Written by John Edward Betancourt
Truly, there are few science fiction shows that have captivated us in the manner that Silo on Apple TV+ has. In part because it boasts a stunning cast. One that sells the harrowing world of the Silo in a manner that makes their situation feel real, as though we are looking into the future. But also, because the writing is top notch and allowed for season one of this incredible series to draw us into a world where mankind has become nothing short of cellar dwellers with a giant secret hanging over them, one we are eager to see solved. Specifically, how did humanity end up like this?
So, you take those elements and throw in some powerful commentary that is relevant to the struggles in our world now, when it comes to autocracy and authoritarianism, and you get an amazing series. One whose second season we are anxiously awaiting and since we are inching closer to a return to the Silo, Apple TV+ thought today was the right day to drop some updated details regarding season two of the show, along with the season two trailer. One that is epic and enticing and it is one we will share with you now, to help build a little excitement for the return of one of the best science fiction shows on television. ‘Today, Apple TV+ revealed the trailer for the second season of “Silo,” the global hit, world-building, global hit drama based on Hugh Howey’s New York Times bestselling trilogy of dystopian novels. Created by Emmy-nominated screenwriter Graham Yost, who also serves as showrunner, and starring and executive produced by Rebecca Ferguson, the 10-episode second season will premiere globally on Friday, November 15 on Apple TV+ with the first episode, followed by one new episode every Friday through January 17, 2025. “Silo” is the story of the last ten thousand people on earth, their mile-deep home protecting them from the toxic and deadly world outside. However, no one knows when or why the silo was built and those who try to find out face fatal consequences. Ferguson stars as Juliette, an engineer who seeks answers about a loved one’s murder and tumbles onto a mystery that goes far deeper than she could have ever imagined, leading her to discover that if the lies don’t kill you, the truth will. In addition to Ferguson, “Silo” season two stars new addition Steve Zahn, alongside returning stars Tim Robbins, Common, Harriet Walter, Chinaza Uche, Avi Nash, Alexandria Riley, Shane McRae, Remmie Milner, Clare Perkins, Billy Postlethwaite, Rick Gomez, Caitlin Zoz, Tanya Moodie and Iain Glen. “Silo” is produced for Apple TV+ by Apple Studios. The series is executive produced by Yost, Michael Dinner, Nina Jack, Joanna Thapa, Ferguson, Morten Tyldum, Howey, Fred Golan, Rémi Aubuchon and AMC Studios. 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 of a user’s 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 516 wins and 2,320 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and 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, 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; visit apple.com/promo for more information.’
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Written by John Edward Betancourt There was a time when reality television was… well… something of a joke really. For it was filled with stories and individuals that seemingly were designed to mock our modern world and poke fun of certain styles and cultures. But thankfully, it quickly evolved. Since this taste of reality inspired others to ponder upon what other corners of the world we could explore on our television screens, in a respectful manner no less, and what being authentic might mean for competition and game shows down the line. Which brought forth, the modern era of reality television. A place that did less insulting and more educating and celebrating, and yet, this format was not done with its evolution. For in 2024, there are more and more creatives asking… what else can reality television do? Can it become a true celebration of the wonder of the world? Of the good things and amazing stories in our world that we often forget about, and can it showcase inspiring journeys that leave us ready to chase our dreams and do what we love? Well as it turns out, there is a show out there… that answers all of those questions with a resounding yes. Simply because it features both of those elements in a single half hour, and that makes aspireTV’s Style Kings, quite the powerful and poignant reality television show. One that accomplishes such incredible feats by taking us inside the lives two entrepreneurs that are accomplishing wonders right now. For Dedrick Thomas and Justin Q. Williams are two self-made men. Who decided one day that they wanted to go out and live their passion and be the best at what they do, and in doing so, built two powerhouse businesses. For Dedrick is now a go-to for anyone that wants to look good since his love of fashion has made him a true expert in the field. And Justin, loves the notion that our home is our castle and that it should reflect the royalty that resides within it, and that has made him… an expert interior designer that is highly sought after by individuals. And week in and week out, Dedrick and Justin enrich lives by making their clients’ homes look good and by making them look good. Which at first glance doesn’t quite seem to explore those questions and instead just offers up more of the same, but it is what happens as Dedrick and Justin get to work that truly makes this series so special. Because we