Netflix’s American Murder: Laci Peterson delves into the events surrounding the 2002 murder of the eight months pregnant Californian. The trailer opens with Laci’s mom revealing she had a gut feeling about Scott when she first met him. The minute-and-a-half trailer also includes snippets of interviews with Scott and with his former mistress, Amber Frey, who played a pivotal role in Scott’s first-degree murder conviction.
The three-episode documentary series was directed by Skye Borgman (The Girl in the Picture) and executive produced by Ross M. Dinerstein and Rebecca Evans. Netflix has set an August 14, 2024 premiere date.
American Murder: Laci Peterson marks the first documentary on Laci’s murder to feature an interview with her mother, Sharon Rocha. “It’s not easy, after 20 years, to sit down in front of a camera. But we wanted this to be about Laci, to bring her back to people’s consciousness. Sharon wanted to talk about Laci’s spirit, and about the dragonflies that Laci loved. How Laci is still with them, and how Conner — Laci’s unborn son — is still with them,” said director Borgman in an interview with Tudum.
Scott Peterson and Laci Peterson (Photo Courtesy of Netflix)
Netflix offered this lengthy description of the docuseries:
“From director Skye Borgman comes the definitive examination of the murder of Laci Peterson, the bubbly and beloved young woman who disappeared on Christmas Eve of 2002, while eight months pregnant with her first child. The disturbing case captured the nation’s attention, dominating news media night after night as facts slowly but surely led law enforcement to prosecute her husband, Scott Peterson, for her brutal murder — although he pleaded not guilty, and maintains his innocence to this day.
20 years after Scott’s conviction, this three-part documentary series uses news clips, interrogation footage, and courtroom cameras to bring the dramatic disappearance, investigation, and trial into focus. Alongside interviews with detectives, reporters, lawyers, and jurors recounting their experiences in real-time, it also features a conversation with Amber Frey, the woman with whom Scott was living a double life at the time of Laci’s disappearance — and whose willingness to participate with law enforcement led to major breakthroughs in the case. And for the very first time since Laci’s heartbreaking death, her mother, Sharon Rocha, and a trio of her childhood friends speak candidly about their memories of Laci, the impact this shocking crime had on their lives, and their hopes that, in coming forward to tell Laci’s story for a new generation, they might empower other women experiencing intimate partner violence to escape a similarly tragic fate.”
MTV’s VMAs are in their Taylor Swift era, with the Grammy-winning singer/songwriter looking to take home the Video of the Year award for the third year in a row. Swift scored 12 Video Music Awards nominations, including Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Direction, Best Pop, Best Collaboration, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Visual Effects, Best Art Direction, Most Iconic Performance, and Song of the Summer.
Swift’s “Fortnite” collaborator Post Malone was close behind with nine nominations. Sabrina Carpenter, Eminem, and Ariana Grande each earned six, and Megan Thee Stallion and SZA picked up five nominations. Teddy Swims and Olivia Rodrigo were recognized with four nominations each. And 29 artists earned their first VMAs nominations this year.
Voting is now open at vote.mtv.com in 15 gender-neutral categories. This year’s VMAs will take place at the UBS Arena in New York on Wednesday, September 11, 2024.
2024 VMAs Nominees:
VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” – Republic Records
Billie Eilish – “LUNCH” – Darkroom / Interscope Records
Doja Cat – “Paint The Town Red” – Kemosabe Records / RCA Records
Eminem – “Houdini” – Shady / Aftermath / Interscope Records
SZA – “Snooze” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records
ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Ariana Grande – Republic Records
Bad Bunny – Rimas Entertainment
Eminem – Shady / Aftermath / Interscope Records
Sabrina Carpenter – Island
SZA – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records
Taylor Swift – Republic Records
SONG OF THE YEAR
Beyoncé – “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM” – Parkwood Entertainment / Columbia Records
Jack Harlow – “Lovin On Me” – Generation Now / Atlantic Records
Kendrick Lamar – “Not Like Us” – pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records
Sabrina Carpenter – “Espresso” – Island
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records
Teddy Swims – “Lose Control” – Warner Records
