The Golden Globe nominations were announced today and some familiar TV faces are among them. I’m thrilled that several new shows were recognized. Pushing Daisies, Damages, and Mad Men all got a nod for drama series, as well as old favorites Grey’s Anatomy and House. But where was Lost? It should have been among the best dramas.
As for individuals, it’s nice to see Lee Pace, of Pushing Daisies, Donald Sutherland, of Dirty Sexy Money, America Ferrera, of Ugly Betty, and Christina Applegate of Samantha Who? But I think Chandra Wilson, of Grey’s Anatomy, was overlooked. She’s done phenomenal work on that show, but for some reason Katherine Heigl is the more heralded actress.
Take a look at the list. Are you pleased, or was your favorite show/actor/actress snubbed?
TELEVISION
Series, Drama
'Big Love,' HBO'
Damages,' FX Networks'
Grey's Anatomy,' ABC'
House,' Fox'
Mad Men,' AMC
'The Tudors,' Showtime
Actress, Drama
Patricia Arquette, 'Medium'
Glenn Close, 'Damages'
Minnie Driver, 'The Riches'
Edie Falco, 'The Sopranos'
Sally Field, 'Brothers & Sisters'
Holly Hunter, 'Saving Grace'
Kyra Sedgwick, 'The Closer'
Actor, Drama
Michael C. Hall, 'Dexter'
Jon Hamm, 'Mad Men'
Hugh Laurie, 'House'
Jonathan Rhys Meyers, 'The Tudors'
Bill Paxton, 'Big Love'
Series, Musical or Comedy
'30 Rock,' NBC'
Californication,' Showtime
'Entourage,' HBO
'Extras,' HBO
'Pushing Daisies,' ABC
Actress, Musical or Comedy
Christina Applegate, 'Samantha Who?'
America Ferrera, 'Ugly Betty'
Tina Fey, '30 Rock'
Anna Friel, 'Pushing Daisies'
Mary-Louise Parker, 'Weeds'
Actor, Musical or Comedy
Alec Baldwin, '30 Rock'
Steve Carell, 'The Office'
David Duchovny, 'Californication'
Ricky Gervais, 'Extras'
Lee Pace, 'Pushing Daisies'
Miniseries or Movie
'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee,' HBO
'The Company,' TNT
'Five Days,' HBO
'Longford,' HBO
'The State Within,' BBC America
Actress, Miniseries or Movie
Bryce Dallas Howard, 'As You Like It'
Debra Messing, 'The Starter Wife'
Queen Latifah, 'Life Support'
Sissy Spacek, 'Pictures of Hollis Woods'
Ruth Wilson, 'Jane Eyre' (Masterpiece Theatre)
Actor, Miniseries or Movie
Adam Beach, 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee'
Ernest Borgnine, 'A Grandpa for Christmas'
Jim Broadbent, 'Longford'
Jason Isaacs, 'The State Within'
James Nesbitt, 'Jekyll'
Supporting Actress, Series, Miniseries or Movie
Rose Byrne, 'Damages'
Rachel Griffiths, 'Brothers & Sisters'
Katherine Heigl, 'Grey's Anatomy'
Samantha Morton, 'Longford'
Anna Paquin, 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee'
Jaime Pressly, 'My Name Is Earl'
Supporting Actor, Series, Miniseries or Movie
Ted Danson, 'Damages'
Kevin Dillon, 'Entourage'
Jeremy Piven, 'Entourage'
Andy Serkis, 'Longford'
William Shatner, 'Boston Legal'
Donald Sutherland, 'Dirty Sexy Money'
For the film categories and the complete list, click here.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
The Golden Globe nominations 2007
Subscribe by RSSMonday, October 01, 2007
Let’s talk TV: The Week in Review
The Office
I’m not sure what was funnier: Meredith as the face of rabies, Michael’s charity check made out to “Science,” or Creed’s admission that he used to be in a cult, as both a leader and a follower. Hysterical. The hour-long season premiere of The Office was a fun ride. I was a little disturbed at Dwight’s method to kill Angela’s cat, though. A freezer? Someone call PETA. As for our favorite couple, Jim and Pam, they’re dating. EEEE!!!! They were adorable, holding hands, during the rabies run and trying to hide their romance from their co-workers. That didn’t last long. I must confess that while I’m enjoying JAM, I’m going to miss Karen. Maybe Michael can recruit her back to Scranton for his next non-charity run.