don’t see these two gentlemen just go through the motions. We see their passion on display. For they want their selections, to be perfect for their client, and their passion in infectious and reminds us of passion’s power and what happens when we thrive within it. Which is inspiring for certain and is only further enhanced by the fact, that Dedrick and Justin, are doing it. They’re living their dream, they’re immersed in what they love and are supremely successful at it, and that sends your spirits soaring and leaves you wondering what you need to do to be like them, and of course… you’re also curious to see the final product. For Dedrick really does understand the majesty of fashion and what makes people look good, and Justin transforms homes with his keen eye and understanding of the flow of a home, of a room, of a workspace. All of which makes for a magnificent reality series. One that is wholesome, wondrous and truly energizing… and progressive and important. Because it is not lost on this writer that this series showcases two extremely successful black men, thriving in their industries. Something we don’t see enough of on television and that makes this a special show as well, one that does a lot for representation and we here at NTG hope you give this show a look. To enjoy the beginning of the next generation of reality television and to sit through a wholesome and inspiring reality show, one that is truly on the cutting edge. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘The Chicken Sisters’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
When we last settled in to discuss the fascinating and refreshing Hallmark+ series, The Chicken Sisters, we took a moment to point out that Mae, had made quite the observation about healing. One that few people ever say aloud. In that, in order to heal, we actually have to want to be better. We can’t just say it. We have to embrace healing, embrace the changes that will come along in that process and embrace the chaos that surrounds that. For healing is not an easy process, but nothing worthwhile ever is, and that revelation was so powerful and so profound that we forgot to ask the next question critical when it comes to healing with that in mind. In that, what then… inspires us to change and heal? Because that’s really what holds us back, the fact that we cannot find a reason to, and well… the next episode of this series pointed out, what brings that forth. A feat that ‘I Choose to Be Happy, Y’all’ accomplished by bringing more chaos to Merinac. Simply because, this week’s episode featured an important moment in the competition. Specifically, it was time to film the side dishes competition segment. Wherein the men of the two restaurants would create perfect side dishes that would be judged by some of their fellow citizens, and well, Sabrina decided to flip the two kitchens to make things interesting and that brought about the chaos and the lesson in question. Because Sergio won the day, mainly because Frank Jr. had himself a tiny little temper tantrum. Okay, he had a big one. All because he wanted to be in charge and have everything be perfect, and his fury, and the anger that Amanda expressed toward Mae, combined with the fist fight that came forth when Sergio won… opened up Amanda’s eyes to her current situation. For she came to realize, that she was indeed just forcing happiness upon herself, and lying to herself. Plus, she was making every attempt to just create something that didn’t exist. Which was love with someone she didn’t care for, and that truth, helped her to understand, she would never be happy unless she went after what she wanted in this life. Which prompted some fascinating immediate changes from Amanda. For instance, she opened up to her daughter and finally had a frank conversation with her, the kind she’s always wanted. Giving rise to a measure of peace between them at last, and honesty, and of course… she came back to Sergio, and was close to him because she also wanted passion in her life. Because when we take a minute to see the truth about our situation and understand how unhappy we are, we enact change. Granted, it was fast here in this instance but that’s okay. Sometimes we are ready to move and sometimes… we need time. Which was why Mae continued to explore herself in this story with her bestie, to learn more truth about herself to better enact change, something her fiancé will likely help with since he’s in Merinac now. Not to mention Nancy and Gus took the first steps in their journeys as well, and oddly enough… Frank Jr. may help move them along. Simply because at the end of this story, his bruised and battered ego, and likely a six pack, prompted him to do something quite mean. In that, he called the health department on Gus. For no good reason. Which will undoubtedly inflict drama and strife because Frank Jr. is the epitome of a toxic male, complete with unresolved trauma that he ‘resolves’ by projecting his pain onto others. Which reminds us that some people… take a long time to get to the point where they understand the time has come to change. But while we wait to see him wake up, we can celebrate a story that embraced this concept and saw so many begin to see their truth and understand the need to move forward and work to be better and it will be interesting to see how everyone progresses, as their healing journey gets underway. Until next time. Watch ‘The Chicken Sisters’
Caution: This rapid recap of Episode 542 of ‘Life After Lockup’ contains spoilers.
