Well! There's definitely something to be said about the least likely possible answer being the right one... potentially? In the case of figuring out who the Jackal is, things have finally moved beyond just a blurry picture to an actual person who we actually got to see crossing paths with Walker himself tonight! But before we cut to the chase, let's rewind to how the investigation led him to that point! We begin the episode on a somewhat quieter note than previous week's have been, which could be considered a blessing in disguise, seeing as how when things start off slowly, they tend to snowball into something a lot more intense as the hour goes on! Which is exactly what happened in the climax of the episode; with Geri out of town for the near future and both of his kids off doing their own investigations, Walker has nothing but free time on his hands to continue delving into James's notes about the Jackal; and if there's one thing we've learned, it's that once you go all in, there's no easy way to come out of it unscathed.
Cordell has been obsessing the same way that we had seen Capt. James do so, both in the past and for the few episodes that he was looped into everything, until he took himself off the case to focus on himself. We see how he steps into the role of leader, taking charge of the investigation as James had requested - working together with Trey, Cassie and Det. Luna (who returned after last week's episode-off shall we say) to narrow down a very, very long list of suspects, any one of whom could be the serial killer they've been hunting. Of course, things are never as cut-and-dry as we expect them to turn out; Walker learns that fairly quickly when the first potential suspect - Dave Sloane - turns out to not be the Jackal, despite him presenting a compelling enough argument that Sloane is someone worth looking into at the very least.
"Hold Me Now" - WALKER, Pictured (L-R): Violet Brinson as Stella Walker, Mitch Pileggi
as Bonham Walker, Keegan Allen as Liam Walker: Rebecca Brenneman/The CW © 2024
All Rights Reserved
as Bonham Walker, Keegan Allen as Liam Walker: Rebecca Brenneman/The CW © 2024
All Rights Reserved
Walker soon discovers that Sloane does have an alibi for the night of the Corpus motel murder, as convenient and too-good-to-be-true it sounds, having an Austin P.D Lieutenant as his AA sponsor does check out and the case goes back to square one! Still, if there's one thing we've learned about Cordell Walker over the past four seasons, it's that he's determined to see his cases through to the end, even at the cost of his own self, going against his family's better judgement and warnings - which ultimately does lead to a break in the case - and a bump on the head for him too! What initially is meant to be a quick check-in on a zookeeper who lived about a mile away from the Jackal's first kill (and is quite low on the list of suspects) turns out to be a whopper when Cassie and Luna uncover a bunker filled with clues and hints galore! Is Gary Boyle, seemingly animal..... terrorizer... the one they've been trying to find? We don't get to see Walker's attacker's face, but for now, it is more than likely that they're the same person!
While Walker's late night murder board ponderings and deep dives into the notebook of doom give him the next suspect that everyone's looking for, the episode does also take its time to check in with the other characters and their storylines as well. Det. Luna and Cassie's relationship is clearly still blossoming into something positive and hopeful for the two of them - we totally love to see a karaoke date night scene at any given time thank you very much! And after spending the night together, it seems as if Cassie is giving herself a chance to be happy with Luna, as is clearly evidenced when she reaches to hold his hand after the intense run-in with the Jackal starts to quiet down. I've said it in my previous reviews, but I'll say it again - Justin and Ashley have great chemistry together and you can't help but root for them! While also perhaps simultaneously shushing any inner-voices of suspicion on hearing his story about a cheating fiancée from a few years ago - boy, did the whole Kevin/Grey Flag thing do a number on Cassie or on us viewers?
"Hold Me Now" - WALKER, Pictured (L-R): Kale Culley as August Walker, Jeff Pierre
as Trey Barnett, Mathieu Caviness as Ralph: Rebecca Brenneman/The CW © 2024
All Rights Reserved
Let's hope for Cassie's sake - and ours too - that James is right and Luna is good people - he watches Hawk's Shadow even! That's definitely a sign of a keeper for Cassie if you ask me! Plus, if there's one thing this season is showing us, especially with the intensity of this overarching case, it's that you need to have someone in your corner to keep you tethered. Something to focus on outside of work before it sucks you in completely, which is where it feels like Walker is headed based on that very unsettling ending we saw!
On the Walker clan side of things, we got to see Stella learning self-defense from Bonham, something that she thinks she needs after the break-in at Geri's, which doesn't raise more than one alarm bell in her grandfather's head, for now? Elsewhere, Augie finishes up his boot camp training while learning what it really means to be a true leader - not beating any timed records or coming in first place, but rather understanding the importance of being part of a team, going back to help a fellow cadet-in-training, because you never leave one of your own behind! Is that where he sees himself next year though? Perhaps things aren't as crystal clear for Augie as he initially thought.
"Hold Me Now" - WALKER, Pictured (L-R): Molly Hagan as Abeline Walker, Mitch Pileggi
as Bonham Walker: Rebecca Brenneman/The CW © 2024
All Rights Reserved
as Bonham Walker: Rebecca Brenneman/The CW © 2024
All Rights Reserved
We're halfway through the season now and there's still momentum in the Jackal case that hasn't faltered yet; they've gone on the offense, which is leading to results and getting one step closer. Over to you now folks! What do we think? Will Gary Boyle turn out to be the Jackal or is it someone a little closer to home, though I dread to even think of it? Were you surprised to hear JJC's rendition of "Hold Me Now" by the Thompson Twins - because that sounded truly wonderful and I was delighted! "Corpus Crooner" is appropriate is it not? And how far will Walker go before someone pulls him out of the spiral he's found himself in? Who will it be? Geri, Liam, James or perhaps Abeline?
Season 3 of The Cleaning Lady has started airing on Fox. This post will be bumped during the season as new episodes are released.
Let us know your thoughts as the season progresses in the comments below and vote in the poll.
NOTE: Obviously people will be posting their thoughts/reactions to the season as a whole, so there will be spoilers in the comments. We advise you not to read the comments until you have watched the latest available episode.