BEST NEW ARTIST
Benson Boone – Night Street Records, Inc. / Warner Records
Chappell Roan – Island
Gracie Abrams – Interscope Records
Shaboozey – American Dogwood / EMPIRE
Teddy Swims – Warner Records
Tyla – Epic Records
MTV PUSH PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR
August 2023: Kaliii – “Area Codes” – Atlantic Records
September 2023: GloRilla – “Lick or Sum” – CMG / Interscope Records
October 2023: Benson Boone – “In The Stars” – Night Street Records, Inc. / Warner Records
November 2023: Coco Jones – “ICU” – Def Jam
December 2023: Victoria Monét – “On My Mama” – Lovett Music / RCA Records
January 2024: Jessie Murph – “Wild Ones” – Columbia Records
February 2024: Teddy Swims – “Lose Control” – Warner Records
March 2024: Chappell Roan – “Red Wine Supernova” – Island
April 2024: Flyana Boss – “yeaaa” – vnclm_/ Atlantic Records
May 2024: Laufey – “Goddess” – Laufey / AWAL
June 2024: LE SSERAFIM – “EASY” – SOURCE MUSIC / Geffen Records
July 2024: The Warning – “Automatic Sun” – Lava / Republic Records
BEST COLLABORATION
Drake ft. Sexyy Red & SZA – “Rich Baby Daddy “ – OVO / Republic Records
GloRilla, Megan Thee Stallion – “Wanna Be” – CMG / Interscope Records
Jessie Murph ft. Jelly Roll – “Wild Ones” – Columbia Records
Jung Kook ft. Latto – “Seven” – BIGHIT MUSIC / Geffen Records
Post Malone ft. Morgan Wallen – “I Had Some Help” – Mercury / Republic / Big Loud
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records
BEST POP
Camila Cabello – Geffen / Interscope Records
Dua Lipa – Warner Records
Olivia Rodrigo – Geffen Records
Sabrina Carpenter – Island
Tate McRae – RCA Records
Taylor Swift – Republic Records
BEST HIP-HOP
Drake ft. Sexyy Red & SZA – “Rich Baby Daddy “ – OVO / Republic Records
Eminem – “Houdini” – Shady / Aftermath / Interscope Records
GloRilla – “Yeah Glo!” – CMG / Interscope Records
Gunna – “fukumean” – Young Stoner Life Records / 300 Entertainment
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Hot Girl Productions
Travis Scott ft. Playboi Carti – “FE!N” – Cactus Jack / Epic Records
BEST R&B
Alicia Keys – “Lifeline” – AK Records, under exclusive license to gamma.
Muni Long – “Made For Me” – Def Jam
SZA – “Snooze” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records
Tyla – “Water” – FAX Records / Epic Records
USHER, Summer Walker, 21 Savage – “Good Good” – mega / gamma.
Victoria Monét – “On My Mama” – Lovett Music / RCA Records
BEST ALTERNATIVE
Benson Boone – “Beautiful Things” – Night Street Records, Inc. / Warner Records
Bleachers – “Tiny Moves” – Dirty Hit
Hozier – “Too Sweet” – Columbia Records
Imagine Dragons – “Eyes Closed” – KIDinaKorner / Interscope Records
Linkin Park – “Friendly Fire” – This Compilation / Warner Records
Teddy Swims – “Lose Control (Live)” – Warner Records
BEST LATIN
Anitta – “Mil Veces” – Floresta Records / Republic Records / Universal Music Latin Entertainment
Bad Bunny – “MONACO” – Rimas Entertainment
KAROL G – “MI EX TENÍA RAZÓN” – Bichota / Interscope Records
Myke Towers – “LALA” – Warner Music Latina
Peso Pluma & Anitta – “BELLAKEO” – Double P Records
Rauw Alejandro – “Touching The Sky” – Sony Music Latin / Duars Entertainment
Shakira & Cardi B – “Puntería” – Sony Music US Latin
BEST AFROBEATS
Ayra Starr ft. Giveon – “Last Heartbreak Song” – Mavin / Republic
Burna Boy – “City Boys” – Spaceship / Bad Habit / Atlantic Records
Chris Brown ft. Davido & Lojay – “Sensational” – Chris Brown Entertainment / RCA Records
Tems – “Love Me JeJe” – Since ’93 / RCA Records
Tyla – “Water” – FAX Records / Epic Records
USHER, Pheelz – “Ruin” – mega / gamma.
BEST K-POP
Jung Kook ft. Latto – “Seven” – BIGHIT MUSIC / Geffen Records
LISA – “Rockstar” – Lloud Co. / RCA Records
NCT Dream – “Smoothie” – SM Entertainment / Virgin Music Group
NewJeans – “Super Shy” – ADOR / Geffen Records
Stray Kids – “LALALALA” – JYP Entertainment / Imperial / Republic Records
TOMORROW X TOGETHER – “Deja vu” – BIGHIT MUSIC / IMPERIAL / Republic Records
VIDEO FOR GOOD
Alexander Stewart – “if you only knew” – FAE grp
Billie Eilish – “What Was I Made For (From The Motion Picture “Barbie”)” – Darkroom / Interscope Records
Coldplay – “feelslikeimfallinginlove” – Atlantic Records
Joyner Lucas & Jelly Roll – “Best For Me” – Twenty Nine Music Group
RAYE – “Genesis.” – Human Re Sources
Tyler Childers – “In Your Love” – Hickman Holler Records / RCA Records
BEST DIRECTION
Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” – Republic Records – Directed by
Christian Breslauer
Bleachers – “Tiny Moves” – Dirty Hit – Directed by Alex Lockett & Margaret Qualley
Eminem – “Houdini” – Shady / Aftermath / Interscope Records – Directed by Rich Lee
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Hot Girl Productions – Directed by Daniel Iglesias Jr.
