AFT Awards: Best Comedy Series

This is the twentieth and final category of the 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Episodes, New Girl, Parks and Recreation, Shameless, Veep

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

Semi-finalists: House of Lies, Modern Family, New Girl

Finalists: Family Tree had the stylings of a British comedy but a tone and premise all its own. Eastbound and Down signed off with its second final season, staying true to the incomparable Kenny Powers and his unique legacy. Wilfred got weirder and more depressing as its events became even more muddled in uncertainty. Silicon Valley took a bit of time to get comfortable but ended up being one of the most current and promising comedies. Welcome to the Family got a paltry three episodes but made the most of them – I just wish we’d seen more of this NBC comedy.

The nominees:

Veep tackled a new storyline – a campaign – and handled it with true hilarity the whole way. Episodes introduced a new element into its already frantic world to tremendous satirical effect. Orange is the New Black catapulted Netflix to comedy relevance with this occasionally hilarious, occasionally devastating hourlong dramedy. Hello Ladies was a perfectly British comedy that should have lasted more than just one short season.

The winner:

Parks and Recreation didn’t fade at all in its very funny sixth season, which expanded its universe and gave its characters even more fun and ridiculous things to do.

Next up: That’s a wrap! The Oscar race is getting started, so stick around here for pilot reviews and head over to MoviesWithAbe.com for everything on movies!

AFT Awards: Best Drama Series

This is the nineteenth category of the 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Banshee, Boardwalk Empire, Boss, Homeland, The Newsroom

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

Semi-finalists: Burn Notice, Dexter, Downton Abbey, Elementary, Game of Thrones, The Good Wife, Hell on Wheels, House of Cards, The Killing, Longmire, Mad Men, Masters of Sex, The Newsroom, The Red Road , True Blood, The Walking Dead

Finalists: Orphan Black and Banshee both followed up astounding freshman debuts with equally compelling second seasons, charting new territory but sticking true to the concepts that made them fascinating in the first place. The Bridge took a difficult concept and made it work on many fronts with a stellar cast and strong storytelling. Shameless made the switch from comedy to drama (though Emmy voters would have you think the opposite) seamlessly. Parenthood stayed true to its characters as they all overcame great trials and tribulations.

The nominees:

Justified brought in new blood for a fabulously-written and executed new chapter of Kentucky crime. Breaking Bad went out memorably and unapologetically with six unforgettable hours. Ray Donovan was a magnetic ensemble story with an irresistible and unmatchable lead character. Person of Interest truly found its footing in its fantastic third season, rising well above the ranks of the procedural it could have been.

The winner:

Sons of Anarchy was heartbreaking in its penultimate season as its violence took an irreversible turn and demonstrated the permanence of actions and decisions.

Next up: Best Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series

This is the eighteenth category of the 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Episodes, New Girl, Parks and Recreation, Shameless, Veep

Semi-finalists: Family Tree, House of Lies

Finalists: Silicon Valley brought together a few oddballs for an uncomfortable but fun team. Welcome to the Family didn’t have much time to prove itself, but its cast showed plenty of comedic promise. Eastbound and Down reunited its most prominent players for one last glorious inning. Hello Ladies emphasized awkwardness and used its performers to the best of their abilities to aid with that. Modern Family isn’t as good as it used to be, but its actors are still pretty decent. The nominees:

Parks and Recreation lost two of its regular players but none of its momentum thanks to the fine work of the rest of its cast and a few notable new additions. Orange is the New Black was literally a madhouse, carefully balancing many outrageous and pitch-perfect performances. Episodes brought in a new boss who only contributed to the zany nature of the reliable returning players. New Girl didn’t have an even season but its cast was still firing on all cylinders.

The winner:

Veep was fantastic all around, letting all its characters come fully out of their shells in the midst of a memorable campaign.

