10 FAVORITES (18) - 2010: A Year In Review

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Happy 2011 everyone! The end of the year and the beginning of the new year is always an exciting time for us media critics because we get to look at the year that was. 2010 was a very interesting year in the world of Entertainment and Pop Culture. We saw an independent film triumph over a box office juggernaut at the Academy Awards, Critically acclaimed TV shows came to the forefront for audiences on both the awards front and in the ratings numbers, and even Broadway was emboldened by the star power of the likes of Oscar winners Catherine Zeta-Jones and Denzel Washington. That's not to mention the shifts that were going on around the country politically speaking. But what were the most memorable moments of the past year. In honor of this first full week of the new year, I want to take us all back through last year just for a little bit (which, I know was something many journalists covered last week, but I prefer to wait until the previous year has come to a complete close!). This week's 10 FAVORITES (in semi-chronological order) is:

10 POP CULTURE MOMENTS FROM 2010

THE BATTLE FOR THE TONIGHT SHOW

Though this moment really started in 2009, with NBC's frustration over low ratings for their beloved late night staple (which was caused by many factors, least of all the new host) the network maneuvered (sloppily) for Jay Leno to return and bought out (at a hefty sum) the rest of Conan O'Brien's contract. While the battle lines were drawn at the end of 2009, the spoils and scars were clearly visible in January 2010. As "Coco" licked his wounds, Leno returned and NBC's late night ratings picked up to what they once were. But don't feel too bad for O'Brien, as his new TBS late night show is wowing his fans and the critics.

THE HOPE FOR HAITI TELETHON

The most devastating moment happened at the beginning of the year as the Caribbean nation of Haiti was struck by a massive earthquake that destroyed most of the country and caused thousands of casualties and deaths. As the world was reeling, the Hollywood community (led by A-lister George Clooney and Haitian native musician Wyclef Jean) came together to ask the public to step up and give assistance. The Celebrity-filled Telethon (like the 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina predecessors) was broadcast on almost all the networks in Primetime (and in EVERY Time Zone). It showed the world that the Entertainment community can really be who we want them to be when it really matters.

THE SANDRA BULLOCK SAGA

The actress had a great 2009 with two box-office hits (The Proposal and The Blind Side) and went into 2010 with awards buzz for the latter. As she gracefully accepted every award handed to her, from the Golden Globe to the SAG Award to even the Oscar (yes people, Sandra Bullock IS an Oscar winner!), she tearfully thanked her husband, reality star Jesse James, for all his love and support. Little did we know what those tears were really about as reports surfaced (from multiple women) that James had been unfaithful to his A-list wife (It was Tiger Woods all over again!). But Bullock braved the storm with great poise, divorced James and adopted her son, showing us that she is a true class act!

LADY GAGA - THE LITTLE FAME MONSTER

Though Lady Gaga is really a person (I think!) and not so much a moment, her presence on this list is really because of all her little moments over the course of 2010. There was her AMA and Grammy performances (which of course shocked anyone who did not know who or what she was), her notorious behavior at a Yankees game, the tribute given to her by the beloved show Glee and who could forget the Meat dress! Throughout all this, she had a sincere dedication to her craft (whatever she douses it in!) and to her fans (the Little Monsters), who helped make her the most followed celebrity on Twitter.

LOST SAYS GOODBYE (AS DO OTHERS)

The final season of J. J. Abrams' enigmatic hit drama LOST was one of the most anticipated seasons of a television series in recent years. The finale, which aired in May, answered questions (and created many more!) and felt like a fitting end to a series that had earned its place in TV history. As LOST said goodbye, so did several other shows (that were once hits) in the Spring of 2010, some which had a proper farewell (24 and Ugly Betty) and some which didn't (Law & Order and Heroes). In the fall season, newer shows took their places in the schedule but, alas, a lot of them did not catch on with audiences. And it didn't matter whether they were critically acclaimed (Lone Star and The Whole Truth) or critically savaged (Undercovers and My Generation).

LEBRON JAMES' TALE OF TWO CITIES (AND THREE...AND FOUR...AND FIVE!)

The NBA off-season (summertime) was almost completely devoted to answering one question: Would Lebron stay or would he go? Lebron James, the superstar player of the Cleveland Cavaliers, became a free agent as his contract with Cleveland came to a close in June and several teams wanted (and pleaded for) him! The Akron native dragged out his decision until the eleventh hour and announced (in a grand "hoop"-la) that he would indeed leave Cleveland for the Miami Heat (and a perceived better chance to win championships). His actions drew a line in the sand (certainly for Cleveland) and changed the way we look at free agents in the sports world.

THE GLEE KIDS GET NAUGHTY

It is one of the most popular shows on television and fans of it cannot get enough. So, of course, the popular men's magazine GQ wanted to get an interview with some of Glee's dynamic cast members. GQ (being GQ) had its subjects in a photo shoot that was a little bit more adult than the parents of many a Glee fan would have wanted. As the firestorm lit up talk TV and the blogosphere, stars Lea Michele, Dianna Agron and Cory Monteith were taken aback by the controversy and each issued separate "Mea Culpas," hoping not to have offended anyone within the Gleek kingdom.

