Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 1316 of’ Chicago Fire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely quite joyous, that Hollywood is finally talking about grief, and its power on a regular basis. Because for far too long, society and popular media have shied away from something that we all will experience in some capacity, and we need to know that it is coming and that dealing with it is difficult. Because grief is strong and grief transforms us, and the sooner we know what to expect from it, the better. So, that we can better prepare for the fight back from it and heal in a manner that is healthy and wholesome, free from the regrets of what grief wants to accomplish, and that is why this week’s episode of Chicago Fire on NBC is of note. Since it put that on display and spoke to how best to deal with it, in its early days.  

But before we dig deep into how ‘In the Rubble’ explored that, we do need to discuss the other important storylines present in this tale. For we saw Damon’s troubles be addressed here. Because he washed out of Firehouse 20, thanks to the mess that took place there and went back into the floater pool. Which prompted Stellaride and Novak to go to bat for him and push hard to get him assigned to 51. For they needed a permanent person on truck and despite some pushback, and some potential romantic conflicts down the line since Novak made a move on Damon… he was finally granted a home at 51. Plus, we also saw Violet try and reconcile her feelings for Carver and her role in his struggles. Because sometimes… that’s just what we must do when we care for someone, and it was powerful to see her process so much in this tale.

However, the centerpiece of the story was indeed the power of grief and how we handle its gravity when someone in our lives is going through it, and that was of course… handled through Chief Dom Pascal’s journey here. Who at first, appeared to be handling Monica’s death better than expected. Since he was getting the arrangements for her service hammered out and he returned to work with vigor and focus. But soon, it became clear… that he was still in the throes of grief and that two weeks was not enough time to process such a loss. In fact, we were witness to a downward spiral really. Because after a bold rescue with the squad, Pascal got some sour news regarding the final report on Monica’s passing. In that, there would be no criminal charges for anyone involved and that this was an accident and that… was unacceptable to Dom.

Because he wanted justice for Monica and that led to that spiral. For he verbally attacked the man involved in the accident and even scoped out his house, and to make matters worse… he pushed the team to go over the accident. To the point where he made all the officers double check their reports and he even pulled the entire team down to the location where it all happened, to review this in person and that brought about a real breakdown for certain. Yet, no one said or did a thing and that was lesson number one. In that, when someone is hurting like that and the pain is fresh, you let them feel their feels. Because they have to let it ride and experience the ache so that it burns out. For only then will listen to reasons and accept help, and by doing this… Severide was able to talk Dom down from revenge and the team… was able to support him on that tough day.

Which made… for one moving story for certain. One that really showcased grief in the raw, and Dermot Mulroney deserves a standing ovation for his work here. Because he sold grief so well. The shock of it, the lingering anger that comes with it and even the raw madness it induces, and that added to the power of this story and undoubtedly brought so many of us to tears. But what matters more, is the powerful advice this episode offered us regarding how we handle it, and how we truly support those that matter to us when they are going through it, and while that made for a lovely episode… it does bring about some questions. In that, will Dom be able to serve as 51’s chief going forward? Because healing from grief is not a quick and pretty process and being there might echo his pain since 51 was supposed to signal his fresh start. Time will tell of course, but for now, we can continue to revel in a powerful story that did an amazing job exploring the power of grief. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 1016 of ‘Chicago Med’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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If there is one particular drawback that can sometimes accompany medical shows, it would have to be that they are sometimes just deeply mired in darkness. But it does makes sense as to why that happens. After all, hospitals are a place where bad wounds and illnesses are treated, and sadly… not everyone survives their wounds or their affliction. So, it does stand to reason that people will die, that sorrow will prevail, and tough days exist for the doctors and nurses that live there. But what we also forget, is that they are a place of healing, where sometimes… medical miracles do happen and where joyous moments take place, and that is why this week’s episode of Chicago Med is of note.

Simply because ‘Poster Child’ offered up nothing but the bright side of working in the ER, and it accomplished that feat through a bevy of plotlines. Some of which involved the staff directly. Since we came to learn here that Dr. Ripley survived his ordeal in the last episode, with just a busted-up ankle, and well… his fine work there bought him a second chance at last. One he did not want to squander. Plus, we also learned more about Dr. Frost’s past and the unhealthy sexual relationship he shared with his former co-star. One where she clearly held all the emotional cards, and revisiting that and talking with Maggie about it… prompted him to try and heal from that and grow, and that too… was its own special brand of joy. Because it is a big deal when we detach ourselves from toxic relationships.

But there were also some patient themed stories that added to such wonder. In fact, the case that Dr. Frost was working was in that vein. Because he partnered with Dr. Charles to examine a unique case involving a pre-teen. Who was vomiting violently on a regular basis, but there was no real reason as to why. For his weight was in check, and there was structure in his family life. But a good long talk with Dr. Charles revealed that this teenager to be, was starting to discover that he was attracted to the same sex and that was frowned upon in his family. Which prompted him to resort to aversion therapy every time he felt that pull in his heart. Which in turned forced this duo to creatively navigate discussing this with his parents to give this poor kid a break from self-harm and a chance to really work through what he was feeling and believe it or not… a talk with his father, allowed for that to happen. Giving rise to a special healing moment for certain.