Please enjoy this rapid recap of Episode 542 of Life After Lockup on WE tv, along with a refresher clip! EPISODE 542 – “Save The Drama For Your Mama” – Airs October 11th on We TV at 8pm ET/PT Rob is torn when his wife and mother come to blows. Justine is shaken by a frantic phone call. Bianca’s baby fever reaches a boiling point for Daniel. Kerok drops a bomb. Troy is tempted by his old life. Melissa and Louie take the plunge. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Five of ‘La Maison’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
One of the most difficult acts we must take part in when we inherit a family business or follow in the footsteps of someone we admire, is establishing that we are now the person in charge and that our vision will forever differ from theirs. And what makes this act so difficult, is that more than likely, the person we are replacing is iconic in their own right and carved quite the path for their industry and that is tough to overcome. Because how does one establish themselves as the way forward, the next generation and the light that will keep the company shining for ages on end? Well as it turns out, there is an answer to that question, one that was explored in the next episode of La Maison on Apple TV+. For ‘Like Father, Like Daughter’ explored that very problem, through outright surprise. For early on, this episode appeared to be ready to explore what it meant to be in the limelight as a bright new mind. Because Paloma’s fashion show was indeed a rousing hit, and everyone was buzzing about it. Not to mention, everyone wanted Paloma to grace their magazine cover, and the redone Pearle bag was doing incredible numbers. Which prompted Paloma to reinvent the bag for the 21st Century, to really put her stamp on Ledu, and fashion, and express how she wanted it to function in this new world, and well… at first that too appeared to go well. For so many were speaking to how refreshing and wonderful it was going to be, to own that bag, one that had a tiny carbon footprint and was designed for all. But soon, the backlash came. For some ripped on her for the Pearle bag and saw it as nothing more than the same ol’, same ol’ with a new logo slapped on it, and then… they came for her new invention, Neutral. For everyone believed that she was simply copying Vincent Ledu’s career path and his footsteps and with the internet being the internet, that meant she was no better than him and likely eager to do awful things as well. Which prompted Paloma to have some hard discussions with the team at Ledu, and Vincent, who in his reflective state basically declared her, his daughter. And she had those hard talks because she had to figure out how best to be free of this, and she decided that in order to forge her own path, and truly make Ledu her own… she had to do something quite difficult. In that, she had to simply toss Vincent aside, and her past, and disown the whole thing to move forward. Because that was the only way to be free to have her vision, and that was what she took part in. Giving rise to a proper new chapter for Ledu and for Paloma, while teaching us, we must find out how to neutralize the specter that hangs over us when our time comes, so we too… can move forward. Which made for a fascinating episode, one also filled with plenty of backstabbing drama as well. Since Robinson was unable to decide as to whether or not to sign with Rovel or stay home, because Rovel kept toying with him, and Victor came to learn… it would be a very long time before he would enjoy the CEO role since Diane decided that she was going to stay as long as possible, regardless of her hellish diagnosis. All of which made, for another compelling story from this fascinating series. One that spoke to how the public perceives corporate moves and how easy it is for good intentions to go sideways if they don’t, please the fickle masses. But more importantly, we came to learn how to forge our own path in times of strife, and how important it is to really put our own stamp on whatever it is we are doing. So that no one can sit there and tell us that we are being unoriginal, and now that we’ve reached the end of this particular tale, it is onto the next, and whatever new challenges await Ledu. Since clearly, the fashion world is explosive for certain and one simple spark from one individual moment, can create a firestorm of drama for these fascinating individuals to deal with, and so many are still holding matches. Until next time. Watch ‘La Maison’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Five of ‘Three Women’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
