Since 1921, millions of girls and some boys have dreamed of becoming Miss America — little did I know so did comedian Amy Poehler. Racing on stage as the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series category was announced, Poehler set the norm for a truly memorable moment at the 2011 Emmys. Huddled in a line, the funniest women in television waited for their fate to be read. The real surprise, however, came when Melissa McCarthy took the title, and the crown, from favorite Laura Linney.
Some people might ask, how can such a low-key actress take a title from such comedy giants as Linney or Tina Fey? The answer lies in “Bridesmaids.” Most will remember McCarthy as Megan in Kristen Wiig’s breakout hit, but some (like myself) will forever see her as Sookie St. James from Gilmore Girls.
But McCarthy didn’t take the entire spotlight at the 2011 Emmys. Jane Lynch seemed to break the hosting curse that has plagued award shows for the past few years. Ricky Gervais even tried to poke fun at his controversial stint as Golden Globes host. Lynch’s comedy was witty but respectful, and her choice of attire was elegant but all similar. Lynch pulled through though in a clip with the cast of “Jersey Shore.” It was a sad realization to see just how much of TV has “gone Jersey.” Even the great Martin Scorsese, winner of best director for a drama series, has gone Jersey with “Boardwalk Empire.”
The biggest surprise of the evening did not come when Jim Parson beat out Steve Carell for Best Actor in a Comedy Series, but rather when Charlie Sheen walked on stage. It was almost a surreal moment. At least it was in my residence hall, to see this man not raving on a YouTube channel. Rather, Sheen seemed calm, collected, respectful and, dare I say it, completely together. He even wished the best of luck to the future of “Two and a Half Men.” Maybe humility is a good look for him.
Some of the most touching moments of the evening included Kate Winslet’s dedication to her mother after her win for Best Actress in a Mini-Series, as well as Minka Kelly’s hug to co-star Kyle Chandler for his win as Best Actor in a Drama Series. The two brightest stars of night, though, were “Modern Family” and “Mad Men.” “Modern Family” racked up the awards again, winning for Best Comedy Series and Writing, while “Mad Men” was able to take the Best Drama title for the fourth year in a row.
As a confessed Gleek, I was disappointed by the lack of Lea Michelle and Chris Colfer, but the 2011 Emmys stood up to be a true testament to some of the amazing productions that are on television today.
