Though I feel The Wire is the single greatest achievement in television history–TV the way Tolstoy would have written it–I couldn’t argue against anyone who made a case for Breaking Bad instead. I think my ultimate preference comes from my love for David Simon, been a fan since the days of Homicide, still the best police procedural ever…labeling The Wire a “cop” show really does it a disservice, because it’s really more about the proverbial American City than about cops and robbers (or drug dealers). Honestly, when has Simon ever done something that wasn’t, at least, very good? Currently, though, Breaking Bad really is the best show on, just a hair above Mad Men and Louie, in my estimation.

However, it’s probably more helpful, and objectively true, to say that both shows are, at their worst, two of the greatest shows of all time, and definitely worth people’s time, if they’re looking for thoughtful, meticulously crafted television, which has now overtaken Hollywood in the visual storytelling medium. Even with all the crap we have hurled at us on television, there are still so many great shows to watch year round. It’s a fantastic time to be a viewer.

Keep up the great work. Been listening to you guys over on Spill and here for years, but never posted over there, only a couple small comments here…I just felt like putting my two cents in. The topic interests me greatly, being a writer who is constantly concerned with how stories are told. As always, you guys find a way to discuss, debate, and articulate insights into the subject with well reasoned opinions, and always both serious and lighthearted, something that is increasingly rare in criticism. I know this may seem a tad hyperbolic, but I rarely post, probably won’t again for some time, and I’d like to let you guys know your work is greatly appreciated, even when us fans don’t say so.

BTW…that “He died doing what he loved” line near the end cracked me the hell up.

why didnt they call him Leon?