Not to mention, there was a true medical miracle that played out in the ER in this tale. One that served as a blast from Goodwin’s past. For a patient she helped treat as a nurse, one who ended up in a coma after a frenetic fight to save her life years ago, was back in the ER, with her mother no less, and in trouble. For a tumor had developed in Josephine’s brain and it was now a race to remove it and save her, and there was hesitation on the mother’s part. Since Angela had bad memories of Gaffney, and was worried the surgery would ruin what the tumor was doing. In that, it was slowly waking Josephine up from her long slumber. Which prompted Sharon to apologize and get to know Angela a little better, to make peace and help her decide on the surgery one way or the other, and well, her kindness, and some amazing thinking, and work, on the behalf of Doctors Abrams and Lenox… led to that miracle. For Josephine woke up post-surgery, and made her mother as happy as can be in the process.

All of which made, for a supremely uplifting episode for certain. One that spoke to how hospitals are not just places of pain and suffering. For they can also be places of real healing, on so many levels, and places of great joy. For there is wonder to be found in good news regarding a surgery, or that someone gets to keep their job, or will be free of a longstanding pain emotionally… or will open their eyes for the first time in years. Which are elements that left us in good spirits, and we even got to see Dr. Lenox let loose for a change. Since she came along to celebrate with the residents after their new postings came forth and that was nice to see take place. Since Lenox has indeed just locked herself into her work, and well, this was just refreshing to enjoy, and it will be interesting to see what other uplifting moments we will be treated to as this season continues along. Until next time.

Truly, the AMC+ and IFC series, SisterS, was quite the breath of fresh air when it debuted. Thanks in large part to its unique plot. One that showcased the modern world of family life as it stands and how complex it can be thanks to the strange factors we now sometimes encounter when it comes to family. Plus, it was funny and moving and original in every sense of the word and so many loved what it had to offer that fans have been patiently awaiting news as to whether or not the story would continue via a second season.
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Well, at long last, we now know that yes, SisterS, will be back for a second season. In fact, production is underway now with the principal cast returning so that Sara and Suze can continue their incredible story and make us chuckle along the way. And to properly celebrate this wondrous news, here are all the details on season two of the show, along with a delightful production photo, to prepare us for the next chapter in this magnificent tale, courtesy of IFC and AMC+.

‘IFC and AMC+ announced the renewal of dark comedy SisterS, created by, written and starring real-life best friends Emmy® nominee Sarah Goldberg (Barry) and Susan Stanley. Donal Logue and Sophie Thompson are confirmed to reprise their roles as Jimmy and Sheryl, respectively, in the six-episode, thirty-minute series. Other stars include Sonja Smits, Barbara Brennan, Jim Annan, Dylan Taylor, Vanessa Matsui, Peter Keleghan and Linda Kash. Currently filming in Canada, SisterS is slated to premiere in 2026 exclusively on IFC and AMC+ in the US. In Ireland the series will air on RTÉ. In Canada, the series is a Crave Original and streams on Crave. Fremantle is handling global sales.
 
Season two picks up in Dublin, eighteen months after Sare (Sarah Goldberg) had abandoned her sister Suze (Susan Stanley), who has just discovered she can’t have the biological child she has just figured out she wants. Meanwhile in Canada, Sare realizes she is floating in the dreamy haze of denial about who she is but thinks she has managed to board the ‘perfect life’ train, just in the nick of time. When an invite to Sare’s wedding lands on Suze’s doorstep, Suze travels to Canada in the hope of reconnecting with her sister. Then, the sisterly drama ensues.
 
“The complex yet comedic story of Sare and Suze continues,” said Shannon Cooper, VP, Programming, AMC Networks. “We are delighted to partner, once again, with Sarah Goldberg and Susan Stanley on SisterS. As real-life best friends, the dynamic chemistry the ladies bring to the screen is raw, emotional and relatable. Season 2 is sure to be a relationship rollercoaster and we cannot wait to join the ride.”
 
"We are thrilled that our first Comedy Drama has been renewed for a second season. While we have the familiar faces from season one, it feels like we're starting afresh, as the story shifts to Canada, bringing with it a whole new world and set of characters,” said Richard Cook & Angela Squire, Peer Pressure. “Making our first show in Canada has been an exciting journey and we are grateful to continue our partnership with Christina Jennings and her fantastic team at Shaftesbury."
 
"It has been such fun to repatriate Sarah Goldberg and welcome our Irish production family to Canada for season two,” said Christina Jennings, President and Chairman, Shaftesbury. “Season one managed to deliver laugh-out-loud comedy while maintaining a unique sense of authenticity. I really look forward to seeing this continue, but with a Canadian winter as the backdrop.”
 
