Emmys 2013: Our dream nominees, from 30 Rock to Scandal

Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock

We’ve mentioned it previously, but every aspect of 30 Rock‘s final season was near perfection. And that includes the signature Jack Donaghy. The perfect voice. The perfect hair. The perfect performance.

Louis C.K., Louie

Louis C.K. has put everything into Louie: he writes, he directions, he produces, and he acts the hell out of it through it all. There are lot of people playing “themselves” on television these days, but it’s clear that Louis C.K.’s performance is the most illuminating.

Jake Johnson, New Girl

People are more preoccupied with Zooey and Max that they seem to forget Jake Johnson. Johnson and the writers crafted Nick as, practically, the more comedic and compelling character of the entire New Girl ensemble. And somehow Johnson can ground the absurd comedy on New Girl like none other.

Matt LeBlanc, Episodes

The news is in, guys: Episodes is darn hilarious. And if you’re not watching, you’re missing out. Matt LeBlanc, who also plays “himself” on this list, crafts “Matt LeBlanc” so heightened and funny, it’s side-splitting.

Matthew Perry, Go On

We’re just really big Friends fans, apparently. We know that Go On came and went without being on anyone’s radar, but I think we’re all convinced that Matthew Perry is just that good. Like his Friends wife, he can move through the emotional beats of every episode, which was perfectly in tune with what Go On was trying to accomplish.

Adam Scott, Parks and Recreation

Every sitcom needs the straight man, and no one delivers it as well as Adam Scott. As Ben Wyatt he is relatable, his relationship with Leslie has won us over, and his geeky side is absolutely hilarious. Here’s to you, Adam Scott!

Honorable mention: Jason Bateman, Arrested Development