Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 410 of ‘Law & Order: Organized Crime’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
When we last settled in to enjoy the intense NBC series, Law & Order: Organized Crime, we were left in a worried state. For Elliot was deeply embedded in a scary operation run by former war veterans. Where drugs and secrets ruled the day and that put Elliot in a tough place, wherein he was forced to defend himself and volunteer for ugly duties to keep his cover. Which left us wondering if he would be safe in the slightest or what kinds of trouble lie ahead and well, the next chapter in this incredible series wasted little time in informing us, that sorrow was what on the horizon for Elliot and his team. Mainly because of the revelation put forth in the opening moments of ‘Crossroads’.

Since it was confirmed that the body in the back of that truck, was Sam. Not Hightower as this writer incorrectly assumed during last week’s recap, and apologies for getting it wrong. Because Sam’s passing was a huge deal, since he was a protégé of Stabler and a valued member of the team and well, that revelation pushed Stabler to do more to bring this nightmare down. After he took the time to reveal to the team what happened to Sam, in a creative manner no less. Which brought about some serious grieving in the office, and respect to the fallen. Since Stabler did make a point to mark the grave he dug for Sam, allowing for him to properly be laid to rest and well, once that was done… Stabler sprung into action in a brilliant manner.

First by cozying up to Angus and getting a good look at the operation inside and out. All so he could understand how best to get at Angus and sow doubt and concern about his actions. Which as it turned out, involved appealing to Angus’ marine roots. Since Stabler pointed out that they were dealing poison, and there was no honor to be found in dealing drugs, and that they buried one of their own in the woods out there. Which were truths that were finally reinforced when they saw a solider crumble in real time, a user no less, and that started to change Angus’ line of thinking. To the point where he decided that maybe the time had come… to find new ways to help his fellow marines and that prompted him to tell Stabler… he was ready to exit the game.

Which at first, seemed to be a wondrous choice. Since Elliot was happy to back that. as was the surprise agent in the camp’s midst as well. Since Stabler also came to learn that Trisha wasn’t a hard as nails convert, she was an ATF Agent, one who believed that there was other contraband being smuggled out of this place without Angus knowing. Giving rise to a union of heroes at last, one that should have easily brought an end to all of this…  before we came to understand… that a big fight lies ahead. Because Angus’ partner was not eager to go down without a fight, one that Stabler and Angus won handily but it led to contraction from the true villain and a horrifying revelation. In that, Joe Jr. might have more involvement in this mess than anyone knew, and he might have been involved in the unthinkable… the death of Sam.

All of which brought forth, another incredible episode from this series. One that did an amazing job of expanding upon the discovery made last week, while upping the stakes, while also… breaking our hearts. Because Sam’s passing deeply impacted the team, and the cast did an amazing job of selling that devastation through and through. Not to mention, seeing the impact of Angus’ nonsense in real time made for some powerful moments as well, and oddly… has the viewer ready to see Stabler go to war. Because the shadow partner is a real scumbag and needs to pay the piper for certain, and it will be interesting to see how Stabler manages to make that happen and to learn… whether or not Joe’s involvement with this group will bring great pain to the team and the Stabler household. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 25010 of ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
One particular behavior that criminals are now taking part in that has become both troubling and fascinating all at once, is how they are doing their best… to fight back in the courtroom against what they see to be a system that is stacked against them. Wherein they now represent themselves and create a stir during a trial to stick it to the man and prove their innocence, despite sometimes having overwhelming evidence against them. And what makes this fascinating, is the sheer fact that they are even attempting this since it often showcases their guilt and ineptitude, and it is troubling simply because… these acts are disruptive and scary in a place where decorum and the process should rule the day. Which does beg a question, in that… how do we combat it?

Because clearly, individuals interested in going this route, are looking to rattle the saber and will keep at it until it works for them, and well, it just so happens that one of the best crime shows around… offered up its own take on how best to combat this rising trend. For Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, featured this very problem in ‘Combat Fatigue’. For a disgusting man named George Brouchard, who was on trial for human trafficking, among other crimes, was close to walking free as an innocent man. Simply because he was a man that understood the power of charm, and of course… wanted his freedom since he was deluded and did not believe he did anything wrong. So, he used that charm to set in motion a grand plan to be free. Since his wares made a juror fall in love with him, which resulted in a hung jury and gave him a new trial. Where he was able to represent himself and get out on bail and his plan… was to use his charm and confidence to finish the job.

