AFT Awards: Best Comedy Series

This is the twenty-first and final category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees: Girls, House of Lies, Modern Family, Parks and Recreation, Veep

Emmy nominees: The Big Bang Theory, Girls, Louie, Modern Family, 30 Rock, Veep

Semi-finalists: Apartment 23, Common Law, Girls , House of Lies, The Mindy Project, Modern Family, Royal Pains, 30 Rock, White Collar

Finalists: Californication brought new characters into the mix to make Hank’s wildest escape one of his most enjoyable yet. Wilfred was clever and fun as usual, but more impressive due to its surprising dramatic side. Weeds finished out its run with a consistent and compelling final arc. New Girl was somewhat uneven in its second season, but when it was great, it was a blast. Ben and Kate was a fun new comedy with an endearing cast, and it would have been nice to see more of it.

The nominees:

Veep hit its stride in its second season, letting its characters come to life even more as its story took over. Episodes was even wittier and more entertaining in its second season as it explored new relationships and situations for its characters. Shameless was depraved as ever in season three, and almost a pleasure to watch. Enlightened was at its strongest as its plot came to a head, and its characters and their journeys were simply terrific.

The winner:

Parks and Recreation is still going strong five seasons in, and continues to be the most enjoyable and hilarious show on television.

Next up: That’s a wrap! Detailed Emmy winner predictions by category begin shortly – stay tuned!

AFT Awards: Best Drama Series

This is the twentieth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Drama Series

Last year’s nominees: Breaking Bad, Homeland, Justified, Mad Men, Outcasts

Emmy nominees: Breaking Bad, Downton Abbey, Game of Thrones, Homeland, House of Cards, Mad Men

Semi-finalists: Alphas, Downton Abbey, Elementary, Game of Thrones, Hell on Wheels, House of Cards, Justified, Longmire, Major Crimes, Parenthood, Rectify, Sons of Anarchy, Suits, The Good Wife, The Walking Dead , True Blood, Vegas

Finalists: Breaking Bad had high expectations coming off its amazing fourth year, and it delivered strongly with a continually darker storyline. Mad Men delved into new plot territory and managed to stay compelling six seasons in. Orphan Black was daringly creative and increasingly intriguing, with one incredible performance connecting it all. Dexter had its most invigorating season in years thanks to great new characters and an emphasis on its oldest players. Person of Interest became much more than a simple procedural thanks to excellent guest stars and a stellar storyline.

The nominees:

Boardwalk Empire was better than ever as it introduced a new adversary who made this show utterly unmissable each week. The Newsroom was Aaron Sorkin’s return to form, a captivating and superbly-acted personal drama. Boss and Banshee were dark, mesmerizing looks at truly evil people.

The winner:

Homeland followed up on an astonishing first season with an equally mesmerizing second season, which continued the story and took it to a whole new fantastic level.

Next up: Best Comedy Series

AFT Awards: The “Threshold” Award for Best Cancelled Series

This is the nineteenth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. This category is a special one, given out three times in the past five years, honoring those shows which died this past season. "Threshold", for those who do not know, was a fantastic science fiction drama that premiered in 2005 on CBS and was axed after only nine episodes (the DVD release contains four additional unaired episodes). Led by the great Carla Gugino and featuring a fun cast, the show began with an electrifying pilot surrounding an interesting type of alien invasion strategy. Unfortunately, the show premiered around the same time as two similar sci-fi series, the dreadful "Surface" and the impressive "Invasion." Both those shows outlived "Threshold" but ultimately did not make the cut for a renewal order. "Threshold" was the victim of a bad timeslot, and just to make it worse, CBS decided to renew a staggering six series from the 2005-2006 season. This category was suggested by a friend several years to be titled the "Firefly" award, but I hadn’t yet seen that show, which has a large enough fan base, thus, I would like to honor the memory of "Threshold" with this award. This year, this category includes shows that were cancelled during or immediately following their first or second seasons.

The “Threshold” Award for Best Cancelled Series

Alphas (Syfy): This series about people with superpowers seemed like the most fitting entry for its network, and to see it axed after only two seasons is truly regrettable. This season’s main plotline pitted one set of mutants against another, and its cliffhanger conclusion indicated that it was only going to get more interesting.

Ben and Kate (FOX): Why this show died when the much less even “The Mindy Project” lived on is a mystery. Nat Faxon and Dakota Richards were fun leads for the show, and Lucy Punch was a superb supporting player. While the premise may not have been original, this was a great cast and a wonderful complement to FOX’s other comedic offerings.

