• Network: NBC
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 18, 2006
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 329 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 40 out of 329
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User Reviews

  1. TheoG
    Sep 22, 2006
    10
    All I can say is "Wow". Classic Sorkin at work. That opening scene where the camera works its way through the studio, weaving in and out of people walking by as you learn the basics of what's going on - well, we've seen that technique work to amazing effect on The West Wing, and it worked just as well here. Within seconds I knew this was supposed to be the set of Saturday Night All I can say is "Wow". Classic Sorkin at work. That opening scene where the camera works its way through the studio, weaving in and out of people walking by as you learn the basics of what's going on - well, we've seen that technique work to amazing effect on The West Wing, and it worked just as well here. Within seconds I knew this was supposed to be the set of Saturday Night Live, and Judd Hirsh was Lorne Michaels. Not once during the opening episode did I think "hey, it's Chandler" or "hey, it's Josh!". Matthew Perry and Bradley Whitford were able, in my view, to completely separate themselves from their former characters on Friends and The West Wing - no small task since those characters were incredibly unique. Not sold on Amanda Peet's character, she seems to drift off into her own world too often to be this hard-nosed executive that she's supposed to be. Time will tell. Her character seems very bright. I can't wait til Monday! Expand
  2. peterw
    Sep 22, 2006
    10
    I didn't like the "The Network" flashback but otherwise this is a good show with a huge potential. The US media is ripe for some skewering and I hope the show will enlighten the public to the truly unpleasant things that go on behind the glitzy facade. the drama was involving, the characters attractive and the acting great. I am particularly glad to see Matthew Perry giving a fine I didn't like the "The Network" flashback but otherwise this is a good show with a huge potential. The US media is ripe for some skewering and I hope the show will enlighten the public to the truly unpleasant things that go on behind the glitzy facade. the drama was involving, the characters attractive and the acting great. I am particularly glad to see Matthew Perry giving a fine dramatic performance - he could be an actor finding his stride. Expand
  3. MattK
    Sep 28, 2006
    9
    Simply put, the best new show of the season! I have sorely missed Aaron Sorkin's "type" of dramatics and comedy, and right on the money dialogue, and here is he! Back in full flavor! I' keep trying to tell my partner that this show may even be better than The West Wing (Which we both adored) but he is calling me blasphemous.. lol. He like the show also, though. I can see this Simply put, the best new show of the season! I have sorely missed Aaron Sorkin's "type" of dramatics and comedy, and right on the money dialogue, and here is he! Back in full flavor! I' keep trying to tell my partner that this show may even be better than The West Wing (Which we both adored) but he is calling me blasphemous.. lol. He like the show also, though. I can see this show possibly dominating the Emmy's next year.... only time will tell.. After 1 episode, i was hooked, now after watching epidsode 2, I can now call myself a loyal Studio follower. Expand
  4. DougB
    Sep 28, 2006
    9
    Fast-paced, quick witted dialogue
  5. LindaB
    Sep 29, 2006
    10
    Superb! Sorkin does it again!
  6. EricW
    Sep 29, 2006
    9
    Part of my enthusiasm for "Studio 60" is in the potential to reclaim the "Sports Night"-era glory, which, along with "Arrested Development," stand as the greatest shows dead before their time. Although the first episodes were witty and finely paced, there is the feeling that Sorkin is trying to force his return to former glory. A lot of the entertainment value comes from the meta Part of my enthusiasm for "Studio 60" is in the potential to reclaim the "Sports Night"-era glory, which, along with "Arrested Development," stand as the greatest shows dead before their time. Although the first episodes were witty and finely paced, there is the feeling that Sorkin is trying to force his return to former glory. A lot of the entertainment value comes from the meta elements, as in when the show-within-the-show becomes a commentary on the show itself. For example, when the cast of the sketch show sing: "We hope that you don't mind that our producer was caught doing blow." Expand
  7. JerryR
    Sep 30, 2006
    9
    So far nothing seems missing from this show. It is a treat to watch and moves in and out of the characters so far that we have come to like some, cheer for some, not yet know some well enough to know for sure but that will come. It will be interesting to see if Mr. Sorkin can maintain this energy - but I assure I will be watching to find out.
