Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip

:

Season 1
  • Network: NBC
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 18, 2006
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 329 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 271 out of 329
  2. Mixed: 18 out of 329
  3. Negative: 40 out of 329
Watch Now

Where To Watch

Stream On
Buy on
Stream On

Review this tv show

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling

User Reviews

view
per page
  1. justins
    Sep 19, 2006
    10
    great show...better not cancel
  2. AliceP
    Sep 19, 2006
    10
    Thought it was excellent! Witty, clever, and fast paced. Good music, too.
  3. 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.
  4. MiguelC
    Sep 25, 2006
    10
    just loved it!!!
  5. kathym
    Sep 26, 2006
    10
    Loved it! Everything!!!
  6. 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.
  7. 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!
  8. AnneH
    Mar 12, 2007
    10
    Love it, love it, love it!!
  9. SherrieM
    Mar 12, 2007
    10
    I love the show. I just can't get enough of Matthew Perry.
  10. 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.
  11. RuthL.
    Jun 15, 2007
    10
    Studio 60 rocks! I'm sad it has been cancelled.
  12. 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.
  13. 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.
  14. 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.
  15. 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!
  16. 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!
  17. Jtso4
    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!!!
  18. JDECW2012
    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
  19. Maxill_ZA
    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.
  20. Nancy
    Oct 2, 2006
    9
    Excellent Show !
  21. JoyF
    Sep 27, 2006
    9
    This is a well put together series thus far. I am impressed with the acting, dialog, and plot. The movement of the way it is filmed is also very smart.
  22. MichealH
    Oct 24, 2006
    9
    Studio 60 is an excellent show. The actors are incredible; yes, all of them!! The thing I like most about the show is that it feels "believable"; I believe the characters' passion for this "sketch comedy hour"; I believe the love-story between two co-workers that "just won't die"; and I believe the frustrations of each character as they struggle with their lives both personally Studio 60 is an excellent show. The actors are incredible; yes, all of them!! The thing I like most about the show is that it feels "believable"; I believe the characters' passion for this "sketch comedy hour"; I believe the love-story between two co-workers that "just won't die"; and I believe the frustrations of each character as they struggle with their lives both personally and professionally. Tonight's episode (October 23rd) with the young actor showing his parents around the studio (and explaining in detail every area) was heart-breaking. I actually found myself crying as I watched him try to "connect" with his parents, especially his father. He so badly wanted to be "accepted" for what he does; not belittled for it. Now how many of us have been through similar experiences? Or, at the very least, known someone who has?? Or the piece with Timothy Busfield connecting with the elderly gentleman (who they believed had Alzheimers), only to find out not only had he fought in WW II, but had been a writer himself. Classic, Classic.… Expand
  23. JeffM
    Sep 18, 2006
    9
    Great! Sorkin and Schlamme can do now wrong. How can you not like this cast?
  24. JileneL
    Sep 20, 2006
    9
    Funny and gets better and better!
  25. NancyH
    Sep 20, 2006
    9
    Pilot was outstanding--quite the surprise that it sends up TV--like NBC(S). Great pace and writing. Am not a fan of Matthew Perry's but he's actually right for this role. The most unbelievable character is Amanda Peet--yes, she's confident and daring but the script didn't give us any hints as to how she is this way so young and so assured. Or is she just winging it? Pilot was outstanding--quite the surprise that it sends up TV--like NBC(S). Great pace and writing. Am not a fan of Matthew Perry's but he's actually right for this role. The most unbelievable character is Amanda Peet--yes, she's confident and daring but the script didn't give us any hints as to how she is this way so young and so assured. Or is she just winging it? Hope it develops her character more. Bravo,… Expand
  26. JLitten
    Oct 10, 2006
    9
    Aaron Sorkin makes a triumphant return to television!
  27. PatJ
    Oct 26, 2006
    9
    Great, mature writing. Love that it's not "dumbed down".
  28. PattyS
    Oct 7, 2006
    9