NOTE: You can change your vote as the season progresses.
The episode skillfully balanced personal dilemmas with the overarching threat of the Crossing's foreclosure.The lives of everyone at the Crossing are so deeply entwined with the place itself, so the potential sale has far-reaching implications for every single person that lives there. Edna expressed her disappointment in Sully for not disclosing the financial troubles, emphasizing that family should not keep secrets from one another, which struck a chord with Frank, who still has not revealed to Edna what really happened in Alberta with his family.
Maggie and Sully's attempt to negotiate with the bank about the foreclosure failed, leaving Sully with just two weeks to settle his debt. Despite Maggie's encouragement not to give up, Sully was disheartened. He confided in Frank about the humiliation of exposing his financial woes in front of his daughter and his fear of failing his father's legacy. Sully worries that losing the Crossing might mean losing Maggie again. Frank reassured him of the community's support and accompanied him to an AA meeting. During the meeting, Sully emotionally admitted that Maggie's return had resurfaced old wounds, acknowledging his previous state of denial and the necessity of confronting his emotions to truly heal.
“Secrets” - SULLIVAN’S CROSSING. Pictured: Scott Patterson as Sully Sullivan and Tom Jackson as Frank Cranebear. Photo: Bell Media ©2024. All Rights Reserved.
Meanwhile, as Cal reminisced about his dance and kiss with Maggie at the restaurant, Lola arrived at his cabin requesting his help to save the Crossing. They sought out a nearby foreclosure attorney, who advised them that they can file an emergency appeal with the bank if they can demonstrate they have the funds to clear the debt. During the meeting, the attorney speculated that Cal had a legal background. Cal admitted he no longer practices law, stating he did not feel like he was really helping people. The lawyer countered, suggesting that while small-town law may not be lucrative, it can be significantly impactful, which got the wheels in Cal’s head turning. Perhaps he doesn’t need to give up his legal career after all.
Back at the Outpost, Edna and Maggie had a heartfelt exchange during which Edna confessed that losing the Crossing would feel like losing part of her identity. Just then, Lola and Cal entered and updated them on the emergency appeal, but Maggie stated that they lack the necessary funds to settle the debt, crushing everyone's hopes.
In the midst of trying to save the Crossing, Sydney accompanied Maggie to her first ultrasound. Maggie felt elated as she heard her baby's heartbeat for the first time. Sydney questioned Maggie about Cal, but in true Maggie fashion, she had already decided to close the book on Cal since he made it clear that he did not want to be a father. Maggie is always quick to put up a wall and walk away, without any communication or clarity. Sydney warned her that returning to Andrew might be a mistake, as people rarely change. Once again thinking with her head instead of her heart, Maggie believes that reuniting with Andrew is the sensible choice because he is interested in starting a family and has made efforts to change. However, it is clear that Maggie is having a hard time convincing herself that this is really the right move.
Maggie did make one great decision, however. She turned down the job in Boston, telling Sully that the Crossing is her legacy and she is committed to saving it. She proposed asking her mom and stepdad for financial help, which enraged Sully. He refuses to accept money from the people who kept Maggie away from him for all these years. He shared his feelings with Frank and Edna, who were disappointed that his pride might jeopardize saving the Crossing. The next morning, Maggie found a note from Sully stating, “I am going to fix this.” Sully met with Glenn, the man from the golf course across the street, proposing he become a minority shareholder and that in turn, he would help promote the golf course. Glenn considered the offer and agreed to think it over.
“Secrets” - SULLIVAN’S CROSSING. Pictured: Morgan Kohan as Maggie Sullivan. Photo: Bell Media ©2024. All Rights Reserved.
In a moment that viewers have been waiting for since the first season, Cal finally confessed his feelings to Maggie, admitting he hasn't felt this way in a long time. Typical Maggie immediately threw up a wall, insisting that a relationship between them can't happen. Despite Cal's pleas to discuss it further and not to push him away, Maggie remained firm and ended their potential relationship, breaking down in tears as he left. As she shared her disappointment with Edna that her life hadn’t been going according to plan, Edna told her to let go of her plans, breathe, and see what life has in store. This advice is something Maggie should consider. Life rarely unfolds as planned. People have to embrace what comes their way and allow it to guide them to their destined paths. Cal is exactly the person Maggie needs. She needs to stop ignoring her heart's desires and start following them. It is the only way that she will be truly happy.
The episode ended on a tense note as Sully shared details of his meeting with Glenn with Edna, Maggie and Frank, who expressed their unease about him. The tension escalated when Phoebe arrived at the Outpost, revealing to Sully that Maggie had contacted her behind his back—a significant betrayal in his eyes.
“Secrets” - SULLIVAN’S CROSSING. Pictured: Scott Patterson as Sully Sullivan, Morgan Kohan as Maggie Sullivan, Andrea Menard as Edna Cranebear and Tom Jackson as Frank Cranebear. Photo: Bell Media ©2024. All Rights Reserved.
Elsewhere in the episode, Sydney hadn’t yet told Rafe about her new modeling contract, but she did tell Rob and Maggie that she is returning to New York and bought her plane ticket. When she finally broke the news to Rafe, he became understandably upset. Mostly because Sydney had been leading him on for so long but also because he was the last to find out she was leaving. Sydney admitted that she struggled with how to tell him and suggested he deserved better than her. After packing her belongings, she returned to Rob's place. Later, Rafe discussed with Rob his confusion over Sydney's decision to return to New York, despite her previous negative experiences there. Rob is the voice of wisdom, stating that when you really care about someone, sometimes you just have to let them go. Sydney is a lost soul, trying to find her place in life. Perhaps she needs to see this second chance at modeling through in order to finally figure out that it isn’t really what she wants.