Grey’s Anatomy
Meredith Grey, perhaps some bran in your diet will make you a little less bitchy. Frankly, you aren’t nice. This isn’t news, considering how rude Meredith has been to her family in the past. But, she was exceptionally harsh on her newly discovered sister, Lexie, to the point where I wanted to take McDreamy’s stethoscope and check to see if she has a heart in that cold empty chest. I love the new girl, Lexie. To quote George, she is, “kind of awesome.” Yes, she is. Meredith could take a lesson. The Grey’s premiere was my favorite of the week. It had a good combination of humor, romance and drama. My new favorite couple may be McDreamy and McSteamy. Derek needs a friend and so does Mark. He had the best line of the night when he tossed out this anti-manly quote to Derek, “I came to Seattle to get you back…(awkward pause and grinning) I know. I want to take it back now, but I already said it.” Too cute. I hope these two can rekindle their friendship. As for Izzie, I hated that she once again broke the rules in yet another silly storyline. This time, she saved Bambi - an actual deer - not George. As for Dr. Bailey, well, she was pissed. And rightly so. She deserved to be chief resident, but the Chief told her she belonged in an operating room, not at a desk making out schedules. She was robbed of the job and Chandra Wilson was robbed of an Emmy. George was back repeating his intern year, disillusioned and depressed. The fact that he’s not in love with his wife doesn’t seem to bother him as much as having to take orders from his former colleagues. Telling, yes? It was a little strange not having Burke and Addison in the mix, but I think we’ll adjust. I have high hopes for this season, that is unless bleeding-heart Izzie performs CPR on a turtle or some other half-dead animal.
Smallville
Bizarro Clark was sent packing, courtesy of Clark and his cousin Supergirl, who he has yet to meet. The season premiere had so many loose ends to tie up that it seemed a bit disjointed at times. I think next week will be better. (Fingers crossed.) I enjoyed the Lana-free hour, up until the point we saw her channeling Sydney Bristow in her blonde wig, maneuvering the streets of Asia. Yes, it’s true. She’s alive. Sorry, Lana haters. I know you were hoping Clark would move on this season. It seems Lex is suffering from so much guilt over Lana’s “death” that he’s flipped to the side of good again. Don’t worry. I give that about as much chance of lasting as Lex ever growing hair. As for Chloe, she wasn’t sure what happened during the dam break. All we know is that she somehow saved Lois’ life and woke up in the morgue. And while Clark seemed truly devastated at Chloe’s “death,” he couldn’t even manage a hug for her in the morgue. Yes, it bugged me. He literally pulled a toe tag off of his best friend; so one would think he would have had a bigger reaction to her being alive. But, no, they saved their hug for their grief over Lana. I should have known. This week, it looks like we’ll learn a little more about Supergirl. Frankly, I’d like to find out when she had time to shop for a new outfit in between saving Lex and killing Bizarro.
Brothers & Sisters
The Walkers like their tequila. And what better way to celebrate Kitty’s birthday than with tequila shots and tacos. It’s a deadly combination. Kitty’s party was a complete disaster, much like all the Walker parties. The Brothers & Sisters premiere was one of the best of the week. It was funny. (Hello, did you see that hideous wedding dress!) And businesswoman Sarah discovering that a “mommy job” isn’t an actual job, but a tummy tuck and breast lift made me chuckle. Justin is the heart of the family, and he was missed in the premiere. Here’s hoping he makes it home soon from Iraq, preferably not in a body bag.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Primetime Emmys 2007: Tube Talk Girl’s picks
It’s Emmy night! Tonight, our favorite TV stars will paint on the spray tans, put on double-stick tape to hold their barely-there evening gowns in place, and strut their stuff down the red carpet. Good times, Tubers. Good times.
I’m almost more excited about the pre-show coverage this year than the actual event. In the past, most of the hosts interviewing the TV stars knew nothing about the shows and failed to ask good questions. This year, I think things may be different. E!’s Kristin Veitch is helping out Ryan Seacrest, and she’s as big a TV buff as I am. So, I’m sure she’ll ask what enquiring minds want to know. Also, the TV Guide channel has Lisa Rinna and Joey Fatone pulling red-carpet duty, and that should be a hoot.
As for the Emmy show, here are my picks for who I want to win, not for who should win or will win. You’ve already seen those predictions from every other TV blog and magazine. So, these are my selfish picks with an explanation of why I chose them, because really, it all comes back to me.
My picks are highlighted in bold.