“We are delighted to have recommissioned a second series of SisterS in what promises to be an exciting year for RTÉ drama,” said Justin Healy, Commissioning Editor Comedy, RTÉ. “Series one was popular with our audiences, and we are proud to once again be supporting hugely talented Irish creatives and our partners in this international production. We now get to build on the first series with the writing and comedy really punching through. RTÉ prides itself on putting great local drama on an international stage and given the overall quality of this production along with a stellar cast, the second season of SisterS promises to do just that!”
 
SisterS is written by Susan Stanley, Karen Kicak, Nessa Wrafter and Paul Howard and directed by Yael Staav. Executive producers are Angela Squire, Richard Cook, Sarah Goldberg, Susan Stanley, Christina Jennings, Scott Garvie, Declan Lowney, Kira Carstensen, Melanie Donkers, Ruth Coady, Justin Healy, and Karen Kicak.  Story Producer is Paul Howard. Producers are Alex House and Paige Haight. SisterS, an IFC and AMC+ Original Series, is a Canada/Ireland Co-Production from Peer Pressure (Ireland) and Shaftesbury (Canada) in association with Mermade and Crave.
 
About IFC
IFC is the home of offbeat, unexpected comedies. Acclaimed series Documentary Now!, Brockmire, Sherman’s Showcase, Baroness von Sketch Show, and Year of the Rabbit air alongside fan-favorite movies and comedic cult TV shows. IFC is owned and operated by AMC Networks Inc., and available across multiple platforms. IFC is Always On, Slightly Off.
 
About AMC+ 
AMC+ is the company’s premium streaming bundle featuring an extensive lineup of popular and critically acclaimed original programming from AMC, BBC America, IFC, and SundanceTV and full access to targeted streaming services Shudder, Sundance Now and IFC Films Unlimited, which feature content such as A Discovery of Witches, Creepshow, and Boyhood. The service features a continually refreshed library of commercial-free content, with iconic series from the AMC Networks portfolio including Mad Men, Halt & Catch Fire, Hell on Wheels, Turn: Washington’s Spies, Rectify, Portlandia, Orphan Black and series from The Walking Dead Universe, among many others. The service also offers a growing slate of original and exclusive series including Gangs of London, Dark Winds, and the first two series in a new Anne Rice universe, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches. With new movies released every Friday, AMC+ is the newest destination for exclusive film premieres direct from theaters all year long. AMC+ is available in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Spain and is available in the U.S. through AMCPlus.com, the AMC+ app, and a number of digital and cable partners.  
 
About Peer Pressure
Peer Pressure are Originating Producers of Comedy Drama SISTERS, which they developed with co-creators and leads EMMY nominated Sarah Golberg (BARRY) and Susan Stanley and EMMY Award Winning Declan Lowney, who also directed.  Peer Pressure also co-produced hit thriller, THE INHERITANCE, starring Robert James-Collier, Gaynor Faye, Jemima Rooper, Samantha Bond, Larry Lamb, Kevin Whately, Pauline McLynn and Rory Fleck Byrne for Paramount.  THE INHERITANCE is also on Netflix and BritBox.  SISTERS Season 2 is currently in production in Canada for RTE, Crave and IFC: an Irish/Canadian Co-Production with Shaftesbury.  Peer Pressure are about to go into Prep on a 6x1 hour Drama to be filmed in Ireland to be announced soon.
 
About Shaftesbury
Shaftesbury, an award-winning creator and producer of original content, was established in 1987 by Christina Jennings, Chairman and President. Shaftesbury's current primetime slate includes 18 seasons of the international hit series Murdoch Mysteries for CBC Television, Acorn TV, Ovation TV and Alibi Channel, and seven seasons of Hudson & Rex for Citytv, UPtv and Alibi Channel. Both series are available in over 120 countries worldwide.  Other productions include: six seasons of the horror anthology series Slasher on Shudder and Hollywood Suite, with Emmy® Award-winner Eric McCormack starring in the fifth season; three seasons of the Departure for Global starring Emmy® Award-winner Archie Panjabi and the late Academy® Award-winner Christopher Plummer; and SisterS, an Irish-Canadian co-production starring Sarah Goldberg (Barry) and Susan Stanley, for Crave, RTÉ and IFC. Most recently, production wrapped on the one-hour crime drama Underbelly (starring Stephen Amell, Hamza Haq, Tamara Podemski and Emmy® and Academy Award®-nominee Minnie Driver) for Crave, and Irish Blood - an Irish-Canadian co-production starring Alicia Silverstone for AMC/Acorn TV. For more information visit shaftesbury.ca. 
 
About Fremantle 
Fremantle is a leading global creator, producer and distributor of some of the world’s most successful content across Entertainment, Drama & Film, and Documentaries.  
 