All of which brought about chaos for Carisi and Captain Benson. Because they understood what was at sake, were fully aware of what he was up to and were watching everything reach the precipice in real time. Because the mother of one of the victims of George’s machinations, named Eileen, was doing everything and anything within her power to try and get George to slip up and go to jail for all time, including breaking the law, and the team was of course… frayed and concerned as to what lie ahead. All of which spoke to a real helplessness to this newfound problem in our world. As though combating it is not a possibility since innocent until proven guilty applies in such matters, even when it is obvious that the accused will be found guilty at the end of the day and well, that’s when this story offered up the solution in question. One that was far simpler than we might expect regarding how we beat this problem.

In that, we simply take the high road and stick to the facts. Because what men like George try to do… is rattle people in the hopes of having a backfire moment so they can be seen as the victim and use that sow doubt and enjoy their freedom accordingly. Which was why George needled Ellie, and Benson’s team, and even his victim… Maddie. To have that control and to manipulate. But alas, no one let that happen, and even at her lowest, Ellie’s dark desires were kept at bay and the end result for their efforts… was an exposed George. One who was finally seen by the jury as a manipulative monster and not some kind of victim that needed to be saved from a cruel system… and off he went to jail after being found guilty and that made, for a satisfying ending to this story. One complete with a genuinely lovely lesson. Because truly, the high road does have merit and does indeed disarm when one holds steadfast to it.

All of which brought forth an episode, that oddly had some real-world echoes in play. For in many ways George and his antics resembled the Darrell Brooks trial that took place late last year, wherein Brooks represented himself and tried to sow doubt and chaos in the courtroom to garner sympathy and/or a mistrial and his judge was quick to take the high road and be mindful of his plan to ensure that he received a fair trial, and justice was served in that case as well, giving credence to the message. But that aside, this was also an engaging episode through and through, simply because George was a scumbag and we all wanted nothing more than to see justice served and this team made that happen in a powerful manner, one that has us ready for another fight for justice when the show returns from a tiny hiatus on May 2nd. Until next time.

If there is one thing that every fan hopes for when their favorite series is going off the airwaves, is that the show exits with class. Where respect is paid to everything the series accomplished and where the end in question is refined and satisfying, and of course… where the show is celebrated in every way imaginable and this is precisely what fans of Power Book II: Ghost are hoping for, for the fourth and final season of the show and the good news is, they are getting it.
​
After all, STARZ is splitting the season to make it more epic in nature, and earlier today… the network started the celebration in question. By offering up updated details on the final season and by providing the show’s loyal fans with a bevy of first-look photos of what lies ahead. All of which we will share with you now so you can have exactly what you want, as we begin to countdown to the farewell of one Tariq St. Patrick and a series that captivated us from its opening seconds.

'STARZ revealed first-look images of its fourth and final season of “Power Book II: Ghost” and announced Golden Brooks (“Girlfriends”) will join the upcoming season in a recurring role as “Janet Stewart,” Monet Tejada's cousin.
 
Part one of “Power Book II: Ghost” debuts on Friday, June 7, at midnight ET on the STARZ app, which also coincides with the 10th Anniversary of Power’s debut on STARZ.  On linear, it will debut on STARZ at 8:00 PM ET/PT in the U.S. and 9:00 PM ET in Canada.  Part two premieres on Friday, September 6, at midnight ET on the STARZ app and on STARZ at 8:00 PM ET/PT in the U.S. and 9:00 PM ET in Canada on linear.

The collection of photos includes fans' first look at Michael Ealy in the role of “Detective Don Carter,” and Golden Brooks as “Janet,” who both join the cast this season, as well as Michael Rainey Jr. and Gianni Paolo as “Tariq” and “Brayden,” who are on the run after starting a war with Noma in the season three finale.  Additional images feature the Tejada siblings Woody McClain, LaToya Tonodeo and Lovell Adams Gray as “Cane,” “Diana” and “Dru” respectively, anxiously awaiting Monet’s fate after Tasha’s attempt to take her out and Cliff “Method Man” Smith as “Davis McClean,” who is dealing with the fallout from Saxe’s death and his evidence of McClean’s involvement in the Tejada business.  
 
The final season promises to be explosive, with high-adrenaline twists and turns as everyone is on the hunt for revenge. Each character’s respective motivations fuel their power of choice to dive deeper into the game, fight their way out, or walk a blurry line between the two. As family dynamics are tested and tensions reach their peak, the unpredictable nature of this season will have viewers questioning who you can trust and if your own family will betray you. 
 