THE RALLY TO RESTORE SANITY (OR TO KEEP FEAR ALIVE)

The political rhetoric of 2010 seemed to be sliding to the vicious side (for whatever reason!) and Jon Stewart, the dynamic and hilarious host of Comedy Central's The Daily Show, had had enough. He decided that with his star power (and finances), that he could organize a massive Washington, D.C. rally to help tone down the venomous rhetoric in the air. His rally was mostly in jest but partly serious (especially when Oprah got involved!). His Comedy Central cohort, Stephen Colbert, decided to join in, but not to "Restore Sanity." His insistence was to "Keep Fear Alive" (also pretty much, in jest). Both rallies joined together on October 30 and were extremely successful, at least in the media's eyes, but we shall see if Stewart's message really hit home.

BRISTOL PALIN ON DANCING WITH THE STARS

ABC's juggernaut reality series was stepping up its game in the Fall of 2010 as far as "star power." Not only did they retain Carol Brady, Dirty Dancing's Baby and the "Hoff" himself, but they got Bristol Palin, 2008 Republican VP candidate Sarah Palin's infamous daughter. Bristol, who is no stranger to controversy (see Levi Johnson), started a whole new controversy by her season on the dance competition show. While she was not the worst celebrity ever to dance on the program (see Kate Gosselin), she certainly was not the best, despite improving from week to week. The thing that polarized a lot of DWTS' fans was that she was allowed to improve from week to week, whereas other (not as notable) celebrities would have been eliminated sooner. It was discovered that a strong (possibly conservative) base of fans were constantly voting to keep Bristol in, succeeding all the way to the finale (where she lost the Mirrorball trophy to Jennifer Grey). But though she lost, her presence on the show became something to talk about.

PRINCE WILLIAM SETS THE DATE

He is the Man who will be King and she is his longtime girlfriend. Their love story does feel a little like déjà vu as Prince William (eldest son of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana) finally popped the question to Kate Middleton. Their engagement was immediately the subject of scrutinizing Internet searches and their images were immediately branded upon wedding memorabilia as the two set the date (April 2011). Going into 2011, this happy news will become one of the most watched weddings in history rivaling another famous Royal Wedding. Seriously, has anyone heard of déjà vu?!?!

So, there you have it: THE 10 POP CULTURE MOMENTS FROM 2010. We shall see if 2011 makes a splash in the way 2010 did. We know there is a Royal Wedding coming. Oprah Winfrey will he ending her seminal talk show (she's already unveiled her new cable network!). And the Harry Potter franchise will come to a close as the eighth and final film is released this summer. That's what we know about! Who knows what the new year will bring?

The 2010 Emmy Awards: My Predictions - PART III

PART III The Series Awards

Best Drama Series

Breaking Bad, AMC

• FOR IT: According to most critics, this AMC drama about a high school teacher who makes and sells meth to make ends meet is one of the more deserving series in this category. Star Bryan Cranston has won the Best Actor award the past two years (and is poised to take it for a third time) and its supporting players (including Supporting Actor frontrunner Aaron Paul and acclaimed actress Anna Gunn) have received raves.
• AGAINST IT: Compared to its more promotable competition (like Mad Men and the final season of LOST), the show is not as noticeable. Its nomination (plus its two nominated actors winning in their categories) may just have to serve as the show's reward.

Dexter, Showtime

• FOR IT: The show about a forensic specialist who is also a serial killer (with a heart of gold!) has been nominated twice before and, to many, its fourth season was its best with the addition of John Lithgow (who won the Guest Actor in Drama Series Emmy) as a rival serial killer.
• AGAINST IT: Like most other cable shows, the series only has 12 episodes a season and the fourth season ended back in December 2009. Timing could work against this show that many people feel deserves recognition. Also, the show's graphic and bloody nature (it is referred to as one of the bloodiest shows on television) may be a turnoff to some of the more staid members of the voting Academy.

The Good Wife, CBS

• FOR IT: It is one the freshman shows of the season that was a hit both with critics and with the ratings. Led by the sheer force of the poignant performance by Julianna Margulies, who is a frontrunner to win the Best Actress in a Drama prize, the cast has been lauded left and right (with Supporting Actress nods for Christine Baranski and breakout player Archie Panjabi in the process).
• AGAINST IT: The nomination, while welcomed, was pretty much a surprise to most Hollywood insiders. It is primarily seen as a way of boosting Margulies' already strong chances in her category against tough competition from Damages' Glenn Close and Mad Men's January Jones.

LOST, ABC

• FOR IT: The show about survivors of a plane crash on a strange and mystical island has been a fan favorite throughout its six year run. Back in 2005, it won this award for its groundbreaking first season. Thanks to a chilling and controversial finale episode in May, ABC hopes to win that same award again this time around.
• AGAINST IT: It has not won since 2005 and has very tough competition from the cable shows it faces. Also, it has primarily been a fan favorite over its six years and while the finale episode was hailed, it was considered jarring and confusing to many. Voters may choose its competition in response to the fervor the final episode caused.