Boss (Starz): Everyone loves “House of Cards,” but few remember this magnificently dark and dramatic show with a tremendous cast led by Kelsey Grammer. A third season may never have been in the cards, but the fact that it was doomed because of a premature season two renewal before its first season even premiered is a shame, especially considering the less impressive “Magic City” suffered exactly the same fate. Watch this one if you haven’t seen it – it’s truly terrific, and season three would have been awesome.

Common Law (USA): I debated whether to include this, “Apartment 23,” or “Vegas” as the fifth nominee in this category, and I opted for this short-lived USA series because it was the least ambitious and most evenly entertaining of the three. Michael Ealy and Warren Kole were a superb pair, and this was exactly the type of fare that USA usually showcases, which made its predictable demise all the more lamentable.

Enlightened (HBO): Series on HBO and Showtime are always better off than others because those premium networks tend to invest in their shows, and to see this completely creative, one-of-a-kind dramedy get sent off the air after only two short seasons is terrible. Its second season demonstrated that it knew where it was going, and the only real comfort is that, out of this list, it’s the only one that really got to be wrapped up in a satisfying way.

Next up: Best Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series

This is the eighteenth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees: Girls, House of Lies, New Girl, Parks and Recreation, Veep

Semi-finalists: 30 Rock, Apartment 23, Common Law, Girls, House of Lies, Royal Pains, The Mindy Project, White Collar, Wilfred

Finalists: Enlightened brought together a team of determined outcasts, all keenly cast for maximum dramatic impact. Californication opened its web to include even crazier personalities, making for a wildly entertaining season. Modern Family continues to employ one of the most talented casts on television, even if this season didn’t showcase their best work. Ben and Kate took a simple premise and made it great fun because of the players involved, and it’s a shame that they only got thirteen episodes to show it. Weeds went out on a high note with the same actors who started with the show eight years ago seeing it through to the end.

The nominees:

Veep worked best because of the synchronous nature of its cast, always in tune with each other and ready to drop an insult at another’s expense. Shameless gave its characters even more depraved things to do, and its ensemble was at the ready. Episodes took some more dramatic turns, and its cast was more than prepared to deal with them. New Girl was highly entertaining thanks to the cohesiveness of its tight-knit cast.

The winner:

Parks and Recreation continued to coast on a comedic high thanks to the committee efforts of its spectacular cast.

Next up: Best Cancelled Series

AFT Awards: Best Ensemble in a Drama Series

This is the seventeenth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Ensemble in a Drama Series

Last year’s nominees: Game of Thrones, The Good Wife, Homeland, Justified, Mad Men

Semi-finalists: Alphas, Banshee, Dexter, Elementary, Hell on Wheels, Justified, Longmire, Major Crimes, Parenthood, The Walking Dead , True Blood

Finalists: Breaking Bad introduced compelling new characters as its existing players became even darker. Game of Thrones found ways to spotlight its many strong ensemble members from episode to episode. Homeland delivered a superb second season thanks in no small part to its talented actors and actresses. Sons of Anarchy killed off a handful of its major characters, but its performers were put to excellent use prior to their demises. The Good Wife expanded its universe even more with actors and actresses who worked with its tone and style perfectly.

The nominees:

Boss found marvelous new blood to join its team and gave its returning players fantastic material. Boardwalk Empire continued to make the 1920s immensely watchable, as did Downton Abbey in another country. Mad Men revitalized its work structure and employed top-notch performers at every turn.

The winner:

The Newsroom assembled a talented troupe of performers all more than capable of responding to Aaron Sorkin’s signature writing.

Next up: Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Writing for a Comedy Series

This is the sixteenth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Writing for a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees: Hard Being Easy (Girls), Pilot (Girls), Pilot (House of Lies), Win, Lose, or Draw (Parks and Recreation), Nicknames (Veep)

Emmy nominees: Episode 209 (Episodes), Daddy’s Girlfriend, Part 1 (Louie), Finale (The Office), Hogcock (30 Rock), Last Lunch (30 Rock)

Semi-finalists: Cooler (New Girl), The Ghost is Seen (Enlightened), Leslie and Ben (Parks and Recreation)

Finalists: D.C. (Veep), Partridge (Parks and Recreation), Women in Garbage (Parks and Recreation), In the Clouds (Californication), Revenge Play (Enlightened)

The nominees:

Finale (The Office)
It's a Shame About Ray (Girls)
Governor Dunston (30 Rock)
Cascading Failures (Shameless)

This quartet of very funny episodes put the spotlight on their characters and delved into clever, hilarious concepts with great success.

