COMMENTARY | The 2011 Primetime Emmy Awards were given out Sunday. Here are three of the top moments, though these moments were created from what didn’t happen.
Alec Baldwin a No-Show
Reports differ on exactly why Alec Baldwin, again nominated for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series, did not show up. Though originally the media reported he didn’t show up due to a certain joke being cut, Baldwin claims he didn’t show up so he could be the host for Tony Bennett’s birthday. Bennett’s 85th birthday was being held in New York during the same timeframe as the awards, making it impossible for the actor to be at both.
Originally reports stated that Baldwin bailed after Fox, the network airing the awards, cut a joke on the phone-hacking scandal allegedly perpetrated by Rupert Murdoch’s News of the World. Murdoch also owns Fox.
Charlie Sheen Acts Normal
It was a surprise to most that Charlie Sheen showed up to the Emmys, let alone that he appeared as a presenter for the Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series award. Just as surprising as his appearance was the lack of outbursts, ranting or general strangeness. Though Sheen had been nominated in the category from 2006-2009, he showed nothing but kindness to his old show, stating that he wished the series the best. Thankfully his appearance did not make for any awkward moments.
Ed O’Neill’s Loss
Ed O’Neill lost in the category of Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Perhaps this was no surprise to some. He was up against five other talented actors, including three of his co-stars in “Modern Family.” O’Neill deserved the win and I am surprised that he did not get it. Perhaps next year will be his year. It had been the first time the veteran actor was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award.
Overall, the ceremony was pretty good compared to other years. In most categories, the right nominee won and most of the jokes were on par with previous seasons. The dresses were, as usual, stunning.