It is hard to believe that we're already halfway through the season, yet there seems to be so much left unresolved. That's the allure of this show—it keeps viewers captivated and longing for more. Hopefully, Maggie will let down her guard with Cal and share the news of her pregnancy, giving him a chance to decide for himself if accepting her baby is something that he wants. Fans have been rooting for this relationship since season 1 and the emotional rollercoaster is getting harder to ride. Both Maggie and Cal have been through so much. It is time for them to be happy. As for the Crossing, nothing good can come from Sully partnering with Glenn but is Phoebe really a better alternative? Sometimes you have to put pride aside and do what’s best for yourself and everyone around you. What do you think, Sullivan’s Crossing fans? What will it take for Maggie to finally follow her heart with Cal? Will Sully put his pride aside and accept a loan from Phoebe? Share your thoughts below and engage with me on X at @middleofcanada.
The emotional turmoil didn't stop there. Lyle was heartbroken over Alex's deceit, despite her insistence that her feelings were genuine. This personal betrayal casted a shadow over their professional interactions as Todd proposed a risky alliance with Alex to unearth the identity of the broker, hoping this might also mend Lyle's broken heart.
"The Broker" – SO HELP ME TODD. Pictured: Vinessa Antoine as Ariel and Skylar Astin as Todd Wright. Photo: Colin Bentley/CBS ©2024 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
The narrative cleverly intertwined personal betrayal with professional intrigue. Todd's initial suspect was Beverly, who was quickly cleared by Alex, pointing instead to Judy—a suggestion Todd naively dismissed. His habit of trusting people too easily, reminiscent of past misjudgments, came to the forefront as he exposed critical case details to Judy. He questioned Judy to learn more about her, leading Judy to reveal that Francey had been secretly meeting with two suited men across from the coffee shop, raising Todd's suspicions. Judy then showed Todd where Francey was meeting the men, and Todd overheard something suspicious. He searched her desk and found a key.
Margaret, overhearing Judy's comments through Todd’s watch, learned that Francey is having secret meetings. She became worried that Francey may be considering leaving the firm. Meanwhile, Todd and Alex used the key to open a hidden safe, finding paperwork of cases won with the corrupt judge and leading Todd to spiral and suspect everyone at the firm one by one. During the whole narrative, Todd was in true form as his theories became increasingly outlandish, even suspecting himself at one point.
The case ended when the judge turned himself in, a move orchestrated by the enigmatic Meritt Folding, who remained a step ahead due to his mysterious camera box that enabled him to overhear a conversation between Margaret and Todd, inadvertently informing him that they know about the brokering. In a revealing twist, Todd discovered Judy had been squatting in an empty floor of the building, where she located several signs with different lawyer names as named partners, leading Todd to conclude that Meritt Folding is the broker. Determined not to let the Feds take credit, Todd resolved to solve the case himself to establish his reputation. The episode's cinematography was hilariously brilliant and effectively highlighted each suspect, intensifying the investigative atmosphere and making it feel like a real cinema-esque whodunit.
"The Broker" – SO HELP ME TODD. Pictured: Inga Schlingmann, Marcia Gay Harden as Margaret Wright and Jeffrey Nordling as Gus Easton. Photo: Colin Bentley/CBS ©2024 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Meanwhile, the firm faced its own hurdle. Margaret mobilized the staff at the firm for a crucial weekend effort to handle a settlement case, interviewing plaintiffs in a settlement case that Gus was working on. This effort would earn $250,000 for the firm, money it so desperately needs to pay overdue rent and wages. Through the process with Allison’s help, they uncovered fraudulent activities linked to a cancer clinic. Allison discovered a suspicious file indicating that a cancer clinic had been administering chemotherapy to several plaintiffs. Margaret suspected that someone was inserting fraudulent claimants into the plaintiff pool to cause a mistrial by making it appear that Gus failed in his duties, thereby jeopardizing the compensation for legitimate victims. They decided to confront the clinic staff member involved. Confronted by Gus, she cracked and confessed that Gordon Swanson paid her to schedule fake chemotherapy sessions for non-existent patients to manipulate the case outcome.
Emotional stakes were high as Allison grappled with hermother's secretive knowledge of her ex-husband Chuck's engagement. Later, Lyle came across Allison seeking comfort in the dark file room and decided to keep her company. It became evident that Lyle was also struggling with his emotions; the photo of Alex on his phone's lock screen revealed that he hadn't moved on from her.
Things became more tense between Allison and Margaret, when Margaret revealed that she knew Swanson's location - he was at Chuck’s engagement party, an event to which she was invited but chose not to inform Allison. To make matters worse, Gus pointed out that medical experts are typically compensated, revealing to Allison that she has been unwittingly working for her mother without pay for years. The group, including Allison dressed in a sweatsuit, confronted Swanson at the party. It was an uncomfortable yet hilarious scene as Margaret directly challenged Swanson, who initially denied any wrongdoing. They resorted to a ruse with a fake police officer threatening him with arrest, leading his wife to pressure him into confessing. The supposed officer turned out to be a stripper, adding to Allison’s embarrassment and effectively spoiling Chuck’s engagement party.
"The Broker" – SO HELP ME TODD. Pictured: Madeline Wise as Allison Grant and Marcia Gay Harden as Margaret Wright. Photo: Colin Bentley/CBS ©2024 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
By the episode's conclusion, personal tensions were resolved as Lyle and Alex rekindled their relationship, openly declaring their love for each other. Meanwhile, Margaret successfully persuaded Francey to stay with the firm, at least for the time being.
Overall, this episode of "So Help Me Todd" stood out for its masterful cinematography, contributing to a cinematic feel that elevated the storytelling. The show continues to deliver a compelling mix of legal drama, rich character development, infused with comedic elements that keep viewers eagerly awaiting what’s next. It continues to be extremely disappointing that CBS chose not to continue with the series. The series stands out as a refreshing and engaging departure from the typical police procedurals and crime dramas that dominate the network. It's disappointing that only one episode remains, especially since there's still a wealth of story left to explore. Although there's no public indication that another network might pick up the show, viewers can hope these discussions are happening behind the scenes. The show deserves more time to expand its viewership and truly flourish. Hopefully, a network will step in and provide that opportunity. Your turn, Todd fans! What did you think of tonight’s episode? What do you hope to see before the series ends? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and engage with me on X at @middleofcanada.