Amplifying local stories on a global scale, Fremantle produces and delivers premium, multi-genre IP across the 27 territories it operates in. Fremantle is a proudly independent group of content creators, and home to some of the biggest entertainment formats, compelling international dramas, award-winning films and high-quality documentaries.
 
From Got Talent to Sullivan’s Crossing, Family Feud to Poor Things, Fellow Travelers to Queen, Too Hot To Handle to Big Mood, Maxton Hall to Idols, and Queer to The Zelensky Story, our focus is simple – Fremantle creates and delivers irresistible entertainment.     
  
Fremantle also represents world-leading digital and branded entertainment, with more than 550 million fans and 360 billion views for its standout content across all platforms. Fremantle’s Global Channels unit consists of more than 20 FAST channels worldwide, including Buzzr, Rig TV, and Baywatch. 
 
Fremantle is part of RTL Group, a global leader across broadcast, streaming, content and digital, itself a division of the international media, services, and education company Bertelsmann.
 
For more information, please visit www.fremantle.com, follow Fremantle on Twitter @FremantleHQ and Instagram @Fremantle or visit Fremantle’s LinkedIn page.’

It is definitely safe to say, that audiences were blown away by the first season of the amazing Apple TV+ series, WondLa. After all, season one truly plunged us into an amazing adaptation of Tony DiTerlizzi’s New York Times bestselling book series, The Search for WondLa, courtesy of amazing acting, writing, and visuals that outright took our breath away and of course… that first season left us hungry for more. In part because it was just that good, but also because this was a planned trilogy, one whose second chapter draws near, and that we now know more about.

For recently, Apple TV+ was nice enough to unveil a grand sneak peek at season two. One complete with a premiere date, and details regarding part two this adventure and well, this was worth the wait. For the visuals gifted unto us are stunning, intoxicating and enticing and the details supplied only add to our collective excitement and well, here are those gifts for you to the enjoy, courtesy of Apple TV+. So that you can properly prepare yourself for another amazing chapter in this stunning and epic story.
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‘Apple TV+ announced the thrilling continuation of the beloved animated adventure trilogy “WondLa,” with season two set to debut globally on April 25, 2025. Hailing from Skydance Animation and based on Tony DiTerlizzi’s New York Times bestselling book series “The Search for WondLa,” the series is showrun and executive produced by Bobs Gannaway. 
 
This monumental second installment features a star-studded voice cast, including Jeanine Mason (“Roswell, New Mexico”) as Eva, Emmy Award winner Brad Garrett (“Everybody Loves Raymond”) as Otto, Gary Anthony Williams (“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows”) as Rovender and many more. Emmy Award nominee Teri Hatcher (“Desperate Housewives”) returns as the voice of Eva’s new caretaker. New cast members include John Harlan Kim (“Cruel Intentions”) as Hailey, and Ana Villafañe (“Castro’s Daughter”) as Eva 8.
 
This futuristic coming-of-age story follows sixteen-year-old Eva 9 as her epic journey continues, and she uncovers startling truths about her past and the world she calls home.  Picking up from season one’s shocking cliffhanger, Eva is drawn toward the promise of home—but new discoveries only lead to more unanswered questions. As she searches for the truth, Eva finds herself pursued by a relentless force that believes she holds the key to something far greater than she ever imagined.  In a season brimming with revelations, sacrifice, and an existential fight for survival, Eva must choose where she truly belongs.
 
The epic trilogy’s sophomore season continues with seven adventure-packed, half-hour episodes executive produced by Tony DiTerlizzi and Bobs Gannaway alongside Ellen Goldsmith-Vein, Jeremy Bell, Julie Kane-Ritsch, and Skydance Animation’s John Lasseter, David Ellison and Dana Goldberg. The series is also produced by Tony Cosanella.
 
Apple TV+ and Skydance Animation previously partnered to release the Apple Original Films animated feature film “Luck.” The award-winning slate of original series and films for kids and families on Apple TV+ also includes the Emmy Award winning live-action animated hybrid special, “The Velveteen Rabbit”; the Academy Award and BAFTA Award-winning animated short film “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse”; and BAFTA Award-winning and Academy Award-nominated animated film “Wolfwalkers.”
 
The exciting slate of recent offerings for kids and families on Apple TV+ features the recently released music-driven animated comedy series “BE@RBRICK” from DreamWorks Animation; “Goldie,” inspired by Emily Brundige’s award-winning 2019 short film of the same name; Peanuts series “Camp Snoopy”; the second season of beloved animated series “Frog and Toad,” based on the Caldecott and Newbery Honor-winning books; celebrated kids and family series “Yo Gabba GabbaLand!,” inspired by the hit, Emmy Award-nominated cultural phenomenon “Yo Gabba Gabba!”; “Me,” an elevated cinematic coming-of-age story from Barry L. Levy; and “Wonder Pets: In the City,” from Jennifer Oxley.
 
