My Dream Emmy Nominations part 5: Best Comedy and Drama Series

Image Credit: Bob D’Amico/ABC; Ben Leuner/AMC; Patrick Ecclesine/Fox; David M. Russell/CBS; Bill Records/NBCThe fifth and final installment of my Dream Emmy Nominations has arrived and, as you can see, I saved the biggest races for last: best drama and comedy series. Emmy voters, repeat after me: “I promise to transfer these recommendations onto my official ballot when it arrives next week. It may very well be the only thing standing in the way of a Hank sweep come nominations day July 8.” You think I’m kidding about that last bit…okay, I’m kidding. But you get the point.

Best Drama Series

* Breaking Bad: TV’s most nerve-racking hour hit a new creative high in year 3.

* Damages: Bounced back from a meh season 2 with a mystery that was taut, suspenseful, and timely.

* Friday Night Lights: A different team, but still victorious.

* The Good Wife: Single-handedly raised the bar for procedurals on TV.

* Mad Men: For a season rife with breakups (Sterling Cooper, Don/Betty) I never felt more committed.

* True Blood: The Maryann plot meandered a bit, but the season as a whole was bloody brilliant.

Best Comedy Series

* Better Off Ted: The best show that no one (with a Nielsen box) watched.

* Chuck: I spy a consistently awesome and hilarious show in need of some long-overdue Emmy love.

* Cougar Town: Overcame a rough start to emerge as the year’s biggest comedic surprise.

* Glee: The rare show that lives up to its title week in and week out.

* Modern Family: Brought the family comedy into the 21st century.

* Parks and Recreation: Who would’ve thought: NBC’s funniest Thursday comedy doesn’t have Rock or Office in its title?

Agree/disagree with my picks? Consider the comments section below your own personal Dream Emmy Ballot.

My Dream Emmy Nominations part 1: Best Supporting Actor and Actress (Comedy)

My Dream Emmy Nominations part 2: Best Supporting Actor and Actress (Drama)

My Dream Emmy Nominations part 3: Best Lead Actor and Actress (Comedy)

My Dream Emmy Nominations part 4: Best Lead Actor and Actress (Drama)