    Fast, smart, witty, focused, gives the feeling of being there. I am truly hoping that this show remains on NBC's play list because Perry and Whtiford are a duo to be reckoned with.
  29. BenA
    Sep 16, 2006
    9
    Funny and Intelligent. Cast is amazing. Love it.
  30. GlenA
    Sep 17, 2006
    9
    Clearly Sorkin. The fluid shooting style of West Wing, snappy dialog and playful characters. This might be enough to get me to watch TV again.
  31. C.Cotton
    Sep 19, 2006
    9
    I went in not wanting to like this show and to my surprise I did. I liked the pace and the dialogue. I hope it can maintain the momentum of the pilot episode.
  32. BrianC
    Sep 26, 2006
    9
    Personally think it's the best Programme on TV at the moment, quality, multi-layered storylines that rarely bore, still has a long way to go, but so far has me hooked
  33. lauren
    Feb 7, 2007
    9
    I can't help it, I love this show. Yes, it's pretentious and self-righteous, snarky and a bit obnoxious. Yes, Sorkin tends to write women as seemingly-strong-but-really-just-damsels-in-distress, each waiting for her respective prince charming to come save her from her own ambition. But it's also funny, and charming in spite of itself. Mathew Perry manages to retain his I can't help it, I love this show. Yes, it's pretentious and self-righteous, snarky and a bit obnoxious. Yes, Sorkin tends to write women as seemingly-strong-but-really-just-damsels-in-distress, each waiting for her respective prince charming to come save her from her own ambition. But it's also funny, and charming in spite of itself. Mathew Perry manages to retain his trademark sarcasm without ever reminding us of That Other Guy He Used to Play. The casting is brilliant (though I may be the only one not jumping on the Sarah Paulson train), and if nothing else, we all oew the show a great deal for introducing the world to the adoreable Nate Corddry. Please NBC, don't give up on the one thing that makes me look forward to Mondays!… Expand
  34. KalvinJ
    Mar 4, 2007
    9
    Entertaining, but seriously needs to cut back on the romantic subplots and back to the reality of producing a late night comedy show.
  35. dlouloudes
    Nov 14, 2006
    9
    I love this show, it's witty, it's riveting with great cgharacters.
  36. JoseL
    Oct 25, 2006
    9
    great show, taking to long to build a story line.
  37. LonnieB
    Sep 18, 2006
    9
    Didn't think I would like it, but pleasantly surprised
  38. BobW
    Sep 18, 2006
    9
    This show has a snap, pacing, intelligence and wit. And it's made for TV?
  39. PhyllisP.
    Sep 19, 2006
    9
    I have loved Aaron Sorkin's writings since Sports Night [and since I am a 66 year old grandmother, I'm obviously not his target audience] Which leaves me to the only criticism.. have the actors slow down and speak more clearly so the wit and wisdom can be heard.
  40. JanW
    Sep 21, 2006
    9
    Sorkin is always a bright light in the Vast Wasteland. It remains to be seen if this great cast can rise to a 10.
  41. KristyS
    Sep 20, 2006
    9
    I loved it. I thought it had a great cast.
  42. 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
  43. DougB
    Sep 28, 2006
    9
    Fast-paced, quick witted dialogue
  44. 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
  45. 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.
  46. RoseM.
    Oct 25, 2007
    9
    Excellent to watch, it so well made and acted it's like living it. Witty and touching.
  47. 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
  48. frant.
    May 27, 2007
    9
    I love the show. The pace is sometimes hard to keep up with.
  49. 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
  50. EddieC.
    Jan 16, 2008
    9
    Pretty much as good as it gets for TV fiction.
  51. 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.
  52. /: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
  53. 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).
  54. stevenc
    Dec 3, 2006
    9
    well wriiten with a first rate cast
  55. RitaS
    Oct 27, 2006
    9
    Diversity within the writing
  56. 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.
  57. 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.
  58. HarryD
    Sep 29, 2006
    9
    Deft writing. Well-crafted scenes. Likable actors.
  59. 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.
  60. 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.
  61. carlj12345
    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.
  62. baoboa
    Dec 28, 2012
    9
    Excellent show. As another user stated "I can`t believe this show was canceled!", exactly my sentiment's. It's that good. Why oh why do the Hollywood powers that be never seem to get it? This one was a winner. Hopefully Matthew Perry will return to being funny in his next creation - 'Go On simply ain't cutting it for me.
  63. JimB