Award-winning all-ages offerings now streaming globally on Apple TV+ also include the BAFTA Award and Humanitas Prize-winning “El Deafo,” BAFTA Award-winning “Lovely Little Farm,” “Duck & Goose,” “Get Rolling With Otis,” Spin Master Entertainment’s “Sago Mini Friends,” GLAAD Media Award-nominated “Pinecone & Pony,” The Jim Henson Company’s Emmy Award-winning “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock,” “Harriet the Spy” and “Slumberkins,” Sesame Workshop’s “Helpsters,” Joseph Gordon-Levitt, HITRECORD and Bento Box Entertainment’s “Wolfboy and the Everything Factory,” Jack McBrayer and Angela C. Santomero’s Emmy Award-nominated “Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show,” Peanuts and WildBrain’s Emmy Award-nominated “Snoopy in Space,” “The Snoopy Show,” and Peabody and Emmy Award-winning series “Stillwater.” Live-action offerings include Bonnie Hunt’s DGA and WGA Award-nominated “Amber Brown,” DGA Award-winning “Best Foot Forward,” “Surfside Girls,” WGA Award-winning “Life By Ella,” Sesame Workshop and Sinking Ship’s Emmy Award-winning “Ghostwriter,” Emmy Award and Environmental Media Association Award winning “Jane,” and Scholastic’s “Puppy Place.”
 
Also featured are “Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth,” the Emmy Award-winning television event based on the New York Times bestselling book and TIME Best Book of the Year by Oliver Jeffers, and specials from Peanuts and WildBrain including Emmy Award-nominated “Snoopy Presents: It’s the Small Things, Charlie Brown,” “Snoopy Presents: Lucy’s School,” Humanitas and Emmy Award-nominated “Snoopy Presents: To Mom (and Dad), With Love,” “Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-Kind Marcie,” “Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin,” Emmy Award-winning “Snoopy Presents: Who Are You, Charlie Brown?” and “Snoopy Presents: For Auld Lang Syne.”
 
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 earned 559 wins and 2,541 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”
 
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, Apple Vision Pro, 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 with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. 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.
 
*Special offer is good for three months after the first activation of the eligible device. One offer per Family Sharing group. Plans automatically renew until canceled. Other restrictions and terms apply;visitapple.com/promo for more information*Special offer is good for three months after the first activation of the eligible device. One offer per Family Sharing group. Plans automatically renew until canceled. Other restrictions and terms apply; visitapple.com/promo for more information.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Fifteen of ‘St. Denis Medical’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular belief that the vast majority of us, hold strongly to in this life, is that medical professionals are indeed to be trusted. After all, doctors spend years learning their craft in school and in residency before they are allowed to work without a net, and nurses also spend ages working on their craft and how to handle patients that need the little things that doctors don’t always get into. And that belief brings forth trust and understanding between us and the doctor and/or nurse and a sense of safety. One so secure that we firmly hold to that trust, and we also believe that neither party will make a mistake and that there should be no second guessing of our health care plan.

But that’s the thing. For while this belief has merit, and is one we should hold to, we often forget… that medical professionals are human beings. Which means they will make mistakes and sometimes their plans will and should be challenged, and never was all of this more evident, than during this week’s episode of St. Denis Medical on NBC. For ‘Sometimes It’s Good to Be Cautious’ saw mistakes be made and challenges come forth and it also, brought the funny through Joyce and Dr. Ron. Since Joyce spent most of this episode trying to puff up her resume to her alumni association since she was being featured in their latest spotlight and that led to a lot of unnecessary phone calls and Dr. Ron… well he just straight up made it clear to not disturb him when his favorite basketball team is on. Lest you face his wrath or get some unexpected and incorrect news about your loved one.

In between those funny moments, however, was the more serious stuff. Since Serena and Matt took part in a mistake. For while Matt was being schooled on how to buy socks the right way, he and Serena let a patient slip just a bit and bumped the patient’s elbow. Which in turn led to a debate between the two of them. Specifically, whether or not they should tell the patient when he awakened. Which Serena spoke to why they should not, since it could lead to trouble for both, while Matt made it clear, it was about doing the right thing and being honest. All of which made for a fascinating and real debate, one that showcased how mistakes are made and how it is best… to be honest when they happen. Which was the endgame of this plot thread, one that also revealed that Matt has some really messed up dreams and that the truth can sometimes… potentially… land you a date. Since Serena and that patient got on pretty well.

However, it was Bruce and Alex’s conflict that served as the centerpiece of this weeks’ explorations. For they were working with a young patient and baseball star that had a shoulder injury that was eligible for a revolutionary new surgery that could relieve his pain. Which of course, had a risk, that Bruce did cover. But Alex felt… he glossed over it. For she really thought the patient needed to weigh all of his options and not be rushed into surgery, and that launched a hard debate between the two of them. Where they pointed out the folly and positives of this surgery. All because, they’re people, and people disagree and challenge one another, and they should when it’s for the right and healthy reasons, as was the case here. And it was just amazing to see this play out in a comedic manner and what mattered more here is that this sequence did remind us to ask questions and challenge procedures in the right way.