The winner:

Quick Hardening Caulk (New Girl) was a brilliant piece of comedic construction, taking double entendres to an extreme and pulling it off marvelously.

Next up: Best Ensemble in a Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Directing for a Comedy Series

This is the fifteenth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Directing for a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees: Palestinian Chicken (Curb Your Enthusiasm), Not Good Enough Mothers (Enlightened), She Did (Girls), The Mayan Apocalypse (House of Lies), See Ya (New Girl)

Emmy nominees: On All Fours (Girls), Diva (Glee), New Year’s Eve (Louie), Arrested (Modern Family), Hogcock/Last Lunch (30 Rock)

Semi-finalists: Halloween Surprise (Parks and Recreation), Patridge (Parks and Recreation)

Finalists: Finale (The Office), It's a Shame About Ray (Girls), Soda Tax (Parks and Recreation), Cooler (New Girl), Questions (Wilfred)

The nominees:

The Ghost is Seen (Enlightened)
Revenge Play (Enlightened)
Episode 7 (Episodes)
Survival of the Fittest (Shameless)

While it might be possible to be classify both episodes of HBO’s individualistic series as a drama, it’s indisputable that they were extremely effectively made. The two installments of Showtime’s comedies were standouts from among great seasons of both shows.

The winner:

D.C. (Veep) reshaped its focus with an energetic, triumphant, and wholly entertaining season finale.

Next up: Best Writing for a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Writing for a Drama Series

This is the fourteenth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Writing for a Drama Series

Last year’s nominees: Pilot (Alcatraz), Blackwater (Game of Thrones), Pilot (Homeland), The Weekend (Homeland), Guy Walks Into a Bar (Justified)

Emmy nominees: Dead Freight (Breaking Bad), Say My Name (Breaking Bad), Episode 4 (Downton Abbey), The Rains of Castamere (Game of Thrones), Q and A (Homeland)

Semi-finalists: A Mixture of Madness (Banshee), Beirut Is Back (Homeland), Blue Bell Boy (Boardwalk Empire), Conditions of Existence (Orphan Black), Gliding Over All (Breaking Bad), I Fought the Law (The Good Wife), I'll Try to Fix You (The Newsroom), In Care of (Mad Men), Kissed By Fire (Game of Thrones), Man with a Plan (Mad Men), New Car Smell (Homeland), Say My Name (Breaking Bad), Spaghetti and Coffee (Boardwalk Empire), The 112th Congress (The Newsroom), The Doorway (Mad Men), Through and Through (Boss), True Enough (Boss), What's In the Box? (The Good Wife), When Push Comes to Shove (Alphas), Wicks (Banshee)

Finalists: House of Cards (Episode 4), I'll Fly Away (Homeland), The Flood (Mad Men), Mania (Boss), Heroine (Elementary)

The nominees:

Helter Skelter (Dexter)
The Greater Fool (The Newsroom)
The Hatchet Tour (Justified)
Two Imposters (Boardwalk Empire)

These four episodes dug deep into each show’s characters and their interpersonal relationships in difficult moments, mixing suspense with emotional drama and great pacing.

The winner:

Parts Developed in an Unusual Manner (Orphan Black) reached a high point in its story as it captured the intricacies of its complex concept.

Next up: Best Directing for a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Directing for a Drama Series

This is the thirteenth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Directing for a Drama Series

Last year’s nominees: Pilot (Alcatraz), Salud (Breaking Bad), Blackwater (Game of Thrones), Pilot (Homeland), The Gunfighter (Justified), Pilot (Terra Nova)

Emmy nominees: Margate Sands (Boardwalk Empire), Gliding Over All (Breaking Bad), Episode 4 (Downton Abbey), Q and A (Homeland), Chapter 1 (House of Cards)

