Shameless is the best show on television currently

I've recently decided that Shameless is the best show on television currently. It's the kind of series that's so fast-moving, so well acted and written, that you can watch it over and over again and notice new quirks each time. Some people would probably call the show's lack of shame tasteless. To me, it's exciting. You truly don't know what's going to happen next!

The second season started out a little slow, but once Frank's mother ("Grammy") shows up, things really kick into gear. Played with utter relish by the great Louise Fletcher, Grammy's a force of nature. And let's just say, her character arc ends in quite a... shocking way.

Season Two also sees the return of Chloe Webb as Monica Gallagher, Frank's estranged wife and altogether crazy, sad character. Her episodes are such a great, gritty depiction of mental illness. I'm always amazed with how this show manages to be both fall out of your seat funny and completely heartbreaking... sometimes at the same time.

As with the first season, the ensemble cast is extraordinary, led by William H Macy and Emmy Rossum (where is the awards show love for these two? Especially Rossum!). Joan Cusack continues to steal every single scene she's in, and has a few really, really funny ones towards the middle of the season. And finally, the kids manage to be totally unaffected and charming. You really feel like you're a part of this crazy, dysfunctional family -- for better or worse!