For we should know all the ins and outs of what’s coming our way, and the trust we’ve built with our doctor, courtesy of their expertise, will help us make an informed decision that we feel good about. All of which gave rise, to another amazing episode from this series. For once again, we were treated to moments and themes that really felt real in a lot of ways. Since everything that played out here was human in nature and relatable and it really did a great job of showcasing… life in a hospital. Where mistakes like that happen, where challenges come to life and where yes, people want to see how their favorite team is doing, just as we do. It was all just handled with a little comedic flare and the heart we have come to love, and it will be interesting to see what other unique and reflective stories await us, as we inch toward season one’s end. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Finale of ‘The Irrational’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Truly, one of the best parts of tuning into the hit NBC series, The Irrational, is the sheer fact that the show will outright surprise you with its storytelling. Because it always finds a unique way in which to explore the human condition and our ability to be irrational, and it makes sure that exploration is fun and engaging. But at the same time, this is a series that sometimes… will leave those explorations behind or put them on the backburner to just offer up a great episode of television. One that resolves character plot threads or grander ones and just showcases… life. If anything, the show’s dynamic ability is top of mind today, simply because the season two finale, leaned into those alternate elements.

A feat that ‘The Exchange’ accomplished by immediately following up on the revelation that Rose Dinshaw had a husband that Alec Mercer knew nothing about. To quickly inform us that it was no big deal from a romantic standpoint and was a carryover from her MI6 days. But his re-appearance was critical since he had a mission for Alec to help with. Because the U.S. Government was eager to have Alec help out with a prisoner exchange. One that needed an extra push to bring home two Americans in exchange for one Russian, and only Alec could get a proper read on how to make that happen. Which he agreed to, and soon, his work turned into a push for three and brought forth a fascinating case. One where the team worked hard to uncover a saboteur for the deal, and how that related to fear and money, and a loss of power… all things that make us irrational.

But of course, Alec and his team were able to uncover the truth and stop the heavy in this tale and we are breezing through the plot, simply because… it’s what happened in between those moments of chase that made this a dynamic season two finale. Because this was a story that featured life and growth for so many. For instance, Kylie learned that she could offer so much to the world in this story. Because she was asked to join up at Quantico with the new class, because of the potential she showed, and she even got the job offer of a lifetime. But she chose none of that and opted instead to just sit think upon what lie ahead, for she truly understood now… her value and that she could have whatever she wanted, and that was beautiful to see her find. Not to mention, Marisa took the time to really think upon her own journey and how she was hanging onto so many old memories at a time of her own reinvention and that prompted her… to put the house up for sale.

If anything, their journeys spoke to the wonder of new chapters, and the show expanded upon that further. Since Phoebe and Simon made it official and moved forward as a couple. And Rose… figured out what her tomorrow was going to look like. Because this case helped her to understand that while she loved helping people and keeping the world safe, she was done with that MI6 life, and she also loved Alec deeply and wanted to be near him. Which motivated her to open her own PI office in D.C., to let her carve her own path that would give her what she needed, and speaking of Alec, he learned in this tale, that removing his scars, was something he would not be able to live with. For they were part of him, they spoke to the growth he endured and the lessons he learned and keeping them was important, and that brought about, a magnificent end to this season. One that of course, offered up a cliffhanger.

Since we did learn that someone has been watching Alec for creepy reasons. Reasons that will hopefully be unveiled in a third season, which as of press time, has not been announced. But hopefully it will be… because this show is special, and this season finale reminded us of that. For it is that rare crime serial that not only explores the irrational nature of the human condition, but also life. Through actions from characters that are relatable, that we love, and care for deeply and want to see succeed in having happy, new chapters that bring them fulfillment. Which is what we need on television right now, seeing good overcome evil and seeing people… overcome life struggles and relish in the victories that brings us. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 313 of ‘Night Court’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say, that we have people in our lives, that frustrate us to no end. They could be family members that grate us the wrong way or people we know in difference capacities, that do the same, but these are folks that just make our life difficult for a bevy of personal reasons, and that we understandably vilify and sometimes avoid. Because the thought of dealing with them, in any capacity, just turns our stomach and adds unnecessary anxiety to our lives. But what’s fascinating about these individuals, is that when they’re not hideously toxic, they actually have some kind of a positive impact upon our lives.