Next up: Best Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Ensemble in a Drama Series

This is the seventeenth category of the 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Boardwalk Empire, Boss, Downton Abbey, Mad Men, The Newsroom

Semi-finalists: Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., The Bridge, Burn Notice, Downton Abbey, Game of Thrones, The Good Wife, Hell on Wheels, The Killing, Longmire, Masters of Sex, The Newsroom, The Walking Dead

Finalists: Banshee amped up its performances and matched its gritty drama with strong turns all around. Shameless took a more dramatic turn and still got the best from its wild cadre of actors. Sons of Anarchy battled its toughest year yet with a firmly committed ensemble. Parenthood gave its characters obstacle after obstacle, and its cast responded strongly. Mad Men stepped into its swan song with its eclectic cast ready to face the future.

The nominees:

Breaking Bad went out with a bang thanks in large part to its superb stars. Ray Donovan was had everything to do with being connected, and the many parts of its large cast definitely were. Person of Interest rallied for its best season yet, employing its diverse talent to perfection. House of Cards added to its repertoire of morally questionable politicians and their associates with a fine commitment to quality.

The winner:

Justified introduced a new mischievous family and brought with it a fantastic new slate of actors and still solid performances from the rest of the cast.

Next up: Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Writing for a Comedy Series

This is the sixteenth category of the 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: It’s a Shame About Ray (Girls), Quick Hardening Caulk (New Girl), Finale (The Office), Cascading Failures (Shameless), Governor Dunston (30 Rock)

Emmy nominees: Episode 305 (Episodes), So Did the Fat Lady (Louie), I Wasn’t Ready (Orange is the New Black), Optimal Tip-to-Tip Efficiency (Silicon Valley), Special Relationship (Veep)

Semi-finalists: Flu Season 2 (Parks and Recreation), Optimal Tip-to-Tip Efficiency (Silicon Valley), Special Relationship (Veep)

Finalists: The Cones of Dunshire (Parks and Recreation), Episode 306 (Episodes), Double Date (New Girl), Lesbian Request Denied (Orange is the New Black), The Dinner (Hello Ladies), The Pawnee-Eagleton Tip-Off Classic (Parks and Recreation)

The nominees:

Crate (Veep)
Civil War (Family Tree)
Pilot (Transparent)
Fucksgiving (Orange is the New Black)

A hilarious concept takes center stage, literally, in HBO’s political satire, while the network’s short-lived genealogy comedy was at its best in its most complex and ridiculous half-hour. Amazon hit it out of the park with its new and inventive family drama, while Netflix hit its high note with its Thanksgiving-centric episode of prison life.

The winner:

Moving Up (Parks and Recreation) was the hourlong sixth season finale of a show that’s still committed to being funny nonstop and to writing its characters as magnificently entertaining people.

Next up: Best Ensemble in a Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Directing for a Comedy Series

This is the fifteenth category of the 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: The Ghost is Seen (Enlightened), Revenge Play (Enlightened), Episode 7 (Episodes), Survival of the Fittest (Shameless), D.C. (Veep)

Emmy nominees: Episode 309 (Episodes), 100 (Glee), Elevator, Part 6 (Louie), Vegas (Modern Family), Lesbian Request Denied (Orange is the New Black), Minimum Viable Product (Silicon Valley)

Semi-finalists: None

Finalists: Episode 309 (Episodes), Crate (Veep), I Wasn't Ready (Orange is the New Black), Fucksgiving (Orange is the New Black), Doppelganger (Parks and Recreation)

The nominees:

Pilot (Transparent)
Optimal Tip-to-Tip Efficiency (Silicon Valley)
The Pawnee-Eagleton Tip-Off Classic (Parks and Recreation)
Chapter 29 (Eastbound and Down)

Amazon’s best new comedy debut was full of drama thanks in no small part to the way in which it was presented. The season finale of HBO’s newest show and the series finale of one of most peculiar and sporadic were both appropriate majestic, and the third episode of TV’s best comedy was a blast thanks to its deft handling of a very delicate merger.

The winner:

Moving Up (Parks and Recreation) sent its show to hiatus with on a major high note thanks to an enormously enjoyable and transformative hour.