Sabrina Carpenter – “Please Please Please” – Island – Directed by Bardia Zeinali
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records – Directed by Taylor Swift
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” – Republic Records – Cinematography
by Anatol Trofimov
Charli xcx – “Von dutch” – Atlantic Records – Cinematography by Jeff Bierman
Dua Lipa – “Illusion” – Warner Records – Cinematography by Nikita Kuzmenko
Olivia Rodrigo – “obsessed” – Geffen Records – Cinematography by Marz Miller
Rauw Alejandro – “Touching The Sky” – Sony Music Latin / Duars Entertainment – Cinematography by Camilo Monsalve
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records – Cinematography by Rodrigo
Prieto
BEST EDITING
Anitta – “Mil Veces” – Floresta Records / Republic Records / Universal Music Latin Entertainment – Editing by Nick Yumul
Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” – Republic Records – Editing by Luis
Caraza Peimbert
Eminem – “Houdini” – Shady / Aftermath / Interscope Records – Editing by David Checel
LISA – “Rockstar” – Lloud Co. / RCA Records – Editing by Nik Kohler
Sabrina Carpenter – “Espresso” – Island – Editing by Jai Shukla
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records – Editing by Chancler Haynes
BEST CHOREOGRAPHY
Bleachers – Tiny Moves – Dirty Hit – Choreography by Margaret Qualley
Dua Lipa – “Houdini” – Warner Records – Choreography by Charm La’Donna
LISA – “Rockstar” – Lloud Co. / RCA Records – Choreography by Sean Bankhead
Rauw Alejandro – “Touching The Sky” – Sony Music Latin / Duars Entertainment – Choreography
by Felix ‘Fefe’ Burgos
Tate McRae – “Greedy” – RCA Records – Choreography by Sean Bankhead
Troye Sivan – “Rush” – Capitol Records – Choreography by Sergio Reis, Mauro Van De Kerkhof
BEST VISUAL EFFECTS
Ariana Grande – “the boy is mine” – Republic Records – Visual Effects by Digital Axis
Eminem – “Houdini” – Shady / Aftermath / Interscope Records – Visual Effects by Synapse Virtual
Production, Louise Lee, Rich Lee, Metaphysic, Flawless Post
Justin Timberlake – “Selfish” – RCA Records – “Selfish” – RCA Records – Visual Effects by Candice Dragonas
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Hot Girl Productions – Visual Effects by Mathematic
Olivia Rodrigo – “get him back!” – Geffen Records – Visual Effects by Cooper Vacheron, Preston
Mohr, Karen Arakelian, Justin Johnson
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records – Visual Effects by Parliament
BEST ART DIRECTION
Charli xcx – “360” – Atlantic Records – Art Direction by Grace Surnow
LISA – “Rockstar” – Lloyd Co. / RCA Records – Art Direction by Pongsan Thawatwichian
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Hot Girl Productions – Art Direction by Brittany Porter
Olivia Rodrigo – “bad idea right?” – Geffen Records – Art Direction by Nicholas des Jardins
Sabrina Carpenter – “Please Please Please” – Island – Art Direction by Nicholas des Jardins
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records – Art Direction by Ethan Tobman
A poison cloud of death has everyone, including the 126, struggling to breathe on Fox’s 9-1-1: Lone Star season five episode one. The new season kicks off on September 23, 2024 with a multi-episode arc involving a catastrophic train derailment.
New season five episodes air on Mondays at 8pm ET/PT.
Season five stars Rob Lowe as Captain Owen Strand, Ronen Rubinstein as T.K., Gina Torres as Paramedic Captain Tommy Vega, and Jim Parrack as Judd Ryder. Natacha Karam is Marjan Marwani, Brian Michael plays Paul Strickland, Julian Works is rookie firefighter Mateo Chavez, Rafael Silva is police officer Carlos Reyes, and Brianna Baker plays paramedic Nancy Gillian.
Poster for ‘9-1-1: Lone Star’ season 5 (Photo Credit: Fox)
Fox offered this description of the upcoming fifth season:
“In the upcoming fifth season, Captains Strand and Vega, along with the 126 team, race into action when in a multi-episodic opening storyline, a catastrophic train derailment endangers several lives, including some of their own. With Judd resigning from the 126 to take care of his recently handicapped son Wyatt (Jackson Pace), Owen must find a new lieutenant to replace Judd and has a difficult decision ahead of him when both Marjan and Paul apply for the promotion.
Tommy is ready to take the next step in her relationship, but she finds the road to happiness is filled with obstacles. On his 30th birthday, T.K. gets a surprise visit from someone from his past that could change his and Carlos’ lives forever. Now officially husband and husband, T.K. and Carlos’ marriage is put to the test when Carlos becomes obsessed with solving his father’s murder.”
Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Tim Minear created the series and serve as executive producers and writers on the series. Additional executive producers include Rob Lowe, Bradley Buecker, Alexis Martin Woodall, Rashad Raisani, John J. Gray, Angela Bassett, Carly Soteras and Wolfe Coleman.