Which may seem silly to read but think about it for a second. Because if that person irritates us to the point where we will do whatever we must to never resemble them, that is a positive. Not to mention, sometimes their nature pushes us to be better, so we can be free of them and well… that surprise reality is top of mind today, because it was featured during this week’s episode of Night Court on NBC. A feat that ‘A Few Good Hens’ accomplished by way of the return of the true thorn in Dan Fielding’s side, the Wheeler family. For they once again were in the Stone courtroom over some chicken related shenanigans. The kind that put them in tough trouble and made it seem as though Dan was going to lose this case hard.

That was of concern for him, because he had a bet with Julianne that he would win all of his cases on this night. So, we saw Dan Fielding, at his best, and he worked the case in an incredible manner that allowed for Bob and Annie to not face the hard charges they were looking at and receive the kind of settlement that Dan hoped would chase them off for all time. Because that kind of money can keep even the unluckiest of folks at bay. But of course, fat chance there, since Bob spoke to a need for Dan in his life. But what was more important, is the Wheelers had a positive impact upon Dan. Because their shenanigans really drove him, and he really went the extra mile for them and showcased how talented he is as a lawyer and that truly hammered home that central theme in a lovely manner.

But of course, what would an episode of this series be without zaniness and shenanigans? And that was handled by Abby here. Who was smitten to no end by a handsome man named Crash, and really didn’t see a single red flag. But that all changed when she learned that his full name was Crash Wheeler, and he was the black sheep of the family because well… he took a different path. Which gave Abby a smidge of hope that dating this Wheeler might end well. But soon… she learned that while you can take a Wheeler out of the overalls, you can’t take bad luck from a Wheeler, and his noisy, open mouth kisses, combined with spreading the hideous and well-known Wheeler luck, made it clear that she had to let this one go and that made… for some hilarious sequences and wild moments for sure.

Not to mention, the writers just let loose in this episode. Since they gave Brent Spiner, Annie, O’Donnell, and Kate Micucci a lot to work with comedy wise, and their talents combined with the talents of the cast, led to a side spitting story really, and quite possibly the funniest episode of the series to date. Because the comedy was simply top notch here, and there are moments that this writer, and others, will have to revisit, to fully enjoy the gravity of the jokes and the ones that were delivered in a rapid-fire manner and well, this was just a perfect episode of the show. Because this one had it all, a unique message, great comedy and you can never go wrong with the Wheeler family finding their way back into the courtroom and it is good to know they might be back for more fun down the line. Until next time.

​Please enjoy this exclusive sneak peek from Episode 208 of Style Kings, which debuts on aspireTV tomorrow 8 p.m. EST!
 
Episode 208 | "Trends, Codes, & Guidelines"
Justin and Darnell source all things tile for Michelle’s home across multiple applications. Dedrick and the Alpha Derby exec team prepare for the party of the season for a good cause, and everyone’s unique outfit will be on full display! The two designers compare notes on how they navigate rules of thumb to stay stylish but timeless.

​Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Eight of ‘The Hunting Party’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular goal that each and every one of us hope to accomplish in our lifetime, is that we leave behind a powerful legacy. For there is a part of us that fully understands that life is short and that the end is an inevitability, and if we are able to leave our mark upon the world… we can live forever and be remembered in a wondrous manner. So, we push toward making that happen, and so many support that. Because it is at its core, a positive goal to push toward. One that oddly, we don’t bother to acknowledge is sometimes used in the darkest ways possible. Because some individuals understand their souls are so rotten, they’ll be forgotten when they’re gone, and because of that… history is littered with sour legacies as well.

Ones so bad that we sometimes wonder… what the world would look like if someone stepped in, to stop them before they could cause harm, and that is why we turn to fiction. Since that’s a place where catharsis for such matters lie, and that’s why this week’s episode of The Hunting Party on NBC is of note. Because ‘Denise Glenn’ offered that catharsis through a harrowing story, full of twists and turns. For at first, it seemed as though this story was going to offer up a little status quo. In that, another monster from The Pit was back in the saddle again. Because a body that harbored the work of Denise Glenn, a serial killer who paid tribute to Greek icons/muses through her artful murders, popped up in her old stomping grounds. But there was just one problem with that assumption. In that, Denise did not do it.

For she was found in the rubble, and she was placed behind bars, and that meant… a copycat of sorts was poking about. Someone who was clearly looking to complete her mission since she originally planned to offer nine tributes to nine muses and was stopped at six. But that seemed impossible, since it would require someone to intimately know a killer who was locked away, and the only close interaction she ever had, was through silence and sight. Since some of the killers and monsters in the Pit were tasked with watching her create art, for their own therapy. Which meant, in order to get answers and to stop this copycat/’hero’ worshipper, Bex was going to have to come face to face with Denise and that led… to some amazing storytelling.