Mad Men, AMC

• FOR IT: The reigning champ in the category for the past two years had a stellar third season about the lives (and loves) of the workers at the Sterling Cooper Ad Agency in the early 1960's. Several of its ensemble cast members (including leads John Hamm and January Jones) each received nominations in their categories and its writing (by creator Matthew Weiner) is a frontrunner to win yet again. It is the Awards "Go-To" when it comes to the top prize.
• AGAINST IT: To avoid looking stale and stodgy (something the Academy has been accused of for years, especially last year), the voters may choose to go with a different winner this time no matter how deserving the third season was.

True Blood, HBO

• FOR IT: When it was not among the 8 nominees in this category last year, the multitudes of fans this dark drama series about vampires and other creatures in the Louisiana bayou cried "FOUL!" The show has amassed a huge following (like the Twilight series, just not as big).
• AGAINST IT: Much like LOST has been over the years (and Glee is in the Comedy category below), the love for this series has generally come from audiences and fans as opposed to within the Hollywood community itself. Also, like Dexter, the graphic and violent nature of the show (It IS called True Blood) might put off some of the older block of voters. The nomination could just be a way of making it up to audiences for not nominating it previously and nothing more.

PREDICTION

Mad Men is probably the most deserving and certainly could pull off a third win, but it is also just as likely that the votes will go to LOST's final season just out of pure respect for the mindfreak that J. J. Abrams and company put people through in May. I'm gonna give the edge to Mad Men (based purely on what the critics have said), but I do not count LOST out.

DARK HORSE

It is also quite possible that Mad Men will be watching its fellow network series Breaking Bad in the winners' circle come Sunday night. The show has gained great respect from many within the Hollywood community and they may want to give it more than just acting awards.

Best Comedy Series

Curb Your Enthusiasm, HBO

• FOR IT: Larry David's completely ad-libbed sitcom has been enjoyed by critics since it debuted in 2000. This past year, the show pulled off television history by reuniting the cast of Seinfeld (Jerry Seinfeld, Jason Alexander, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Michael Richards) on an episode.
• AGAINST IT: Seinfeld nostalgia aside, the series has been sporadically on HBO's schedule with its seventh season being in 2009 (when normally it would have been in 2007). The show often gets lost in the shuffle when it comes to awards like this. The nomination may just be enough.

Glee, FOX

• FOR IT: Ryan Murphy's series about a high school glee club was the phenomenal success of the season filled with songs and dances that melted audiences' hearts. Lead actors Matthew Morrison, Lea Michele and supporting players Chris Colfer and Jane Lynch (who is destined to win Supporting Actress in a Comedy for her role as the vicious cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester) all have scored praise and nominations much to the happiness of the fans (who have dubbed themselves Gleeks!). The musical-dramedy won the Golden Globe award this past year over sitcoms like The Office, 30 Rock and Modern Family.
• AGAINST IT: Two things really. Number 1 - The older block of voters have expressed dissatisfaction with the fact that a dramedy (although musical) is in the same category with sitcoms like The Office, 30 Rock and Modern Family. This is not a new issue, but it is beginning to rear its head and Glee may suffer for it. And Number 2 - The love it has received is mostly fanbased (most of which probably are not members of the voting Academy).

Modern Family, ABC

• FOR IT: The critics absolutely love this mockumentary-style sitcom about a family made up of three different households. Most of its acclaimed ensemble cast scored nominations in the Supporting categories (each cast member entered in supporting because of their ensemble status). It has also brought ABC back to the realm of beloved sitcoms (where until recently their Comedy gold relied on dramedies like Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty).
• AGAINST IT: While it has a loyal audience and critics love it, it does not have the fanbase that FOX's Glee has. While some critics are members of the voting branch, they may not be enough to conquer those voters who might be voting for the FOX musical hit.

Nurse Jackie, Showtime

• FOR IT: One of the three new shows of the year recognized in this category, the critically-acclaimed quirky hospital dramedy was a surprise amongst the nominees (scoring a nod over more popular fare like NBC's Community or CBS' The Big Bang Theory).
• AGAINST IT: The show has mostly been noted for the stellar performance of its lead actress, Edie Falco. The nomination in this category might merely be a way to bolster Falco's standing in her category of Lead Actress in a Comedy where she faces tough competition from Glee star Lea Michele as well as previous winners Toni Collette and Tina Fey.

The Office, NBC

• FOR IT: Having won this award back in 2006, the American version of the Ricky Gervais Britcom has been a fan favorite (especially in syndication). This (along with its fellow NBC show 30 Rock) has become a staple at awards shows. Also, with Steve Carell's announcement that the upcoming season will be his last, voters may choose to remember this show's contribution.
• AGAINST IT: The comedy has had a lackluster season and critics have stated that since its uber-couple Jim and Pam (played by John Krasinski and Jenna Fischer, respectively) got married (and had a baby this year), the show has ultimately "jumped the shark." The last time it won in 2006, probably was the last time.

30 Rock, NBC

• FOR IT: Tina Fey's quirky backstage TV comedy has won this award for the past 3 years. It was almost natural that it would be nominated for its fourth season which has already won Alec Baldwin a Golden Globe (and both Baldwin and Fey Screen Actors' Guild Awards) this year.
• AGAINST IT: Like its network compatriot The Office, the show has been accused by critics of growing stale and has dwindled in ratings (which it didn't have that much of to begin with). Voters may choose to give newer shows a chance at this prestigious award.