  8. RoseM.
    Oct 25, 2007
    9
    Excellent to watch, it so well made and acted it's like living it. Witty and touching.
  9. Marya
    Feb 12, 2007
    10
    Hands down! The best written and acted drama-comedy this year. When Jack Bauer stops to eat and we get tired of seeing David Caruso taking off his sunglasses, there will be great tv. coming from the makers of this show.
  10. ValC
    Feb 23, 2007
    10
    This is one of the best shows of the season. It is about time that there is show with wit & intelligence. I hope NBC gives it another chance by moving it to a different night. To be honest it is really one of the best shows on NBC.
  11. Riren
    Feb 5, 2007
    10
    Once again Sorkin gets an amazingly well-casted group, several of whom excel better in their new roles than they have ever done previously in their careers. And once again Sorkin takes a premise (this time the backstage workings at a comedy show, instead of the White House or ESPN), and instead of shooting for realism, embeds them with rich characters who perpetually spout stimulating and Once again Sorkin gets an amazingly well-casted group, several of whom excel better in their new roles than they have ever done previously in their careers. And once again Sorkin takes a premise (this time the backstage workings at a comedy show, instead of the White House or ESPN), and instead of shooting for realism, embeds them with rich characters who perpetually spout stimulating and clever dialogue. Given all of the unlikable and untalented actors running around most of the meaningles shows in primetime, and given how any other channel can give you a gruesome murder, war or rape story, something like this that follows simple plotlines to elicit thoughtprovoking humor is a breath of fresh air. My favorite thing on television right now. Expand
  12. EmJay
    Apr 27, 2007
    9
    What KalvinJ said (and we're not related). Sorkin thinks that because HE is obsessed with his relationship with Kristin Chenoweth, we all are. But the bickering, uncharitable "love" between Harriet and Matt is the lamest part of the show. The inner workings of an SNL-like show are the best. They need to remember that many of us bought the book on the making of Sat. Night Live for What KalvinJ said (and we're not related). Sorkin thinks that because HE is obsessed with his relationship with Kristin Chenoweth, we all are. But the bickering, uncharitable "love" between Harriet and Matt is the lamest part of the show. The inner workings of an SNL-like show are the best. They need to remember that many of us bought the book on the making of Sat. Night Live for this very reason: we want to know what it takes to make a great (formerly great) sketch show. As always, Sorkin is a master at dialogue, but you have to watch on TiVo so you can replay the rapid-fire stuff you missed. Bring it back! Expand
  13. JenniferH
    May 15, 2007
    10
    I loved this show. My husband loved this show. Neither of us knew anything of Sorkins previous works so we had nothing to judge it by except it's own quality. It's just a sad state of television today that intelligent shows are being replaced by reality tv and other mindless dreck. Apparently we're in the minority of people that like shows that are witty and make you think. I loved this show. My husband loved this show. Neither of us knew anything of Sorkins previous works so we had nothing to judge it by except it's own quality. It's just a sad state of television today that intelligent shows are being replaced by reality tv and other mindless dreck. Apparently we're in the minority of people that like shows that are witty and make you think. I'll take that over watching people humiliate themselves any day. NBC dropped the ball on this one. Expand
  14. frant.
    May 27, 2007
    9
    I love the show. The pace is sometimes hard to keep up with.
  15. AndersW
    May 9, 2007
    10
    keep making this show!!!!
  16. Ally
    Jul 26, 2007
    10
    Love this show!
