"'30 Rock' is on a roll but could still use a bit more polishing". Chicago Tribune: 1. 2006-12-14.
In December 2006, The Chicago Tribune published an article praising the then-new TV series "30 Rock" as being "on a roll". However, it also noted that the show could still benefit from some additional refinement to reach its full potential. Little did they know that the show would go on to become a critical and commercial success, running for seven seasons and earning numerous awards.
The Unlikely Success of 30 Rock
Remember how "30 Rock" and "Studio 60" premiered at the same time, and everyone knew that there was only room for one “behind the scenes at a late-night sketch comedy show” series? Before they aired, many people believed that "Studio 60", created by Aaron Sorkin, would be the superior show. However, it turned out that "30 Rock" was the hidden gem.
In this article, I'll explore what makes "30 Rock" so special and why it's a must-watch TV series. From its quirky characters to its absurd humor, 30 Rock is a show that will keep you laughing and guessing until the very end.
The Absurdity of It All
While "30 Rock" is often described as a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a fictional sketch comedy show called TGS with Tracy Jordan, it's actually much more than that. The show is about the absolute absurdity of the people who work there. From Liz Lemon's (Tina Fey) misadventures to Jack Donaghy's (Alec Baldwin) Machiavellian schemes, every character in this show is a lovable, yet flawed individual.
The Poker Game That Changed Everything
In the third season episode "Blind Date", we see Jack and Kenneth (Jack McBrayer) play poker together. This seemingly innocuous scene marks a turning point in the show's development. It was here that Alec Baldwin began to showcase his comedic skills, playing the straight man while also channeling his inner Hannibal Lecter.
This episode not only marked a shift in Baldwin's character but also in McBrayer's portrayal of Kenneth. Up until this point, McBrayer had been relegated to the background as a quirky NBC page. But with this episode, he began to transition into an integral member of the cast.
Why 30 Rock Works
So why did "30 Rock" succeed where "Studio 60" failed? For one, it has a more diverse range of characters and storylines. The show's creators didn't try to cram too much exposition or character development into each episode. Instead, they focused on creating a sense of camaraderie among the cast members.
Additionally, "30 Rock" has a unique brand of absurd humor that is both irreverent and endearing. Who else but Tina Fey could make a show about behind-the-scenes TV making so compelling?