PREDICTION

It will be the Critics vs. the Fans as the freshman shows Modern Family and Glee have an Emmy stand-off. It is not clear how deep the fanbase of FOX's musical series runs in the Hollywood community, so I wouldn't count it out (cause you never know if there are some secret Gleeks out there!); but I still give the edge to Modern Family based on critical praise (as well as a growing audience). Either one winning would be okay with me, but if you belong to either camp - be prepared for possible disappointment when the other side wins.

The 2010 Emmy Awards: My Predictions - PART II

PART II The Leading Acting Awards

Best Leading Actor in a Drama Series

Kyle Chandler, Friday Night Lights, DirecTV/NBC

• FOR HIM: The show, which has been shafted (and re-renewed) by NBC in the past, has gained a very loyal fanbase and many Hollywood insders were pleased to see Chandler (and co-star Connie Britton) among the nominees in these top categories. Could this be last minute love for a show many predicted as D.O.A.?
• AGAINST HIM: The show, while loved by many, failed to garner the ultimate prize in a Drama Series nomination. The nods (for both Chandler and Britton) can be merely seen as appeasement of the naysayers.

Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad, AMC

• FOR HIM: Cranston's role as a high school science teacher who turns to making and selling meth to make ends meet has been praised since the show began. He is the reigning champ in the category having won the past two years. He did some great work this year and many critics feel he will win a well-deserved third Emmy.
• AGAINST HIM: The episode he submitted, the show's season finale, is not considered his best of the year by the critics who so love him. Voters may feel they have awarded him enough for his great work and decide to go with one of the actors they have ignored the past two years (like John Hamm, Hugh Laurie or Michael C. Hall).

Michael C. Hall, Dexter, Showtime

• FOR HIM: His role as the forensic serial-killer with a heart of gold has garnered him praise for three years (with two previous nominations). With his recent battle with cancer (which he is reportedly surviving! YAY!), he won the Golden Globe and the Screen Actors' Guild Award this past year from his peers who admired his strength and hope.
• AGAINST HIM: Emmy voters may feel the two previous awards this year are enough in the way of sympathy.

John Hamm, Mad Men, AMC

• FOR HIM: Hamm's Don Draper has been nominated twice before and still has not won. For the show's third season, Hamm did what many feel is some of his best work. He also showed versatility by returning to his Emmy-nominated guest role on 30 Rock this year (which garnered him a second Guest Actor in a Comedy Series nod).
• AGAINST HIM: Many do say this could be his year but he has very tough competition from Bryan Cranston (whom he has lost to previously) and Hugh Laurie. He may have done great work this year but it might not have been enough.

Matthew Fox, LOST, ABC

• FOR HIM: With LOST's final season (and its stellar finale episode, which Fox submitted as his entry), Emmy gave Fox his first nomination for the series in its six year history. Fans would be extremely pleased to see Dr. Jack Shephard win (what they feel) is a well-deserved award.
• AGAINST HIM: With this being his first nomination in the six seasons, it is likely the nomination is a consolation prize. Plus, the ending, while hailed, left many viewers confused and puzzled (as it was meant to, I'm sure). It may have also left Emmy voters puzzled and therefore marking their ballots likewise.

Hugh Laurie, House M.D., FOX

• FOR HIM: With the phenomenal 2-hour season premiere in September 2009 (the rehab institution episode Laurie submitted), Laurie's Dr. Gregory House gained some of the best reviews of the early part of the 2009-10 season. This is Laurie's fifth nomination and he has yet to win for what many consider is the role of British actor's career.
• AGAINST HIM: While individual episodes are submitted by the actors, voters are allowed to look at the season as a whole. And for House's sixth season, it wasn't has hailed as previous ones (except for the premiere).

PREDICTION

This is yet another tough category to call. Both Hugh Laurie and John Hamm have proven themselves very deserving and may finally receive Emmy love. Michael C. Hall could also be a contender with voters on pure sympathy. But, ultimately, Bryan Cranston's really stellar third season should bring him a third Emmy.

Best Leading Actress in a Drama Series

Connie Britton, Friday Night Lights, DirecTV/NBC

• FOR HER: The show, which has been shafted (and re-renewed) by NBC in the past, has gained a very loyal fanbase and many Hollywood insders were pleased to see Britton (and co-star Kyle Chandler) among the nominees in these top categories. Could this be last minute love for a show many predicted as D.O.A.?
• AGAINST HER: The show, while loved by many, failed to garner the ultimate prize in a Drama Series nomination. The nods (for both Britton and Chandler) can be merely seen as appeasement of the naysayers.

Glenn Close, Damages, F/X

• FOR HER: Close is one of the most respected and most rewarded actresses on Television ("She will not be ignored!"). Her role as the manipulative and vindictive lawyer Patty Hewes has already won her two Emmy awards for the show's first two seasons.
• AGAINST HER: The show's third season, to many, stumbled a bit in quality (although NOT for Ms. Close). With the show's announcement that it will move to DirecTV and not be renewed by F/X, voters will most likely feel like they have rewarded this great actress enough.