Poster for ‘The Real Murders of Atlanta’ (Photo Credit: Oxygen)
Oxygen’s hoping to top the record-breaking numbers of the true-crime series’ second season with season three of The Real Murders of Atlanta. More than 9.5 million viewers checked out season two, up 8% from the show’s first season.
The documentary series premiered in January 2022, followed by season two in March 2023. Season three will premiere on August 17, 2024, with new episodes airing on Saturdays at 9pm ET/PT. Stephanie Noonan Drachkovitch, David Hale, and Dan Messina serve as executive producers.
“The Real Murders of Atlanta digs deep into the crimes that robbed the vibrant city and surrounding area of some of its most cherished citizens and features those with direct connections to the cases,” reads Oxygen’s synopsis. “Victims’ loved ones, case investigators, witnesses, and detectives give firsthand accounts of the lives and movements of the deceased and the intensity of the efforts to bring their killers to justice. Each episode this season explores cases that have shaken the Atlanta community involving local celebrities, suburban residents, and heartbroken families.”
The Real Murders of Atlanta Season 3 Episodes
Saturday, August 17 at 9:00 pm ET/PT – “Death Outside the Ring”
When world champion boxer Vernon Forrest is gunned down in cold blood, all hands are on deck to bring justice for the fallen Atlanta icon. APD detectives must figure out if this shooting was random or a result of the victim’s celebrity status.
Saturday, August 24 at 9:00pm ET/PT — “Death in Powder Springs”
After a 23-year-old suburban Atlanta mother is shot and left for dead in front of her infant daughter, investigators unravel a complicated scheme involving someone close to the victim, shocking the Powder Springs community.
Saturday, August 31 at 9:00pm ET/PT — “Voice from the Grave”
A retired Delta employee is found stabbed dozens of times in her picturesque suburban home, stunning the Atlanta area. As detectives search for clues, they discover a note the victim left just before she died that leads them to her killer.
Saturday, September 7 at 9:00pm ET/PT — “A Mother Murdered”
Twin daughters find their mother stabbed to death in their quaint suburban home, and the pressure for detectives to deliver justice is on. But when the shocking truth behind the murder comes out, the Atlanta community is left stunned and heartbroken.
Netflix’s documentary series Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE follows the journeys of 20 young women vying for a spot in a girl group. The eight-episode docuseries pulls the curtain back on the lengthy audition process as the field is whittled down to just six.
“The series follows 20 contestants from around the world over a year-long journey as they compete to become KATSEYE, a one-of-a-kind global girl group formed using KPOP methodologies,” reads Netflix’s synopsis. “With unprecedented access, unfolding over eight episodes, the result is a compelling portrayal of the road to international stardom, including insight into the unique training and development program developed by HYBE and Geffen Records.”
HYBE is the management company behind K-Pop stars BTS and knows a little something about pulling together talent.
The 20 singers featured in the documentary series are:
Marquise, 17 — Thailand
Emily, 17 — US
Yoonchae, 15 — South Korea
Sophia, 20 — Philippines
Ua, 15 — Japan
Mei, 17 — Japan
Nayoung, 21 — South Korea
Samara, 17 — Brazil
Manon, 21 — Switzerland
Megan, 17 — US
Lara, 17 — US
Ezrela, 20 — Australia
Iliya, 21 — Belarus
Celeste, 19 — Argentina
Daniela, 19 — US
Lexie, 19 — Sweden
Brooklyn, 17 — US
Hinari, 14 — Japan
Adela, 19 — Slovakia
Karlee, 19 — US
Daniela, Manon, Lara, Megan, Sophia, and Yoonchae were ultimately selected and released their first single, “Debut,” on June 28, 2024. The K-Pop-inspired group’s first EP, SIS (Soft Is Strong), will drop on August 16, 2024. The docuseries will premiere on August 21, 2024.
Poster for ‘Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE’ (Photo Credit: Netflix)
It all comes down to this. Starz shared the trailer for the final episodes of Power Book II: Ghost along with a warning that no one is safe. The one-minute trailer features a montage of upcoming scenes, minus their dialogue, and the fan response on YouTube is a combination of disappointment over the series ending and guessing who’s about to die.
Season four part one premiered on Friday, Jun 7, 2024, with episode five of the final season airing on July 5th. The series returns with part two on September 6th at midnight ET on the Starz app and at 8pm ET/PT on Starz linear.
Season four of the critically acclaimed drama stars 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, and Woody McClain as Cane Tejada. Lovell Adams-Gray plays Dru Tejada, LaToya Tonodeo is Diana Tejada, Alix Lapri is Effie Morales, Larenz Tate is Rashad Tate, Caroline Chikezie is Noma, and Michael Ealy is Detective Don Carter. LightSkinKeisha is a recurring guest star as Brushaundria Carmichael.