    Feb 20, 2007
    8
    This show is terrific. I love Amand Peet, Bradley Whitford, Matthew Perry, Steven Weber & Sarah Paulson's interacations. One of the best shows on TV!!! Without a doubt, one of the best shows on NBC.
  64. Cathy
    Sep 19, 2006
    8
    I think this show has a lot of potential to be a great series. The pilot although somewhat sketchy at times kept me interested and wanting to come back next week. Matthew Perry and Bradley Whitford already have the chemistry to be a very dynamic duo.
  65. DaveW
    Sep 26, 2006
    8
    A solid show. Funny in an intellectual kind of way...those who need the laugh track of a sitcom to tell them when to chuckle probably won't appreciate this show. So I'm guessing it'll be cancelled pretty soon. Too bad.
  66. AmberF
    Jan 23, 2007
    8
    I am enjoying the developement of the characters each week. Great to see Matthew Perry back on my TV screen. The entire cast compliments each other.
  67. IrfanB
    Feb 26, 2007
    8
    Great show! Needs to trim down the romantic sub-plots a bit.
  68. XinL
    Mar 23, 2008
    8
    I really wish they would have made this show more drama than comedy. always a matthew perry fun, and he's doing the job alright.
  69. Dan
    Sep 18, 2006
    8
    I'm curious to see where the series goes, and isn't that really the whole point of the premiere episode; to pique interest? The pilot wasn't perfect (as Bobbo W pointed out below, it can be seen as pretentious at times and it seems like a lot of fuss over what's a SNL-style sketch show), but I found it genuinely entertaining and think it could be headed in an I'm curious to see where the series goes, and isn't that really the whole point of the premiere episode; to pique interest? The pilot wasn't perfect (as Bobbo W pointed out below, it can be seen as pretentious at times and it seems like a lot of fuss over what's a SNL-style sketch show), but I found it genuinely entertaining and think it could be headed in an interesting direction.… Expand
  70. Kenna
    Nov 22, 2006
    8
    I love this show...I think it has potential to be one of the most superior shows on tv.
  71. AustinR
    Sep 28, 2006
    8
    Has potential and is more engaging than 98percent of the schlock out there now.
  72. 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
  73. DaveM
    Sep 20, 2006
    7
    Not nearly as good as I had hoped...several cast members, especially Amanda Peet and whoever was playing Matt Perry's old flame, failed to impress. And Sorkin's got to get off his soapbox, the preaching morality is getting way, way old.
  74. PaulaB
    Oct 31, 2006
    6
    I know it's not fair to compare West Wing to Studio 60,but West Wing had me on the first episode. I'm still wating.
  75. JudyW
    Oct 23, 2006
    6
    I'm so disappointed in this show. It's not a "page turner" like West Wing was. It just doesn't compare. We don't care about the characters or the plot. I think Sorkin and Schlamme should create a new show and a new role for Bradley Whitford as a detective -- or a lawyer--or even a doctor. And we need more appealing characters like "President Bartlet," Matt Santos, I'm so disappointed in this show. It's not a "page turner" like West Wing was. It just doesn't compare. We don't care about the characters or the plot. I think Sorkin and Schlamme should create a new show and a new role for Bradley Whitford as a detective -- or a lawyer--or even a doctor. And we need more appealing characters like "President Bartlet," Matt Santos, Mary-Louise Parker, Emily Proctor,etc,etc...and more dramatic stories, which just isn't possible with this kind of show.… Expand
  76. JeffJ
    Sep 30, 2006
    5
    This show has a cast of actors I really like. I like that Matthew Perry was given a chance to show he has acting abilities far beyond the character of he played on "Friends". I like that they pulled in DL Hughley and brought in Ayda Field from "Blue Collar". In short, this ensemble, to me, really blends well. There are some weaknesses. The most obvious weakness, and illustrative of This show has a cast of actors I really like. I like that Matthew Perry was given a chance to show he has acting abilities far beyond the character of he played on "Friends". I like that they pulled in DL Hughley and brought in Ayda Field from "Blue Collar". In short, this ensemble, to me, really blends well. There are some weaknesses. The most obvious weakness, and illustrative of others, is the anti-Chrisitan theme. Attacking Christians right out of the starting gate shows how myopic the creators and writers are. First, they got Harriet's character all wrong. No dedicated Christian would be doing and saying the things her character does. Harriet resembles a "cultural Christian", not a real Christian (you can find them all over the place in "flyover country"). But then, the creators