Next up: Best Writing for a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Writing for a Drama Series

This is the fourteenth category of the 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Two Imposters (Boardwalk Empire), Helter Skelter (Dexter), The Hatchet Tour (Justified), The Greater Fool (The Newsroom), Parts Developed in an Unusual Manner (Orphan Black)

Emmy nominees: Felina (Breaking Bad), Ozymandias (Breaking Bad), The Children (Game of Thrones), Chapter 14 (House of Cards), The Secret Fate of All of Life (True Detective)

Semi-finalists: Bloodlines (Banshee), A Murder of Crowes (Justified), The Strategy (Mad Men), Pilot (Masters of Sex), Hunag Wu (Sons of Anarchy), John 8:32 (Sons of Anarchy)

Finalists: Granite State (Breaking Bad), All Shot to Hell (Justified), A Mother's Work (Sons of Anarchy), RAM (Person of Interest), You Are My Sunshine (Sons of Anarchy)

The nominees:

Ozymandias (Breaking Bad)
A Mouth is a Mouth (Ray Donovan)
The Beetle (The Bridge)
Wrong Roads (Justified)

These incredible dramatic four hours all employed fantastic dialogue that helped to define the shows’ characters, giving them ample opportunity to define themselves, particularly Dean Norris’ Hank, Jon Voight’s Mickey, Eric Lange’s Kenneth, and Steve Harris’ Roscoe, respectively.

The winner:

Hitting the Fan (The Good Wife) put into motions events that had been building for a while and didn’t disappoint, executing every little moment in the most empathic and memorable fashion.

Next up: Best Directing for a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Directing for a Drama Series

This is the thirteenth category of the 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: A Mixture of Madness (Banshee), Two Imposters (Boardwalk Empire), Chapter 4 (House of Cards), Relevance (Person of Interest), Laying Pipe (Sons of Anarchy)

Emmy nominees: Farewell Daddy Blues (Boardwalk Empire), Felina (Breaking Bad), Episode 1 (Downton Abbey), The Watchers on the Wall (Game of Thrones), Chapter 14 (House of Cards), Who Goes There (True Detective)

Semi-finalists: Pilot (The After), Bloodlines (Banshee), The Beetle (The Bridge), Chapter 17 (House of Cards), Chapter 18 (House of Cards), A Murder of Crowes (Justified), Wrong Roads (Justified), The Crossing (Person of Interest), RAM (Person of Interest), A Mouth is a Mouth (Ray Donovan), The Legend of Bonnie and Carl (Shameless), Hunag Wu (Sons of Anarchy), John 8:32 (Sons of Anarchy)

Finalists: Take the Ride, Pay the Toll (The Bridge), Same Exactly (Ray Donovan), Ozymandias (Breaking Bad), A Mother's Work (Sons of Anarchy), Hitting the Fan (The Good Wife)

The nominees:

You Are My Sunshine (Sons of Anarchy)
All Shot to Hell (Justified)
4C (Person of Interest)
Pilot (Almost Human)

FX turned in two very fine and mesmerizing hours of television that transformed the landscapes of its shows, in a devastating dramatic fashion in the first and with plenty of exciting and tense action in the second. “4C” was a completely captivating installment filled with a sense of adventure and closed-quarters thrills. Though it went downhill almost immediately afterward, the pilot episode of FOX’s future-set series was innovative and enthralling.

The winner:

It didn’t get as much buzz as the next episode, the series finale, but Granite State (Breaking Bad) was a nuanced, mesmerizing hour that examined its protagonist at the end of his road, given an unexpected and unrecognizable way out.

Next up: Best Writing for a Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series

This is the twelfth category of the 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Bess Armstrong, Maggie Grace, Allison Mack, Dawn Olivieri, Alanna Ubach

Emmy nominees: Uzo Aduba, Laverne Cox, Joan Cusack, Tina Fey, Natasha Lyonne, Melissa McCarthy

Semi-finalists: None

Finalists: Kristen Bell (Parks and Recreation) was the ultimate embodiment of Eagleton, a buttoned-up, all-too-perfect braggart always eager to share her excessive accomplishments. Heather Graham (Californication) was a magnet of sexual energy completely flabbergasted by her appeal yet not above using her sway over men to her advantage. Mercedes Masohn (Californication) had a brief but memorable role as an actress well aware of what she wanted and how she could get it. Laverne Cox (Orange is the New Black) crafted one of her show’s emotional centerpieces, a strong soul whose happiness was hampered by the impossibility of her situation. Tracy Spiridakos (Episodes) was a dead ringer for sister/mother Morning, and showed that she actually has acting talent beyond the horror that is “Revolution.”