Semi-finalists: A Landmark Story (Elementary), Arrow on the Doorpost (The Walking Dead), Beirut Is Back (Homeland), Blue Bell Boy (Boardwalk Empire), Conditions of Existence (Orphan Black), Helter Skelter (Dexter), I'll Fly Away (Homeland), In Care of (Mad Men), Killer Within (The Walking Dead), Kissed By Fire (Game of Thrones), Man with a Plan (Mad Men), Mania (Boss), Parts Developed in an Unusual Manner (Orphan Black), Say My Name (Breaking Bad), Spaghetti and Coffee (Boardwalk Empire), The 112th Congress (The Newsroom), The Choice (Homeland), The Clearing (Homeland), The Doorway (Mad Men), The Flood (Mad Men), The Greater Fool (The Newsroom), The Suicide King (The Walking Dead), Through and Through (Boss), True Enough (Boss), Unfinished Business (Longmire), When Push Comes to Shove (Alphas), Wicks (Banshee), Zero Day (Person of Interest)

Finalists: New Car Smell (Homeland), I'll Try to Fix You (The Newsroom), Blood Moon Rising (Hell on Wheels), Gliding Over All (Breaking Bad), God Mode (Person of Interest)

The nominees:

A Mixture of Madness (Banshee)
Relevance (Person of Interest)
Laying Pipe (Sons of Anarchy)
House of Cards (Episode 4)

All four of these hours represented a serious shift to the intensely dramatic, wrecking one minor character’s life, reframing the entire show in an entirely different context, brutally killing off a major player without a moment’s hesitation, and changing course to set a whole new story in motion.

The winner:

Two Imposters (Boardwalk Empire) showed a formerly stable operation in full-blown crisis mode, and it couldn’t have been more captivating.

Next up: Best Writing for a Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series

This is the twelfth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees: Lizzy Caplan, Megalyn Echikunwoke, Kathryn Hahn, Dawn Olivieri, Susan Sarandon

Emmy nominees: Dot-Marie Jones, Melissa Leo, Melissa McCarthy, Molly Shannon, Elaine Stritch, Kristen Wiig

Semi-finalists: Shiri Appleby (Girls), Elizabeth Banks (Modern Family), Olivia Munn (New Girl), Merritt Wever (New Girl), Vanessa Bell Calloway (Shameless), Elaine Stritch (30 Rock), Jennifer Jason Leigh (Weeds)

Finalists: Chloe Grace Moretz (30 Rock) was a fitting nemesis for Jack, and their twisty rivalry proved highly entertaining. Jenny Slate (House of Lies/Parks and Recreation) delivered two fun performances as wildly unpredictable women paired with decidedly unique men. Allison Williams (The Mindy Project) took on romance from a different direction in a turn that found her underused but still worthwhile. Molly Shannon (Enlightened) was a wonderful partner for Mike White’s Tyler, and an all-too-willing unknowing accomplice in Amy’s scheme.

The nominees:

Alanna Ubach (Californication) arrived on the scene with a wild, unfiltered intensity that made her fit right in on this show. Maggie Grace (Californication) took on the role of seductress with just the right approach, and served as one of her show’s most normal characters while remaining deeply interesting. Dawn Olivieri (House of Lies) gave Marty a run for his money in the self-destruction department, and never missed an opportunity to spice up a scene. Allison Mack (Wilfred) embodied compassion and understanding in a very crucial role that helped Ryan open up to someone human for a change.

The winner:

Bess Armstrong (House of Lies) went toe-to-toe with Marty, talking down to him and everyone else, refusing to let the world get in the way of whatever she had planned for it.

Next up: Best Directing for a Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series

This is the eleventh category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees: Matthew Bomer, Victor Garber, Greg Germann, Paul Rudd, Richard Schiff

Emmy nominees: Louis C.K. (Bobby Cannavale (Will Forte (Nathan Lane (Bob Newhart (Justin Timberlake

Semi-finalists: Mark Duplass (The Mindy Project), Seth Rogen (The Mindy Project), Matthew Broderick (Modern Family), Jon Glaser (Parks and Recreation), Nick Kroll (Parks and Recreation), Jason Schwartzman (Parks and Recreation), Christian Clemenson (Shameless), Bradley Whitford (Shameless), Will Forte (30 Rock), James Marsden (30 Rock), Gary Cole (Veep), Robin Williams (Wilfred)

Finalists: J.K. Simmons (Parks and Recreation) was hilariously emotionless and cruel as the mayor of Ben’s hometown. Stephen Tobolowsky (Californication) was consistently entertaining as Marcy’s spurned husband and eternal self-aggrandizer. Jorge Garcia (Californication) was a terrific choice to play a suit-loving drug dealer. Dermot Mulroney (Enlighted) and Patrick Wilson (Girls) were stoic counterpoints to enthusiastic females bursting with energy and hope.