  17. SpirosK
    Jul 29, 2007
    9
    Nice follow-up to the west wing. Lost itsway a bit in the last episodes but still to good one. Waiting for the second season
  18. CharlesB.
    Sep 17, 2007
    10
    the greatest tragedy of the last 5 years of television was that this show didn't make it.
  19. EddieC.
    Jan 16, 2008
    9
    Pretty much as good as it gets for TV fiction.
  20. ChrisC
    Nov 1, 2006
    10
    Best show on TV
  21. DeborahS
    Nov 21, 2006
    10
    I love this show. I hope that the rumours I hear of it's cancellation a re totally wrong! This show has drama, comedy, wit & inteligence and just great to watch
  22. LeslieJ
    Nov 2, 2006
    10
    Finally a show were the humor is not shoved down your throat, but instead makes you think (and then laugh). I hope the network gives this show a chance to catch on. (If Sports Night would have been given the same chance it would still be on the air)
  23. ShellyM
    Oct 12, 2006
    9
    Love it - a little pretentious I admit; but Aaron Sorkin's writing is great, as it was on the West Wing.
  24. Kenna
    Nov 22, 2006
    8
    I love this show...I think it has potential to be one of the most superior shows on tv.
  25. BChar
    Nov 4, 2006
    10
    Best show for sure
  26. sheep
    Oct 17, 2006
    10
    I think the show is brilliant
  27. Carol
    Nov 7, 2006
    10
    Has a heart even within all the Hollywood comedy crap - I love this show as much if not even more than West Wing - nice to see so many of the personalities from that show on this one.
  28. /:set\AI
    Oct 18, 2006
    9
    as many have said-not only is the show OBJECTIVELY excellent- just is quite difficult to understand why some don't like it- self-important?!? do you no get how the paradigm has shifted in this country and how shows like the Daily Show/Colbert/ SNL [when it chooses to] have become incredibly relevant and shaping forces in our culture? anyone under 40 gets their news and analysis from as many have said-not only is the show OBJECTIVELY excellent- just is quite difficult to understand why some don't like it- self-important?!? do you no get how the paradigm has shifted in this country and how shows like the Daily Show/Colbert/ SNL [when it chooses to] have become incredibly relevant and shaping forces in our culture? anyone under 40 gets their news and analysis from these shows- they now are the primary social force in America- it is CLEAR that the division of opinion about this show is right down party lines [just like the Daily Show]- blue states love the show and red states hate it- I Expand
  29. April
    Oct 19, 2006
    9
    This show has so much going for it, I hope it stays around as long as West Wing (or longer).
  30. Itsme
    Oct 21, 2006
    10
    This show is excellent! Please watch so that we can keep some quality on TV besides Battlestar Gallactica!
  31. tinad
    Dec 21, 2006
    10
    i absolutely love this show, it has humor, drama,and a peek inside the workings of live tv.
  32. LaurieW
    Dec 22, 2006
    10
    I love this show. The writing is great. The lines are witty and the story is at times moving. Hopefully the writers will tone done the pursuit of love soon but I really hope that this one will be around for a while. If you like West Wing's quick wit you can't miss this show.
  33. KellyJ
    Dec 25, 2006
    10
    Phenomenal. I loved Sorkin's writing in West Wing, and this is just as good or better. Love it!!!
  34. stevenc
    Dec 3, 2006
    9
    well wriiten with a first rate cast
  35. RitaS
    Oct 27, 2006
    9
    Diversity within the writing
  36. larryg
    Oct 28, 2006
    10
    will be a classic, ( i think)
  37. PatriciaE
    Oct 29, 2006
    10
    I find this show well written, fast paced, intelligent and enjoyable! The cast is excellent and the show blends the intelligence of West Wing with the wit and political edge of SNL! Best thing this year on NBC
  38. DB
    Oct 29, 2006
    10
    Yeah - it still needs to find its legs but its far, far better than anything else on TV with the possible exception of Battlestar Galactica. People need to settle down and give it a chance.