Season four of “Power Book II: Ghost” cast includes Michael Rainey Jr. as “Tariq St. Patrick,” Mary J. Blige as “Monet Tejada,” Cliff “Method Man” Smith as “Davis MacLean,” Gianni Paolo as “Brayden Weston,” Woody McClain as “Cane Tejada,” Lovell Adams-Gray as “Dru Tejada,” LaToya Tonodeo as “Diana Tejada,” Alix Lapri as “Effie Morales,” Larenz Tate as “Rashad Tate,” Caroline Chikezie as “Noma,” LightSkinKeisha as “Brushaundria Carmichael” and Michael Ealy as “Detective Don Carter.” 
 
Additional recurring cast members this season include Talia Robinson as “Elle,” the lead singer of a popular hip hop group at Stansfield; Sydney Winbush as “Anya Covington,” Noma’s daughter who is unaware of her mother’s profession; Aaron Dean Eisenberg as “Detective Nico Calder” and Allison Luff as “Detective Felicia Lewis,” two officers on Detective Carter’s Drug Task Force; and Stephanie Sheperd as “Perla Tanaka,” a law associate tasked with defending her boss, Davis McClean, against multiple charges. Yung Bleu also appears as “Stokely.”

“Power Book II: Ghost” is the first series in the expanded “Power” Universe franchise. Brett Mahoney (“Empire,” “The Following”) serves as showrunner and executive producer for season four. The “Power” Universe series is executive produced by the creator and showrunner of the original “Power,” which inspired the full universe, Courtney A. Kemp through her production company End of Episode, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson through G-Unit Film and Television, and Mark Canton through Canton Entertainment. Lionsgate Television produces the series for STARZ.

ABOUT “POWER BOOK II: GHOST” SEASON FOUR
New alliances have been formed with each faction and Tariq and Brayden must find a way back into the game. But Brayden starts flirting with a new, reckless lifestyle, leaving Tariq to wonder if there really is room for two at the top. With Monet left for dead, Davis facing potential disbarment, and Effie looking to secure her future at Stanford, everyone’s on their own. Diana and Dru continue to question their roles while Cane levels up and starts working with Noma. As Noma is fighting to establish her business in the States and keep her daughter Anya in line, she finds her way on Tariq and Brayden’s radar. With the fate of his future in the game and his family at the forefront, Tariq must reconcile his past to rise to the top of the food chain and become who he needs to be to protect those he loves most.

FOLLOW “POWER BOOK II: GHOST” ON SOCIAL
Instagram:@GhostStarz
Facebook:@GhostStarz
Join the conversation with #PowerGhost #PowerTV and #STARZ

About STARZ  
STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading media streaming platform committed to delivering premium content that amplifies narratives by, about and for women and underrepresented audiences. STARZ is home to the highly rated and first-of-its-kind STARZ app that offers the ability to stream or download STARZ premium content, as well as the flagship domestic STARZ® service, including STARZ ENCORE, 17 premium pay TV channels, and the associated on-demand and online services. STARZ is available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies. In February 2021, STARZ launched #TakeTheLead, a multi-faceted and innovative inclusion initiative expanding its existing efforts to improve representation on screen, behind the camera and throughout the company.
 
About Lionsgate
Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) encompasses world-class motion picture and television studio operations aligned with the STARZ premium subscription platform to bring a unique and varied portfolio of entertainment to consumers around the world. The Company’s film, television, subscription and location-based entertainment businesses are backed by a 20,000+ title library and a valuable collection of iconic film and television franchises. A digital age company driven by its entrepreneurial culture and commitment to innovation, the Lionsgate brand is synonymous with bold, original, relatable entertainment for audiences worldwide.'   

Truly, this era of peak television has accomplished wonders. In large part, because of the amount of programming out there, since now there really is something for everyone to watch on the networks or via their favorite streamer or streamers. But what’s truly made this era of television’s history so incredible and so worth our while, is the sheer fact that it has given rise to stories and voices that before this explosion, weren’t heard in the slightest. Which has allowed for powerful storytelling to come to life, the kind that has been original and refreshing in nature and its given rise to new franchises for the ages, one of which is about to begin its sophomore year.
​
For earlier today, we came to learn that the second season of the critically acclaimed Peacock series, We Are Lady Parts, is about to debut and that’s just wondrous news. For this is that new and dynamic franchise born in the right era of television, and it is a groundbreaking and powerful series that we have indeed been eager to enjoy more of and well, to properly celebrate this wonderful news, here are all the details on season two of this important show, along with some first look photos, and a note from Nida Manzoor, the show’s creator, courtesy of Peacock.