The nominees:

Andrew Rannells (Girls) was bitchy and great to watch as Hannah’s gossip-prone roommate Elijah. Patton Oswalt (Parks and Recreation) was clearly having a lot of fun in a committed performance as a defender of old customs. Tim Minchin (Californication) was off-the-walls in a nutty but superb performance as an out-of-control rock star. Chris O'Dowd (Girls) was best at his most serious as the less frivolous half of a doomed impulse-driven marriage.

The winner:

Kevin Dunn (Veep), from his first moments on screen, conveyed utter despair in such a magnificent way that made all his subsequent hopeless comments all the more fantastic.

Next up: Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series

This is the tenth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series

Last year’s nominees: Summer Glau, Carla Gugino, Maggie Lawson, Julia Ormond, Carrie Preston

Emmy nominees: Linda Cardellini, Joan Cusack, Jane Fonda, Margo Martindale, Carrie Preston, Diana Rigg

Semi-finalists: Summer Glau (Alphas), Sarah Clarke (Covert Affairs), Jenna Elfman (Damages), Janet McTeer (Damages), Kristin Chenoweth (The Good Wife), Martha Plimpton (The Good Wife), Alison Brie (Mad Men), Jane Fonda (The Newsroom), Kelen Coleman (The Newsroom), Amy Acker (Person of Interest)

Finalists: Carrie Preston (The Good Wife) got even more brilliantly zany as she found herself romantically pursued and, separately, ended up a defendant in a case. Julia Ormond (Mad Men) and Shirley MacLaine (Downton Abbey) both chewed scenery as mother-in-laws with distinct opinions they had no qualms sharing. Jess Weixler (The Good Wife) was an unexpectedly perfect foil to Kalinda – excitable, unsubtle, and just as smart and effective. Linda Cardellini (Mad Men) was unrecognizable and extremely convincing as Don’s latest ill-fated love interest.

The nominees:

Yvonne Strahovski (Dexter) was alluring as the first true romantic fit for Dexter. Sarah Shahi (Person of Interest) embodied a soldier mentality with diligence and conviction, and I’m thrilled that she’ll be returning as a series regular this coming year. Laura Fraser (Breaking Bad) was focused, jittery, and entirely compelling as the latest player in Walt’s dangerous web of illegal activities. Diana Rigg (Game of Thrones) matched wits with the Lannister men and almost came out ahead, standing out on a show full of distinguished performers.

The winner:

Meg Chambers Steedle (Boardwalk Empire) immediately looked and sounded the part as a starry-eyed actress who knew just how to capture Nucky’s heart and attention.

Next up: Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series

This is the ninth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series

Last year’s nominees: Jamie Bamber, Desmond Harrington, Ted Levine, Chris Messina, Mykelti Williamson

Emmy nominees: Dan Bucatinsky, Michael J. Fox, Rupert Friend, Harry Hamlin, Nathan Lane, Robert Morse

Semi-finalists: John Pyper-Ferguson (Alphas), Patton Oswalt (Burn Notice), Billy Burke (The Closer), Victor Garber (Damages), Dylan Baker (The Good Wife), Michael J. Fox (The Good Wife), Kyle MacLachlan (The Good Wife), Robert Baker (Justified), Raymond J. Barry (Justified), Jim Beaver (Justified), James Wolk (Mad Men), Chris Messina (The Newsroom), Ray Romano (Parenthood), Walton Goggins (Sons of Anarchy), Donal Logue (Sons of Anarchy), Harold Perrineau (Sons of Anarchy), Christopher Heyerdahl (True Blood), Christopher Heyerdahl (Vegas), Dallas Roberts (The Walking Dead)

Finalists: Harry Hamlin (Mad Men) was a consistently intriguing and compelling aspect of his show as the more grounded, business-oriented new partner. Rupert Friend (Homeland) stormed onto his show with a controlled confidence, and watching that feeling slip away was intense. Nathan Lane (The Good Wife) was subtly endearing in his by-the-book performance that broke the actor away from his usual roles. Sean Astin (Alphas) was fantastically focused as a visualization of a fascinating concept of many people’s memories being housed in one person’s mind. Ron Eldard (Justified) came onto the scene as an unknown quantity, and proved to be a loyal if flawed lieutenant whose final scene of the season was truly terrific.