Mariska Hargitay, Law and Order: Special Victims Unit, NBC

• FOR HER: Hargitay has been nominated every year since 2004 (and won in 2006). Her performance as Detective Olivia Benson has been raw, poignant and powerful. She has been hailed by critics and beloved by the fans. She even had some really good material this past season.
• AGAINST HER: She has not won since 2006 and the L&O franchise has faltered (with the original getting cancelled in May). Her nomination may just be for her body of work and not for her work this past year.

January Jones, Mad Men, AMC

• FOR HER: Jones' Betty Draper had some great material in the show's third season. Plus, to many fans, she was snubbed last year when she was not nominated for Best Actress in a Drama.
• AGAINST HER: While she is beloved by producers and critics, her character is only occasionally a lead (which could be the reason voters failed to nominate her last year).

Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife, CBS

• FOR HER: Margulies' stirring and poignant performance as humiliated political wife Alicia Florrick has been a critical highlight of the year (scoring a nomination for Best Drama Series in the process). She has won the Golden Globe and the Screen Actors' Guild Award, Emmy may clearly be in her grasp.
• AGAINST HER: There isn't that much against her except maybe sympathy for Connie Britton, respect for Glenn Close or admiration for January Jones.

Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer, TNT

• FOR HER: Sedgwick has won several Golden Globes for her role as Inspector Brenda Johnston on TNT's crime-drama. Voters may feel it time to give her the Emmy she has been denied for the past four years.
• AGAINST HER: Her show is a summer replacement series and timing, being what it is, may be her downfall each year as the season she gets nominated for airs a year before awards are handed out.

PREDICTION

Julianna Margulies will most likely add an Emmy Award to her mantle for her dynamic performance. It will be her second Emmy as she won Best Supporting Actress back in 1995 for E.R.'s gripping first season.

Best Leading Actor in a Comedy Series

Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock, NBC

• FOR HIM: Baldwin's eccentric network executive Jack Donaghy has been considered the best part of the series since the beginning. Having won this award for the previous two years, he is the reigning champ and will not go down without a fight (literally, Alec Baldwin can be very scary!). If anyone can win for the show, he can!
• AGAINST HIM: The show itself has lost fans and critics have begun to attack its quality (although NOT Baldwin's performance). It may be time for Baldwin to pass the torch to someone slightly more deserving.

Steve Carell, The Office, NBC

• FOR HIM: Carell's enormously inept Michael Scott has yet to win an Emmy for this series which has received Emmy love in the past. With his recent announcement that the upcoming sixth season will be his last, voters may take their chance now to reward him for years of service.
• AGAINST HIM: Since he has one more season left in him, voters may gamble on rewarding him next year instead of now. Plus, The Office (like 30 Rock) has dwindled in ratings (and quality, at least to critics). It's possible Carell may join the ranks of "Nominated but Never Won."

Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm, HBO

• FOR HIM: As the creator and star of the beloved ad-libbed series, David's irascible character garnered his fourth nomination. Plus, the much hailed Seinfeld reunion episode (which David submitted), was a testament David and his contribution to both shows.
• AGAINST HIM: The show has been on HBO's schedule sporadically over the decade (debuting in 2000 and 2009 being its 7th season). His nomination (his first since 2006) could be just recognition for his work on both Curb and Seinfeld.

Matthew Morrison, Glee, FOX

• FOR HIM: Morrison's lead role as teacher Will Schuester is the heart of the phenom series. His musical style and great stage-trained acting ability could give him a leg-up on his competitors.
• AGAINST HIM: Being surrounded in the show by showier roles (like Lea Michele, Jane Lynch and Chris Colfer, all of whom received nominations in their respective categories), his nomination may be seen as more for the show than for the actor.

Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory, CBS

• FOR HIM: On his second nomination (his first was last year), many critics feel he deserves to take home the Emmy for his anal-retentive (to the Nth Degree) nerd. Plus, the show has grown in viewership and is making a bold move from Monday nights to Thursdays for its upcoming fourth season.
• AGAINST HIM: Many critics were upset by the fact that The Big Bang Theory was NOT included amongst the Comedy Series nominees. With fewer nominations in major categories, Parsons may just have to be happy with the nomination and step up his already hilarious game for next year.

Tony Shalhoub, Monk, USA

• FOR HIM: With Monk ending back in December, Emmy voters decided to remember his three-time Emmy winning role as the OCD genius detective and nominated him again.
• AGAINST HIM: He has not won since 2006 and the last season was not considered his best comedically (it was more dramatic and poignant). The nomination merely serves as a tip of the hat to the actor and his memorable role.

PREDICTION

Jim Parsons DID step up his game for The Big Bang Theory's third season (hence, the move to Thursdays!). Alec Baldwin already has two Emmys for his role but, while he may be just as deserving, Parsons pulled out so many stops and shows no signs of quitting.

DARK HORSE

Steve Carell's announcement about ending his contract at the end of next season seemed to be timed in the right place. He was most likely on voters minds when they read their ballots and made decisions.