  39. MichelleT
    Oct 29, 2006
    10
    Love this show! Can't believe it's suffering for positive public opinion. So smart, funny, intricate. Can't wait for each new episode. Wish people would take their heads out of their arses and recognize good TV when it comes around!
  40. LC
    Oct 31, 2006
    10
    Intelligent, Insightful, humorous, intense. Great acting, timely topics Just what we need to enjoy television
  41. RH
    Sep 16, 2006
    10
    Eh, who wants to watch brilliance? By doing so, you'll come to find that the other television series you enjoy just aren't that great.....
  42. LCarney
    Sep 17, 2006
    10
    Sorkin's usual brilliant writing coupled with outstanding performances from some very talented actors. The pilot was amazing and it looks to get even better.
  43. AmandaC
    Sep 18, 2006
    10
    Love it! Love Aaron Sorkin's witty, fresh, fast writing and glad to see him back on primetime. The cast is perfect and I can't wait to see what they do with this.
  44. AzuraS
    Sep 18, 2006
    10
    Amazing Show, great acting and storyline!
  45. BrianA
    Sep 18, 2006
    10
    A worthy successor to The West Wing!
  46. ShawnW
    Sep 18, 2006
    10
    Wow...very impressed with Sorkin's new effort. I was never a West Wing fan, but loved Sports Night.
  47. justins
    Sep 19, 2006
    10
    great show...better not cancel
  48. AliceP
    Sep 19, 2006
    10
    Thought it was excellent! Witty, clever, and fast paced. Good music, too.
  49. AnitaM
    Sep 19, 2006
    9
    The writing was superior. I love the 2 male leads. I'll keep watching. Hope they can keep the quality up.
  50. GlennS
    Sep 22, 2006
    10
    Excellent TV.......With so much to skewer, it will take a few seasons before they run out of interesting ideas.
  51. CalebC
    Sep 24, 2006
    9
    The best pilot so far this year. The only minor downfall to the pilot was when they were making fun of christians other than that this shows perfect.
  52. MiguelC
    Sep 25, 2006
    10
    just loved it!!!
  53. kathym
    Sep 26, 2006
    10
    Loved it! Everything!!!
  54. AustinR
    Sep 28, 2006
    8
    Has potential and is more engaging than 98percent of the schlock out there now.
  55. HarryD
    Sep 29, 2006
    9
    Deft writing. Well-crafted scenes. Likable actors.
  56. Shannon
    Jan 15, 2007
    10
    I love this show. The writing is great and the cast keeps it interesting. I'm also a huge fan of Matthew Perry.
  57. WendyP
    Feb 12, 2007
    9
    I love this show...the characters are terrific. It's so interesting to see what it's really like behind the scenes. I hate that they've taken it off the schedule, let's hope it's back soon.
  58. jasonl
    Feb 23, 2007
    10
    I really enjoy this show and the fact that it makes you pay attention. for once there is some real content in a show and they want to take it away, it is just sad how tv stations work these days!
  59. AnneH
    Mar 12, 2007
    10
    Love it, love it, love it!!
  60. SherrieM
    Mar 12, 2007
    10
    I love the show. I just can't get enough of Matthew Perry.
  61. BlakeM
    Apr 11, 2007
    8
    One of the better shows of the year. Have to say that the last few shows have been very lame though. The romantic relationships are getting tiring. How many more times can Harriet and Matt break up, before it just gets annoying. And the drug habit introduced recently feels very contrived. I wish they would spend more time around funny things that could happen around the Studio, instead of One of the better shows of the year. Have to say that the last few shows have been very lame though. The romantic relationships are getting tiring. How many more times can Harriet and Matt break up, before it just gets annoying. And the drug habit introduced recently feels very contrived. I wish they would spend more time around funny things that could happen around the Studio, instead of these weak relationships. When they focus on the things that happen around the Studio (writing, fans, crazy props, the Business) it feels very smart and engrossing. When they focus on the lame and forced relationships, it really loses much of it's appeal to many. Expand
  62. LindaM
    Apr 29, 2007
    10
    This was my vavorite show of the season, and I was so disappoined when I heard that it probably won't be back. The cast is perfect for the roles and the dialogue is so clever and rich that I often have to backspace on TIVO to catch it's full intent. I find it extremely funny if you can understand all of the lines.