The nominees:

Ray Stevenson (Dexter) embodied a villain motivated by passion and affection, and it was wonderful to see that definition turned on its hand thanks to this three-dimensional performance. Mike O'Malley (Justified) traded the cheerleading support of Burt Hummel for a mean-spirited imperialist attitude that made him one of the season’s most detestable bad guys. Jimmy Smits (Sons of Anarchy) was full of personality from the start, and to see him get unintentionally immersed in his old lifestyle was simply superb. Terry O'Quinn (Falling Skies) could do just about anything and be great, but the role of a professor-turned-politician was absolutely perfect for him.

The winner:

Patton Oswalt (Justified) turned what could have been a running joke into one of his show’s best-ever characters, a small man with a fierce sense of justice and duty and surprising stamina.

Next up: Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

This is the eighth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees: Kristen Bell, Anna Chlumsky, Cheryl Hines, Aubrey Plaza, Hannah Simone

Emmy nominees: Mayim Bialik, Julie Bowen, Anna Chlumsky, Jane Krakowski, Jane Lynch, Sofia Vergara, Merritt Wever

Semi-finalists: Zosia Mamet (Girls), Sofia Vergara (Modern Family), Hannah Simone (New Girl), Joan Cusack (Shameless)

Finalists: Rashida Jones (Parks and Recreation) came back into focus as she embarked on a quest for maternity, and it was fun to see her come back into her own. Lucy Punch (Ben and Kate) acted like she was on a show wholly about her, and it was always entertaining to see her so self-involved. Anna Chlumsky (Veep) had to deal with personal and professional drama and did so with a winning dose of sarcasm almost equal to that of her boss. Julie Bowen (Modern Family) enjoyed her fair share of enjoyable plotlines this year, always at the ready to play the straight woman and sometimes prepared to wear the other hat as well. Emma Kenney (Shameless) acted like someone ten times her age as her character met even more mature challenges than ever before.

The nominees:

Kathleen Rose Perkins (Episodes) became a true friend for Beverly but remained just as frenzied and peculiar as always. Aubrey Plaza (Parks and Recreation) showed an occasional interest and actually managed to accomplish something despite her best efforts to do nothing. Allison Williams (Girls) was a dazzling train wreck, lacking self-awareness and seemingly intent on her own humiliation. Kristen Bell (House of Lies) started off from a poor vantage point, and watching her self-implode was mesmerizing and devastating at the same time.

The winner:

Pamela Adlon (Californication) shone in her series’ sixth year as she found herself the prize in a battle between two ex-husbands, and saw her attempt to reclaim her womanhood hijacked by another person obsessed with her as well.

Next up: Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

This is the seventh category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees: Ty Burrell, Max Greenfield, Tony Hale, Jake Johnson, Nick Offerman

Emmy nominees: Ty Burrell, Adam Driver, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Bill Hader, Ed O’Neill, Tony Hale

Semi-finalists: Evan Handler (Californication), Chris Messina (The Mindy Project), Rob Lowe (Parks and Recreation), Justin Chatwin (Shameless), Cameron Monaghan (Shameless), Jeremy Allen White (Shameless), Matt Walsh (Veep), Jason Gann (Wilfred)

Finalists: Max Greenfield (New Girl) continued to deliver his token Schmidt catchphrases with a somewhat less appealing story arc. Aziz Ansari (Parks and Recreation) ventured into a new business with his typical single-minded work ethic. Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family), Jesse Tyler Ferguson (Modern Family), and Ed O'Neill (Modern Family) were all valuable, dependable parts of a smart, working ensemble sometimes better than the material it was given.

The nominees:

Mike White (Enlightened) radiated a wonderful energy fueled by the thrill of mischief and the delight of finally being seen. Nick Offerman (Parks and Recreation) embarked on a new relationship that caused him to come into conflict with some of his more stoic personality traits. Ty Burrell (Modern Family) remained his show’s star player, firmly committed to any plotline, no matter how ridiculous. Timm Sharp (Enlightened) went to bat for his people in a surprising way, and it was great to see such an over-the-top character become so vital to his show’s tone.

The winner:

Tony Hale (Veep) sucked up more than ever before to the vice-president, and it was a blast to see him try to cater to her every need while juggling an abusive relationship of his own at home.