Over the course of the past few weeks, we’ve learned a lot about women and the lives they lead in modern America, courtesy of the incredible storytelling present in the STARZ series, Three Women. For it has examined some powerful topics, the kind that have provided the insight in question while correctly pointing out how our desire to make women seen and not heard has aided in hiding their plight and their struggles. All of which has given rise to a brilliant series, one that speaks to so much and resonates on levels never thought possible. But while it has been amazing to learn such lessons, one particular aspect of this story and one character’s journey has been neglected. After all, Gia, our reliable narrator and guide through this world that we’ve chosen to ignore, has resided in the shadows. Making her nothing more than a plot device, really. One made to move us from one story to another, and in a story about women, that would be a grave injustice. One that this series was not good with, which was why ‘gia’ took the center stage in the next episode. Wherein we were able to learn not only, why she has gone to such efforts to write about sexuality, but the struggles independent working women face out there in the world. Especially when they do indeed have something worthwhile in front of them, along with a powerful surprise that expressed the strength that women carry. All of which came forth… from a revelation. In that, Gia did find out that her publisher was supremely displeased with her original book. In fact, they considered it to be a failure. They wanted it to have guts, and she of course, only wrote what she thought would please the publisher, since we teach women to not take risks or go for it. But a short-lived love affair, that strange conversation with Gay, and being on the road and learning how to talk to people on a different level and learn their stories… inspired her to go the extra mile. To really expose the human condition and shed the stigma she harbored and projected regarding writing, to really feel the words, and feel them flow through her and experience their power through the raw honesty that writing provides. Making this a grand quest for Gia to beome more than the norm, but a generational writer that would leave a mark with a powerful piece of work. But of course, there were those struggles mentioned. Because that brief love affair haunted her for some time. In part because she was pregnant and trying to decide how to handle that. And that idiot lover, felt the need to inject himself into her work. Out of the arrogant male belief that she needed his help, needed his authentic perspective on her work. Which served as a reminder that so many men offer distrust and doubt when it comes to what women can do, when that simply needs to not happen. For there is no woman on this planet that is ‘too weak’ to handle their career path on their own. But that stigma persists and idiots like him push into them, but she weathered that storm and made the work, work, before she dealt with one stunning surprise regarding their time together. In that, she suffered through a miscarriage, and that’s important to note. Because as this series is wont to do, it showed us the moment she lost the baby. Not to be cruel, but to educate. For this moment is often glossed over in popular media and in everyday life, but it is an emotional and scary experience. One that a woman goes through alone, and somehow finds the incredible strength only they can, to go on. Which made this, another poignant and powerful episode. One that made Gia so much more at last (courtesy of a stunning performance from Shailene Woodley) and took us on a powerful journey with her. One that stayed true to what this series is eager to accomplish and one that seemingly is closing one chapter of the story to move us into another. One that the teaser hinted, will explore what comes next for all of the women we’ve met… as they take control of their lives and their wants. Until next time. Watch ‘Three Women’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘Sweetpea’.
