‘Magnum P.I.’ Recap: ‘Dead Ringer’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

MAGNUM P.I. -- "Dead Ringer" Episode 506 -- Pictured: (l-r) Jay Hernandez as Thomas Magnum, Perdita Weeks as Juliet Higgins -- (Photo by: Zack Dougan/NBC)

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 506 of ‘Magnum P.I.’ To revisit the previous episode, click here. This article also contains discussions of suicide which may be triggering for some individuals.
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As a society, we have the reached the point, where we are truly beginning to understand the raw power of the trauma that arises when we lose a loved one. Simply because mental health is something we are finally focused upon, and that focus has allowed for us to learn that the death of a loved can cause incredible trauma to a person’s mental health and devastate them for years on end. Plus, we are learning that the healing process is unique to the individual, and that every person that goes through such a tough time… needs support in some form or fashion to find their way back. Because to deny them that, can prolong the healing process or worse… allow for them to slide into a dark place mentally. Where they may reside for ages on end in sorrow… or potentially worse. 
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The latter of which is something that last night’s episode of Magnum P.I. on NBC opted to explore, and ‘Dead Ringer’ made such an exploration possible, by giving Thomas and Juliet, quite the mysterious case. For they received a wad of cash in the mail and an anonymous note to investigate a former Honolulu PD officer, named Jack Hill. Who left the force under odd circumstances and may have done something horrible. Which at first, seemed to be nothing more than just a strange letter and a strange request. Especially since there was nothing suspicious at Jack’s home. But the discovery who sent the note and why, prompted Magnum and Higgins to dig deeper and uncover some unsettling facts.

Such as how Jack lost his wife a few years back, and he was so traumatized over her loss and so isolated from a support and care standpoint, that he turned to some unhealthy coping behaviors. Such as paying escorts to dress up as his wife did, and spend time with him so he could feel as though she was there again. But the disappearance of a woman that was a dead ringer for his late wife, left the duo wondering if by chance… he committed the biggest sin as part of his unhealthy coping process. Which meant Detective Childs had to get involved and press on the matter, to the point where Jack… opted to end his life rather than be caught regarding what actually happened to that poor soul. In that, he hid her away in his house for years on end… to have someone around that reminded him of his late wife.

All of which spoke to how devastating trauma can be, and why people suffering from it need outright support… so they don’t become that lost in their grief. Granted, that may be an extreme example, but it is metaphorical in nature regarding the isolation and trapping thoughts trauma can produce. All of which made for some heavy moments for certain, something this series isn’t known for, and that is why… there were some bright spots to be found. For instance, this is the story where at long last, the truth about Magnum and Higgins was revealed to the group. A truth that brought forth hope for Rick in matters of love and mutual happiness from TC. Since everyone just wanted this duo to be happy, and this was also a pivotal episode for Gordon. Because this episode featured his big hearing, the one that would forever determine his fate as a law enforcement officer.

Which he of course, rightfully worried about, until the moment he was allowed to plead his case before the top brass. Wherein… he spoke masterfully about his decision and his worth as a cop and well, being honest in that manner… netted him the return of his badge. All of which made for quite the incredible episode. One that really hammered home some unique thoughts about the power of trauma and our role in helping others suffering from it, and it also took the time to progress some critical plot points and grow a healthy relationship. And well, you can never go wrong with a show that gives you plenty to think about while making you smile, and it will be interesting to see what other unique and thoughtful plots await us, as season five of this wonderful series continues along. Until next time.   

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