The nominees:

Linda Cardellini (New Girl) had a blast playing the most manipulative person possible, delighting in making others do her bidding. Tatiana Maslany (Parks and Recreation) was sweet and funny portraying just one version of herself who could make Tom fall into line with just a look of disbelief. Gaby Hoffmann (Girls) let loose her crazy in just the right way as Adam’s sister and a terrible personality fit for Hannah. Taryn Manning (Orange is the New Black) molded a religious zealot so overcome by her own self-obsession that she lost her way.

The winner:

Uzo Aduba (Orange is the New Black) made sure that Crazy Eyes had a heart and that her every tic and oddity wasn’t expressed in vain but in deep pursuit of a stabler sensibility.

Next up: Best Directing for a Drama Series

AFT Awards: Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series

This is the eleventh category of the 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Kevin Dunn, Tim Minchin, Chris O’Dowd, Patton Oswalt, Andrew Rannells

Emmy nominees: Steve Buscemi, Louis C.K., Gary Cole, Jimmy Fallon, Nathan Lane, Bob Newhart

Semi-finalists: None

Finalists: On a show I don’t watch, Steve Buscemi (Portlandia) was fantastically desperate and unlucky as a celery salesman. Jon Glaser (Parks and Recreation) gave the eternally seedy Councilman Jamm a bit of endearing personality but didn’t apologize for any of his irritating tendencies. Andrew Rannells (Girls) delighted in drama and got to experience some new soapy situations of his own. Pablo Schreiber (Orange is the New Black) seized the opportunity to make Pornstache an utterly detestable human being intent on making everyone around him as miserable as suited his mood.

The nominees:

Henry Winkler (Parks and Recreation) had a lot of fun with a role that didn’t need to be as dramatic and hilarious as he made it, turning his pediatrician into a cunning, high-mined businessman. Billy Eichner (Parks and Recreation) made Craig a fascinating mess to watch, always on a short leash but possessing a good sense of completely unchecked humanity. Chris Diamantopoulos (Episodes) was all kinds of crazy, with his focused performance best exemplified by a conversation with an egg. Christopher Meloni (Veep)
played dumb to perfection, gleefully enjoying his own stupidity and his pride in having a soapbox.
The winner:

Sam Elliott (Parks and Recreation) created a parallel version of Ron, who initially seemed to be just like the mustachioed meat eater but who did a marvelous job of proving to be his exact opposite in every possible way.

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 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Laura Fraser, Diana Rigg, Sarah Shahi, Meg Chambers Steedle, Yvonne Strahovski

Emmy nominees: Kate Burton, Jane Fonda, Allison Janney, Kate Mara, Margo Martindale, Diana Rigg

Semi-finalists: Jessica Hecht (Breaking Bad), Charlotte Rampling (Dexter), Yvonne Strahovski (Dexter), Diana Rigg (Game of Thrones), Carrie Preston (The Good Wife), Constance Zimmer (House of Cards), Mary Steenburgen (Justified), Neve Campbell (Mad Men), Helene Yorke (Masters of Sex), Constance Zimmer (The Newsroom)

Finalists: Allison Janney (Masters of Sex), Julianne Nicholson (Masters of Sex), and Annaleigh Ashford (Masters of Sex) all delivered affecting period portraits of women who refused to be confined by the supposed definition of their gender roles. Amy Seimetz (The Killing) portrayed a terrible mother gradually developing a conscience and sense of her situation. Kate Mara (House of Cards) played her part just right, an all-too-eager reporter with a serious nose for trouble.