One particular question that continues to persist in our world, is why people continue to do evil and dark deeds. The kind that brings harm to others and upends lives, and well… it’s odd that we continue to ask this question, simply because… we have the answer in hand. Because in reality, the evil that people do isn’t related to anything mysterious. Because often it happens due to the fact that we are a society, that marginalizes so many. We forget some people exist; we don’t hear what they have to say or downplay their concerns, and then express shock when they snap so they can be seen, heard or feel valued and well… the time has come for us to stop asking that question, and look more about how we prevent such problems. So that we no longer create the monsters we fear and break the cycle at last and one way that we can do that, is see the pain marginalization causes and one handy way to do that, is through storytelling. Since that easily explores such matters and well, it just so happens that STARZ is now home to a story that does indeed showcase that in Sweetpea. A feat that ‘Sorry for Your Loss’ accomplishes by introducing us to a woman named Rhiannon who… barely exists in this world to anyone outside of who she sees in the mirror. Because everywhere she goes, she is overlooked and while she could likely handle that… it’s that she’s overlooked where it matters, that hurts the most. Because at work, she’s the only administrative assistant that no one bothers to speak to. She just exists, and an attempt to be seen there is brushed aside, leaving her stuck in a job that doesn’t fulfill. Not to mention, anyone else in her inner circle treats like her dirt. Since her sister ignores her texts and when we meet her in this tale, she’s also dealing with the loss of her father. Who passes away unexpectedly one night, adding new stress and new problems for Rhiannon. Since her sister is ready to throw her out of house and home, to earn a quick buck and a nest egg. And to make matters worse, the ol’ high school bully that helped shatter Rhiannon as a teen is in charge of selling the place, and well… that puts Rhiannon in an outright tailspin. One where she does… the unthinkable… and kills a man in a fit of rage. A move that leaves her fate uncertain in this tale but leaves us with a lot to chew upon. Because on the one hand you want to be furious with Rhiannon. For she’s obviously not a bad person, but she does a very bad thing here and crosses the ultimate line. But on the other hand, you feel pity for her. Because she is a wallflower, she is someone that people step upon and ignore and marginalize and you can understand her frustration and anger and that creates the conflict in question. Because we aren’t supposed to sympathize with a killer, but here we are, feeling pity. All of which makes for a frustrating watch for all the right reasons. Because this premiere does such a good job of immersing you in Rhiannon’s life and the ugliness she faces and the ugliness she has faced, that you are genuinely conflicted by the end of this story. One that truly does a wonderful job of expressing how we are indeed responsible for that which we both hate and fear. For kindness and understanding and even just a little courtesy and care could have prevented this downward spiral, and that likely means, this episode is merely a grand beginning to an incredible character study. One that will ponder upon if someone can come back from such an act, and whether or not… we can fundamentally change and prevent this as this fascinating story continues along. Until next time. Watch ‘Sweetpea’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘Citadel: Diana’.
For the most part, stories that are a continuation of the original or a spin-off, have a real sense of familiarity to them. Wherein they spend little time world-building and more time exploring that world or expanding upon it, all of which are not bad things. After all, at that point… those tuning in or picking up the next chapter know what the story is about and are genuinely looking forward to see where it heads next, and the storytellers in question are ready to give the audience just that, and all are happy in the end. But now and again, you run into a story that likes to surprise its audience and do things that are in fact, unconventional for a sequel. As evidenced by the series premiere of Citadel: Diana on Prime Video. For ‘Split in Two’ is a story that so many of us expected to pick up where the flagship series left off and take us right into newfound action. But instead, this story opted to slow things down and explore and world-build and that made for a fascinating story. One that introduced us to Diana Cavalieri. A Manticore agent that was once Citadel, who… went through a long and winding road to reach this point in her life. Wherein she is unfulfilled and lost and looking for more in life, and she is also, quite the intelligent agent. Since we learn in this story, through her tragic backstory, that there is no mystery she cannot solve, and no clue that misses her eye. Giving rise to a detailed introduction to our main character and the world-building doesn’t end there. Simply because we also learn that Manticore in Italy, does not have the power it desires. For the government there wants to oppress their work and keep the peace through any means necessary. Which prompts Manticore leadership in this country to push hard to get what they want. Even going so far as to meet with the heads of the government and play nice to get power once again. Not to mention, a man named Edo is prepared to marry into another family if it means that at last, Manticore can take charge as it has, in other parts of the world. And this was quite unique to see and enjoy. Since you don’t often see the evil organization in question be stymied in such a powerful manner, adding new ideas and depth to this story. But of course, the next chapter does need to work toward something bigger, something powerful and that is present here courtesy of a bold decision on Diana’s part. For while she is out on a mission with a fellow agent, she takes charge like never