So I’m watching “The Focus Group” the third episode of “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip”. I am lamenting the loss of this amazing show. It is appalling that such a witty, smart, deep and competent show would get cut midseason (last February). There are many shows that did not do well during their first season…take seinfeld, for example, but that was before reality tv. Networks want instant gratification. They are willing to put large quantities of junk on the air…shows that aren’t quality and won’t last, just for quick ratings.
Maybe Studio 60 was ‘too smart’ for America…but then again, perhaps the network needed to give show with intelligent content some time to catch on. The problem seems to be the network executives who were incapable of giving America the benefit of the doubt. Hello, we do have brains! After great success with West Wing, the network owed Aaron Sorkin the benefit of the doubt. I am tired of television that does not challenge me intellectually. I am tired of television that is ‘safe’. I am tired of reality-garbage that drains my brain rather than the smart and witty scripting from shows like West Wing and Studio 60. NBC needs to grow a pair and bring back this show.
The early episodes of Studio 60 spoke deeply about cultural issues of America, but, even more importantly, this show poked fun at hollywood and network executives and – well – the whole TV industry. I guess it shouldn’t be a surprise that it got cut. Okay, I’m done with this tirade, but don’t be too angry with me. Lamenting is Biblical. We are allowed to be angry and express it. In this case I am cursing a network, but from time-to-time we all feel a need to lament our situation to our God. Go for it.