The nominees:

Alicia Witt (Justified) was a villain from the start but worked hard to ensure that her character was both intelligent and morally conflicted, something that set her apart from her family members. Emily Bergl (Shameless) fit in with the Gallagher family like a natural, wise to thievery and other tricks but outfitted with a twisted heart of gold. Rosanna Arquette (Ray Donovan) and Brooke Smith (Ray Donovan) were both innocents swayed by the appeal of Donovan men and less than willing to look the other way when the truth presented itself.

The winner:

Amy Smart (Justified) achieved something extraordinary: effortlessly seducing and tempering Raylan in a way that no one else, not even Winona, could and causing him to reexamine his priorities and mold his life to make her happy.

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 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Mike O’Malley, Terry O’Quinn, Patton Oswalt, Jimmy Smits, Ray Stevenson

Emmy nominees: Dylan Baker, Beau Bridges, Reg E. Cathey, Paul Giamatti, Robert Morse, Joe Morton

Semi-finalists: Michael Bowen (Breaking Bad), Pedro Pascal (Game of Thrones), Nathan Lane (The Good Wife), Reg E. Cathey (Houes of Cards), David Meunier (Justified), Wood Harris (Justified), Harry Hamlin (Mad Men), Allan Havey (Mad Men), Robert Morse (Mad Men), Beau Bridges (Masters of Sex), Chris Messina (The Newsroom), Donal Logue (Sons of Anarchy)

Finalists: Ray Romano (Parenthood) went from a being a character in someone else’s plotline to a fully formed – and very interesting – personality of his own. Brian Geraghty (Boardwalk Empire) exuded a cruel, stoic attitude as a prohibition officer with no compassion for those found to be in violation of the law. Damon Herriman (Justified) and Michael Rapaport (Justified) were criminals from the same family with very different intellectual perspectives, both so tremendously watchable. Hamish Linklater (The Newsroom) came on board as a fresh face and his transformation into something much less innocuous was subtle and intriguing.

The nominees:

Jacob Lofland (Justified) displayed maturity well beyond his age as the youngest member of a criminal family. Elliott Gould (Ray Donovan) added just the right amount of comedic emphasis to a high roller not always taken as seriously as he should be. James Woods (Ray Donovan) was villainous and frightening without seeming like a caricature. Steve Harris (Justified) was brilliant as a Shakespeare-quoting henchman with a strong command of the English language.

The winner:

Eric Lange (The Bridge) started out as an almost unnoticed background player and came to inhabit something completely unrecognizable, all the while keeping his character’s transformation in careful check.

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 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Pamela Adlon, Kristen Bell, Aubrey Plaza, Kathleen Rose Perkins, Allison Williams

Emmy nominees: Mayim Bialik, Julie Bowen, Anna Chlumsky, Allison Janney, Kate McKinnon, Kate Mulgrew

Semi-finalists: Mircea Monroe (Episodes), Allison Williams (Girls), Julie Bowen (Modern Family), Sofia Vergara (Modern Family), Hannah Simone (New Girl), Rashida Jones (Parks and Recreation), Anna Chlumsky (Veep), Justina Machado (Welcome to the Family)

Finalists: Kate Mulgrew (Orange is the New Black) and Natasha Lyonne (Orange is the New Black) played two remarkably different inmates, both of whom contributed enormously to Piper’s adjustment to prison. Dawn Olivieri (House of Lies) wallowed in her self-destructiveness, which continued to be endlessly watchable. Aubrey Plaza (Parks and Recreation) and Retta (Parks and Recreation) were at the ready with priceless looks, sighs, and one-liners every time the camera turned to them.

The nominees:

Nina Conti (Family Tree) was so committed to her character’s token bizarre nature, and it made her every scene impossible not to watch with amazement. Kathleen Rose Perkins (Episodes) got a new boss but found herself in a whole new unadvisable situation and couldn’t help but talk about it every chance she got. Christine Woods (Hello Ladies) was endearing in her every failed attempt to be successful and likeable in spite of her innate tendency to talk herself into trouble. Laura Prepon (Orange is the New Black) did so much with a simple shift of her glasses, and her detached but mysteriously seductive attitude managed to sway more than just Piper on her show.