A NOTE FROM NIDA MANZOOR (CREATOR/WRITER/DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE PRODUCER): 
 
"Making season one of We Are Lady Parts was immense for me. It was a trial by fire, but I found my voice, my style and my confidence in creating this show. Most importantly, I found my tribe - from actors and crew to producers and studio execs. So, coming to season two, I was galvanised.  The characters, the world, the tone – it was all there, established, and ready to go. Now it was time to turn things up to 11. I wanted to go bolder, sillier, darker and deeper and that is exactly what we strived to do.  

In season two, we explore the interior lives of each of the women in more depth. Each of them facing new, existential challenges with all the silliness, pratfalls and banter of season one. The music is bigger too - more wild original tunes (penned by me and my siblings) and dare I say it, even better covers.  The season overall asks the question of success. What is success? For a punk band - is fame, stadium shows and major record deals the answer? I wanted to explore the uncomfortable tension between art and commerce and ask how much compromise is too much. I’m really proud of what we achieved, and can’t wait to share it with old fans and new."

ABOUT WE ARE LADY PARTS 
Season 2 of WE ARE LADY PARTS sees the band return with a renewed artistic mission after the high of their first UK tour, only to find a rival band threatens their delicate status quo. As the reality of chasing success sets in, Lady Parts embark on recording their first album, juggling personal ambitions and deciding whether ‘making it big’ is really what they wanted. 
ABOUT THE SERIES: 

Premiere Date/Rollout: May 30, 2024, 6 episode binge 
Creator / Writer / Director / Executive Producer: Nida Manzoor  
Executive Producers: Surian Fletcher-Jones, Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner for Working Title Television (WTTV)   
Producer: John Pocock   
Commissioned for Channel 4 by: Charlie Perkins (Head of Comedy) and Laura Riseam (Commissioning Editor)  
Produced by: Working Title Television (WTTV), which is part of Universal International Studios, a division of Universal Studio Group  
Series Regulars: Anjana Vasan, Sarah Kameela Impey, Juliette Motamed, Faith Omole, Lucie Shorthouse, Aiysha Hart, Zaqi Ismail, Shobu Kapoor   
Guest Stars: Malala Yousafzai, Meera Syal 
Distributed by: NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution   
Season 2 Format: 6 x 30 min episodes, music-infused comedy series 

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Penultimate Episode of ‘Apples Never Fall’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
One particular question that comes up often these days regarding the human psyche, is what is it that creates toxicity in individuals?  Because we are finally coming to understand, that no one is born with toxic traits in their personality, they’re instilled upon a person and no two people harbor the same path in getting there. So, we must discover what truly brings it forth to help them and understand them, and their actions and to stop the spread of this all, and this is something we are applying post haste to toxic masculinity. Since it is something that needs to be addressed with a sense of urgency in our world, and well, such matters are top of mind today, simply because that particular question and exploration was applied to Stan Delaney in the next episode of Apples Never Fall on Peacock.

For ‘Stan’ picked up sometime after it seemed he had a heart attack, only for him to learn that he actually suffered through an anxiety attack, and that he was going to be fine, physically. But of course, the police now had the video and they were eager to come after him, which prompted Brooke to hire a lawyer for Stan, a former student no less and well… once Stan left the hospital and let his lawyer keep the police at bay, did this story begin to ponder deeply upon what creates men like Stan, and yes, as it turns out… all of his anger, his fury, his desire to be more and be better was forged in his youth, courtesy of a father that was shockingly, far more toxic than Stan. A truth that came forth, by way of one last desperate attempt to prove his innocence. 

Because Logan also shared the video with his dad and let him know he sent it to the cops, and Stan knew how that looked. So, without his lawyer he marched into that police station and explained how those were Harry’s trophies he loaded into the boat and dumped into the water, and he wanted them gone to prove to Joy his family mattered more. And he finally explained that a fight with Joy happened the day she went missing, and that led to the wound on his face. But that he did not kill her or harm her. But more importantly, he opened up about his abusive past, and how he suffered through a lot to get to this point, but never wanted to be that man. All so that the police would hopefully, finally see him as a man, maybe not the best man… but a man. Of course, that didn’t work, and they demanded a confession, period, but Stan refused to offer that concession.

But it did finally inform us, that Stan paid it forward so to speak. He adopted his father’s behaviors, granted… not all of them… but the ones that served him well and imparted them accordingly. Because that is how toxicity is born and that is how it continues from generation to generation. But that aside, this did make for a fascinating origin story for Stan, one that also took the time to explore the consequences of such toxicity. Because it cost him everything. For the majority kids no longer took the time to speak with their father. Because they could no longer fathom his icy and angry nature and that was further exacerbated by a stunning ending to this particular tale. Because eventually, a podcast recording that appeared to imply Stan killed Joy, put him under arrest and shocked the family, and prompted Brooke to turn her back on her dad.