Caroline Chikeze, Woody McClain, Michael Rainey Jr., and Gianni Paolo in ‘Power Book II: Ghost’ season 4 (Photo by Paul Schiraldi / Starz)
Starz offered this description of what’s in store for the final episodes of the series:
“Part one of Power Book II: Ghost uncovered unanswered high-stakes questions. Part two of the final season will showcase the adage ‘Like father, Like son.’ Tariq finds himself in an eerily similar situation, just like his late father, Ghost, stuck between a rock and a hard place, with the choice to leave the game or take over. Entrapped by Detective Carter, the Tejada family realizes their safety is not guaranteed. Monet fiercely fights for her family to become whole again, but is it too late? Noma is working her way to the top of the food chain. Meanwhile, her daughter, Anya, gets too close to the game, forcing Noma to think twice about her actions.”
Brett Mahoney (Empire) guides the series as showrunner and executive producer. Additional executive producers include Power creator 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
Ariana DeBose in ‘I.S.S’ (Photo Credit: Bleecker Street)
We’re halfway through the summer, which means we’re halfway(ish) through the year. That’s a great time to check out a Mid-Year Top 10 list. So, here are my Top 10 movies of the year (so far…). (Disclaimer – this list is mine and mine alone – James Jay Edwards. Also – this list is subject to change at the drop of a hat. That’s how mid-year lists are.)
10 – I Saw the TV Glow
I have to admit that I missed much of the trans allegory that filmmaker Jane Schoenbrun inserted into I Saw the TV Glow. I saw it as more of a metaphor for small-town living and finding yourself once you are able to escape it. So maybe I was halfway there? Either way, this is one of the more stylish movies of the year.
9 – Kneecap
A late addition to this list (it knocked The First Omen off, for those curious). Kneecap is about using the talents and resources you have to change the world in the way you see fit. And it’s all set to a thumpin’ hip-hop soundtrack.
8 – In a Violent Nature
There’s not much new in the story to In a Violent Nature. Its attraction lies not in what it does, but how it does it – it’s a campfire woods slasher movie from the point of view of the killer. The camera follows the hatchet man around sort of like a video game character, watching him do a lot of nothing in between kills. But when he kills, whoa does he ever kill!
7 – Hundreds of Beavers Hundreds of Beavers is one of the weirdest movies you’re bound to see all year. Despite its zaniness (or maybe because of it), it’s still a seamless combination of Looney Tunes cartoons, silent movie slapstick, and video game logic that also happens to like up to its name – it’s about a guy who encounters Hundreds of Beavers. Possibly Thousands.
6 – Monkey Man
Some said Monkey Man was a John Wick imitator, I saw it as more of an Oldboy imitator. One thing is for certain – it is NOT a Fight Club imitator. Any way you look at it, its blend of action and drama is incredible.
Mia Goth in ‘MaXXXine’ (Photo Credit: Justin Lubin / A24)
5 – MaXXXine
Ti West really sticks the landing with this last chapter of his and Mia Goth’s X trilogy. This is the trilogy’s Return of the Jedi. Just like the last two movies, this one is a love letter to a period and style of filmmaking – this time, it’s eighties crime thrillers.
4 – Longlegs Longlegs plays out as a B-movie version of The Silence of the Lambs, with less procedure and more exploitation. Featuring Nicolas Cage at his strangest, and Nic Cage has made a career out of playing strange roles.
3 – Civil War
What can a movie made by a Brit about an American civil war say? Plenty. By showing the war through the lenses of journalists and purposefully keeping the sides ambiguous, Civil War is more about the act of war than it is about the combatants themselves.
2 – Love Lies Bleeding Love Lies Bleeding is proof of two things. First, that Rose Glass can make awesome movies and Saint Maud was not a fluke. And second, that Kristen Stewart continues to shred and shed preconceptions with her post-Twilight role decisions.
1 – ISS
The setup for this brilliant exercise in paranoia is next level. Six scientists are aboard the International Space Station – three American and three Russian – when World War III breaks out below them on Earth. Knowing that their countries are now enemies, who do they trust? Genius.
Max is making it incredibly hard for The Last of Us fans to remain patient. The streamer just teased what’s in store for the remainder of 2024 and 2025, unveiling a nearly two-minute trailer that ended with 20 seconds of footage from the much-anticipated second season.
The teaser also featured new snippets from Industry season three, premiering on August 11, 2024, as well as the first look at the new installment in the Game of Thrones franchise – A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. The new GoT series is based on George R.R. Martin’s The Hedge Knight novella.