The winner:

I wouldn’t normally award this prize to a performer on a show I don’t watch regularly, but Cristin Milioti (How I Met Your Mother) was so natural and perfect in every episode of her show that I watched that it didn’t feel right not to recognize her achievement.

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 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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, Tony Hale, Nick Offerman, Timm Sharp, Mike White

Emmy nominees: Fred Armisen, Andre Braugher, Ty Burrell, Adam Driver, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Tony Hale

Semi-finalists: Adam Driver (Girls), Alex Karpovsky (Girls), Ben Schwartz (House of Lies), Jesse Tyler Ferguson (Modern Family), Ed O'Neill (Modern Family), Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family), Max Greenfield (New Girl), Jason Gann (Wilfred)

Finalists: Timothy Simons (Veep), Reid Scott (Veep), Tony Hale (Veep), and Matt Walsh (Veep) were are vital, hilarious parts of a whole, contributing incessant sleaziness, excessive determination, undying loyalty, and self-deprecating sarcasm, respectively. Ty Burrell (Modern Family) was the standout of an ensemble that’s not quite as great as it used to be.

The nominees:

Kevin Dunn (Veep) and Gary Cole (Veep), the newer additions to an already talented ensemble, demonstrated how experience and self-hatred go hand-in-hand to create a functional, funny character. Aziz Ansari (Parks and Recreation) and Nick Oferman (Parks and Recreation) kept their characters relevant six seasons in as they explored new arenas like functional entrepreneurship and fatherhood.

The winner:

The late Christopher Evan Welch (Silicon Valley) was so immensely fascinating and in his own world as the unique Peter Gregory, a character I so wish had been around for more than just a few episodes.

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 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Sanaa Lathan, Kelly Macdonald, Alison Pill, Kathleen Robertson, Katee Sackhoff

Emmy nominees: Christine Baranski, Joanne Froggatt, Anna Gunn, Lena Headey, Christina Hendricks, Maggie Smith

Semi-finalists: Lili Simmons (Banshee), Anna Gunn (Breaking Bad), Joanne Froggatt (Downton Abbey), Maggie Smith (Downton Abbey), Maisie Williams (Game of Thrones), Christine Baranski (The Good Wife), Molly Parker (House of Cards), Katee Sackhoff (Longmire), Christina Hendricks (Mad Men), Jessica Paré (Mad Men), Paula Malcomsohn (Ray Donovan), Emma Kenney (Shameless), Danai Gurira (The Walking Dead)

Finalists: Lena Headey (Game of Thrones) transformed into an even more spiteful but equally more compelling character as she experienced personal tragedy. Maggie Siff (Sons of Anarchy) started down a dangerous road but bravely fought to ensure her own safety and livelihood. January Jones (Mad Men) showed her selfishness and loneliness more than ever in her lamentably limited screen time. Olivia Munn (The Newsroom) stood out among a fading ensemble as she continued to defy expectations, not always in the right way. Bex Taylor-Kraus (The Killing) was all attitude as “Little Man,” most compelling in her shared scenes with Holder.

The nominees:

Caitlin FitzGerald (Masters of Sex) was the most magnetic character on a show about sex, all the more impressive given that her character’s plotlines rarely had to do with sex. Amy Acker (Person of Interest) and Sarah Shahi (Person of Interest) took on excellent and vital supporting roles, infusing their series with a much-needed female presence. Erika Christensen (Parenthood) got saddled with a wrenching storyline and delivered with extremely affecting emotion.

The winner:

Annabeth Gish (The Bridge) walked onto a show led by two dynamic characters and managed to steal the spotlight completely with her infinite curiosity and brazen work ethic.