Best Leading Actress in a Comedy Series

Toni Collette, United States of Tara, Showtime

• FOR HER: Collette's performance as a woman struggling with multiple personalities won her last year's Emmy Award and this past year's Golden Globe. The acclaimed actress has certainly won critics and fans with sheer diversity.
• AGAINST HER: She won this award last year in what many saw as a surprise (a welcome one, but a surprise). Also, her show's second season has not been as hailed as the first one.

Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie, Showtime

• FOR HER: In the series pilot of this quirky Showtime dramedy (which is the episode Falco submitted), critics claimed that Edie Falco's titular pill-popping no-nonsense character was one of the most fascinating characters of the year. On mere Sopranos nostalgia alone, Falco has huge fans amongst many Hollywood insiders.
• AGAINST HER: The show is a summer replacement series, meaning that the inaugural season that has received major nominations (for this category and Best Comedy Series) aired over a year ago. Timing may just work against this well-seasoned and well-respected actress.

Tina Fey, 30 Rock, NBC

• FOR HER: Fey has been at the forefront of comedy in the last few years and has earned her place as the genre's so-called "Queen." She had a hit movie this summer (with Date Night), a successful hosting gig on SNL (for which she received a Guest Actress in a Comedy Series nod) and her Primetime show is hailed as one of the best shows on TV (for which, as head writer, creator and star, she is a major reason for).
• AGAINST HER: Her show, to many, has dwindled in quality this past fourth season. She also won this same award back in 2008 (for the show's second season, which to many was its best). If her show was a contender in any category, it would be more likely to win in Leading Actor for Alec Baldwin (who is considered the best part of the show).

Julia Louis-Dreyfus, The New Adventures of Old Christine, CBS

• FOR HER: Louis-Dreyfus won this award back in 2006 and has been critically acclaimed for the role since. She also was part of the Seinfeld reunion episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm that was so beloved this year. Her show, unfortunately, got cancelled at the last minute this past May and many Hollywood insiders (including Louis-Dreyfus herself) are unhappy about the way CBS did it. She may get votes based on sympathy and solidarity.
• AGAINST HER: Her win was over 4 years ago and her show had dwindled in the ratings, hence CBS' decision to cancel. She may get some votes, but not enough to conquer her more palatable competitors.

Lea Michele, Glee, FOX

• FOR HER: Michele's Rachel Berry is the self-proclaimed star and darling diva of the phenomenal smash hit series of the year. Her musical performances are what most fans have looked forward to in each episode (especially her "Sectionals" performance, which she cleverly submitted as her entry). Emmy voters may choose to go with someone young and fresh as the winner of this major category.
• AGAINST HER: At 24 (and playing a high-school student!), she is the youngest in the category this year. Though she has been in the business since she was 8 (when she made her Broadway debut), she has less experience when compared to her more seasoned competitors.

Amy Poehler, Parks and Recreation, NBC

• FOR HER: In its second season, Parks and Recreation gained new fans amongst many critics and Poehler's nomination is a testament to the power of their suggestion (several critics pushed for her to be noticed this year). Her sweet but inept government worker has been praised as a good reason to catch the struggling show.
• AGAINST HER: To many critics dismay, this was the only nomination the show received. Had it received more nominations, Poehler would be a major contender. But since it did not, she will have to be happy with the nomination.

PREDICTION

Judging by mere acting quality, it will come down to Edie Falco or Toni Collette. Since Collette won this award last year and many voters still remember The Sopranos, Falco should be polishing off her acceptance speech.

DARK HORSE

With her flawless musical performances and quirky character antics, Lea Michele could create an upset (at least to some) just based on versatility.

Next Post: PART III - Best Drama Series AND Best Comedy Series

The 2010 Emmy Awards: My Predictions - PART I

With this year's Emmy Awards fast approaching (Sunday, August 29), I thought it would be a good idea to share my predictions for the winners. What I will do is breakdown each major category and give my final assessment. So, here it goes:

PART I The Supporting Acting Awards

Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
Andre Braugher, Men of a Certain Age, TNT

• FOR HIM: Braugher is a well-respected actor amongst the Hollywood crowd and was a critical highlight of TNT's new serio-dramedy about three friends struggling through middle age. He also did some great work on FOX's House M.D. as Dr. House's psychiatrist.
• AGAINST HIM: The show, while it has the critics behind it, is not uber-popular with audiences. Also, Braugher's role on the series can be viewed as a Leading role just as much as a Supporting Ensemble member.

Michael Emerson, LOST, ABC

• FOR HIM: LOST had one of its best seasons in its final one and Emerson's manipulative and disturbed Ben has been a crucial part of the accolades the show has received in its last years, winning this same award last year.
• AGAINST HIM: One of his competitors comes from the same show, Terry O'Quinn. The two would most likely cancel each other out.

Terry O'Quinn, LOST, ABC

• FOR HIM: O'Quinn's Locke was one of the most intriguing characters of the season, drifting between devil and hero. O'Quinn, like Braugher, is also a well-respected character actor that Emmy voters may just want to reward for years of service.
• AGAINST HIM: Those years of service were rewarded back in 2007 when O'Quinn won this award. And since both he and co-star (and co-nominee) Emerson are previous winners, the canceling each other out is much more likely.

