Dara writes:

In an earlier post, I noted that I liked the latest creation of Aaron Sorkin, Studio 60, because its main character was a writer and the show did a good job of conveying exactly what that means--agony, being blocked, fatigue, ill humor, catharsis, et. al. I mentioned too that Matthew Perry did a good job as said writer. As the series has evolved, Bradley Whitford has become my favorite character. He is never more boyish than when trying to woo the network executive Jordan McDeere, played winningly by Amanda Peet, who, we learned two episodes ago, is pregnant. I don't know if Danny Tripp, Whitford's character, is the father, but he is in love with McDeere.

Tripp is a recovering addict--he is not exactly everyone's dream date. He tells McDeere,

"I know you want to run. But I will come after you."

This was extremely cute, especially since McDeere's mouth was full, since she is "eating for two."

I have not watched TV, except for Seinfeld re-runs, for some time. But I really like this show, and it is fun to feel part of mainstream culture again. Like I have something to contribute at the water cooler. If I worked at a place with a water cooler. If I worked. Anyhow, Alessandra Stanley, the head TV critic for the Times, corroborates my allegiance:

"And at their best, the two shows are unequaled by anything else on network television,"

she attests of Studio 60 and its more slapsticky counterpart, 30 Rock.