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 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Jonathan Banks, Bobby Cannavale, David Morrisey, Mandy Patinkin, Ulrich Thomsen

Emmy nominees: Jim Carter, Josh Charles, Peter Dinklage, Mandy Patinkin, Aaron Paul, Jon Voight

Semi-finalists: Bruce Campbell (Burn Notice), Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (Game of Thrones), Walton Goggins (Justified), John Slattery (Mad Men), Sam Waterston (The Newsroom), Sam Jaeger (Parenthood)

Finalists: Ulrich Thomsen (Banshee) became an increasingly complex villain as his town was infiltrated by far more vicious threats than him. Jeremy Allen White (Shameless) remained his family’s rock as he managed the various distractions that came at him in college. Eddie Marsan (Ray Donovan) had a small part in his show’s ensemble but stood out because of his character’s innate goodness hidden under a nervous exterior shell. Aaron Paul (Breaking Bad) ensured that his character didn’t lose any of his uniqueness as he hit his hardest times yet and emerged an undeniable hero. Michael Scott Kelly (House of Cards) was just as instrumental in his boss’ ascent as in season one, but his personal life took center stage in a devastating way that it hadn’t before while he was busy cleaning up other people’s messes.

The nominees:

Josh Charles (The Good Wife) went from being a likeable player to the most vindictive aggressor possible, demonstrating just how much betrayal can drive a person to fierce competition. Jon Voight (Ray Donovan) played patriarch Mickey Donovan as more than just an aging mobster, infusing him with a sense of pride and personality. Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones) ended up in his most unfortunate situation yet and his careful, clever words spoke just as loudly as his actions. Dean Norris (Breaking Bad) was noble and determined to the bitter end as his job took on a more serious and dangerous role than ever.

The winner:

Peter Sarsgaard (The Killing) subtly instilled his death row inmate with humanity, making him cold and prickly to the touch but more complicated and kindhearted underneath.

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 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Zooey Deschanel, Lena Dunham, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Amy Poehler

Emmy nominees: Laura Dern, Zooey Deschanel, Tamsin Greig, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Amy Poehler

Semi-finalists: None

Finalists: Dolly Wells (Doll and Em) and Emily Mortimer (Doll and Em) portrayed endlessly awkward versions of themselves in this uncomfortable British comedy. Kristen Bell (House of Lies) made sure that Jeannie looked out primarily for herself, continuing to undercut those who cared about her to ensure that she got ahead.

The nominees:

Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Veep) made bold new moves in her season-long campaign, sticking true to her policy of not caring about anything real for even a moment. Zooey Deschanel (New Girl) tried for fairytale love and found something entirely different, transplanting her plucky, optimistic spirit into an ill-fated romance. Taylor Schilling (Orange is the New Black) Tamsin Greig (Episodes)

The winner:

Amy Poehler (Parks and Recreation) had to contend with serious criticism as Leslie got her dream job only to find people rallying against her at every turn. Fortunately, her tireless optimism and spunk made the journey immensely worthwhile.

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 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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: Jake Johnson, Matt LeBlanc, William H. Macy, Adam Scott, Elijah Wood

Emmy nominees: Don Cheadle, Louis C.K., Ricky Gervais, Matt LeBlanc, Jim Parsons, William H. Macy

Semi-finalists: David Duchovny (Californication)

Finalists: Elijah Wood (Wilfred) descended deeper and deeper into the darkness of his show. Jake Johnson (New Girl) had a blast showing his sensitive side as he embarked on a new and unsuccessful chapter of his life. Ricardo Antonio Chavira (Welcome to the Family) and Mike O'Malley (Welcome to the Family) had fun as immature rivals in this short-lived comedy. Don Cheadle (House of Lies) continued to be self-destructive and let his ego get the best of him as his solo venture didn’t quite produce the results he had expected.

The nominees:

Matt LeBlanc (Episodes) managed to become even more insensitive and oblivious, and it was a treat to watch. Stephen Merchant (Hello Ladies) did his best impersonation of a British blockhead eternally committed to saying the wrong thing in this one-season comedy. Chris O'Dowd (Family Tree) guided the tone of his off-kilter series with his spot-on narration and token awkwardness. Danny McBride (Eastbound and Down) went out with style, leaving his mark on the world in gloriously unashamed Kenny Powers fashion.