Aaron Paul, Breaking Bad, AMC

• FOR HIM: As a former student helping his teacher make and sell meth, Paul has gotten some great critical notices for his role. He also got some of the best reviews of the show this season for his work (better reviews than Lead Actor Bryan Cranston, who is poised to take home a third Emmy Award).
• AGAINST HIM: He is up against some tough veterans in this category and while he got some fantastic critical notices for his work this season, so did they. Emmy voters may wish to go for experience instead.

Martin Short, Damages, F/X

• FOR HIM: Short, one of the best comedic actors in the business, defied audience expectations in his role as the Machiavellian con-artist-turned-powerful-attorney. Emmy voters might recognize that it is comedians who make the best actors by giving him the award.
• AGAINST HIM: Damages is not the most watched show to have Emmy respect. The show has floundered on F/X's schedule forcing the producers to make a crucial move to DirectTV for its fourth season. To gain more fans, Emmy voters might look at the show as a whole as opposed to just the actor.

John Slattery, Mad Men, AMC

• FOR HIM: Slattery's performance as founding partner Roger Sterling Jr. has garnered him praise for the past three seasons. His character has gone through divorce, two heart attacks and still manages to smoke, drink and (possibly) womanize.
• AGAINST HIM: Mad Men, while knocking them dead as the Drama Series champ, has failed to win over in the acting categories (Slattery's two previous unsuccessful nominations serve as proof). His nomination may be more for the show than for his well-respected performance.

PREDICTION

Aaron Paul will most likely vanquish the threat from both the LOST actors considering he received some of the best critical notices of the year.

DARK HORSE
Martin Short could surprise people by winning for his vicious role. A win for Short, however, would be bittersweet as his wife of over 20 years, Nancy Dolman, passed away on Sunday night (August 22nd). For the nay-sayers out there, this piece of tragic news would NOT have affected voting as the deadline was over a week ago.

Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Christine Baranski, The Good Wife, CBS

• FOR HER: Baranski is beloved by the Awards circuit. Her nomination was almost a foregone conclusion for a lot of people. Basically, she gets nominated just for standing there (as seen by her other nomination for Guest Actress in a Comedy Series for her role on The Big Bang Theory).
• AGAINST HER: While she is beloved, her role as law partner Diane Lockhart on the show is not the standout (at least as far as supporting cast goes). Her co-star and co-nominee Archie Panjabi's investigator has wowed more critics and fans of the show.

Rose Byrne, Damages, F/X

• FOR HER: Byrne's protagonist role on the F/X drama has been praised for all three seasons (she has two previous unsuccessful nominations). She may be due to get recognition.
• AGAINST HER: Her role is more of a Leading role, though extremely overshadowed by her co-star Glenn Close (hence, her entry into the Supporting category).

Sharon Gless, Burn Notice, AMC

• FOR HER: Gless is a favorite of Emmy voters and her role as Maddie Weston has been a critical highlight of the spy drama. Her nomination was a pleasant surprise for many Hollywood insiders.
• AGAINST HER: Her nomination was a complete surprise. Her show has not been on Emmy's radar for the past three years. The nomination could be more for the actress than for the show.

Christina Hendricks, Mad Men, AMC

• FOR HER: Hendricks has been the "It Girl" of TV for this past year (a ploy that worked in the past for Katherine Heigl and Julianna Margulies). Her performance in the episode "Guy Walks Into an Advertising Agency" (which she cleverly submitted) was, to many critics, one of the best performances of the year.
• AGAINST HER: One of her competitors is her co-star Elisabeth Moss, who also got some good reviews last year. Also, like John Slattery's problem, Mad Men has never gotten Emmy love in the acting categories.

Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men, AMC

• FOR HER: Moss' role as innocent copywriter Peggy Olson has garnered praise from critics and audiences (she was nominated last year for Lead Actress in a Drama Series).
• AGAINST HER: Her co-star Christina Hendricks has had a showier season and her being in the Supporting category instead of the Lead could be seen as a downgrade. All that plus the problem that works against John Slattery and Christina Hendricks.

Archie Panjabi, The Good Wife, CBS

• FOR HER: Panjabi's straight-forward and mysterious investigator Kalinda Sharma has received several positive notices from critics. Her highlighted performance may be enough to charm Emmy voters.
• AGAINST HER: While she is a stand-out in the supporting cast of the series (more than Christine Baranski), the show truly is on the shoulders of the titular star, Julianna Margulies.

PREDICTION
It will come down between Christina Hendricks and Archie Panjabi. Both have had great reviews and have gained loyal fans. I would have to give the edge to Hendricks merely because of her "It Girl" status.

DARK HORSE
Hendricks and Panjabi could be cancelled out by their own co-stars and the benefactor of that could very well be Sharon Gless. Many Hollywood insiders would welcome the chance to applaud Gless walking up to the stage to accept her third career Emmy Award.

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Ty Burrell, Modern Family, ABC

• FOR HIM: As the quirky father and husband, Burrell's performance has been a comic highlight of the well-praised ensemble. He also has had character performances in movies and TV shows over the years that have garnered him respect from his peers
• AGAINST HIM: Being in a category with his fellow co-stars (save Ed O'Neill), he could just go home empty-handed and watch his co-star win (or someone else entirely).

