Since television began, women in supporting roles have stolen the show. Think Karen Walker, Marie Barone, Sue Ellen Ewing, Dr. Lilith Sternin & Jen Lindley, Florence Johnston, can't imagine their respective shows without them. Today, characters like Kalinda Sharma on The Good Wife is one of televisions most interesting women to watch.
The queen of all supporting ladies, Valerie Harper (Rhoda Morgenstern on MTV) showed the power of her role more than any other. I am not a huge fan of Mary Tyler Moore (except in Ordinary People)but recently began watching old episodes of her classic show. When Rhonda left the show, so did the spark. Although the show continued on for several more years (and yes a few outstanding episodes) the quality may have remained but the magic sure did not.
The key to a great supporting character is magic, qualities you could not have in your lead. The ability to walk in for a few short moments and leave their mark. Here are three of my favorite current magic makers.
Jessica Capshaw
Arizona Robbins, Grey's Anatomy
The character of Arizona is a breath of fresh air every time she shows up on screen. Finally a character worthy of the talent of the incredible Sara Ramirez. I am not really a Mark fan so which these characters would find a storyline not so linked to him, but I enjoy any storyline Arizona is involved. (especially love her interactions with Alex)
Katy Mixon
Victoria Flynn, Mike & Molly
Wind drinking, weed smoking, man huntin bombshell. A character like no other. Would not want to run into her (especially if she is driving) in real life, but on television, priceless.
Melissa Rauch
Bernadette Rostenkowski, The Big Bang Theory
Too good for Howard yes, but also too good a character to lose. Bernadette provides the perfect addition to a trio of Penny and Amy Farrah Fowler. The show is getting top heavy with great characters and Bernadette might be the most likely to be first let go but instead, I suggest the creators spin the three females off. Their ladies nights are like no other.
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