  63. RuthL.
    Jun 15, 2007
    10
    Studio 60 rocks! I'm sad it has been cancelled.
  64. ByronY.
    Jun 16, 2007
    10
    The finest show on television that I never miss, and that I always record on my PVR. Since it returned from hiatus, it is better than ever. The K&R episode about Jeter's brother being captured in Afghanistan is quite riveting. It is intelligent, funny, dramatic....brilliant. One of the best shows ever.
  65. AlyA.
    Aug 22, 2007
    10
    I absolutely never missed this show. I can't believe that they canceled it since it was so clever. I think it was so well written that it just needed a little time to find its followers. One of the only shows I will be sad to see off the air when I can't believe some duds are still there.
  66. JohanJ
    Nov 11, 2006
    10
    If the U.S. audience isn't smart enough to enjoy it, ship it to Europe. I have no doubt it'd be the biggest thing on TV over here in a heartbeat. Damn brilliant.
  67. jenc
    Nov 14, 2006
    10
    crime shows, sit coms or intelligent writing and thoughtful character lines --- ummmmm what would i like to watch??? superb show. sorkin and cast deserve a time slot that doesn't require football fans with a brain to choose between two pleasurable endeavors... must not cancel and leave us wanting more!
  68. AlissaA
    Nov 22, 2006
    10
    LOVE this show! It brings attention to issues that we sometimes miss or don't always say out loud., and it is interesting to watch. I hope the Republicans don't cancel it!
  69. gabbis
    Dec 28, 2006
    9
    This show has everything I liked about West Wing, without all the politics and war stuff. I was expecting a simple comedy, like SNL, but this is so much deeper. I cannot wait for new episodes to air.
  70. Nov 15, 2011
    9
    Such a shame the show was cancelled, the only reason it lost a point on my behalf is because towards the end it turned into more of a romcom. However if you are contemplating watching it I would highly recommend you do.
  71. Jan 28, 2013
    10
    One of the best shows i have ever watched. Very funny and smart, i really can't believe it was cancelled. Great cast and well done by Sorkin. Matthew Perry is AMAZING!!!
  72. Mar 29, 2013
    10
    This is one of my fav shows bought it dead cheap burned through it. Beside form the a great cast and direction the reason why i love the show is the writing. It has drama, suspense, comedy but not for the sake of it like and great character development. Lot of people are upset that it did not get a second season but if i am honest i don't care i care if a show gets canned and it is left onThis is one of my fav shows bought it dead cheap burned through it. Beside form the a great cast and direction the reason why i love the show is the writing. It has drama, suspense, comedy but not for the sake of it like and great character development. Lot of people are upset that it did not get a second season but if i am honest i don't care i care if a show gets canned and it is left on a cliffhanger of with questions not answered. Unlike this show where it had a great wrap up where everything was answered which was great. Expand
  73. Nov 25, 2013
    10
    Very re-watchable. So many jokes, delivered so quickly and effortlessly. I thoroughly enjoyed this. A great season finale, although it's shame there was only one season.
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 33
  2. Negative: 1 out of 33
  1. There are more than a few well-made dramas this season, but "Studio 60" -- with its intelligent dialogue, ironic humor, brilliant acting and Schlamme's inspired direction -- lays claim to being the most exciting new show of the season.
  2. Sorkin brings the same intensity and political sensibilities to the story.
  3. Here's hoping that the strong whiff of sanctimony in the pilot of "Studio 60" is blown away by fresh air in future episodes.