Season 7 of Station 19 has started airing on ABC. This post will be bumped during the season as new episodes are released.
Let us know your thoughts as the season progresses in the comments below and vote in the poll.
NOTE: Obviously people will be posting their thoughts/reactions to the season as a whole, so there will be spoilers in the comments. We advise you not to read the comments until you have watched the latest available episode.
NOTE: You can change your vote as the season progresses.
Let us know your thoughts as the season progresses in the comments below and vote in the poll.
NOTE: Obviously people will be posting their thoughts/reactions to the season as a whole, so there will be spoilers in the comments. We advise you not to read the comments until you have watched the latest available episode.
NOTE: You can change your vote as the season progresses.
Let us know your thoughts as the season progresses in the comments below and vote in the poll.
NOTE: Obviously people will be posting their thoughts/reactions to the season as a whole, so there will be spoilers in the comments. We advise you not to read the comments until you have watched the latest available episode.
NOTE: You can change your vote as the season progresses.
Tonight’s Grey’s Anatomy was full of drama as expected. Simone had to deal with moving her grandmother to a new home while dealing with her memory loss and confusion. Teddy and Owen are in a weird place and the interns are still at odds.
Lucas is clearly jealous that Kwan has moved into his room at the intern house but there is no time to address the issue as this week’s patients flood the hospital. Dorian, the patient that has been the focus the last few weeks, is having post surgery complications. Winston is being hit on by the nurses and Richard notices and seems pleased. A new love interest for Winston would be most welcome.
The comic relief, sort of came from the victims of a car accident. At first glance it seemed that Gillian and Cassandra were in a relationship until it was revealed that Gillian has a husband. She screams at him that they have been having an affair for the last two years in the ER when he goes on and on about suing Cassandra. You cannot help but feel bad for the guy but at least her headache seems to disappear when she is yelling. Ameila is called in for a consultation and determines the problem.
Simone and Jo are dealing with a pregnant patient that is having health problems at the end of her pregnancy. Seeing her go through surgery while having her baby is bringing up personal issues for Simone. Highlighting an African-American woman in this type of storyline is important to see. Grey’s Anatomy always does a great job at highlighting these types of stories.
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"She Used To Be Mine” – GREY'S ANATOMY, Pictured: Alexis Floyd as Simone Griffin. Photo: Anne Marie Fox/ABC ©2024 Disney. All Rights Reserved |
Adams goes off on his patients' friends for being insensitive and Yasuda has to calm him down. Kwan and Jules make a steamy bet; these two just need to get together already. Simone’s pregnant mom survives and their baby is healthy. Her husband gives a heartbreaking speech about how they planned everything so carefully and did not want her to be another statistic, something very common in the community. All of this hits very close for Simone who has unresolved feelings about her mother’s passing.
Owen and Amelia treat Gillian and Owen informs her husband. When they talk Owen has a revelation about his own relationship with Teddy. Richard lets Winston know that even though he and Maggie are divorcing, their relationship does not have to change. I hope we get to see more of them bonding during the season. With Meredith gone, Richard really only has Bailey left and with his sobriety shaky he will need all the support he can get.
Simone gets drunk at the bar and Jo is feeling sorry for herself for not taking better care of her patient. She wants to quit general surgery and focus all her time on OB. Yasuda and Lucas fighting actually repaired their relationship in a cute scene. Owen finally explains how seeing Teddy flatline has affected him. Those two have been through so much, so it's great to see them makeup.
Bailey and Simone have a heart to heart conversation and explains why them being there is so important. This episode was really good and touched on topics that are important today socially, which as I mentioned Grey’s is really good at. I could’ve seen more of Richard, Beltran and Amelia however but with a cast so large it is difficult to fit everyone in. What did you think of the episode Grey’s fans? Leave a comment and remember to connect with me on X @jereereviews.
Let us know your thoughts as the season progresses in the comments below and vote in the poll.
NOTE: Obviously people will be posting their thoughts/reactions to the season as a whole, so there will be spoilers in the comments. We advise you not to read the comments until you have watched the latest available episode.
NOTE: You can change your vote as the season progresses.
Sullivan's Crossing - Eye of the Storm - Review: Guilt is Like a Poison, it Eats you from the Inside Out
In tonight's episode of Sullivan's Crossing, the narrative took a softer tone, paving the way for important conversations and revelations among the characters. Post-storm, clarity seemed to emerge, helping everyone progress towards a hopefully brighter future.
The episode picked up where the last left off, with everyone navigating the hurricane. In a dramatic rescue, Cal discovered Maggie injured and unconscious beneath debris, with Pete’s dog beside her. He swiftly brought her to safety in his cabin and communicated with Rafe about finding Maggie. As the two waited out the storm, they shared intimate stories—Maggie about Pete’s PTSD and Cal about his brother's military experiences—the two grew closer beside a comforting fire. Their budding attraction was palpable, yet they struggled against their burgeoning feelings. A tender moment arose when Cal tended to Maggie's injury, and she confided that she is not used to having someone take care of her, to which Cal responded warmly, suggesting that should change.
“Eye of the Storm” - SULLIVAN’S CROSSING. Pictured: Morgan Kohan as Maggie Sullivan. Photo: Bell Media ©2024. All Rights Reserved.