The streamer provided this helpful list of everything included in the upcoming attractions video:
2024 New and Returning Series
CHIMP CRAZY (HBO Original Four-Part Documentary Series)
CREATURE COMMANDOS (Max Original Adult Animated Series) DUNE: PROPHECY (HBO Original Drama Series)
HARD KNOCKS: TRAINING CAMP WITH THE CHICAGO BEARS (HBO Original Sports Documentary Series)
HARLEY QUINN (Max Original Adult Animated Series)
INDUSTRY season three (HBO Original Drama Series)
MY BRILLIANT FRIEND season four (HBO Original Drama Series)
THE FRANCHISE (HBO Original Comedy Series)
THE PENGUIN (HBO Original Limited Series)
THE SEX LIVES OF COLLEGE GIRLS season three (Max Original Comedy Series)
WISE GUY DAVID CHASE AND THE SOPRANOS (HBO Original Two-Part Documentary)
Coming in 2025
A KNIGHT OF THE SEVEN KINGDOMS (HBO Original Drama Series)
AND JUST LIKE THAT… season three (Max Original Comedy Series)
DUSTER (Max Original Drama Series) IT: WELCOME TO DERRY (HBO Original Drama Series)
THE GILDED AGE season three (HBO Original Drama Series)
THE PITT (Max Original Drama Series)
THE LAST OF US season two (HBO Original Drama Series)
THE WHITE LOTUS season three (HBO Original Drama Series)
Harry Collett, Emma D’Arcy, and Bethany Antonia in ‘House of the Dragon’ season 2 episode 8 (Photo by Ollie Upton/HBO)
HBO’s House of the Dragon season two wrapped up with armies on the march, ships sailing into battle, and Ulf and Hugh learning how to handle their dragons. Season two episode eight was more about gathering allies than facing enemies, although two queens engaged in a verbal joust. Daemon finally understands his place in history, Rhaena edges closer to obtaining a dragon, and a nudge from Larys sends King Aegon’s fight vs flight dial spinning toward flight.
And now on with the full, lengthy, spoiler-filled episode eight recap:
Ser Tyland Lannister (Jefferson Hall) treats with the Triarchy and is asked for the Stepstones in exchange for their ships and men. Lannister doesn’t score any points when he calls them pirates in an insulting tone, and it’s obvious he needs them more than they need him. He’s forced into agreeing, even though he knows he’ll face Aemond’s wrath for agreeing to their terms.
There’s a flicker of light in his eyes when he’s told the fleet they’ll supply would allow him to take the Iron Throne for himself. But there’s one additional issue. Their commander, Admiral Sharako Lohar, also has to agree to go with him, and convincing Lohar won’t be easy.
Admiral Lohar (Abigail Thorn) is a fierce leader who warns him she won’t sail with a man who can’t best her. That forces Tyland into agreeing to mud wrestle. The men cheer as their leader repeatedly gets the upper hand, yet Lannister refuses to give up. He lands a few blows after it appears he’s down, and Lohar admits she’s inspired. After a running joke of referring to him by the wrong name, and asking if he’s a cannibal, she invites him to dine with her men.
Lannister sings a little sea ditty and earns a round of applause. Lohar agrees to sail at his side with her men and leads a toast to “the Gullet on the morrow.” The men are eager to battle the Sea Snake again. Before Lannister heads to bed, Lohar requests that he impregnate her wives.
King Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney) continues to recuperate and is now understandable when he speaks. Nonetheless, Lord Larys Strong (Matthew Needham) believes they need to flee King’s Landing immediately. Rhaenyra added three dragonriders, and even Aemond fled in terror when he went to verify the news himself. Prince Regent Aemond reacted by taking Vhagar and burning the town of Sharp Point to the ground.
Larys thinks Aemond’s so angry and frustrated that his next step will be to kill Aegon. Larys wants to flee while Aemond’s still out, but Aegon suggests they could stay and just push him out of power. He’ll return to the throne and have Aemond taken prisoner. Which would work, but briefly, according to Larys. The sleazy snake reminds his king that Rhaenyra and her seven dragons won’t let him live, even if Aemond is locked up.
Tom Glynn-Carney and Matthew Needham in ‘House of the Dragon’ season 2 episode 8 (Photo by Liam Daniel/HBO)
Larys moved Harrenhal’s gold to the Iron Bank in Braavos; they have enough to live well until the war is over. Aegon’s not keen on the idea and insults the people of Essos. Larys attempts to point out that at least he’d be alive, but Aegon doesn’t want to live in this condition. His penis is destroyed, and his dragon is dead, yet Larys insists better days are ahead if they’re patient. Aegon appears stuck on the loss of his penis and only abandons that subject when Larys comes up with new titles he’ll assume upon his triumphant return. Aegon steals Rhaenyra’s title and calls himself “Aegon the Realm’s Delight.”
Prince Jacaerys (Harry Collett) comes upon Ulf and Hugh eating and just hanging around and demands to know what they’re doing. Ulf (Tom Bennett) is his usual disrespectful self, but Hugh (Kieran Bow) immediately recognizes Jace and apologizes. Instead of the apology he demands, Ulf pulls Jace in for a hug. Jace is stunned but continues to demand respect, while Ulf seems to think they’re on equal ground now, class-wise, as they’re all dragonriders.
Hank apologizes again for Ulf’s rude behavior, but Jace is furious. He informs them that while they ate, Sharp Point was reduced to rubble. Thousands are dead, and yet Ulf isn’t making himself ready for battle. Ulf finally appears contrite and sincerely apologizes.
Later, Lady Baela (Bethany Antonia) suggests that Jace stop pouting and that he needs to get over himself. She reminds him of his position and that just because there are other dragonriders, it doesn’t make him any less the heir to the throne. Baela points out there are lots of bastards running around, but Jace is still stung by the whispers he’s heard his entire life.