Next up: Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

This is the sixth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

Last year’s nominees: Christina Hendricks, Amy Manson, Archie Panjabi, Kathleen Robertson, Maisie Williams

Emmy nominees: Morena Baccarin, Christine Baranski, Emilia Clarke, Anna Gunn, Christina Hendricks, Maggie Smith

Semi-finalists: Anna Gunn (Breaking Bad), Joanne Froggatt (Downton Abbey), Maggie Smith (Downton Abbey), Christine Baranski (The Good Wife), Archie Panjabi (The Good Wife), Joelle Carter (Justified), January Jones (Mad Men), Jessica Pare (Mad Men), Monica Potter (Parenthood), Maggie Siff (Sons of Anarchy), Sarah Jones (Vegas), Laurie Holden (The Walking Dead), Danai Gurira (The Walking Dead)

Finalists: Christina Hendricks (Mad Men) made a new friend while trying to stay ever relevant in an increasingly populated office. Erin Way (Alphas) didn’t remember much about herself, but she was always excitable and a welcome positive presence on her often dark show. Morena Baccarin (Homeland) took matters into her own hands and found her own voice when she realized that she and her husband no longer saw eye to eye. Kate Mara (House of Cards) was guided by her naïve curiosity, and, though she made enemies along the way, blazed forward with an intrepid sense of determination. Abigail Spencer (Rectify) stole the show in her series’ first episode, and made it clear that messing with her or her family was a bad idea.

The nominees:

Kelly Macdonald (Boardwalk Empire) turned in a tragic turn of a lonely woman motivated by false hope of a more rewarding life. Katee Sackhoff (Longmire) returned to television with an above-average role on an above-average procedural that gave her just the right venue to be spunky. Sanaa Lathan (Boss) and Kathleen Robertson (Boss) represented polar opposites unable to break free of the influence of the show’s title character.

The winner:

Alison Pill (The Newsroom) pretty much never stopped talking in her show’s first season, spouting off Aaron Sorkin’s dialogue with a visible cheeriness and commitment to providing quality television and entertainment.

Next up: Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

This is the fifth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Last year’s nominees: Peter Dinklage, Martin Donovan, Giancarlo Esposito, Neal McDonough, Mandy Patinkin

Emmy nominees: Bobby Cannavale, Jonathan Banks, Jim Carter, Peter Dinklage, Mandy Patinkin, Aaron Paul

Semi-finalists: Ryan Cartwright (Alphas), Troy Garity (Boss), Jeff Hephner (Boss), Aaron Paul (Breaking Bad), John Hannah (Damages), Jim Carter (Downton Abbey), Josh Charles (The Good Wife), Chris Noth (The Good Wife), Christopher Heyerdahl (Hell on Wheels), Michael Kelly (House of Cards), Corey Stoll (House of Cards), Walton Goggins (Justified), Jacob Pitts (Justified), Charles Esten (Nashville), Dev Patel (The Newsroom), Thomas Sadoski (The Newsroom), Michael Emerson (Person of Interest), Michael Rooker (The Walking Dead), Scott Wilson (The Walking Dead)

Finalists: Jonathan Groff (Boss) was stoic and obedient in his role as a ladder-climbing wunderkind, which made his descent into panic all the more watchable. Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones) and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (Game of Thrones) gave the Lannister family name good press as two typically arrogant brothers redefined by courageous and noble acts. John Gallagher Jr. (The Newsroom) was charmingly geeky and fiercely committed to true journalism, while Sam Waterston (The Newsroom) grounded his show’s youthful cast with an experienced wisdom.

The nominees:

Ulrich Thomsen (Banshee) portrayed a clear villain with such layered motivations and made him the show’s most magnetic character on a series filled with colorful personalities. Bobby Cannavale (Boardwalk Empire) chewed scenery and uttered Italian expressions with excellent conviction and a penchant for dramatic flair that suited his show and his role perfectly. Mandy Patinkin (Homeland) and Jonathan Banks (Breaking Bad) were both seasoned veterans operating with younger loose cannons, and their guidance, which not always followed, was extremely worthwhile.

The winner:

David Morrisey (The Walking Dead) started with a fascinating character and transformed him into something infinitely more fearsome, capable of winning over a crowd with a joke and committing an act of pure evil the next moment.

Next up: Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

This is the fourth category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees: Kat Dennings, Zooey Deschanel, Lena Dunham, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Amy Poehler

Emmy nominees: Laura Dern, Lena Dunham, Edie Falco, Tina Fey, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Amy Poehler

Semi-finalists: Krysten Ritter (Apartment 23), Dreama Walker (Apartment 23), Natasha McElhone (Californication), Mindy Kaling (The Mindy Project)

Finalists: Dakota Johnson (Ben and Kate) was cute and endearing mostly because of her apparent need to make every situation awkward. Lena Dunham (Girls) charged through some of her character’s less sound plot developments by keeping her eternally self-obsessed and intent on creating drama. Mary-Louise Parker (Weeds) grew as a person in her show’s final season after so many misadventures, and her final transformation was her most compelling trick. Tina Fey (30 Rock) saw her show through to the end with her individualistic zaniness, and it’s clear that she always had a great time doing it. Emmy Rossum (Shameless) worked up the courage to speak her mind occasionally while still remaining the same parental figure always more responsible for her family than for her own well-being.

