Why Everyone Should Watch 30 Rock

There is to much to be loved about 30 Rock. There's the sharp writing that seems (so far!) to not rely on sitcom conventions and is not afraid of being goofy. There's the absence of a laugh-track. (Can we all agree that as audience members we don't need cajoled into laughing?) But for me the key to the show is its talented cast:

Tina Fey
I always loved Tina Fey on SNL'sWeekend Update. Her and Jimmy Fallon are, to me, the best incarnation of that format (although I will always have a soft spot for Norm MacDonald's version). I know I will get some flack for that since Jimmy Fallon seems to invoke very vicious criticism from male SNL fans for some reason. They always say, "he laughs during every skit!" To which I reply, "Adam Sandler did too," and everyone loves him...but I digress. What I loved about Weekend Update was Tina Fey's ability to be dry and commanding but, all the while, maintaining a healthy sense of humility. 30 Rock is no different. Tina Fey plays Liz Lemon which is, essentially, herself and a reprisal of her position at SNL. As head writer, she plays the straight person (relatively) managing a team of goofy writers and eccentric performers while trying to please network bosses. While her acting is not the best, she delivers the important lines (the funny ones!) with impeccable wit.

Memorable Quote:
Pete: [Tending to one of three cast members who have been rendered unfilmable for that week's episode] Liz Taylor really messed him up! He might have brain damage.
Liz Lemon: God. Maybe the musical guest can do some extra songs this week. Who is it?
Pete: James Blunt.
Liz Lemon: Ugghh.

Tracy Morgan, Tina Fey & Alec Baldwin

Credit: NBC

Copyright: NBC