Their night extended as they needed to keep Maggie awake due to a possible concussion. They engaged in a game of chess, which sparked more personal revelations and philosophical musings about life and chances. Their connection deepened with every shared story and culminated in a passionate kiss, only interrupted by the lights coming back on and news on the radio from Rafe. Maggie really needs someone like Cal, who knows how to savor life's moments. She needs to tune out her overthinking mind and start listening more to her heart. Cal's easygoing nature might be just what she needs to break free from her routine and embrace more joy.
Meanwhile, Frank grappled with Sully’s confession about being the person responsible for Lola’s accident. Frank told Sully that he must be mistaken, that they never identified the person responsible for Lola's accident. Sully asserted that he remembered the events clearly. He's spent years trying to atone for what happened, yet he feels he's never truly succeeded. Frank told him that he could have been there to support him, but Sully explained that he didn't want to involve Frank in the ordeal. Sully worried about how to confess his actions to Lola, concerned about the impact it will have on her, especially since she trusts him deeply. Frank acknowledged the need to find a way to reveal the truth so they can both start healing. Sully admitted he needs more time to process everything. The search and rescue team arrived and helped get Frank’s truck started, enabling them to head back home.
“Eye of the Storm” - SULLIVAN’S CROSSING. Pictured: Scott Patterson as Sully Sullivan. Photo: Bell Media ©2024. All Rights Reserved.
The episode crescendoed with a high-stakes moment as Maggie had to deliver a baby at the Outpost. Maggie returned to the outpost to wait for Sully, when Lola arrived unexpectedly with Ellis, the pregnant camper, who was in labor. Unable to reach the hospital in time, Maggie stepped in to deliver the baby. With assistance from Cal and Edna, who gathered the necessary supplies, a tense moment arose when Maggie discovered the umbilical cord wrapped around the baby's neck. Cal helped Maggie to safely navigate the complication, and through her exemplary calm, Maggie successfully delivered the baby. This experience highlighted Maggie's potential and her need to trust in her own capabilities more deeply. As Cal and Maggie cleaned the newborn, Maggie noticed Cal's gentle handling of the baby, sparking a realization that he would also be a wonderful father to her own child.
Maggie and Sully shared a heartwarming embrace after she assured him that he doesn't have Alzheimer's. Relief flooded through them both as Maggie brought Sully home to start treatment and confronted him about his alcoholism. Their conversation revealed deep-seated emotions and regrets, leading to a hopeful agreement to start anew, capped off with mutual confessions of love and another tender embrace. Sully had been waiting so long to hear Maggie say those words, and she needed this moment just as much as he did. Hopefully they truly can move forward, especially with Sully’s revelation about Lola coming to a head.
“Eye of the Storm” - SULLIVAN’S CROSSING. Pictured: Scott Patterson as Sully Sullivan and Morgan Kohan as Maggie Sullivan. Photo: Bell Media ©2024. All Rights Reserved.
The episode hit a tense moment when Sully invited Lola for a crucial dinner to reveal his long-held secret. However, Lola's emotional breakdown about her fears of losing him halted his confession, underscoring the high stakes not just for their relationship but for the entire community at Sullivan's Crossing. This will rock everyone to their core and nothing will ever be the same again.
Elsewhere, tensions and passions flared between Rafe and Sydney. After witnessing a new, altruistic side of Rafe, Sydney couldn’t help but move beyond friendship. Despite Rafe's momentary hesitation, their relationship took a romantic turn. Sydney confided in Maggie that she was intimate with Rafe, despite already committing to her previous agency in New York. Maggie suggested she should discuss it with Rafe. Additionally, Sydney believed Cal would accept Maggie’s pregnancy with Andrew’s child, and insisted that Maggie speak to him.
Seizing the moment, Maggie invited Cal to dinner, and he was thrilled that it was finally happening. During the meal, they shared a lobster dinner, where Maggie assisted a clearly inexperienced Cal with shelling his lobster. Cal then invited Maggie to dance, even though the restaurant wasn’t set up for dancing, pushing her out of her comfort zone. Their dance led to a passionate kiss, but the romantic moment was abruptly cut short when Cal mentioned that he does not see children in his future. Distressed by his revelation, Maggie quickly left, visibly upset by the conversation. Knowing Maggie, she will take this information and run, rather than have a deeper conversation with Cal about her circumstances. These two are so great together, but they are clearly lacking in the communication department. Cal clearly loves her and being the man he is, it is almost a certainty that he would be there for Maggie and her child. They need to have a conversation. Hopefully Maggie allows it to happen.
“Eye of the Storm” - SULLIVAN’S CROSSING. Pictured: Morgan Kohan as Maggie Sullivan and Chad Michael Murray as Cal Jones. Photo: Bell Media ©2024. All Rights Reserved.
Finally, during the storm Rob and Sydney reminisced about Sydney's childhood fears of storms to soothe Finn, highlighting Rob's role as a protective big brother. However, Finn's poignant question about why Sydney had to care for Rob after his mother's death brought a somber tone. The narrative deepened as Rob and Finn cared for Pete, a war veteran struggling with family reconnection post-service. Pete's story of estrangement resonated with Rob, prompting self-reflection about his relationship with Finn. Rob admitted to Sydney that he failed to support her when she returned from New York, acknowledging her pivotal role during his difficult times. Sydney revealed a heart-wrenching moment when Finn mistook her for his mother, believing it strained her relationship with Rob and Finn. As the storm passed, Rob resolved to mend his bond with Finn, taking him home for some much-needed father-son time.
This season continues to surpass expectations, with each episode leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the next. A renewal for season 3 seems like a given—here’s hoping for an announcement soon.. What did you think, Sullivan’s Crossing fans? Will Maggie tell Cal the truth and allow him to explain his feelings? Will Sully finally tell Lola about his role in the accident and what repercussions do you think it will have? Share your thoughts below and engage with me on X at @middleofcanada.
This week’s episode of "All American" was a tense hour of revelations, putting relationships to the test and testing the resolve of members of the vortex. Throughout the season so far, the characters have been presenting a facade to their partners, hiding their true selves out of fear of harming their relationships. They fail to see that this lack of honesty is actually making the situation worse.
