It’s no secret that I’m a comedy fanatic. When selecting television bits to feature in this column, I’m constantly trying to balance out all the funny programs I love with dramas and other options. To me, comedy is like pizza — whether it’s simple or sophisticated, cheesy or over-the-top, there’s something for everyone and it’s usually pretty good.
When Comedy Central presented its first Comedy Awards last year, it became clear that while the days of Richard Pryor and John Belushi are behind us, we’re experiencing our own hilarious heyday. Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert regularly highlight humor in the news; Tina Fey and Kristen Wiig are bashing gender stereotypes in comedy; Louis C.K., Matt Stone and Trey Parker show time and time again that nothing is off limits. See these folks and more Sunday when The Comedy Awards returns (9 p.m., Comedy Central).
In addition to traditional categories like Best Comedy Film, Animated Series and Writing, the awards feature voters’ choices such as Funniest Person on Twitter, Best Viral Original and Best Remix, Mash-up or Supercut (think “Honeybadger”). Comedy legends Don Rickles and Robin Williams will both be honored for their contributions to our laugh lines. For those of us who fast-forward through most awards shows to see the comedian host or ensemble skits, this is one show that should be entertaining from start to finish.
Tune in early to catch the primetime premiere of Between Two Ferns at 8:30 p.m. The Funny or Die web series features Zach Galifianakis interviewing various actors (on a simple set composed of just a couple houseplants) and generally making them feel as uncomfortable as possible. The loveable beardo will interview Fey, Stewart and Virgin mogul Sir Richard Branson on this TV special.
THURSDAY MAY 3
Community (8 p.m., NBC) -– After a classmate dies, Britta puts her psychology class to use by counseling the group. When the student’s memorial service goes awry, Chang tries to take over campus security.
30 Rock (8:30 p.m., NBC) – The launch of Angie’s fashion line brings the Queen of Jordan cameras to TGS’s set, but Jack’s personal drama ends up getting the attention.
Parks and Recreation (9:30 p.m., NBC) – It’s the last day of Leslie’s campaign and she’s set to begin a bus tour when an important Pawnee resident dies.
FRIDAY MAY 4
Magic City (10 p.m., Starz) – Ike is determined to save Judi from Ben Diamond. Meanwhile, incriminating Polaroids of Stevie and Lily turn up and Vera goes to new lengths to try to have a baby.
SATURDAY MAY 5
Saturday Night Live (11:30 p.m., NBC) – Super Bowl-winning Giants QB Eli Manning tries his hand at comedy as host; Rihanna performs. The singer stars in the film adaptation of Milton Bradley’s Battleship, which opens later this month.
SUNDAY MAY 6
Game of Thrones
(9 p.m., HBO) – Daenerys needs ships and supplies from Qarth to get her closer to the throne. Joffrey meets with his subjects and Jon must prove his strength to Qhorin.
Nurse Jackie (9 p.m., Showtime) – Jackie is in for a surprise when she meets up with Kevin; the new hospital dress code sends the staff over the edge; Zoey looks for a new roommate.
Mad Men (10 p.m., AMC) – Peggy reluctantly keeps an irritating secret. Pete covers for a friend while Don gets surprising news.
Veep (10 p.m., HBO) – Selena gets a visit from her daughter and celebrates 20 years in Washington, D.C. The V.P. tries to maintain a low profile as rumors fly about her being a diva and having beef with the first lady, but is upset when she finds “Selena” on the list of potential hurricane names.
Girls (10:30 p.m., HBO) – Hannah’s job prospect has some drawbacks — in the form of a “touchy” supervisor; Jessa loses the kids she’s babysitting; Ray and Charlie get inspiration from Hannah’s journal. Just announced: Girls and Veep have both been renewed for second seasons.
TUESDAY MAY 8
Glee (8 p.m., Fox) – Class President Brittany turns into a “prom-asaurus” while promoting the dance; nominees for king and queen begin campaigning while the others organize a rival event.
New Girl (Season Finale, 9 p.m., Fox) – The gang takes a trip to the desert where Winston must confront his fear of the dark. One roommate decides to move out of the loft.
CONTACT JAC KERN: [email protected]