Rock, paper, scissors, lizard, Spock ... Emmy!

Posted: Wednesday, July 15, 2009 6:01 AM by Denise Hazlick
Filed Under: Pop culture, TV

A year or so ago, my parents were singing the praises of CBS's Monday night comedy lineup, most notably "Two and a Half Men," and their new favorite show, "The Big Bang Theory." Not being a big fan of the "Men," I was dubious about "Bang" as well. But one Monday night, I decided to give it a try. Mom, Dad ... I will never doubt you again (well, except for "Men.").

This tale of uber-nerds struggling to function in the world outside of astro-physics has slowly been winning over converts like me -- and rising in the ratings -- in its second season. So, for those of you who think a show about scientists, where the storylines center around trips to the comic book store, Dr. George Smoot (look him up on your Google-nets, kids) and a waste-management module for the International Space Station, couldn't possibly be funny, take it from my Mom and Dad, it is. It also features some of the smartest writing in television. Period.

At the center of this nerd-fest is Dr. Sheldon Cooper, brilliantly played by Jim Parsons. Parsons gives depth and humanity to what could have become an Urkel-esque caricature of a nerd. Despite his many obsessions and insufferable personality ticks, Parsons still makes Sheldon likable.

So, when it comes to the nominees for best lead actor in comedy you don't need to play a game of rock, paper, scissors, lizard, Spock to come up with the winner -- it's Parsons.

And while you are at it, Academy, please don't forget "The Big Bang Theory" and Kaley Cuoco when you announce the nominees for best comedy and lead comedic actress on July 16. The writing and the cast make this the funniest show on TV. And Cuoco's Penny is more than just a pretty face. 

Here are the other nominations I'd like to see. With any luck, the Academy will agree.

Best comedy
"The Big Bang Theory" (CBS)
"Flight of the Conchords" (HBO) 
"Family Guy" (Fox)
"How I Met Your Mother" (CBS)
"30 Rock" (NBC)

Lead actor in a comedy
Jim Parsons, "The Big Bang Theory"
Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock"
Steve Carell, "The Office"
Jemaine Clement, "Flight of the Conchords"
Neil Patrick Harris, "How I Met Your Mother"

Lead actress in a comedy
Kaley Cuoco, "The Big Bang Theory"
Tina Fey, "30 Rock"
Mary-Louise Parker, "Weeds"
Eva Longoria Parker, "Desperate Housewives"
Amy Poehler, "Parks and Recreation"

And one more thing, Academy, make sure Craig Ferguson is among your nominees for best host of a comedy or variety show. "The Scottish Conan guy," who is on after David Letterman, is the brightest light on late-night TV. No band, no sidekick. Just his own imagination. And singing puppets.

Which shows and stars make you laugh? Who do you think is Emmy-worthy this year?

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