10 best of 2011... in 2012

Yeah, yeah, I know -- 2011 is over. You don't want to read about the 10 best shows of the old year. You're ready for the New Year. You're amped about the return of "Justified," "30 Rock," and the prospect of seeing Sucre from "Prison Break" in a dress on ABC. I hear you. But can you please bear with me for a wee bit? 2011 really did offer some mighty fine TV and I'd like to celebrate some of its offerings before we move on.
And I promise, next week we'll talk about the likes of "Shameless," "House of Lies," and how Albie's closeted boyfriend from "Big Love" looks in a pair of pumps.
But, until then, here's my list of the best TV of 2011 (Note: Some big spoilers below, so you might want to skip around the shows you haven't seen).

'Shameless' season finale recap: 'Father Frank, Full of Grace'

Spoilers for the first season finale of "Shameless" below - don't click through if you don't want to know.

"Shameless" offers satisfying family drama

I've never seen the British series that's the basis of the new Showtime drama "Shameless," premiering Sunday at 10 p.m. So, when I viewed the three preview episodes sent to press, I went into it with no preconceptions; no idea whether this was a re-invention or a carbon copy; no clue about whether it had the potential to be better or worse than the original.
All I can tell you is, based on its own merits, Showtime's "Shameless" is an entertaining, well-acted and wholly satisfying drama, featuring breakout performances by some amazing actors.