Chris Colfer, Glee, FOX

• FOR HIM: Colfer's nomination for playing the boy soprano/diva struggling with his sexual orientation was a welcome surprise to many fans and Hollywood insiders. He, apart from Jane Lynch's Sue Sylvester, is one of the most popular characters on the show.
• AGAINST HIM: His youth and inexperience basically. He is in a category with more seasoned veterans. He might have to try again next year but this nomination certainly gives him a leg up.

Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men, CBS

• FOR HIM: Cryer is the reigning winner in this category and his work this season just got better as far as critics were concerned.
• AGAINST HIM: His co-star Charlie Sheen's high-profile antics earlier this year has marked the show in a bad way. Last year's win for Cryer may have been the last time we would see this show in the Winners' Circle.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Modern Family, ABC

• FOR HIM: Ferguson's neurotic gay lawyer has been critically praised and he has a loyal fanbase from his days on Broadway.
• AGAINST HIM: His co-stars Ty Burrell and Eric Stonestreet (who plays his partner) have showier roles and so he may be watching one of them win on Emmy night.

Neil Patrick Harris, How I Met Your Mother, CBS

• FOR HIM: He was a favorite last year, but Jon Cryer won. His Barney Stinson character has had some really big moments including a musical number and bedding 100 women in 1 week (where he was interviewed by Jim Nance).
• AGAINST HIM: With three nominations this year (for this, a guest spot on Glee and hosting last year's Tony Awards), Emmy voters are less likely to let him win all three. He won in the latter two categories at last week's Creative Arts Emmys.

Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family, ABC

• FOR HIM: As the stay-at-home gay dad, Eric Stonestreet's Cameron has been a reason critics have lauded the show. He's even had some great moments like singing "Ave Maria" at a wedding.
• AGAINST HIM: Being up against his co-stars could work against him and he could watch Burrell or Ferguson win.

PREDICTION
It will come down between the Modern Family guys with Ty Burrell or Eric Stonestreet emerging victorious. I'm gonna give the edge to Burrell because of his past performances.

DARK HORSE
Chris Colfer has a loud and loyal fanbase (almost to the point of obsession). The vote could go his way based just on pure nerve.

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
Julie Bowen, Modern Family, ABC

• FOR HER: Bowen's neurotic-yet-stable housewife has been a highlight of the Modern Family ensemble. Voters may want to recognize her contribution.
• AGAINST HER: Being in an ensemble has its drawbacks. Her competitor and co-star Sofia Vergara is just as worthy of the award, so the two actresses will most likely cancel each other out. That and she is up against Jane Lynch.

Jane Krakowski, 30 Rock, NBC

• FOR HER: Krakowski's vain actress Jenna Meloni has been a highlight of the show since the beginning and this past season, Tina Fey and the writers gave her some of her best stuff (like reuniting with her mother, played by Jan Hooks, and her dating a Jenna Meloni drag queen, played by Will Forte).
• AGAINST HER: This nomination is more for the show than for the actress (she has unsuccessfully been nominated twice before). 30 Rock has dwindled in fans and the nomination may just be enough. That and she is up against Jane Lynch.

Jane Lynch, Glee, FOX

• FOR HER: Lynch as the vicious and heartless cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester has been the phenom of the phenom. She is beloved by Hollywood and her peers. Her scheming alter-ego would also try to find some way of fixing the race so Lynch could win.
• AGAINST HER: There's not much against her except possibly a major anti-Glee movement that could stem from the reaction to the loyal (and sometimes obsessive) fanbase.

Holland Taylor, Two and a Half Men, CBS

• FOR HER: While she didn't have much to do this year (she was in half of the show's 20 episodes), what she did do was worthy of notice.
• AGAINST HER: With Sheen's antics earlier this year, the show has suffered financially and in standing. So, like Cryer, the nomination will have to suffice. That and she is up against Jane Lynch

Sofia Vergara, Modern Family, ABC

• FOR HER: Vergara's Colombian accent and luscious curves are just icing on the comic cake. She has proven herself quite hilarious and witty in the Family's many awkward situations.
• AGAINST HER: Like her co-star Julie Bowen above, they are both equally good and voters will more likely choose against them than for them. That and she is up against Jane Lynch.

Kristen Wiig, Saturday Night Live, NBC

• FOR HER: Like Amy Poehler, Tina Fey, Molly Shannon, Jan Hooks and Gilda Radner before her, Wiig's quirky characters have become the highlight of SNL in recent years.
• AGAINST HER: SNL has only recently been considered contenders for Acting awards (both Amy Poehler and Kristen Wiig were nominated last year). It may take a few more years before cast members find themselves winners in major categories like this one. That and she's up against Jane Lynch.

PREDICTION
I'd have to be crazy to not predict that Jane Lynch would walk away with the award come Sunday night. Unless there is some massive anti-Glee movement amongst Emmy voters (meaning one of the Modern Family ladies would benefit), Lynch WILL win this award. Sue Sylvester wouldn't have it any other way.

Next Post: PART II - The Leading Acting Awards