But alas those charges weren’t the biggest shocker in this story. Because shortly after Stan settled into his new life in jail, the story shifted gears and dropped a bombshell. For news of Stan’s arrest spread far and wide, even into the hands of Savannah, who enjoyed the news heartily before stepping into her home to greet an old friend… Joy Delaney. Yes, you read that right. Joy is alive and well and hanging with Savannah and that’s the giant twist this story leaves us with. Setting the stage for an epic finale, one that will have to answer a lot of questions for certain. But before we ponder upon those answers, we must revel in the majesty of this intelligent and powerful tale. One that spoke to the age-old problem of generational trauma, by way of a powerhouse performance from Sam Neill. But while that was incredible, the revelation revolving around Joy is truly top of mind and the time has come to learn… how she ended up in Savannah’s company. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episodes 102 and 103 of ‘Grand Cayman: Secrets in Paradise’. To revisit the series premiere, click here.
​
One common misconception about reality television or docu-series that showcase life as it stands, is that they are vapid in nature and full of nothing but drama from beginning to end. Granted, the early days of reality television featured a lot of that and likely helped to create this misconception about the genre. But if you look at the more modern shows in this vein, they explore so much more. Since they can examine what life is like in a part of the world, we know nothing of, and they provide us with people we relate to, despite a possible gap in our wealth standings, courtesy of moments that are real and that we have experienced or will.

Which is why Grand Cayman: Secrets in Paradise on Freeform is of note. Because this series accomplishes all of that and continued to plunge us deeper into this world during last night’s two-episode block. For ‘Flirting with Disaster’ and ‘Tequila and Tears’ really dug deep into the lives of the folks we met last week and, in the process, educated us about life on the island. Such as the fact that when it comes living there, everyone knows everyone and because of that… one should carry and conduct themselves in a certain manner. So that there isn’t bad blood or awkward moments and that brought Elizabeth back into the conversation again since some believed she was working to keep her distance from so many while stating she was all about closeness and community.

Which of course, brought forth drama and frustrations abound, the kind that were indeed spicy in nature and conflicted because of the whole Armie Hammer mess. But what mattered more here was that look into life on the island and how intricate it can be, to the point where it seems that everyone is constantly wondering if they’ve made the right romantic choices. Since there was a ton of infidelity here and ton of wandering eyes and echoes of the pain that causes. But it truly seems in an isolated island environment where ‘slim pickings’ exist… this is the romantic mantra. One that brings about heartache, like what happened to Chelsea at the end of this block, where she had to confront the very woman that was once involved with her man. 

However, while it was fascinating to see how island life can be so intricate and dramatic because of how isolated it is… there were some bright spots to be found in this tale. After all, Selita spent time in this block, working to find her calling. Which allowed for us to see what she was doing in her down time to find a spark and find a drive for something new, and how nothing seemed to excite her. But once she got back into fashion and assembled that show in record time… we saw that spark within her again. The fire that would hopefully drive her forward and prompt her to chase a true north. Giving rise to the message that the island life can have benefits when it comes to chasing one’s dreams or finding oneself. Because paradise does allow for us to get lost and get loose and that is a healthy way to drift for a bit while one searches for purpose in this crazy journey that is life.

All of which made, for a fascinating pair of episodes. That truly did offer up an in depth look at life in the Caymans. The kind that really did showcase so much and busted so many reality television tropes in the process and allowed for everything that everyone experienced here to feel real. Sure, it might have been a little disjointed since these folks live in actual paradise. But they’re still people, they still hurt, and they want what anyone one else does. They want peace, they want love, true… lasting love… and they also want agency and success and that is what makes this show so engaging. Because we simply want to know if these islanders can find those things in a place that promises dreams will come true… or if we are about to embark on a sobering journey where they learn that paradise is a myth. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 206 of ‘Lopez vs Lopez’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
There is strange belief in our modern world, that once someone commits to recovery from substance abuse, that they will be just fine. Which has some merit to say the least, simply because… they’re obviously putting in the work at that point, and they’re enjoying the spoils of being free of addiction’s grasp. So they must be on the right path, they must be ready to find happiness at every turn. But alas, that’s simply not the case, and nothing more than an easy way to not have to worry about the reality that accompanies this phase of recovery. In that, committed or not, there are not always happy days and joyous epiphanies ahead. Life still goes on, and there are still emotional moments to be had, some of which… come from the fact that one is sober.

