I don't think we've had a TV show thread in awhile, so given the absence of Husker sports activity, I thought I'd start one. For my list I give major demerits for a show losing its way meaningfully over time, even if I absolutely loved the first few seasons, so you won't find LOST on my list.
Here we go ...
1. M*A*S*H - probably the best combination of writing/acting and humor/heart of any show in history. I still watch re-runs when I come across them on TV and think the show holds up wonderfully.
2. The West Wing - Another example of great writing and great performance. It waned a bit in the final years after Sorkin left, but still a great watch.
3. Breaking Bad - Such an incredibly unique show with Bryan Cranston's performance one for the ages.
4. Game of Thrones - I loved the books and live the series. Another incredibly unique and ambitious show.
5. All in the Family - So incredibly funny and socially impactful at the time. And now. And Carroll O'Connor is one of the most under-rated actors of all time.
6. Seinfeld - So completely random and yet consistently funny. Some of my favorite characters ever on TV.
7. Mad Men - Another incredibly innovative show. It so perfectly captures place and period, while at the same time exploring the backstory and genius of a very troubled man.
8. Cheers - What an incredibly funny group of characters, with amazing writing.
9. Friday Night Lights - Probably out of place on a list like this, but call this a guilty pleasure. I love the book, I loved the movie, and I loved the series.
10. Friends - I was the perfect age for this show when it was at its height, and it was appointment viewing for years. Still good all these years later.
Honorable mention - The Americans, The Wonder Years, Frasier, I Love Lucy, Thirtysomething, The Honeymooners, Columbo, Newhart, Taxi, ER, Downton Abbey.
Here we go ...
1. M*A*S*H - probably the best combination of writing/acting and humor/heart of any show in history. I still watch re-runs when I come across them on TV and think the show holds up wonderfully.
2. The West Wing - Another example of great writing and great performance. It waned a bit in the final years after Sorkin left, but still a great watch.
3. Breaking Bad - Such an incredibly unique show with Bryan Cranston's performance one for the ages.
4. Game of Thrones - I loved the books and live the series. Another incredibly unique and ambitious show.
5. All in the Family - So incredibly funny and socially impactful at the time. And now. And Carroll O'Connor is one of the most under-rated actors of all time.
6. Seinfeld - So completely random and yet consistently funny. Some of my favorite characters ever on TV.
7. Mad Men - Another incredibly innovative show. It so perfectly captures place and period, while at the same time exploring the backstory and genius of a very troubled man.
8. Cheers - What an incredibly funny group of characters, with amazing writing.
9. Friday Night Lights - Probably out of place on a list like this, but call this a guilty pleasure. I love the book, I loved the movie, and I loved the series.
10. Friends - I was the perfect age for this show when it was at its height, and it was appointment viewing for years. Still good all these years later.
Honorable mention - The Americans, The Wonder Years, Frasier, I Love Lucy, Thirtysomething, The Honeymooners, Columbo, Newhart, Taxi, ER, Downton Abbey.