The episode hit the ground running as Spencer faced a series of confrontations and disappointments. On the football field, his determination to succeed clashed with Coach Mac’s playbook, resulting in a heated exchange with Jordan that was broadcast on national TV and a dirty play that had him evicted from the field. The fallout was immediate, with Coach Mac chastising Spencer for his selfishness, a criticism echoed by Jordan. This theme of balancing personal ambition with teamwork recurred throughout the episode, emphasizing Spencer’s ongoing struggle to find his place both on and off the field.
Spencer channeled his pent up frustrations by spending time with Deion, his mentee at Crenshaw, who was facing his own battles. In a touching scene, Spencer helped Deion through a panic attack, showcasing his natural ability to empathize and support others, reaffirming his interest in psychology. Spencer was able to read Deion, and helped him confront the fact that he doesn't actually enjoy football; he's simply succumbing to his family's pressure. This conversation underscored for Spencer the importance of finishing his Psychology degree.This subplot not only highlighted Spencer’s depth but also foreshadowed his potential future beyond football.
"Trust Issues” – ALL AMERICAN. Pictured: Daniel Ezra as Spencer James. Photo: Troy Harvey/The CW ©2024 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
On the social front, Olivia’s storyline introduced tension and intrigue with the arrival of Ashley, her friend from England. The surprise wasn’t just his unexpected visit, but also the fact that he’s male, which stirred up jealousy and miscommunication between Olivia and Spencer. She had neglected to tell Spencer and her friends that Ashley was a male, allowing them to believe that Ashley was female. When confronted by Spencer about this, Olivia was unable to ease his fears and had difficulty putting into words why she chose to mislead him. Ashley’s presence served as a catalyst for Olivia to confront her fears about emotional vulnerability, particularly regarding her book project. She opened up to Ashley effortlessly, yet when Spencer inquired about her book, she kept her thoughts to herself. The episode concluded on a tense note for the couple, and it is clear that there are more troubles ahead. Unless they begin to openly communicate with one another, their relationship doesn’t stand a chance.
Coop’s journey through law school brought its own set of challenges when Laura Baker was a guest lecturer for one of her classes. Coop became uncomfortable when Laura chose Patience's case against Miko for the class case study. Laura advised Coop to have faith in her teaching methods and to maintain respect. Disagreements arose between Coop and her classmates over the case, culminating in Laura asking Coop to leave the lecture. Spencer encouraged Coop to discuss the incident with Laura. Upon apologizing, Coop learned from Laura that the purpose of the assignment was to direct her passion for Patience into innovative problem-solving, preparing her for the challenging trial ahead.
"Trust Issues” – ALL AMERICAN. Pictured: Monet Mazur as Laura Baker and Bre-Z as Tamia “Coop” Cooper. Photo: Troy Harvey/The CW ©2024 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
The episode also didn’t shy away from the economic struggles facing the community, as budget cuts threatened the after-school program at Crenshaw. The subplot involving Preach and Grace’s efforts to secure funding, added a layer of urgency to the narrative, linking back to the legacy of Billy Baker and the communal responsibility to support the next generation.
On a more lighthearted note, Jordan was on the hunt for a new roommate. With Asher gone, he and Spencer are struggling to make ends meet and need to find someone to share the costs. Jordan and Layla met with several questionable candidates before settling on a seemingly grounded, academically inclined couple. However, after witnessing the couple argue, they begin to doubt their choice. It also appeared that Spencer was not informed about the new couple moving in. It should be interesting to see how this further complicates the dynamic between Spencer and Jordan, a dynamic that is already close to the breaking point.
This season has been heavy with tension so far, with no end in sight. While it definitely adds to the character growth, it makes for a tough watch. Your turn, All American fans! What did you think of tonight’s episode? Will Spencer and Olivia be able to be honest with one another about their challenges and work through them? Do you think Spencer’s revelations, through supporting Deion, will help him change his attitude on the football field? Share your thoughts below and engage with me on X at @middleofcanada.
In tonight’s episode of "Tracker," the action-packed series delivered a thrilling mix of aerial danger and on-the-ground sleuthing. The episode began with a dramatic opening as Colter found himself enlisted by Reenie to track down a missing plane in Idaho. The missing aircraft, piloted by Gus McMillion's son Hank and carrying his daughter Madison along with a mysterious client, Walter Bratton, set the stage for a suspenseful rescue mission.
The odds of having a loved one go missing in a person’s life are slim, yet somehow Reenie has already had two people disappear in her life. This is clearly the writer’s way of planting Reenie into the storyline with Colter, but hopefully a new tactic will be deployed as the believability of this is waning.
As Colter and Reenie delved into the disappearance, they met with Gus, who had already spotted a debris field near the Canadian border, hinting at a disastrous outcome. The plot thickened with the introduction of a suspicious character, Vaults, who was in search of the elusive client. Reenie's sharp instincts kicked in as she captured photos of Vaults, showcasing that she is not just a great lawyer, but a clever investigator as well.
"Into the Wild” – TRACKER, Pictured: Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw and Fiona Rene as Reenie Greene. Photo: Sergei Bachlakov/CBS ©2024 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
The tension escalated when Colter had to skydive into the debris field, only to discover a body assumed to be Bratton’s, marked by violence that suggested foul play. This discovery unraveled a series of clues including damaged cell phones and a tracking device, indicating a deeper conspiracy at play. Meanwhile, Reenie's tenacity shone through as she broke into a car related to the case, uncovering potentially incriminating evidence against Walter Bratton. The drama peaked when Reenie, while coordinating with Colter, heard gunshots. Rushing to the source, she found Gus laying on the ground after having shot a gun-wielding Vaults, adding urgency to the unfolding chaos. Her pursuit led her to discover Bratton's desperate measures to secure a Canadian passport, hinting at his attempt to flee the country.