Queen Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) speaks with her Hand, Lord Corlys Velaryon (Steve Toussaint), about the new dragonriders. She’s still unsure if she can trust them, but at least Addam of Hull (Clinton Liberty) is known to him. However, Corlys downplays his knowledge of the young man and remains tightlipped about the truth to their relationship. Corlys believes they should strike now while they have the advantage and Aemond isn’t prepared, but Rhaenyra remains determined to limit civilian damage. Corlys reminds her that Aemond also has a couple of dragons. Rhaenyra doesn’t see Helaena as a threat, even though Dreamfyre is formidable. And Alicent’s other son’s dragon is young and untested.
Corlys knows Aemond is desperate and will take drastic measures to fight back. Rhaenyra reluctantly agrees and then asks about his ship. Corlys has changed her name from Sea Snake to The Queen Who Never Was, in honor of his beloved wife. He and his men are ready to battle Greyjoys, Lannisters, or whoever the usurpers send to break the blockade.
Lord Corlys assures Rhaenyra she is ready but needs to consider the armies currently marching against her. The sooner she crushes them, the better.
Corlys mentions Daemon (Matt Smith) and the scene cuts to the renegade prince at Harrenhal. He’s informed the men will be ready to march in two days and chuckles when he learns Ser Alfred Broome (Jamie Kenna) has arrived to see him. Broome explains he’s there to find out his intentions and Daemon confirms he plans on marching on King’s Landing before the Lannister army arrives at Harrenhal.
While speaking privately, Ser Broome catches the word “traitor” in the air as he admits his preference for King Daemon over Queen Rhaenyra. Broome believes the men will follow his lead and that although Rhaenyra has good intentions, she cannot lead an army. Daemon walks away without responding. Neither man is aware that Ser Simon Strong (Simon Russell Beale) has been eavesdropping.
Prince Regent Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) learns smallfolk who might have Targaryen blood were taken to Dragonstone by boat. He orders every boat coming or going from the harbor to be inspected, despite the fact it will place a hardship on the fishermen.
Ewan Mitchell and Phia Saban in ‘House of the Dragon’ season 2 episode 8 (Photo by Ollie Upton/HBO)
Queen Dowager Alicent (Olivia Cooke) speaks with Helaena (Phia Saban) who’s confused as to why people hate them. Helaena’s unhappy and Alicent suggests that they leave. Their conversation is cut short when Aemond interrupts to ask Helaena to take Dreamfyre into battle. Helaena resists and refuses to burn anyone, which enrages Aemond. He grabs his sister and tries to pull her from the room, but Alicent intercedes. Aemond believes they’re in peril because of his mother’s weakness. Alicent counters, reminding him that when he’s insulted, he acts out dangerously and without thinking of the repercussions.
They argue over Helaena’s place in the war, and for once, Alicent emerges victorious. After Aemond leaves in a huff, Alicent asks Grand Maester Orwyle (Kurt Egyiawan) for passage and for his discretion.
Meanwhile, Ser Gwayne Hightower (Freddie Fox) confronts Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) about his affair with his sister, Alicent. Criston doesn’t deny it and credits Alicent with saving his life twice. But none of this actually matters, according to Criston. They’re all going to die anyway now that the dragons have entered the war. “The dragons dance and men are like dust under their feet,” says Criston. “We march now toward our annihilation.”
Criston confesses death will be a relief. (Social media posts indicate viewers are also wishing Criston would just die!)
Ulf continues to be a rude idiot at dinner as Queen Rhaenyra rises for a toast to their new riders. They accomplished something special, and they’ve been given a power few have known. If they serve her well, she’ll make Ulf, Hugh, and Addam knights of the realm. She announces they need to strike in two days, with their targets being Oldtown and Lannisport. That means their training must speed up, so they’ll be ready to take a dragon into battle.
Lady Baela and Hugh question why they need to kill so many innocent people. Jace thinks it can’t be helped, and Rhaenyra knows they need to break the will of their enemy. It’s the only way to stop more bloodshed.
Addam asks about Vhagar and Rhaenyra confirms she’s a terror in the skies. But she can’t be everywhere at once. Ulf claims he and Silverwing will take on Vhagar themselves. He can’t help himself and acts like a mannerless brute again, and both Jace and Rhaenyra remind him of his place at their table.
Rhaenyra receives a message from Ser Strong informing her Daemon raised “his” army and Strong believes treachery is afoot. She orders Addam to accompany her to Harrenhal.
Daemon wakes and follows Alys (Gayle Rankin) out to the godswood. She believes Daemon’s finally learned this world will not be governed. It’s time for him to discover the truth about his future, and the future of the Seven Kingdoms. He’s ready to learn The Song of Ice and Fire.
Daemon places his hand on the weirwood tree and sees the three-eyed raven; the Night King, and white walkers; a battlefield with dead bodies and dead dragons; three dragon eggs engulfed in flames; Daenerys’ back and her three baby dragons; and Queen Rhaenyra on the Iron Throne. The vision ends with Helaena telling him, “It’s all a story, and you’re but one part in it. You know your part. You know what you must do.”