For chemicals within the brain are changing, and emotions that were numbed by the power of a drug or other substance… are suddenly present again and that can be a lot for people to deal with. Which means they need a support network, someone who can guide them through the storm. Sometimes, that’s a family member, sometimes… it is a professional and other times… well it’s a special individual that helps us and the person in question understand the need for a professional, as evidenced by the next episode of Lopez vs Lopez on NBC. For ‘Lopez vs Let It Go’ saw George… battling his emotions. For those very reasons mentioned a moment ago, and well… that concerned Mayan greatly, and Rosie as well… and that prompted the two of them to try and find George some help. 

On his terms, however. Since Mayan and Rosie knew that taking George to a therapist would be a disaster, so they settled on a Curandero, or healer, if you will. Who was happy to bring George into his very karmic stead. Wherein George learned about letting things go and the wonder of being in a cult. Because Carlos, wasn’t a very good healer. Sure, he had some decent advice to offer, but he just wanted to keep his practice going and wanted to keep the money rolling in for it. So, he made George feel special enough to hand over his savings and offered him a new home within the group’s community. Which Mayan was not good with, and thanks to her efforts and George’s electric personality, he was freed from the cult’s clutches and learned some valuable lessons. Such as the importance of finding the right help, and the need to process and control his emotions. So that he didn’t make rash decisions in the name of his addictive personality.

But of course, George wasn’t made to feel bad for this, for Mayan made it clear that he did take part in help, and that’s huge because it does take willingness to make that happen. Which made for another powerful episode, one that offered up more raw lessons about the tough nature of the road that is recovery. Since it requires the body and mind to re-learn so much. But while that was incredible to watch play out, as has been tradition this season, there was a secondary plot to offer up a respite from the heavier stuff. One where Rosie and Oscar worked together to keep the other house near her free from tenants. A move that mostly worked until a dude named Bryan refused to be scared off. Prompting Rosie to take a stand and well, buy the property outright to have her own peace and quiet or decide on her own tenants.

All of which brought forth another meaningful and amazing episode from this series. One that truly explored a corner of recovery that few shows have, and it also was host to some amazing guest stars since Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong dropped by to play Carlos and Bryan, respectively, and reminded us once again how they are true comedic geniuses. And since this show is all about respect for the legacy of Latin Americans and the comedians that paved the way for this show, the moment at the end where the cast of this show re-enacted ‘Mexican Americans’ with two legends, was the stuff of legend, and put a perfect bow on a perfect episode. For this one featured everything we love about this series. Since it was as smart as can be, relatable and human, and of course… filled to the brim with respect for Latin American culture and two men who helped bring it into the mainstream. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 205 of ‘Lopez vs Lopez’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
Often times, stories that focus on addiction and its recovery process, have a tendency to speed through the healing, and understandably so. Simply because, a vast majority of us don’t understand what goes into coming back from years of addiction… so it is deemed best that a story focus upon the simple aspects of healing and how we make peace with addiction over anything else. All so we find inspiration and perhaps are not confused by too much detail. Which while noble in nature, does the story and the viewer a disservice. Because that route does in fact, detract from the hard realities of recovery, the kind that people do need to take part in, so they can face them bravely and handle them with a measure of confidence and that is why this week’s episode of Lopez vs Lopez is of note.

Simply because ‘Lopez vs Raider Nation’ explored how addiction causes great harm and how much work has to go into repairing the damage it brought forth in a person’s life, and it accomplished such feats… by having George work hard on his eighth step. Which in the world of the Twelve Step Program, involves offering amends to those who suffered the most harm during one’s darkest hours with addiction, and George was tearing all over town to offer those apologies up, and was happy over the fact that he was making peace with his sordid and painful past. But there was one individual who was left out of the apology tour and that bothered Oscar to no end.

Because he was there for some of George’s worst moments, and even took the fall for one of them so George would be okay, and it deeply wounded him that George had not apologized for that. So… he came up with a plan to make it happen. Wherein he would bring George, Momo, and Raul to the Raiders/Chargers game, where he took the fall for his hermano, to prompt George to make amends. But that of course, didn’t work and Oscar was deeply wounded over how little George recalled of that moment, and how he now blamed Oscar for everything. Which in turn, prompted Momo to fill George in on everything that concerned Oscar along with the truth about how that moment went down. Which gave George pause and helped him to understand the real damage his actions caused and how much more work he had to do to properly offer amends, since his memory had a bit of fog, and well… to start that process… he did right by Oscar in one epic manner. 