BEST DRAMA SERIES
“Grey’s Anatomy”
The Sopranos is favored to win by a landslide, and probably deserves it based on that brilliant finale. But I don’t care. I don’t get HBO and don’t watch the show regularly. My pick: Grey’s Anatomy. Yes, there were a few subpar episodes, but it’s still better than the too-scattered Heroes. House is too procedural for my taste, and while I adore Boston Legal, it’s a bit preachy and silly at times to win for best drama. Although, it might be fun to see William Shatner get up and thank “Denny Crane!”
“Entourage”
I love Leary, but Laurie is my pick. Laurie always gives an interesting, funny speech, and let’s face it. I’m that shallow. It’s a long show. I also wouldn’t mind seeing Spader take the prize. He also gives good gab in acceptance speeches and once complimented the audience on their “wonderful choices in dresses and shoes.” No one does deadpan better. Gandolfini will probably win, as Emmy voters may give him a nice present to end his run as Tony Soprano.
BEST DRAMA ACTRESS
My pick: The flying nun all the way. Field is hilarious, neurotic and a complete joy to watch as the matriarch of the nutty Walker clan. She leaves me giggling or in tears on a weekly basis. I’m sure the other ladies in this category are equally talented, as well, but I don’t watch any of those shows so that’s no fun for me if they win. Plus, Field is known for her award show speeches. Maybe she’ll coin another “You like me” phrase at the podium.
BEST SUPPORTING DRAMA ACTOR
Michael Imperioli, “The Sopranos”
Terry O’Quinn, “Lost”
Katherine Heigl, “Grey’s Anatomy”
There is no other choice for me in this category but the talented Wilson. I’m going to be one McAngry blogger if she doesn’t win. She’s been the one constant on Grey’s since its debut.
Steve Carell is hysterical as Michael Scott. But the real reason he should take the gold: He has a proven track record at delivering entertaining award show acceptance speeches. His Golden Globe 2006 speech is legendary. He humorously claimed his wife wrote it. Let’s hope she fired up the computer this year.
BEST COMEDY ACTRESS
Ugly Betty, this had better be your night. Ferrera shines on a weekly basis as sweetheart Betty, so even if the show doesn’t win for best comedy, I’m hoping Ferrera will score the prize. The girl deserves it not just for her acting skills, but for having to wear that hideous wardrobe. What? Like you’d be caught dead in a red, “Guadalajaro” poncho.
Jeremy Piven, “Entourage”
Doogie is the man. Harris makes me laugh out loud every week as "legendary" Barney on How I Met Your Mother. He’s the best part of the show. I also wouldn’t mind Wilson scoring a win for Dwight Schrute. The guy his has own bobblehead, shouldn’t he have an Emmy?
BEST SUPPORTING COMEDY ACTRESS
This is like choosing my favorite chocolate. Williams is downright delicious as evil Wilhelmina Slater on Ugly Betty. The show would have a huge void if she weren’t there plotting her evil plots. She’s a villain, but plays her with enough layers that we sometimes feel for her. I also wouldn’t mind to see Fischer win because we all know that Pam is the glue that holds The Office together. Pressly is also impressive as crazy Joy on Earl. No one does white trash better. It’s too hard to pick one choice here. If any of these three win, I’ll do a happy dance.
“American Idol”
You know I LOATHE reality TV, but I’m smitten with Dancing with the Stars. Any show that can get Billy Ray Cyrus and Ian Ziering on the dance floor without coming across as cheesy is a winner in my book. Plus, it inspired me to take ballroom classes, and now I can cha-cha like Jerry Springer.
No comment. Enough said.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Grey’s Anatomy star ties the knot
Grey’s Anatomy star Kate Walsh wed her fiancé Alex Young on September 1, according to TV Guide.
Walsh plays sexy Addison Montgomery on the medical drama. Young is a studio executive for 20th Century Fox studio executive.
Several of Walsh's costars attended the nuptials, including Sara Ramirez, Katherine Heigl, Chandra Wilson and Justin Chambers. No word on whether McDreamy or McSteamy attended.
Walsh wore a custom-made designer gown by Monique Lhuillier.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Does ABC owe Isaiah Washington an apology?
Last night, Grey’s Anatomy star Isaiah Washington talked to Larry King about his firing from the show for using a homophobic slur. The star said he wanted to clear his name and set the record straight about what really happened on the set.
“I used the word, but it was never to refer to T.R. Knight,” Washington said. Yet, Washington apologized once again on Larry King Live for using the word and said he regretted the incident and that he and Dempsey had apologized to one another and had moved in a positive direction.
Washington said he was treated unfairly in the press because it was erroneously reported that he used the word against Knight, and that story was never corrected by ABC or Knight. ABC/Touchstone had not allowed Washington to talk about the incident previously, he said.