Simply because, we enjoyed another tribute to Silence of the Lambs, plus… we were up close and personal, with a fascinating psychopath. For Denise loved to play games with people and see their reactions and see how best to best them mentally. Because she was depraved. But she also understood… that having someone else finish her work, would give her that sour legacy and let her be poured over for all time. But alas, she simply did not count upon dealing with Bex. Who was able to match Denise mentally, and discover, that a brief interaction after the Pit collapsed, allowed for Denise to anoint her successor. But since the team was now one step ahead with a name and a face, that never came to pass, and that monster was denied a legacy of any sort… and more… courtesy of a surprise ending. 
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But what mattered more, was that this story correctly pointed out, thanks to the brilliant writing of Keto Shimizu and David Loong, that legacy is something we all crave, be us good or rotten people and that when the right people stand tall in the face of those who want to leave a bloody mark to write theirs… true wonders can be accomplished. Which made for a brilliant episode, that still had more to offer. Granted, it was a little lighter on the Silo storyline, since all that came forth was an understanding that the Pit also has ties to a private pharmaceutical company, but that’s okay. Because in lieu of that… we got answers regarding Shane and his quest. Since we learned that he was adopted, and that he had deep ties to Dr. Dulles, who spent time counseling Shane in his youth and believed he could find Shane’s parents. So, Shane was sticking around and told that lie to find answers. Which was a relief to discover, since it means Shane remains noble and oddly… answers might be coming his way since Sarah was nice enough to hand over tapes that her father recorded of their sessions.

All of which brought forth, just a magnificent episode when all is said and done. Because this one really did offer up an epic cat and mouse game between Bex and Denise and it was a real treat to watch Bex carefully read her and figure out how to best her. Not to mention, this is a story that saw little internal tension for a change, as though this team is now more than a motley crew squished together, but a well-oiled machine that is starting to respect one another and work with a flow that can only do good down the line, and that’s a good thing. Because with only two episodes left in the season, this team is likely waiting to face its biggest challenges and unity always helps in such matters, and it will be fascinating to see what hideous monsters and struggles lie ahead as season one inches toward its end. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Twelve Finale of ‘When Calls the Heart’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say that humanity has a complicated relationship with change. Because on the one hand, we sometimes crave it and sometimes yearn to have it come into our lives. Since we know change can spice things up and perhaps inspire us when we need that most. But at the same time, we lament it, and we go to great lengths to avoid it, as though it will somehow cause us more harm than good. When in fact, it is the only true constant in the universe, and it is constantly in our lives, and the sooner we realize that and just embrace it… will we find newfound peace and strength in life, as evidenced by the season twelve finale of When Calls the Heart on the Hallmark Channel.

Because ‘Must Be Gold’ saw the residents of Hope Valley embrace change through and through and that led… to some lovely moments. After all, this is a story that saw everyone come together to finally solve the mystery of what happened to the gold. Because Rosemary needed an ending to her story and Edie needed closure in life, and that allowed for so many to pool their resources and figure out that it was buried in a sealed off well, and it was put there in the hopes that Edie would use it for financial well-being as a gift from her dearly departed. Granted, she did the right thing with it period, but the mystery was solved and this reflected how embracing change can close chapters in our lives in a wholesome manner.

Speaking of chapters, new ones are also part of the nature of change and are easy to embrace when the situation is right, and it most certainly was in this tale. Because graduation was upon Hope Valley and that meant young minds were moving into new chapters and that was indeed celebrated. For when we are looking at new chapters, we instantly find hope and we instantly want to see the person enjoying one, succeed. That led to celebrations abound and even new beginnings for some, such as Oliver. Since he was granted a chance to be a Mountie in town to be closer to Allie, and well… all of that just reminded us of why we do have a soft spot for change and how beautiful it can be, in fact, perhaps the most touching moment regarding change, involved Millie and the gifts that were given to her and Angela in an effort to add to the wonder of that forthcoming change.

But while those were indeed lovely storylines that spoke to some positivity regarding change, neither of them really reflects what happens when we truly embrace it. Because closing a chapter is easy and celebrating the hope it engenders is also simple. But there are moments where we are presented with intense change that can do a lot for us if we embrace it, and that was explored by the powerhouse finale of this story. Wherein little Jack had a scare because of some warmed insulin and well, Elizabeth was faced with a choice that could bring forth huge change. In that, she could either hope this was a one off and not worry about it, or head to a better facility that could get him stabilized and return home when that had taken place. The latter of which was the right choice but meant leaving behind her home and a brighter future in education since her work was about to be presented to all.

But in the end, she chose to get Jack on the train and toward that facility and making that choice and embracing the change that would bring forth to her life, helped Nathan to realize how much he loved Elizabeth and how badly he needed her. So, he and Allie opted to go with her, and be with her, and be a family, regardless of stress or cost… or the change to their lives. But that’s what happens when we embrace change, we just go for it, and we see where the day will take us, and we chase after what we really want and that was a beautiful way to wrap up this season’s storylines and set the stage for next year’s. For season thirteen officially has a green light, and that’s lovely. Since we simply must know what will happen on this family’s new adventure and so we can enjoy more amazing lessons from this thoughtful and heartwarming series. Until next year.