A plot that truly presented in a very raw manner, the impact of substance abuse and how hard the road to recovery can be. Since the bigger picture isn’t always present and that requires more work to make things right. Which is the kind of frank and wondrous explorations we have come to expect from this show and while this was going on, a secret was revealed back home. Because Mayan had concerns about how much time her mom was spending with Quinten, and that prompted her to swing by mom’s place, with Quinten, to discuss the need for Rosie to return to the dating game. But… surprise, surprise… Mayan and Quinten were met at the door by Rosie’s new beau, and that meant Rosie was on the spot and had to explain why she was keeping this a secret from everyone. As it turned out, it was to protect her daughter. To make sure the right man had the honor of meeting her, which was a very sweet sequence to see play out, one that did bring some solid laughs.

Granted, so did George’s story since the whole Raiders game and guest appearance from Marshawn Lynch made for some memorable moments. But laughs aside, this was a brilliant episode through and through, and it truly offered up some incredible observations and moments revolving around the theme at hand. The kind we honestly don’t see in this type of show since sitcoms are all about the funny. But this series has figured out how to add real depth into the mix and for its efforts… people in need of guidance on such matters have it after this episode, and those unsure of how to support someone in recovery are aware now of the honesty it requires and that really does make this an amazing show through and through, one that is as much about life as it is about the laughs. Until next time.

It is definitely safe to say that the Apple TV+ series, For All Mankind, is one of the most captivating science fiction shows to hit the airwaves in years. In large part, because it presents us with one incredible ‘what if?’ scenario, since it has spent four seasons immersed in a world where the United States of America, lost the space race. A storytelling decision that has allowed for the series to explore how that could have moved technological progress forward since the space race became the focus over arms, and of course… it’s also brought forth some philosophical questions about our role in the stars and what it could do for the betterment of our species.
​
All of which has brought forth accolades and praise for the show and its incredible writing and fans have responded to the brilliance of the show by tuning in passionately and spreading the word of its wonder and of course, we’ve all been patiently waiting to hear if a new season is in the cards, so we can see where this amazing journey takes us next. Which is why today’s announcement is of note. For earlier today Apple TV+ let it be known that the series will receive a fifth season, allowing for us to see what comes next after that bold finale and to enhance that news further, Apple TV+ also announced that this incredible universe is expanding as well.

For it also gave the green light to a new series entitled, Star City. Which will explore how the Soviet Union managed to beat America to the surface of the moon. Both of which are announcements that are wondrous to say the least. Because we really do want to see where this story goes with active colonies and economies out there in the void and well… one cannot go wrong with looking at how the other half would have fared by being first to the moon and to properly offer this epic announcement the justice it deserves, here are all the details on this magnificent news, courtesy of Apple TV+.  
 
‘Following its critically acclaimed fourth season, which has been praised as “the best-written show on all of television” and “superior sci-fi," Apple TV+ today announced that its hit, award-winning space drama series “For All Mankind” has landed a renewal for season five. Additionally, Apple TV+ and “For All Mankind” creators Ronald D. Moore, Matt Wolpert and Ben Nedivi will expand the “For All Mankind” universe with a brand-new spinoff series, “Star City,” which will be showrun by Nedivi and Wolpert. Both series are produced for Apple TV+ by Sony Pictures Television.
 
“Our fascination with the Soviet space program has grown with every season of ‘For All Mankind,’” said executive producers Matt Wolpert and Ben Nedivi. “The more we learned about this secret city in the forests outside Moscow where the Soviet cosmonauts and engineers worked and lived, the more we wanted to tell this story of the other side of the space race. We could not be more excited to continue building out the alternate history universe of ‘For All Mankind’ with our partners at Apple and Sony.”
 
“With each new season, ‘For All Mankind’ continues to build out a fascinating world and capture global audiences through high quality storytelling that has been so skillfully developed by Ron, Matt and Ben,” said Matt Cherniss head of programming for Apple TV+. “There is so much to explore and, we along with our partners at Sony, can’t wait to dive into this next chapter of the engrossing ‘For All Mankind’ universe.”
 
A robust expansion of the "For All Mankind” universe, “Star City” is a propulsive paranoid thriller that takes us back to the key moment in the alt-history retelling of the space race - when the Soviet Union became the first nation to put a man on the moon. But this time, we explore the story from behind the Iron Curtain, showing the lives of the cosmonauts, the engineers, and the intelligence officers embedded among them in the Soviet space program, and the risks they all took to propel humanity forward. “Star City” is created by Matt Wolpert, Ben Nedivi, and Ronald D. Moore. Nedivi and Wolpert serve as showrunners and executive produce alongside Moore and Davis of Tall Ship Productions.
 