Washington was fired after a press conference for the Golden Globes, where Washington denied that he had used the “f word” against Knight. After the Globes, Washington went to counseling and did a public service announcement against homophobia.
“I’m relieved I can finally tell my side of he story,” Washington said. “I am not homophobic in no way shape or form… Patrick and I were moving in a good direction. We apologized and cleared up our frustration. He apologized to me for being late. We were men and solved this issue.”
When King pressed Washington on why the “f word” would even be in his vocabulary, Washington explained that he grew up in a gay community in New York and that the “f word was thrown around” a lot while living there, by his gay friends. He said he has the support of many in the gay community. He had even written an article a long time ago condemning homophobia in Essence magazine.
When asked if his cast mates had contacted him, Washington got teary eyed when discussing a supportive e-mail from costar Sandra Oh. He also mentioned Chandra Wilson and James Pickens’ support.
According to Washington, Knight used the incident to lobby for a better storyline and a pay hike. King asked if anyone else should have been fired, and Washington said, “I think T.R. should have been addressed, yes, because of the behavior that he promoted.”
Neither Knight or Dempsey responded to comment requests from King. Washington said he didn’t expect them too, as they are under a gag order, and Disney still writes their paychecks. “You don’t mess with the mouse,” he joked.
If this story is true, then the world and ABC owe Washington an apology. He’s now been labeled as homophobic and a difficult actor.
I wish Dempsey would issue a statement, or perhaps some other cast mates. If I had gotten myself in hot water, I’d like to think my coworkers would stand up for me, despite a gag order.
Washington came across well on King. ABC and Knight, not so much.
I wish Washington the best of luck. And I hope that someday, the show creator either speaks up in his defense or gives her version of the events.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Let’s hear it for the curvy girls
Jennifer Hudson at the 2007 SAG Awards
This year’s award season has been a refreshing change for those of us who sit at home, watching, wondering if the pretty people parading by ever eat.
This year, real women, with real curves, are walking the red carpet. And I’m not talking about the gals who the fashion media dub as “curvy,” just because the actresses dared to squeeze themselves into a size four. I’m talking about the real-looking women, who are ruling the red carpet. 
Let’s hear it for Jennifer Hudson, Chandra Wilson, America Ferrera, Sara Ramirez and the other ladies who are proudly showing off their assets.
Just a few years ago, these gals never would have been mentioned in the endless fashion critiques and best/worst-dressed lists that inevitably accompany awards shows. I cite the example of the gorgeous Queen Latifah at the 2004 Golden Globes, as proof. The Queen was one of my top picks for best dressed that year, but she failed to get a mention from fashion gurus Joan and Melissa Rivers and their counterparts. The style shows and magazines touted the best-dressed starlets to be the thin crowd i.e. Renée Zellweger, Nicole Kidman, etc. Sure, they looked great too, but the Queen was stunning that year. And sadly, she was ignored, because she didn’t look like the typical Hollywood starlet.
Queen Latifah at the 2004 Golden Globes
This year, Ferrera earned a “best dressed” nod for her Golden Globe gown from People magazine. And Hudson’s photo is everywhere in that gorgeous gown she wore to the SAG Awards. And despite that everyone is talking about Grey’s Anatomy’s Katherine Heigl, Sandra Oh and Kate Walsh as fashion icons, Ramirez was my pick for best-dressed cast member at the SAG Awards.
Believe it or not, real people, like me, actually like seeing real-looking women playing Cinderella for the night. It’s nice to see actresses whose images aren’t so unattainably perfect that they look as if they stepped off the toy-store Barbie-doll shelf. And frankly, it’s refreshing to not feel the need to give the actresses a sandwich, out of fear they may keel over from starvation while they’re telling us about their Harry Winston diamonds and Gucci gown.
I’m not so naïve as to think that this trend toward real-looking women in Hollywood will continue. I’m just optimistic enough to hope that it will. 
(left) Sara Ramirez at the 2007 SAG Awards and (below) at the Golden Globes
(below) America Ferrera at the 2007 Golden Globes and Chandra Wilson at the SAG Awards
Monday, January 29, 2007
SAG Award Winners
For those of you who missed the Screen Actors Guild Awards last night, here’s a list of the winners in the TV categories. I was pleased with the recipients.
My girl Chandra Wilson (Grey's Anatomy) finally got a shiny trophy. And who can argue the fact that Grey’s Anatomy is the best ensemble drama and that The Office is the best ensemble comedy? No one.
Good choices, SAG voters, on each of the following categories. Well done.
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series
Chandra Wilson - “Grey’s Anatomy”
Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series
Alec Baldwin - “30 Rock”
Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series
Hugh Laurie - “House M.D.”
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series
America Ferrera - “Ugly Betty”
Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series
“Grey’s Anatomy”
Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series
“The Office (US)”
Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
Jeremy Irons - “Elizabeth I”
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
Helen Mirren - “Elizabeth I”
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Grey’s Anatomy: McSteamy’s Return
I’m not sure if the special effect in the final two minutes of Grey’s Anatomy was intentional or not, but the fact that steam rolled out of the bathroom at the exact moment Mark exited, wearing nothing but a towel and the gifts God gave him, was hilarious. We get it ABC: he’s McSteamy. I’m sold. Now, can he please stay in Seattle? And I’d like to be the first to start a petition that he should never wear a shirt. Towels are optional.
As for Addison, well, I was feeling sorry for her the entire hour as she came to the realization that her marriage was over. Her plan to get over her cheating husband seemed to be working: get drunk, dawn a funky hat and your ugliest outfit, vow to get fat as you consume your bodyweight in backed goods, and finish it off with a night of McSteamy sex with a man so hot it should make you say, “McDreamy who?” But, she didn’t exactly look pleased as the credits rolled.
Dr. Bailey ruled this episode. Chandra Wilson continues to wow me on a weekly basis. I just hope her talk will snap Izzie out of her Betty Crocker-therapy-exercise of baking love muffins. Don’t hate me, but this whole Denny story arc was a bust for me. The fact that Izzie fell for him so fast and went to such extremes never really seemed believable to me, despite Katherine Heigl’s beautiful performances. Nevertheless, I miss tough-girl, trailer-park Izzie.
Alex, you are dead to me. A dying woman in the bathroom? Seriously? And eww. Have you no shame?
Callie, on behalf of thick girls everywhere, I salute you. I’m so sick of seeing women who look like lollipops on television. Callie looks like a real woman. And she’s gorgeous. Kudos to the writers for giving her scenes where she’s dancing in her skivvies and showing off that brick-house body. But what was she thinking talking to her boss in her underpants? Who does that? The normal reaction to your boss catching you in your panties would be to to cringe in horror and frantically grab your clothes (unless your boss was McDreamy.) Callie has a zero-embarrassment meter. I guess we should just be glad she didn’t use the bathroom in front of the Chief.
As for Meredith, McVet and Derek, honestly, I really don’t care who she chooses. Either way is a win. Besides, I’m much more interested in the Addison, Mark, Derek story.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Emmy recap 2006
by Jennifer Squires Biller
Bob Newhart was almost killed.
Christopher Meloni rode a Segway on stage.
And Conan O’Brien proved he’s funnier than anyone thought.
That, folks, was just a highlight of some of the wackiness at this year’s Emmys. Here’s a rundown of the highs and lows:
Best acceptance speech: Writer Greg Garcia, creator of My Name is Earl, proved why he’s worthy of an Emmy. His speech was the most entertaining of the night, as he mentioned
people who he didn’t want to thank, including an 8th-grade teacher who told him he wasn’t funny and a boss who made him scrape gum off a producer’s shoe while working as a P.A. on Step by Step. The balding Garcia even put God on the list, “you took my hair, and that's not cool, man. Not cool!"
Best skit: Conan’s opening sequence. He took a page from Billy Crystal’s Oscar hosting book with this sequence and dropped in to some of our favorite TV shows: Lost, 24, House, The Office, Dateline NBC and South Park. On the Lost island, O’Brien asked Hurley to go with him down the Hatch to the Emmys. Hurley responded with the best joke of the night: “We weren’t exactly invited,” Hurley said stoically. “But you won last year. Nothing makes sense anymore,” O’Brien replied, voicing the argument of TV fans everywhere. (Despite winning last year’s Emmy for best drama, Lost and its cast didn’t earn one nomination this year, under the new Emmy voting process.)
Strangest skit: In an effort to curtail the customary long-winded acceptance speeches at the Emmys, O’Brien informed the audience that this year there would be consequences for going over the allotted three-hour show time. TV-legend Bob Newhart was enclosed in a glass chamber with only three hours of air. Cut to a panicked Newhart on stage, sealed in the tank, clock ticking, trying desperately to escape. Later, Jon Stewart proudly announced he’d decided to kill Newhart with his lengthy acceptance speech.
Biggest no-show: Where was Alan Alda? The TV legend was named best supporting actor in a drama for his work on The West Wing, but wasn’t there to claim the prize. Was he ill? Or still upset over last year’s loss? Alda did a fantastic job as Arnold Vinick on The West Wing, and his fans were sorry to see him absent from the ceremony.
Worst skit: In yet another attempt to emphasize the importance of keeping speeches short, O’Brien explained that in the future winners could use a quick, new method for accepting awards: the Segway. Cut to Christopher Meloni riding across the stage on the motor-propelled device, rattling off an acceptance speech. (Just a thought, perhaps if they canned a couple of these silly skits, then all that time-crunching wouldn’t be necessary. I’m just saying.)
Moment that had me holding my breath: It wasn’t any of the rambling acceptance speeches that threatened to deprive poor Newhart of precious air. It was the tribute to Aaron Spelling, when the original Charlie’s Angels reunited onstage, that had me sweating. Anyone who saw Farrah Fawcett at the William Shatner Comedy Central Roast knows that Farrah and public speaking are a lethal combination these days.
Biggest shockers: Grey’s Anatomy lost to 24 for best drama, and Barry Manilow bested David Letterman, Stephen Colbert, Craig Ferguson and Hugh Jackman (The Tony Awards) to win the Emmy for best performance in a variety or music program. I think I speak for all of us when I say, “huh?”
Best banter: Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart for presenting the award for best reality program. Their shtick started with Stewart going into his opening line about reality programs, when Colbert burst in with “Good Evening Godless Sodomites.” As Stewart tried to progress with the canned dialogue about the greatness of reality shows, Colbert interrupted with “it warps the minds of our children and weakens the resolve of our allies.” (Go, Stephen!) The shtick got funnier from there, as Colbert reminded the audience that they were worshipping the giant, golden statue of Babylon (pointing to the Emmy.) When Stewart asked Colbert why he was so bitter, Colbert broke from the script and replied, “I lost to Barry Manilow. Wolverine I could have lost to. He's got claws for hands." Priceless.
Worst banter: Martin Sheen and Charlie Sheen with some awkward jokes about Martin needing a job on Charlie’s show now that The West Wing was finished.
Biggest snub: Denis Leary went home without an Emmy for best actor in a drama. Shame on Emmy voters for this travesty. Leary’s scenes where his son died were Oscar worthy. Besides, Kiefer Sutherland, who did win this year, should have won years ago for 24. I swear, it’s like the voters are light years behind the rest of the TV-viewing world.
Conan the Music Man: Thumbs up to O’Brien’s opening song and dance number, in which he took aim at NBC’s ratings woes. Set to the tune of Trouble from The Music Man, O’Brien sang and danced out this great line: “To prove things are going to Hell, we’re relying on Howie Mandel.” What? Like you weren’t thinking it?
Conan the “Barb”-arian: No one was safe from O’Brien’s barbs throughout the night, as he took aim at Hollywood’s most controversial stars with these zingers: "Even movie stars have TV shows: Alec Baldwin has a new show on NBC, James Woods has a new show on CBS, and Mel Gibson has a new show on Al-Jazeera." And in disuccusing CBS’ Two and a Half Men’s high ratings, O’Brien quipped, "There's something about Charlie Sheen raising an impressionable young kid that just feels right." Ouch.
No Scrubs Love: Once again, Scrubs failed to score an Emmy for best comedy. It’s almost become a joke of Susan Lucci proportions. Oh well, I sort of feel like we’re our own little cool club of Scrubs fans, and the rest of the world just hasn’t caught on to the magic yet. Sorry bastards.
Best use of camera angle: During Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ acceptance speech, she awkwardly paused, saying she knew she was forgetting someone and that it would come back to haunt her later. The camera cut to a close-up of her husband smiling in the audience. Still not catching on, Debra Messing whispered to her to remind her, saving a potential Emmy-driven divorce scandal.
Biggest understatement of the night: “It’s not supposed to work this way,” uttered Blythe Danner when picking up her prize for best supporting actress in a drama for Huff, from a stiff field of contenders including Chandra Wilson and Sandra Oh of Grey’s Anatomy, Jean Smart of 24, and Candice Bergen of Boston Legal. No kidding, Blythe. But kudos to Danner for her parting line of “I guess I have to thank Showtime even though they cancelled us.” Nice.
I’d like to take the opportunity to congratulate all the winners. And all the losers. More importantly, the losers, since many deserving folks weren’t even nominated
For a complete list of Emmy winners/losers, visit http://www.emmys.org/.
What did you think of the show, Tubers? Share your comments in the comments section.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Emmy avoidance 2006
by Jennifer Squires Biller
OK, so I haven’t exactly embraced Emmy coverage at Tube Talk this year. Don’t blame me. Blame the so-called TV fans, masquerading as Emmy voters, who churned out a list of nominees that includes Kevin James and Alfre Woodard, but not Hugh Laurie or Kristen Bell.
