a few episodes of Dexter and Six Feet Under, but that was enough to know that Michael C. Hall is a superb actor. I'm happy to see he finally won an award for the show, and I can't wait to start watching soon. And the fact that he waited until voting had closed to announce his battle with cancer just makes him seem like such a classy man.

NBC Jokes

Since the awards show took place in the midst of all the NBC, Jay, and Conan drama, it was no surprise that NBC was the butt of many jokes made by the stars. My Favorites:

"Let's get on with it before NBC replaces me with Jay Leno." - Host Ricky Gervais in his opening monologue

"I just want to thank [CBS execs] Les Moonves and Nina Tassler for believing in the 10 o' clock drama." - Julianna Margulies of CBS's The Good Wife in her acceptance speech

"It's not rain. It's just God crying for NBC." - Tina Fey on the red carpet

The "not so Golden" Globes:

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series - Drama

Julianna Marguilies, The Good Wife

I was not surprised. But I was not angry either. I still firmly believe that January Jones is one of the most talented dramatic actresses on television, and I hope she will receive some recognition for her amazing third season as Betty Draper at this year's Emmy Awards. Nonetheless, I've been watching The Good Wife, and Marguilies gives a great performance week after week. She deserves the Golden Globe. We'll just give the Emmy to Jones...

Best Television Series - Comedy or Musical

Glee

I'm a HUGE Glee fan. I watch every week. I own both soundtracks. Heck, I even have a t-shirt! But would I say it's the best comedy on television right now? No. That title belongs to Modern Family - no contest. Glee isn't consistent enough week to week, and many of the plots seemed rushed in the first thirteen episodes. I believe it has the potential to be a great comedy, but it hasn't gotten there yet. Modern Family, on the other hand, has been there since the pilot. But now that the writers have gotten a chance to see the fans' reactions to the first half of the season, I have high hopes for the rest of this year on Glee.

Best Motion Picture - Comedy or Musical

The Hangover

This one was one of the biggest surprises in my opinion. I'm not going going to say it doesn't deserve the win since I haven't seen it yet. But is it really a better movie than It's Complicated, Julie & Julia, or (500) Days of Summer (which I consider to be one of the greatest films of the year)? Maybe once I see it I'll change my mind, since I keep hearing good things about it.

Currently watching:

Damages Season 2

Episode 1: I Lied, Too