Since its global debut, “For All Mankind” has been widely acclaimed as “one of the best shows on television,” and season four holds a perfect 100% Certified Fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes.
 
“For All Mankind” is created by Emmy Award winner Moore, and Emmy nominees Wolpert and Nedivi. Wolpert and Nedivi serve as showrunners and executive produce alongside Moore and Maril Davis of Tall Ship Productions, as well as David Weddle, Bradley Thompson, Seth Edelstein and Kira Snyder. “For All Mankind” is produced for Apple TV+ by Sony Pictures Television.
 
The latest season for “For All Mankind” rocketed the series into the new millennium in the eight years since season three, Happy Valley has rapidly expanded its footprint on Mars by turning former foes into partners. Now 2003, the focus of the space program has turned to the capture and mining of extremely valuable, mineral-rich asteroids that could change the future of both Earth and Mars. But simmering tensions between the residents of the now-sprawling international base threaten to undo everything they are working towards.
 
All four seasons of “For All Mankind” are now streaming globally on Apple TV+.
 
Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have been honored with 482 wins and 2,142 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”
 
About Apple TV+
Apple TV+ is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $9.99 per month. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free.*
 
For more information, visit apple.com/tvpr and see the full list of supported devices.’

It is definitely safe to say that we’ve enjoyed a great deal of memorable crime dramas over the past few years. For peak television has allowed for amazing ideas and amazing shows to come forth, the kind that have captivated us and this era of peak television has also given rise, to some instant classics. Shows that simply stand out in this genre and wow us through and through and one particular show in that vein, is Harry Wild on Acorn TV. For this Jane Seymour-led crime drama truly resonates with its loyal fans, courtesy of some storytelling elements that not every crime show has tapped into. 

Such as the fact that this really is that rare story that anyone can relate to and get lost within, because Harry Wild… is one of us. That everyday person that found themselves in a new career field that they thrive within, something we all aspire to take part of at some point or another. Not to mention, the show features incredibly intelligent cases that are both complex and bold, and in some cases, supremely progressive in nature. Making it one of the most refreshing crime dramas out there and the fans of course are more than ready for more adventures with Harry and her trusty and amazing partner, Fergus.

In fact, Acorn TV is so cognizant of the fact that we are counting down the minutes to the season three premiere of the show, that they decided now would be a good time to offer up quite the gift to the fanbase. Which is why earlier today, the network released a trailer for season three of this beloved show, along with some updated details on the upcoming new season, which we will share with you now. To truly prepare you for another year of amazing cases that will undoubtedly continue to captivate us. 

'Today, Acorn TV unveiled the official trailer for the highly anticipated return of the hit crime drama Harry Wild, starring Emmy® and Golden Globe® Award winner Jane Seymour. Season three debuts with a two-episode premiere on Acorn TV on Monday, May 13, with a co-premiere at 9:00 pm ET on AMC Networks’ linear platform, BBC America.
 
In season three, Harry (Seymour) and Fergus (Rohan Nedd, Whitstable Pearl) are hired to prove the lead singer of Ireland’s hottest boy band didn’t kill himself, find out who decapitated a woman in a busy restaurant, discover who murdered a despotic director on the set of Ireland’s leading daytime soap opera, work out how a mystery writer managed to shoot himself in a locked panic room without a gun, and more. 
 
Meanwhile, with the agency still as busy as ever, Harry and Fergus have to find a way to balance work and life as Fergus plans to contest Paula’s (Samantha Mumba, The Time Machine, Evolution) custody claim to his sister. The series also stars Kevin Ryan (Guilt, Copper) as Harry’s son and senior police detective; Amy Huberman (Finding Joy, Striking Out) as Harry’s daughter-in-law; as well as Paul Tylak (Kin), and Rose O’Neill. 
 
Harry Wild is produced by Dynamic Television. Acorn Media Enterprises co-produces alongside ZDF. Season three is created and written by David Logan, along with writer Jo Spain, and executive produced by Jane Seymour, Daniel March, Klaus Zimmermann, James Gibb, Morgan O’Sullivan, James Flynn, Catherine Mackin and Bea Tammer. Robert Quinn and Emer Conroy serve as directors. The season consists of six episodes and will be available on Acorn TV in the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom.