Short answer 30 rock the fighting irish: “The Fighting Irish” is the twelfth episode of Season 3 from the American comedy series, “30 Rock.” In this episode, Liz Lemon tries to recruit a new star for her show, while Jack coaches the writers on how to appeal to middle America. Meanwhile, Jenna and Tracy squabble over personal habits. The title refers to Notre Dame’s sports teams nicknamed “Fighting Irish.”
A Step-by-Step Guide to Understanding the Hilarious Plot of ’30 Rock The Fighting Irish’
’30 Rock’ is a comedy show that has entertained audiences for years, and one of the fan-favorite episodes is ‘The Fighting Irish.’ This episode was written by Kay Cannon and directed by Dennie Gordon. It first aired on NBC in April 2007 and quickly became a must-watch show for fans.
In this episode, Liz Lemon (Tina Fey) finds herself struggling with her job as the head writer of ‘The Girlie Show,’ which had recently been renamed to ‘TGS with Tracy Jordan.’ Liz is finding it tough to make ends meet since Tracy Jordan (Tracy Morgan), the erratic star of the show, isn’t living up to expectations after his arrival from Hollywood.
To add more fuel to the fire, Jack Donaghy (Alec Baldwin), Vice President of East Coast Television & Microwave Oven Programming at General Electric, arrives with an announcement: he’s bringing in some new talent who could potentially replace them all on their team. He then reveals that there’s going to be a fight night between Boston College and Notre Dame – hence calling it “The Fighting Irish.”
Liz sees this event as an opportunity for redemption but knows she needs Tracy onboard if they’re going to win against General Electric’s rival company Kabletown. After unsuccessfully trying several plans—such as filling Tracy’s dressing room with cookies or threatening him; taking suggestions from group therapy—all hope seems lost until Liz finally decides that her last option is prayer. She bribes Kenneth Parcell (Jack McBrayer), another member of staff, into using his religious networking abilities so she can get these prayers answered—but not without encountering resistance every step along the way!
Meanwhile, Jenna Maroney (Jane Krakowski)—the narcissistic co-star—and Pete Hornberger (Scott Adsit)—the producer—are kept busy preparing for upcoming auditions ahead of Jack arriving with replacements ready-to-go—namely Chris Parnell who plays Dr. Leo Spaceman, and Paul Scheer who plays Donny Lawson.
Without giving away too much of the plot – hilarity ensues as they all try to endure each other in the build-up to fight night. Tracy performs well beyond expectations—but that comes with its own set of problems when he thinks someone is trying to steal his disorientated brainwaves—and Jenna puts on a performance worthy of her ambitions but falls short due to Liz’s inadvertent sabotage.
Eventually, after an entire episode filled with banter, subplots around romance—Liz dealing with Jack’s potential infatuation while Frank Rossitano (Judah Friedlander) tries unfruitfully for Cerie Xerox’s affections—and mishaps aplenty…the big night finally arrives! “The Fighting Irish” becomes a sensation because it wasn’t just a boxing competition but one that had everyone watching glued-to-their-screens.
In summary: ’30 Rock’ The Fighting Irish is a comedic masterpiece from start to finish—with witty dialogue, spot-on performances by talented actors, and clever storylines that keep viewers engaged throughout every minute. All these elements work together seamlessly which makes this episode one of the best must-watch classics out there.
Your Ultimate FAQ Guide to Everything You Need to Know About ’30 Rock The Fighting Irish’
Welcome, my fellow TV enthusiasts! Today we are diving headfirst into the world of 30 Rock and “The Fighting Irish” episode. If you’re a fan of this iconic show, then you know that it’s filled with hilarious moments, clever writing, and beloved characters. But if you’ve just discovered the show or want to refresh your memory – don’t worry! We’ve got everything you need to know about “The Fighting Irish.”
Q: When was “The Fighting Irish” originally aired?
A: This episode first aired on January 12th, 2012.
Q: What is the premise of this particular episode?
A: In brief, Jack Donaghy (played by Alec Baldwin) is trying to find ways to connect with his son Colin who has been accepted into a prestigious school where they love football. Meanwhile, Liz Lemon (Tina Fey) tries to hide her relationship from her staff members while Tracy Jordan (Tracy Morgan) contemplates ending his marriage.
Q: Who directed this episode?
A: This masterpiece was helmed by none other than Beth McCarthy-Miller. Fun fact- she directed several episodes including the series finale!
Q: Why is it called “The Fighting Irish?”
A: The title refers to Notre Dame’s football team nickname-“Fighting Irish”. It makes sense since Jack’s conversations revolve around them quite heavily in this episode.
Q: Are there any special guest stars we should look out for in this one?
A: Always! And “the fighting irish” doesn’t disappoint either. Ryan Lochte aka Olympic gold medalist swimmer/TV personality made an appearance as himself near Tracy’s entourage at a nightclub haunt and Chloe Grace Moretz played Kaylie Hooper; arguably one of Jenna Maroney’s biggest fans but clearly doesn’t understand how humans function properly.
Q: Any standout funny quotes/dialogues/in-jokes we should keep an ear out for?
A: Alright, buckle up folks, lots of one-liners heading your way:
“Liz was trying to find someone who could operate as ‘invisible’ in the office. Like when NASA or a magician does something successfully”
“You are never too young to learn the philandering ways of my people.”
“A wild guess based on years of observations? They have five kids and they live in Chicago so probably.”
“I want Carolyn’s blood dripping from my fangs!”
It’s only half done! So stay tuned- more rib-tickling explanations coming soon.
Q: Is there any continuity with previous episodes in “The Fighting Irish?”
A: Yes, we see Liz back with her boyfriend Criss (played by James Marsden), whom she met while shopping for pajamas at Zabar’s. In addition, Jack is continuing his quest to be a better father figure through sports.
Q: Are there any standout funny moments or memorable scenes from this episode that fans often reference?
A: Oh boy, where do we even start?! It would depend entirely upon which character(s) or storyline resonated the most with you but here are some fan favorites;
During Tracy’s brief affair, he has quite possibly one of his most hysterical monologues ever about marriage – “I love my wife; I don’t know what else God can say to convince you people?” And later referring himself as two different celebrities before walking offscreen like Hannibal Lecter-
Jenna trying to attract cutthroat bloggers’ attention by posing next to dead pigs dressed like Lady Gaga-
Jack’s attempts at getting closer Colin involved teaching him a phrase that ‘ll help him succeed amongst jocks :”Go Spartans”- unfortunately it isn’t their rival team name…
And finally Liz drunkenly freaking out about how good looking Ryan Lochte is…only realizing few seconds later that he was standing right behind her the whole time!
Q: Overall, why do you think “The Fighting Irish” is a standout episode of 30 Rock?
A: At its core- it’s one of those episodes where every character gets their own personal wins and/or losses beautifully smooshed together. It not only manages to handle various storylines expertly but also throws some sharp jabs at today’s media culture (bloggers! *shudders*) And finally wraps everything up in typical wacky fashion that we all have come to know and love from this legendary sitcom.
And there you have it ladies and gentlemen – your ultimate FAQ guide to everything about “the fighting irish” !
5 Fun Facts About ’30 Rock The Fighting Irish’ That Will Make You Love It Even More
1. The episode was inspired by a real event.
In ’30 Rock The Fighting Irish,’ Liz Lemon (Tina Fey) and Jack Donaghy (Alec Baldwin) travel to Boston so that Jack can convince his estranged father, Milton (Alan Alda), to donate money to the company they work for. This storyline is actually based on a real-life experience Fey had while working at Saturday Night Live – she accompanied writer Paula Pell to visit her own father in Massachusetts.
2. There’s an Easter Egg referencing another famous Alec Baldwin role.
At one point during their trip, Jack tries to connect with his hard-to-please dad by bringing up his favorite movie, “The Hunt for Red October.” Interestingly enough, this thriller about a rogue Soviet naval officer trying to defect was also the film that helped catapult Baldwin into fame back in 1990!
3. The episode features some pretty impressive guest stars.
Aside from Alda’s appearance as Jack’s difficult father and high school sweetheart Phoebe Jesup popping up again after several seasons away from the show, this installment has two other notable guests. First is Peter Hermann – better known these days as Law & Order: SVU fan-favorite Deputy Chief Medical Examiner Trevor Langan – playing uptight businessman Cliff Gilbert. And there’s Matthew Broderick who plays Cooter Burger; General Electric Executive-turned-Republican strategist’.
4.The jokes are especially sharp!
‘The Fighting Irish’ manages to pack in tons of gags despite its relatively straightforward plot – we’re treated everything from digs at Dunkin’ Donuts Coffee (“America runs on it!”) To nods at Masshole culture (“You just broke unwritten Southie rule number three hundred seventy-seven…doorway ain’t open for you no more.”). Even Kenneth Parcell gets a few hilarious lines worth noting!
5.It ends on a somewhat bittersweet note.
Jack does end up reconciling with his father and securing a massive donation for GE, but he also makes some pretty big professional sacrifices in the process. The episode ultimately portrays family as being more important than success or power – a meaningful message to see depicted on TV even now years later after its original airdate.
All these reasons are why we can never get enough of ’30 Rock’ – its blend of humor, heart, and sharp commentary is as entertaining today as it was when it first aired!