and writers have their own prejudices, and most likely do not know many real Christians. Even if one disagrees with Christianity, and many do, it is worth finding out what they are really all about before trying to portray them. I can only hope future episodes provide some correction. When I watched the first 2 episodes, it was like watching monkeys at the zoo. Thinking that all around them is all there is, the monkeys are oblivious to the larger world around them. They marvel at the people who watch them, without understanding. The creators and writers of this show attack Christians as if they are some mentally ill little group of oddballs. Like the monkeys in the cage, they think their own little Hollywood world is all there is that matters. They forget the larger world their sponsors deal with has tens of millions of those "crazy Christians". I am hoping they have a plan whereby they start off with this typical narrow minded anti-Christian bigotry, and during the season, come around to a realization by some of the characters that what they were doing was no different than other forms of bigotry - doing to Christians what they would never do to blacks, women, Muslims, or Jews. It is good enough to keep watching, but if the anti-Christian storyline goes unabated, then say goodbye to this show after one season. You don't insult tens of millions of people who buy your sponsors' products and stay on TV for very long.… Expand
  77. BrianM
    Oct 11, 2006
    5
    I don't get it. The show is a TV show about a TV show. They give us nothing to relate to since iit to "insider" that most people don't understand or care about the show. The show is a SNL format (not new), the characters are not relatable. And the story line is the same. Crisis to write the show, personal melododrama (same thing over and over). I like the cast. The premise and I don't get it. The show is a TV show about a TV show. They give us nothing to relate to since iit to "insider" that most people don't understand or care about the show. The show is a SNL format (not new), the characters are not relatable. And the story line is the same. Crisis to write the show, personal melododrama (same thing over and over). I like the cast. The premise and writing sucks. It is West Wing Meets SNL. Both of which have outlived their cleverness. The only bright spot was Kristine Lahti in a tight dress.… Expand
  78. Gmartinez
    Sep 20, 2006
    5
    A great new show. But why the reference (in a casual, derogatory manner, to " Jesus Christ as your personal savior..."? and the shtick about Pat Robertson and his " faithful who have nothing but their faith to hold on to.." as they huddle in their single wide trailers. (My edit.) Shame, shame.
  79. dalee.
    May 27, 2007
    5
    failed to to keep my attention
  80. MD
    Oct 9, 2006
    5
    Studio 60 is one of those shows that has an okay premise, but thinks it has an amazing one, and as a result takes itself way to seriously. It feels somewhat like they are trying to toot their own horn, if you will, like, look how talented and incredible we comedy folk are! As if they are saving the world with each script they write or something... (I like a good laugh as much as the next Studio 60 is one of those shows that has an okay premise, but thinks it has an amazing one, and as a result takes itself way to seriously. It feels somewhat like they are trying to toot their own horn, if you will, like, look how talented and incredible we comedy folk are! As if they are saving the world with each script they write or something... (I like a good laugh as much as the next person but, let's get real, the world would not end without this show...) Also, the writing is so slick and witty sometimes that it feels artificial, like some Neil Simon plays often come across. It is hard to connect and be engaged by artifice. The pilot itself discusses this phenomenom when Harriet asks Matt why this one joke didn't work. And he says something like it didn't work because, "you were asking for the laugh. The first time you just asked them to pass the salt." That what it feels like with this show sometimes--they are ASKING for the laugh, and not just being funny. And the result is a feeling of plastic humor, well-crafted but not alive. If the show could find some humility, reality, and humanity, you could turn their very legitimate talent into something worth watching more than a few minutes at a time.… Expand
  81. S.L.O'Robot
    Sep 26, 2006
    5
