Best TV moments of 2007

By NORTHERN STAR STAFF

“30 Rock”

Even after great seasons of “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” and “It‘s Always Sunny In Philadelphia,” Tina Fey and crew consistently upped the game with each episode. The inner-workings of a sketch comedy show provide the perfect backdrop for the ensemble of memorable characters. Alec Baldwin and Tracy Morgan, who were in dire need of rebuilding their careers prior to this show, have never been better. “30 Rock” blends slapstick humor with satirical commentary, making the finest 22 minutes of television around.

-Chris Krapek

“30 Rock”

I’m sorry Tyra, but I heart “30 Rock.” The brainchild of Tina Fey has earned a prime, cozy spot in the television corner of my heart. The writing is spicy, smart and the female lead is believable. Liz Lemon is witty and business savvy, yet still models all the pitfalls of a real-life workaholic … and she’s still adorable. Plus, the show saved Alec Baldwin from a spot on my “Will Not Watch” list. This show is so stellar it removes me from 20-something selfishness and evokes sympathy from me for the writers on strike. If they’re even as remotely talented as Tina Fey, go picketers!

-Nyssa Bulkes

Political Satire on “30 Rock”

When right-winger Jack Donaghy (Alec Baldwin) reveals his relationship with left-wing attorney Celeste Cunningham (Edie Falco) in front of his like-minded colleagues, he goes on the defensive and gives an inspirational speech expressing how in love he is with his partner, despite her political affiliations. The speech is so great that it inspires Donaghy’s Republican associates to make confessions of their own. First, Celeste admits that, as a Democrat, she voted for Ronald Reagan in 1984. Then the magic happens, and “Saturday Night Live” Alum Tina Fey’s genius writing comes into play, creating an odd, yet effective moment of political commentary. The Republicans in the room start standing up and airing out their own dirty laundry. One man admits that he gave money to charity. Another admits that he is black. The last admits that he murdered his wife.

-Patrick Battle

“Dexter”

The second season of this killer series won for the best TV of 2007 by a landslide. Escaping detection from his coworkers, quitting drugs and enjoying the company of a pale, English “vampire,” this season really had it all. As a fan of lighthearted television myself, I kept finding myself encompassed by the events of this show.

-Tony Martin

Jim and Pam, together at last on “The Office”

“Office” fans have been waiting three seasons for this payoff and, so far, it’s been worth it. Viewers concerned about the series losing momentum after this much-hyped development can rest easy – the show’s established rhythm hasn’t suffered as a result.

-Ben Burr

Stephen Colbert’s presidential campaign

U.S. television viewers were privy to one of the most credible presidential runs in modern history. Stephen Colbert’s run for the White House was without second thought the most substantial piece of personal political pundancy. Still, despite the best efforts of the man who is “America,” Colbert was not allowed on the Democratic ballot. And if anyone out there still scoffs at an over-the-top, lying actor running the free world, remember that Reagan did it for eight years.

-Keith Cameron

A tornado touches down on “Desperate Housewives”

I am a loyal viewer of “Desperate Housewives,” and my favorite TV moment comes from the Dec. 2 episode, “Something’s Coming.” As a tornado strikes Wisteria Lane, Lynnette steps out onto the street to see that her house where her children were seeking refuge from the storm has collapsed. She screams at the terror of not knowing if her family has perished and the episode ends, leaving viewers in suspense.

-Lindsey Kastning