The winner:

Adam Scott (Parks and Recreation) searched for his place in government and managed to find the perfect balance, operating behind the scenes and bumbling his way through every sarcastic personal interaction.

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 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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, Tatiana Maslany, Dominique McElligott, Emily Mortimer

Emmy nominees: Lizzy Caplan, Claire Danes, Michelle Dockery, Julianna Margulies, Kerry Washington, Robin Wright

Semi-finalists: Gabrielle Anwar (Burn Notice), Michelle Dockery (Downton Abbey), Mireille Enos (The Killing), Lauren Graham (Parenthood) Br />
Finalists: Robin Wright (House of Cards) stepped into the limelight, just as calculating as her husband and as infuriated by incompetence and stupidity. Emmy Rossum (Shameless) watched her life fall apart, powerless to do anything about it and utterly addicted to making the situation worse. Lucy Liu (Elementary) kept Watson relevant and prominent as she got the chance to expand her story separate from Sherlock. Katey Sagal (Sons of Anarchy) was as on fire and brutal as ever, though it was clear that what she’s become is something close to a monster. Emily Mortimer (The Newsroom) kept her quips going and tried to keep the ship afloat when it was sinking in a big way.

The nominees:

Julianna Margulies (The Good Wife) kept Alicia strong as she faced the toughest developments of her life, both professionally and personally. Lizzy Caplan (Masters of Sex) was precise and poignant in her portrayal of an avant-garde sex researcher determined to see her ideas to fruition. Diane Kruger (The Bridge) was an interesting choice to play an American cop with Asperger’s, but turned out to be a fantastic choice, giving her character a productive, mesmerizing vibe all her own. Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men) tried to stay afloat despite the walls closing in on her from all sides, and ended up finding surprising support in a sea of disapproval and disappointment.

The winner:

Tatiana Maslany (Orphan Black) followed up her show’s debut season with extremely commendably dedication, embellishing those characters whose parts were more minor in season one and staying true to those favorites who had even more clone-centric antics to endure.

Next up: Best Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

AFT Awards: Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series

This is the first category of the 8th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television during the 2013-2014 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 Drama Series

Last year’s nominees: Bryan Cranston, Steve Buscemi, Michael C. Hall, Damian Lewis, Michael C. Hall

Emmy nominees: Bryan Cranston, Jeff Daniels, Jon Hamm, Woody Harrelson, Matthew McConaughey, Kevin Spacey

Semi-finalists: Michael Ealy (Almost Human), Antony Starr (Banshee), Jeffrey Donovan (Burn Notice), Michael C. Hall (Dexter), Anson Mount (Hell on Wheels), Robert Taylor (Longmire), Michael Sheen (Masters of Sex), Jeff Daniels (The Newsroom), Peter Krause (Parenthood), Michael Emerson (Person of Interest), Jason Mamoa (The Red Road)

Finalists: Timothy Olyphant (Justified) was equally perplexed, amused, and calm dealing with the latest ludicrous criminals to come through Kentucky. William H. Macy (Shameless) became even more impossibly depraved than ever before and made some surprising unintentionally sincere connections. Charlie Hunnam (Sons of Anarchy) saw his life implode, desperately trying to retain control of a situation far beyond his grasp. Jonny Lee Miller (Elementary) became more solitary as his dependable companion drifted away yet remained just as brilliantly compelling. Joel Kinnaman (The Killing) turned a laughable screwup into a complicated and unexpectedly endearing protagonist.

The nominees:

Demian Bichir (The Bridge) imbued his Mexican detective with a humor and humanity that was just as strong as his incorruptible nature. Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) finished up a masterful six-season long turn with just as much commitment as he had from day one. Jon Hamm (Mad Men) was at his most fascinating when Don didn’t have enough to do, forced to adjust to a workplace where he wasn’t the one in charge. Kevin Spacey (House of Cards) hammed it up in the most marvelous fashion as the ladder-climbing politician whose intentions were never pure or kind.

The winner:

Liev Schreiber (Ray Donovan) inhabited his role completely, becoming a fixer skilled at cleaning up other people’s messes but unable to keep his own life in order.

Next up: Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series