before. Going so far as to blow Manticore’s cover to recover items that could potentially help the cause, or rather… Diana’s plans. Since this snatch and grab, prompts her to murder that agent in cold blood and pass a lie detector test to keep this item a secret and get it to the one man that can help her… Edo. Who knows full well the technology she recovered, which appears to be a revamp of old Citadel gear, could in fact… give Manticore the power it needs to be a force in Italy. All of which sets the stage, for quite the unique spin-off. One that has us questioning already if Diana is trying to curry favor in Manticore and rise through its ranks or do something noble, since she herself is former Citadel. But that’s the fun part. We don’t know and won’t know for some time. Instead, we are left with a series premiere that is unconventional in nature and took its time to plunge us into a new chapter of the story, and that’s a wonderful thing. Since it speaks to how the Russo brothers and their crack team of writers are eager to flesh this world out further and provide us with a storytelling experience unlike any other, one that indeed has us eager to continue the journey to see what Diana is after. Until next time. Watch ‘Citadel: Diana’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
There was a time, where the theme song to a sitcom, was just as important as the sitcom itself. Because those behind the scenes believed a quality theme song would help add to the iconic nature of a sitcom and they were right. Since audiences enjoyed the toe tapping nature of them, and some of them, even became outright hits. But somewhere along the line, that faded, and theme songs became an afterthought or were barely present in a sitcom. Replaced instead with a catchy tune and some fast-moving title cards. In part because it seemed the appetite for more wasn’t there and to maximize screen time for the laughs. But it would seem, that, the Queen of Country, Reba McEntire, is eager to change that.
Because earlier today, she released the single for ‘Happy’s Place’, a country song that will serve as the theme song for her new sitcom, Happy’s Place. Which will debut on NBC on October 18th, and well, it’s obvious that great care went into crafting this theme song. To ensure that it harkens back to that golden age of television where the theme song had serious weight. And to properly do this release justice, Reba, along with NBC, not only offered up links on where to hear this amazing theme song, but a new trailer for the show, and a behind-the-scenes look at the song’s creation. Which we will share with you now, to help you count down the days to the arrival of a show that will, as the song says, ‘surely lift your spirits.’ ‘Adding a new song to her Country Hall of Fame resume and for her millions of fans to enjoy, entertainment icon Reba McEntire has teamed up with renowned songwriter Carole King and written the show’s theme song for her upcoming new NBC comedy, “Happy’s Place.” The song, released by MCA Nashville, is available across all music platforms and will also debut on the “Happy’s Place” series premiere, which is set for Friday Oct. 18 at 8 p.m. “Happy’s Place” will stream the next day on Peacock. Listen to the theme song from “Happy’s Place” HERE. Take a behind-the-scenes look into the making of the song HERE. “I’m so happy for the opportunity to write the theme song for "Happy’s Place” with my good friend, Carole King,” said Reba McEntire. “It just doesn’t get much better than that! I hope my fans will love this song as much as they did the theme song for the “Reba” show,” added McEntire. “Happy’s Place” stars Reba McEntire as her character, Bobbie, inherits her father’s tavern (Happy’s Place) and is surprised to discover that she has a new business partner, Isabella, played by Belissa Escobedo, a twentysomething half-sister she never knew she had. The series also stars Melissa Peterman, Pablo Castelblanco, Tokala Black Elk and Rex Linn. “Happy’s Place” is produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group. The series is created by Kevin Abbott and Julie Abbott. Writer Kevin Abbott executive produces with Reba McEntire, Michael Hanel, Mindy Schultheis, Matt Berry and Pamela Fryman. ABOUT REBA McENTIRE Multi-media entertainment mogul Reba McEntire has become a household name through a successful career that includes music, television, film, theater, retail and hospitality. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Hollywood Bowl member has more than 50 award wins under her belt, earning honors from the ACM Awards, American Music Awards, People’s Choice Awards, CMA Awards, GRAMMY® Awards and GMA Dove Awards. Reba was also a 2018 Kennedy Center Honors recipient, in addition to multiple philanthropic and leadership honors. Reba has celebrated unprecedented success including 35 career No.1 singles and more than 58 million albums sold worldwide. Reba earned her 60th Top 10 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, extending her record for the most Top 10 hits among female artists. Reba’s Top 10 success spans five straight decades, landing her in the singular group with only George Jones, Willie Nelson, and Dolly Parton who have the same achievement. The Oklahoma native and Golden Globe® nominated actress has multiple movie credits to her name, a critically-acclaimed lead role on Broadway in Irving Berlin’s Annie Get Your Gun and starred in the 6-season television sitcom Reba. Reba has also proven to be a savvy entrepreneur, with longstanding brand partnerships including her Dillard’s clothing line and western footwear collection REBA by Justin™. She has even added restauranteur to the list with Reba’s Place, a restaurant, bar, retail and entertainment venue in Atoka, Oklahoma. Her book Not That Fancy landed on the New York Times bestseller list. Reba is set to return as a coach on Season 26 of NBC’s The Voice. Reba also stars in and executive produces on the forthcoming sitcom Happy’s Place, due this fall. For more information, visit www.Reba.com.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Found’. To revisit the Season Two Premiere, click here.