On a cliffside, Colter's heroics were on full display as he rescued an injured Madison, who revealed that Bratton had coerced Hank into altering the flight path for a smuggling operation. This revelation was compounded by Teddi and Velma's research, which pointed to a botched robbery involving dangerous criminals from Reno, further complicating the narrative.
"Into the Wild” – TRACKER, Pictured: Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw. Photo: Darko Sikman/CBS ©2024 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
The climax was intense: Vaults confronted Madison and Colter, shots were fired, and Colter was injured. Despite his gunshot wound, Colter's determination to find Hank led to a dramatic shootout under a cabin floor, resulting in Vaults' death and a narrow escape for Colter and Hank.
"Tracker" consistently portrays Colter as nearly invincible, whether he’s repelling from planes or taking bullets without lasting harm, which borders on feeling quite hokey and ridiculous at times. The believability of his skills would be increased with more knowledge of his background. Amidst the adrenaline-fuelled action, Tracker occasionally falters in its character development. While Colter emerges as a formidable hero, the show's focus on his heroics leaves little room for exploring the lives and backstories of the victims. Despite tantalizing hints about Colter's own past, including the upcoming introduction of his brother and sister, played by Melissa Roxburgh and Jensen Ackles, the narrative feels somewhat unbalanced.
"Into the Wild” – TRACKER, Pictured: Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw. Photo: Darko Sikman/CBS ©2024 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
If viewers are able to ignore the show's obvious faults, they are sure to be treated with a fast-paced narrative and suspenseful scenarios that keep them on the edge of their seats. "Tracker" remains a gripping watch for those who enjoy high-octane action paired with complex investigations. Hopefully the character development will come within the final episodes of the season, paving the way for much more depth in season 2. Your turn, Tracker fans! What did you think of tonight’s episode? Are you enjoying Colter being paired with Reenie? What do you hope to see in the final few episodes? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Share them below and engage with me on X at @middleofcanada.
Sullivan's Crossing - Confessions - Review: Managing the Storm Within
The drama picked up directly where we left off, with Maggie and Cal arriving at the hospital amidst a flurry of emergency services, only to discover it was all a false alarm. However, the relief was short-lived as they learned of Sully's misdiagnosis and his subsequent escape with Frank. Maggie shared with the doctor that her Alzheimer’s diagnosis was wrong and that Sully did not have a stroke after all. Instead, he was dealing with an alcohol-induced vitamin B1 deficiency. This set off a chain reaction of worry among Maggie, Edna, Sydney, and Lola, as they grappled with the need to locate Sully quickly so that he could return to the hospital for treatment.
As the hurricane bore down, everyone’s focus shifted to securing Sullivan’s Crossing. During these preparations, viewers were given a deeper look into Cal’s past, as he revealed to Maggie about his childhood with an angry father and his role as a peacekeeper for his siblings. This personal insight into Cal’s past, provided an understanding as to his calm demeanour and his ability to navigate complicated situations with people.
“Confessions” - SULLIVAN’S CROSSING. Pictured: Morgan Kohan as Maggie Sullivan and Chad Michael Murray as Cal Jones. Photo: Bell Media ©2024. All Rights Reserved.
Tensions flared when Maggie received a call from Andrew, who became jealous upon hearing Cal's voice. It's clear that despite Andrew's claims of change, his old patterns persist. Similarly, Lola's behavior in the episode underscored her as a disruptive force to Cal and Maggie’s budding relationship. Her flirtation with Cal, coupled with her decision to shelter a pregnant camper, revealed how her outward persona is a mask for her spiteful internal motivations. Lola confided in Cal about her deep respect for Sully but also mentioned that Sully's need to treat people at the Crossing like family, stems from his own family's abandonment—a conversation overheard by Maggie.
As Maggie stowed away outdoor furniture at the Outpost, bracing for the storm, she reminisced about the tender moment between her and Sully, when he expressed his pride in her. She confided in Sydney about Lola's remarks and revealed her discovery of the newspaper clippings at Sully’s home that highlighted how much he cared about her, prompting her to reflect on the impact her departure had on him. Seeking more insight, Maggie asked Edna about how Sully met Frank. Edna explained that Frank was his sponsor, but suggested that Maggie discuss it directly with him, emphasizing Sully's reluctance to share his struggles with drinking to avoid causing worry, owing to his proud nature.
“Confessions” - SULLIVAN’S CROSSING. Pictured: Amalia Williamson as Lola Gunderson and Chad Michael Murray as Cal Jones. Photo: Bell Media ©2024. All Rights Reserved.
Frank and Sully shared a deeply personal journey, unaware that the storm was approaching. Sully confided in Frank about his fading memories, prompting Frank to promise a trip to a place that might help him remember. At their destination- an old fishing cabin that they used to frequent, Sully and Frank bared their souls to one another. Sully voiced his fears to Frank about not wanting to forget important moments, like Maggie’s first words. Frank, in turn, shared his own painful past experiences growing up half-white, half-Cree on a reservation, and how he was treated like an outcast. He revealed what happened in Alberta, that he wanted his mother’s regalia but his cousins had given it away, a story he admitted he hasn’t shared with Edna. Offering guidance, Frank encouraged Sully to use meditation to calm his troubled mind.
The episode added layers to Frank's character as he imparted wisdom about healing from within, even as the urgency to return home increased with the worsening storm. As Frank left to get the truck to head home, a critical moment unfolded when Sully found a bottle of alcohol. On the brink of giving in to old habits, he recalled the accident he caused involving Lola, leading to a cathartic confession to Frank about the incident, shedding light on the guilt he has been dealing with for all these years. Now that Sully’s secret is out, it is sure to send ripple effects throughout the citizens of the Crossing. When all is said and done, it will be interesting to see who stands by his side, and how Lola reacts once she learns that the man she considers to be like a father to her, is the one who negatively changed the trajectory of her life all those years ago.