    Nice cast, and the show looks great. Bores me to death, beyond that. Fast talk does not always equal snappy dialogue (ever sat through an episode of "Gilmore Girls"? Then you'll know what I'm talking about). I would say Sorkin's past his prime, but his body of work has been so consistently overrated that I'm not sure where the prime ends/begins. And let me say the Nice cast, and the show looks great. Bores me to death, beyond that. Fast talk does not always equal snappy dialogue (ever sat through an episode of "Gilmore Girls"? Then you'll know what I'm talking about). I would say Sorkin's past his prime, but his body of work has been so consistently overrated that I'm not sure where the prime ends/begins. And let me say the following for those who never had the temerity to say it: "Sports Night" was just plain awful.… Expand
  82. PeterJ
    Oct 29, 2006
    5
    Another reason why credits are full of crap. This show was average at best, and is now cancelled! Thanks for playing. I used to think higher scores on Metacritic was a good thing, now I am convinced otherwise.
  83. GaryM.
    Sep 16, 2006
    5
    To tell the truth, I'd rather watch "30 Rock."
  84. thecody
    Sep 25, 2006
    5
    super pretentious. really does come through on the "snl meets the west wing" promise.
  85. RobC
    Sep 20, 2006
    4
    The "mad as hell" takeoff was a nice touch, but the first ep went downhill from there, with more of the same overwritten Sorkin dialog. There's nothing fresh here, just another rant platform. I was hoping for the next Great Leap Forward, but alas, this ain't it.
  86. HopefulViewer
    Oct 19, 2006
    4
    Loved West Wing, love Sorkin, this show....ew. Lots of interesting potential, really like Amanda Peet's character. But a big part of the show is caring about the relationship between Matthew Perry and his ex, and there's no way I can care about her. She's just...flat. Absolutely flat. So I don't have much hope for this show lasting, which is a shame.
  87. richards
    Sep 25, 2006
    4
    Not living up to the hype. Basically a very indulgent Aaron Sorkin mash...I'm giving up on it after two episodes.
  88. PeterW.
    Dec 2, 2007
    4
    I really wanted to like this show, but it is unbearably preachy and weighed down with its own pomposity. So much potential. Only this show could make me tune out Amanda Peet. Glad it's gone.
  89. jj
    Oct 16, 2006
    3
    I couldn't be a bigger fan of The West Wing - I thought it was the best show ever written, acted and directed. Accordingly, I couldn't be a bigger fan Aaron Sorkin or Tommy Schlamme - and ditto that for many of the Studio 60 cast members, as well. That being my experience, I am extremely surprised to find the Studio 60 script so unfocused, with so little cohesive driving force I couldn't be a bigger fan of The West Wing - I thought it was the best show ever written, acted and directed. Accordingly, I couldn't be a bigger fan Aaron Sorkin or Tommy Schlamme - and ditto that for many of the Studio 60 cast members, as well. That being my experience, I am extremely surprised to find the Studio 60 script so unfocused, with so little cohesive driving force behind the plot. If "elevate the level of television programming" is to be the driving plotline - where is the example? If "Matt" and "Harriet" are the leading couple, and they've already played out the break-up phase, the reunion phase, the let's-be-professional phase, and the nostalgic phase... what's left? If Bradley Whitford's character is going to be aloof, wise-alecky and cool the whole time, he'll end up a less textured version of Josh Lyman. And if the show has set up "the writer" "the director" and "the leading lady" as brilliant, razor-sharp, and extraordinarily talented, then, where is the funny? Is it possible that Aaron Sorkin et al may have set themselves up? The slam-bang intro seemed to promise some seriously funny, envelope-pushing sketch comedy and a new era of t.v. programming. Besides the opening monologue/rant and the "re-worked' Gilbert & Sullivan, what's been clever, edgy, thought-provoking, or laugh-out-loud?… Expand
  90. JoeBob
    Oct 4, 2006
    3
    I've watched all of Sorkin's stuff; The American President, A Few Good Men, etc. , the show Sports Night and all of his West Wing material - I'm undoubtedly a fan. 'West Wing' was Sorkin at his best; but even then, it gets old fast - all of his characters - ALL OF THEM, are basically the same. All witty, quick, confident characters that are 'the best at what I've watched all of Sorkin's stuff; The American President, A Few Good Men, etc. , the show Sports Night and all of his West Wing material - I'm undoubtedly a fan. 'West Wing' was Sorkin at his best; but even then, it gets old fast - all of his characters - ALL OF THEM, are basically the same. All witty, quick, confident characters that are 'the best at what they do' - you could drop a character from 'A Few Good Men' into Sunset Strip and you'd barely notice the descrepency. Add four or five points to my score if you are not familiar with any of Sorkin's material as 'Sunset Strip' isn't a bad show if you're unawares of this type of dramedy. If you have seen some of his other stuff, well, it's hard to tolerate this show. Sorkin is a master of intelligent, sarcastic dialogue - but 'Sunset Strip' revolves around an SNL look-a-like... so when the plot forces Sorkin's hand on showing a 'funny skit' in the plot (and the plot requires the skit to be funny as they are selling the main characters as masters of writing good comedy skits) it really turns out to be something closer to a transparent pretensiousness on behalf of Sorkin and the show's characters. Basically, if you've seen the first couple of seasons of the West Wing, you've seen the best of Sorkin - this is just character and plot recycling in an awkward package.… Expand