One particular mistake that is made often in television shows, is the sheer fact that there are rarely lasting consequences for big actions that the character’s take. They’ll just, do the thing, take some heat for it and in a week, all is well, and no one is the wiser and that’s problematic because… it’s a little too escapist in nature. For we all know that actions have consequences, and the big ones rarely fade away quickly, and while we do indeed watch television to escape, that’s not the only reason we tune in. Because we want to be treated to quality stories that take us on a complete journey, one where consequences are dealt with and well, this particular problem is another reason why Found on NBC is a breath of fresh air. For it is that rare show that isn’t eager to let go of what the characters do and pretend as though nothing major happened. It explores consequences and in doing so, continues to provide us with quality storytelling that has meaning and lends gravity to many of its central themes and never was this was more evident than during this week’s tale. For ‘Missing While Difficult’ spent a great deal of time exploring the fallout of Sir’s escape from Gabi’s basement. Because the decision to capture him and use him, was a titanic betrayal of trust on Gabi’s part, one that left her on the outs here with the people she’s spent so much time with and leaned upon, and it was a betrayal that was so shocking and so profound that the team was deeply rattled and completely out of sorts in this tale. To the point where Margaret struggled to focus and struggled to make use of her sight, and she even lost her temper regarding the secondary case we will get to in a moment. Not to mention, Zeke was still trying to reconcile his fate with the firm, and Trent was simply… angry and rightfully so. Because someone he trusted violated what he stands for and that led to a lot of tension with the team and also… some real scares here. Simply because Gabi stayed in contact with Sir as best she could here, to bring Lacey home and also… to consult with the monster one more time. Because she needed the help, but oddly enough, Gabi’s constant use of Sir’s mind and his insight, became habit for him and he wanted to continue to flex that muscle and solve cases, which was an interesting development. One that helped with the other case in this story. Wherein the team had to find a missing infant that was in a lot of trouble. For the little girl had a condition that would bring her to her end if she wasn’t rescued and oddly enough… fighting to save that life and fighting for more, brought the team some measure of unity. Because they understood the core of their work again and its importance and with a tip from Sir, they did bring that little girl home and saved her life. But make no mistake about it, while they were able to work together and find common ground for the moment, consequences reigned supreme here and this team is indeed still shattered over Sir. Who despite showing a backbone here still harmed Lacey and escaped capture, regardless of the fact that his brother came out to aid in locking Sir up. A reality that will continue to provide us with stories grounded in consequence. Since Lacey is still out there and Gabi is still hurting over this and her actions and all of this made, for one powerful episode. One that felt quite real and didn’t just make everything happy and joyous, and that was refreshing, and it stayed true to what we love about the show, since the missing baby case was compelling, and this story set the stage for redemption for Gabi. Which she will have to work very hard to earn because of how badly she wounded people, and that’s why we want to see consequences in storytelling. To see how we come back from our mistakes, for that is more fulfilling than just moving on, and in this case… it will hopefully also involve, Sir paying the piper for the many awful things he’s done. Until next time. Watch ‘Found’
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