The nominees:

Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Veep) took sarcasm to a new level with her unapologetically rude and hilarious series-steering performance. Zooey Deschanel (New Girl) was quirky and adorable as she explored a new romance and continued to live a life filled with slapstick. Tamsin Greig (Episodes) started off from a different vantage point and navigated her American life with a new energy and curiosity. Laura Dern (Enlightened) embodied her show’s individualistic spirit and helped lead it on its course towards true social change.

The winner:

Amy Poehler (Parks and Recreation) was on fire as she experienced her first year holding public office, and it was great to see her creativity and overenthusiasm gush into her new position.

Next up: Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

This is the third category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees: Don Cheadle, Danny McBride, Jason Schwarzman, Adam Scott, Geoff Stults

Emmy nominees: Alec Baldwin, Jason Bateman, Don Cheadle, Louis C.K., Matt LeBlanc, Jim Parsons

Semi-finalists: Alec Baldwin (30 Rock)

Finalists: Don Cheadle (House of Lies) blazed a very self-destructive path on the way to greater success. Nat Faxon (Ben and Kate) was idiotic and charming, and a fun lead for an all-too-short-lived show. David Duchovny (Californication) was typically irresistible as he finally tried to clean up his act but couldn’t really change. Michael Ealy (Common Law) and Warren Kole (Common Law) were infinitely entertaining as mismatched partners with a penchant for irritating each other.

The nominees:

Matt LeBlanc (Episodes) was funny but truly shone in his unexpectedly serious moments related to his body image. Adam Scott (Parks and Recreation) played campaign manager to Leslie’s candidate, and the role suited his dorky nature well. Jake Johnson (New Girl) took on a more prominent role on his show and made for the perfect awkward romantic. Elijah Wood (Wilfred) moved in sync with his show’s foreboding shifts towards darker territory.

The winner:

William H. Macy (Shameless) epitomized his show’s disregard for dignity or any sense of morality, and his character was easily the show’s most hilarious and watchable element.

Next up: Best Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series

This is the second category of the 7th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2012-2013 seasons. Finalists and semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.

Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series

Last year’s nominees: Claire Danes, Julianna Margulies, Elisabeth Moss, Jessica Paré, Kyra Sedgwick

Emmy nominees: Connie Britton, Claire Danes, Michelle Dockery, Vera Farmiga, Elisabeth Moss, Kerry Washington, Robin Wright

Semi-finalists: Gabrielle Anwar (Burn Notice), Kyra Sedgwick (The Closer), Glenn Close (Damages), Michelle Dockery (Downton Abbey), Mary McDonnell (Major Crimes), Katey Sagal (Sons of Anarchy)

Finalists: Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men) dealt with life’s cyclical curveballs as she became more and more like her mentor. Lucy Liu (Elementary) was a surprisingly strong modern-day female Dr. Watson and the perfect foil to Jonny Lee Miller’s Sherlock Holmes. Connie Britton (Nashville) and Hayden Panettiere (Nashville) were excellent adversaries, both equally obsessed with fame and the music world, and both just as deeply flawed. Robin Wright (House of Cards) matched wits with Kevin Spacey’s mastermind, and chewed out more than her fair share of people in the process.

The nominees:

Claire Danes (Homeland) made Carrie just as mesmerizingly crazy and committed as she used to be but on a much more public scale. Emily Mortimer (The Newsroom) was a wonderful fit for Aaron Sorkin’s dialogue and a firecracker in the studio. Julianna Margulies (The Good Wife) dealt with unexpected political and personal developments with her usual blend of confidence and humility. Dominique McElligott (Hell on Wheels) imbued her show’s most strong-willed female character with an intelligence and conviction equal to that of her male counterparts.

The winner:

Tatiana Maslany (Orphan Black) played so many different roles that it actually seemed like they were being portrayed by different actresses. Her main part, Sarah, was almost her most simplistic and least impressive, but that’s the beauty of her controlled and marvelous performances.

Next up: Best Lead Actor in a Comedy Series