  91. MariaK
    Oct 6, 2006
    3
    Pretentious and ridiculously self-indulgent. Enough already.
  92. MattB
    Sep 25, 2006
    3
    Boring with a captial B. The show has a West Wing feel to it , good or bad I don't know, but I thought overall it was quite a snooze. And No it wasn't too quick or difficult to follow, it was just boring.
  93. bigk
    Sep 29, 2006
    3
    Phoney from beginning to end. The Sportsnight/West Wing dialog style just iritates the hell out of me. I didn't buy the premise at all, and by the time the pilot was done, so was I. Time to watch the last episode of The Wire on my TIVO. If only this mess was half as good as it is!
  94. MaryD
    Oct 16, 2006
    3
    I tried to like this show, I really tried. After 3 episodes I just couldn't take anymore. It's boring and self-important. I don't care about the characters, although I thought Matthew Perry has done a good job of acting. The Christian right is such an easy (and over-done) target. If they want to push a real envelope - why not take a shot at intolerent Muslims. You know, the I tried to like this show, I really tried. After 3 episodes I just couldn't take anymore. It's boring and self-important. I don't care about the characters, although I thought Matthew Perry has done a good job of acting. The Christian right is such an easy (and over-done) target. If they want to push a real envelope - why not take a shot at intolerent Muslims. You know, the one's calling for death to all infidels? Oh, not that brave? So much safer to mock Christians. In the end, though, I'm pulling the plug because this show is not dramatically interesting, nor funny.… Expand
  95. WomboM
    Sep 22, 2006
    3
    Dear god, I had forgotten what a tedious blowhard Sorkin is. The sets are beautiful, tho!
  96. DickL.
    May 26, 2007
    3
    The show mysteriously reappeared on Thursday night with Busfield as star and running the strike hampered production, no Matt, no Brad. It still has the same flaws, poorly lit, muddy audio, throwaway lines, walkietalkie, never shows any talent on the show within a show, six or eight subplots that no one cares about. The Christian Right character still being portrayed as obtuse. The media The show mysteriously reappeared on Thursday night with Busfield as star and running the strike hampered production, no Matt, no Brad. It still has the same flaws, poorly lit, muddy audio, throwaway lines, walkietalkie, never shows any talent on the show within a show, six or eight subplots that no one cares about. The Christian Right character still being portrayed as obtuse. The media in general give the Muslims a pass, but this is ridiculous.… Expand
  97. DevinE.
    Sep 19, 2006
    2
    I can't believe all the positive reviews I'm reading. Has everyone gone insane? This show is terrible!!! Yes, the cast is great, but the show is BORING. And confusing. And the mystery sketch is "Crazy Christians"? Wow. Swing and a miss. Open your eyes, people!
  98. BryanS
    Oct 2, 2006
    2
    Should be renamed Studio Sucky. I can't believe that this show would retain its market share audience.
  99. EdG
    Oct 5, 2006
    2
    I suffered through this show twice. It is terrible. What show were the critics watching??
  100. MattJ
    Sep 19, 2006
    2
    Too obvious in showing its agenda. The acting was good, but it came across too preachy.
Page:

Awards & Rankings

18
#18 Best TV Season of 2006
4
#4 Most Discussed TV Season of 2006
29
#29 Most Shared TV Season of 2006

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 33
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 33
  3. Negative: 1 out of 33
  1. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Barry Garron
    90
    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.
    Read full review
  2. Christian Science Monitor
    Reviewed by: Gloria Goodale
    100
    Sorkin brings the same intensity and political sensibilities to the story.
    Read full review
  3. Wall Street Journal
    Reviewed by: Nancy DeWolf Smith
    60
    Here's hoping that the strong whiff of sanctimony in the pilot of "Studio 60" is blown away by fresh air in future episodes.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »