This is Why I Love Live TV

The April 26 episode of 30 Rock was special. Not only was it a LIVE EPISODE, it was the SECOND live episode they’ve aired! The cast and crew knew they had to bring the funny like never before. And boy, did they ever! I was literally laughing out loud at least eight different times (I lost count!) during this half-hour that went by way too quickly (why can’t they do hour long live episodes?! Please?!).

To begin, they brought on virtually every hilarious recurring character they’ve ever had, in addition to some guests that came completely out of nowhere. Not only did we see the return of Will Forte, Chris Parnell, Cheyenne Jackson, and Jon Hamm, we were also graced by the presence of Donald Glover, Amy Poehler, Jimmy Fallon, Sir Paul McCartney, and Fred Armisen (yep, if you were wondering, that means two appearances of Mr. Glover and Ms. Poehler on one night on the same channel). I was literally crying. So many of my favorite people, all on one show! I also wonder if the cast even knew that Sir Paul would be arriving, because a certain Alec Baldwin looked extremely surprised and happy when he came in the room.

Furthermore, Kenneth chose tonight to quirk out at his finest – with some of the best facial expressions, reactions, and lines he’s ever given to us. Oh, and any excuse to see Alec Baldwin play four different characters across three different decades is one I’ll take. Which was your favorite? I loved his Nixon impression the most. I also loved his and Tina’s rendition of I Love Lucy, set in Queens.

Overall, it really reminded me why I love live TV, which of course is what they were going for in the first place. Anything can happen, and it has such great energy. Even though it was just me and my roommate, I felt like we were having a party because the energy was so high in my living room. I was excited for my favorite stars, my fellow fans, and the pure unexpected.

Also, brownie points to this episode because I think this was the first episode where Will Forte appeared entirely in drag in multiple scenes. And it was also the first time he’s ever done it live, so I really approve of their choice to bring him back tonight!