But with the Emmys less than a day away, it’s time to take a look at the nominees who deserve to win (and there are several good choices.) I’ve put aside my bitterness long enough to dish the Emmys with all of you who’ve e-mailed me asking my opinions in several categories. You’re welcome.
Let me start by saying that if Denis Leary (Rescue Me) does not score the win for Lead Actor in a Drama Series, no amount of Prozac will be able to pull me out of the hole of depression that will surely ensue. Leary’s performance is so off-the-charts fantastic, that I actually feel sorry for those of you who don’t watch this mesmerizing show. Leary makes viewers laugh, cry, empathize, sympathize and shake their heads in disgust and agreement all at the same time.
For Outstanding Drama Series, Grey’s Anatomy needs to claim the prize to reestablish any trust I had in Emmy voters. And that won’t be easy, considering Lost and Veronica Mars should be competing in this category, too, but sadly didn’t make the nominee list. OK, I’m not going there. Moving on…
For Outstanding Comedy Series, the brilliant medical satire Scrubs deserves the win. Last season was the best yet. The fact that Donald Faison wasn’t nominated is beyond inexplicable. But, it gives me hope that this under appreciated show may finally get the recognition it deserves to make up for the snub.
For Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama, Chandra Wilson of Grey’s Anatomy deserves to take home the gold. Period.
For Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, Jaime Pressly, of My Name is Earl, is my pick. Her Joy is Emmy-worthy in any scene.
For Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series, I think you all know my choice. Yep, Grey’s Anatomy hot bomb guy, also known as the fantastic Kyle Chandler is the standout. He owned those scenes in the haunting two-parter. Although, sadly, Emmy voters will more than likely vote for Michael J. Fox for his stint on Boston Legal.
Those are the categories for which I’m truly excited to see the winners announced. The rest of the race, well, not so much.
For those of you looking for “expert” opinions on who will win, you can check out the L.A. Times Envelope Web site that has posted odds from Emmy experts. Also, TV Guide’s Michael Ausiello has a humorous blog post on who he thinks will win, and who he wants to win. But be warned, he’s more bitter (disillusioned?) than I am.
I promise to put my acrimony aside and return to my perky self, in order to bring you an objective review of the Emmys on Sunday. So, check back for my thoughts on the show and the winners. (They're all winners just being nominated.) See, I'm feeling bubblier already.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Emmy nominations announced
by Jennifer Squires Biller
I’m still picking my jaw off the floor after this morning’s shocking Emmy announcements (No Lost or Veronica Mars, are you kidding me?), so pardon me if I seem a little stunned. The new voting process did change things apparently, but I don’t think it’s for the better. Sorry, but I can’t get behind a system that nominated Kevin James (The King of Queens) for an Emmy but not Kristen Bell (Veronica Mars.) It’s madness people. Madness. Here’s the list of nominees. My comments are at the end of each category. Feel free to leave yours in the comments section, if you think they got it right or wrong.
Outstanding Drama Series
Grey's Anatomy
House
The Sopranos
24
The West Wing
**Tough category, but Lost should have been here instead of The West Wing. I'm stunned at its omission. Yay for Grey's Anatomy and House, but Veronica Mars should have joined the group, too. My pick: Grey's Anatomy.
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series
Christopher Meloni, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
Denis Leary, Rescue Me
Peter Krause, Six Feet Under
Kiefer Sutherland, 24
Martin Sheen, The West Wing
**Big woo-hoo for Denis Leary. Finally! But Martin Sheen? Come on. As much as I love President Bartlet, I didn't think he had enough screen time this year to warrant a nomination. My pick: Leary, all the way!
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series
Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer
Geena Davis, Commander In Chief
Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
Frances Conroy, Six Feet Under
Allison Janney, The West Wing
**The fact that Kristen Bell and Lauren Graham aren't on this list confirms my suspicion that Emmy voters don't watch The WB or UPN. It's the only plausible explanation for this craziness. Their names should have been on the list instead of Allison Janney (although I love her) and Geena Davis. Bell not only deserves to be on the nominee list, but she should have taken home the gold for her work this year. My pick: The only one of these I watch is The West Wing, so I can't objectively choose.
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
William Shatner, Boston Legal
Oliver Platt, Huff
Michael Imperioli, The Sopranos
Gregory Itzin, 24
Alan Alda, The West Wing
**Once again, Smallville's Michael Rosenbaum is not among the nominees. It's wrong, people. His complex portrayal of Lex Luthor is so enigmatic it makes viewers empathize with Lex and dare I say it, root for him at times. Also, none of the Lost boys are on this list? At the very least, Josh Holloway or Terry O'Quinn deserved a nod. Shatner is my pick in this category. Love him.
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Candice Bergen, Boston Legal
Sandra Oh, Grey's Anatomy
Chandra Wilson, Grey's Anatomy
Blythe Danner, Huff
Jean Smart, 24
**This is the best represented category in my opinion. I Love Bergen, Oh, and Wilson equally. (I don't watch Huff or 24.) Tough choice! My pick: Chandra Wilson. Dr. Bailey rules.
Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series
Michael J. Fox, Boston Legal
Christian Clemenson, Boston Legal
James Woods, ER
Kyle Chandler, Grey's Anatomy
Henry Ian Cusick, Lost
**Regular readers you already know my thoughts on Chandler's amazing performance as bomb guy, in my "They Killed Kyle: Those Bastards" post. And as much as I enjoy Cusick's Desmond on Lost, I can't vote for him in good conscience when none of the other Lost boys even got noms. My pick: Chandler, of course.
Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series
Kate Burton, Grey's Anatomy
Christina Ricci, Grey's Anatomy
Swoosie Kurtz, Huff
Patricia Clarkson, Six Feet Under
Joanna Cassidy, Six Feet Under
**My pick: I have to go with Ricci on this one.
Outstanding Comedy Series
Arrested Development
Curb Your Enthusiasm
The Office
Scrubs
Two and a Half Men
**Yay for Scrubs and The Office! But My Name is Earl should have been there instead of Two and a Half Men. My pick: Scrubs, baby!
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series
Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm
Kevin James, The King of Queens
Tony Shalhoub, Monk
Steve Carell, The Office
Charlie Sheen, Two and a Half Men
**I'm so stunned I don't even know what to say about this. Zach Braff (Scrubs) should have been on this list along with Jason Lee (My Name is Earl.) My pick: Steve Carell or Tony Shalhoub.
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series
Lisa Kudrow, The Comeback
Jane Kaczmarek, Malcolm in the Middle
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, The New Adventures of Old Christine
Stockard Channing, Out of Practice
Debra Messing, Will & Grace
**Same familiar names here. Nothing new. I don't even have a pick, as I don't watch any of these shows.
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Will Arnett, Arrested Development
Jeremy Piven, Entourage
Bryan Cranston, Malcolm in the Middle
Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men
Sean Hayes, Will & Grace
**Did they not see Donald Faison (Scrubs) do that airband performance? He's been consistent all year and it's ridiculous he isn't on this list instead of Hayes. Shame on you Emmy voters. My pick: Pivs all the way.
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
Cheryl Hines, Curb Your Enthusiasm
Alfre Woodard, Desperate Housewives
Jaime Pressly, My Name Is Earl
Elizabeth Perkins, Weeds
Megan Mullally, Will & Grace
**Yay for Jaime Pressly! Her Joy brings me joy on a weekly basis. My pick: Yep, Earl's sassy, trashy wife as portrayed by Pressly.
Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series
Patrick Stewart, Extras
Ben Stiller, Extras
Martin Sheen, Two and a Half Men
Alec Baldwin, Will & Grace
Leslie Jordan, Will & Grace
Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series
Shirley Knight, Desperate Housewives
Kate Winslet, Extras
Cloris Leachman, Malcolm in the Middle
Laurie Metcalf, Monk
Blythe Danner, Will & Grace
Outstanding Reality Program
Antiques Roadshow
The Dog Whisperer
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List
Penn & Teller: Bullsh-t
Outstanding Reality-Competition Program
The Amazing Race
American Idol
Dancing with the Stars
Project Runway
Survivor
Outstanding Miniseries
Bleak House (Masterpiece Theatre)
Elizabeth I
Into the West
Sleeper Cell
Outstanding Made for Television Movie
Flight 93The Flight That Fought Back
The Girl in the Café
Mrs. Harris
Yesterday
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie
Charles Dance, Bleak House (Masterpiece Theatre)
Donald Sutherland, Human Trafficking
Ben Kingsley, Mrs. Harris
Jon Voight, Pope John Paul II
Andre Braugher, Thief
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie
Kathy Bates, Ambulance Girl
Gillian Anderson, Bleak House (Masterpiece Theatre)
Helen Mirren, Elizabeth I
Judy Davis, A Little Thing Called Murder
Annette Bening, Mrs. Harris RSS
CUSTOMER SERVICE