“Confessions” - SULLIVAN’S CROSSING. Pictured: Tom Jackson as Frank Cranebear and Scott Patterson as Sully Sullivan. Photo: Bell Media ©2024. All Rights Reserved.
As the storm escalated, chaos ensued throughout the Crossing. Sydney became anxious as she hadn't heard from Rob for hours, who was due to deliver a spare generator to the Outpost but failed to show. Simultaneously, Maggie visited war veteran Pete's camper to urge him to evacuate, only to find him in the midst of a PTSD episode, repeatedly expressing his need to return to his daughter. He reluctantly agreed to seek refuge at the Outpost with Maggie. However, their journey took a perilous turn when Molly, the dog, dashed off, leading Maggie and Pete into the storm in a risky search. Meanwhile, Rob, along with Finn and Rafe—who rescued them from a mud-stuck truck—arrived at the Outpost as Cal discovered Maggie was missing. He headed out with Rafe to find her. The episode reached a cliffhanger as Maggie, out in the storm, was struck by falling debris, leaving viewers in suspense as the screen faded to black. Show runner Roma Roth, named the master of cliffhangers, struck again. It will be difficult for viewers to wait a whole week to find out how this incident will impact Maggie and her unborn baby.
The episode effectively weaved both personal struggles and outside dangers, blending them into a narrative that expertly foreshadowed the tumultuous effects that the revelations made during the hour will have on every single character. This was a pivotal installment of the season that set the stage for the rocky roads that are ahead. Over to you, Sullivan’s Crossing fans! Do you think Maggie’s injury will cause her to lose the baby? What will Frank do now that he knows Sully’s secret? Will he encourage Sully to do the right thing and come clean? Or will he keep quiet to protect his friend? Share your thoughts below and follow me on X at @middleofcanada.
So Help Me Todd - Faux-Bituary - Review: It's Time to Pay the Piper, Piper!
The episode started with Todd’s quirky business promotion—offering legal services at a discount with a side of breakfast tacos. While amusing, it set the tone for the financial desperation at the firm, especially for Margaret, who is grappling with the harsh realities of her desired position as a named partner. The introduction of a man mistakenly declared dead added a bizarre yet intriguing case of the week, giving Margaret a chance to shine in her role, despite being at her breaking point with trying to keep the firm afloat.
"Faux-Bituary” – SO HELP ME TODD. Pictured: Caitlin McCarthy as Ellen, Bernie Yao as Lewis, Kelly Metzger as Jean and Marcia Gay Harden as Margaret Wright. Photo: Michael Courtney/CBS ©2024 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Todd and Margaret visited a funeral home to investigate the mysterious case of Leo, who was mistakenly declared dead. The funeral director revealed he didn’t author Leo's obituary, hinting at a hacker's involvement. This discovery set off a comical chain of events, involving mistaken identities, that entangled all the key players at the firm. Adding to the chaos, Lyle returned to work high on nitrous oxide after a dental procedure, leading to hilarious antics with Todd. In his dazed state, Lyle accidentally revealed that Merritt Folding, the firm's elusive third partner, possesses a private server capable of accessing the dark web. Using Lyle’s uniquely arched fingerprint, which is rare among the population, they accessed the server.
Amidst this, a Scottish visitor, who happened to be Susan’s client, mistakenly identified Todd as Folding, prompting Todd to adopt a Scottish accent in a humorous improvisation. This misunderstanding spread, causing Margaret to think Susan has included Folding in her big client meeting instead of her. Meanwhile, Susan confused Margaret's client for her own. The mix-ups peaked when Margaret inadvertently struck a deal with a quirky salesperson, thinking he was Susan’s a major client, only to be informed she had agreed to sponsor disenfranchised lizards. The episode culminated as Todd and Lyle traced the hacker to Piper Harlow, who, in a twist, had hired someone to serve her prison sentence, deepening the mystery and showcasing the episode’s brilliant blend of humor and intrigue.
"Faux-Bituary” – SO HELP ME TODD. Pictured: Skylar Astin as Todd Wright, James Martinez as Leo Hart and Marcia Gay Harden as Margaret Wright. Photo: Michael Courtney/CBS ©2024 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved
The comedic element was plentiful in this episode, but the highlight was Todd impersonating Merritt Folding in a Scottish accent—a testament to the show’s creative humor and Todd’s quick thinking. This scene was not only hilarious but pivotal, leading to further developments in their investigation.
As the plot unfolded with the twist of the real Piper Harlow hiring someone to serve her jail time, the show continued to balance its comedic and dramatic elements skillfully. The resolution of the case, revealing a tangled web of family secrets involving Ethan, provided a satisfactory conclusion to the mystery while touching on deeper themes of identity and the cost of keeping secrets. The narrative also paved the way for the return of Veronica, as it was discovered that the crooked prison guard who assisted Piper, was the same guard who also helped Veronica.
The personal dynamics between the Wright family were also part of the narrative. Margaret’s attempt to mend her relationship with Allison after catching her in bed with Dick Franks, added an emotional layer to the episode, as Allison revealed that she feels as though she is stuck in a state of flux. Margaret’s typical way of handling situations like this with Allison would be to shame and begrudge her, but this time she softened. She realized that Allison just needed her to be there and allow her time to come to her when needed. Margaret has shown tremendous character growth this season, and this is a prime example of that.
"Faux-Bituary” – SO HELP ME TODD. Pictured: Skylar Astin as Todd Wright and Marcia Gay Harden as Margaret Wright. Photo: Michael Courtney/CBS ©2024 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Overall, this episode was a solid reminder of the show’s strengths—its ability to seamlessly blend humor with heartfelt drama and weave complex, engaging stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. It’s a shame CBS didn’t see the potential for longevity, as So Help Me Todd offers a refreshing take in a saturated market. Hopefully, another network will take notice and give this show the second life it deserves.
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