The scene switches to Helaena on a balcony, her mouth closing as if she had just finished speaking to Daemon in his vision. Aemond joins her and asks his sister to come to Harrenhal to destroy Daemon and his army. Helaena wonders what happens if she says no, and reveals she knows he burned Aegon. She saw him do it and knows he watched as her husband/their brother fell from the sky. Aemond won’t admit it, and Helaena unleashes the truth. Aegon will return to the throne and Aemond will be dead when he does. “You were swallowed up in the God’s Eye and you were never seen again.”
Aemond threatens to have her killed. Helaena brushes off the threat. Nothing he says will change anything.
Matt Smith in ‘House of the Dragon’ season 2 episode 8 (Photo by Ollie Upton/HBO)
Queen Rhaenyra and Addam of Hull soar over the army camped outside Harrenhal. Ser Strong greets Rhaenyra at the gates and acknowledges circumstances have changed since he sent a raven. Rhaenyra enters the castle and it’s filled with soldiers who fall silent when they realize who has joined them. Syrax lands on a ledge above, waiting for any sign that Rhaenyra’s in trouble.
Daemon makes his way through the men, stopping in front of his niece/wife. Rhaenyra is on guard and takes a few steps back when Daemon says the men are sworn to him. She demands to know who he’s sworn to, and Daemon pauses for a moment and then moves closer, speaking in High Valyrian. His vision has led him to believe this war is just the beginning. Winter is coming.
Rhaenyra knows the story well, and Daemon confesses he saw it play out. He believes, just like her father, that the only hope for the realm is a leader who can unite it. She is that leader. He bends the knee and calls her the true queen – First of Her Name, Protector of the Realm. He and his men are meant to serve her to death … “or the end of our story.”
Behind him, the men also take a knee. Even Ser Broome, although he looks uneasy. Rhaenyra takes Daemon’s hand and warns him not to leave her again. Daemon smiles and confesses he’s tried but cannot. They present a united front to the men as Daemon proclaims there will be no mercy. They will fight for Queen Rhaenyra. The men rise and cheer.
Back at the docks, Lord Corlys sends for his first mate, Alyn of Hull (Abubakar Salim), and they discuss the weather. Small talk over, Corlys attempts to break through the wall his son built around himself. Finally, Alyn’s heard enough. He’s held his tongue since he was a child but now, he lays into his absentee father. It’s only after Corlys has lost his son, his daughter, and Lucerys that he pretends to care about the boys he abandoned as children. Now that he’s a man, he’ll refuse any offers of help from Corlys.
Over at the Vale, Lady Rhaena (Phoebe Campbell) is exhausted and thirsty but refuses to give up her search for the wild dragon. She spends a freezing night on the ground, shivering, and the following day spots the dragon overhead and chases after it. (This dragon is Sheepstealer.)
Meanwhile at Dragonstone, Queen Rhaenyra and Mysaria (Sonoya Mizuno) watch as Ulf and Hugh practice on their dragons. Mysaria believes the gods have favored Rhaenyra, but Rhaenyra is still torn over having to kill thousands of innocent people. Mysaria reminds her she is just while her foes are power-hungry.
That night, Queen Rhaenyra is awakened by the arrival of an unexpected visitor. Alicent confirms no one knows she’s there except her protector, and confesses she’s been mistaken. Alicent describes her life and admits she’s lost her way. When she speaks about taking a lover, Rhaenyra points out that she’s a hypocrite who’s made virtue her banner. Alicent doesn’t disagree and has come to the decision she needs to leave all of this behind. She wants to flee King’s Landing with Helaena, but Rhaenyra reminds her it’s too late. Cities have been destroyed and people are dead, all because of Alicent’s actions. Rhaenyra places the blame solely at Alicent’s feet. Alicent claims she only did what she thought King Viserys wanted.
Rhaenyra tells her to leave since that’s what she wants. None of this has anything to do with her. Alicent remains silent and then reveals that Viserys never stopped loving Rhaenyra’s mom. It was her memory that kept him resolute in naming Rhaenyra his heir. Rhaenyra wonders why, if that’s true, Alicent thought he changed his mind at the end. Alicent doesn’t have an answer.
Alicent finally comes clean. When Aemond leaves for battle, Queen Helaena will be in charge. Alicent will have the guards let Queen Rhaenyra in and she can assume the Iron Throne without any blood being shed. The war will end.
When asked about King Aegon, Alicent says he’s broken but will listen to her and bend the knee if she asks. Rhaenyra is shocked. How can Alicent possibly believe that Aegon can live after what’s happened? Rhaenyra will be forced to take Aegon’s head—in public—if she takes the throne. There’s no other option, and Alicent knows this. Alicent must choose. “Will you shrink from what you set out to do or will you see it through and make your sacrifice,” asks Rhaenyra. “A son for a son.”
Alicent takes a few deep breaths and agrees. In three days, Rhaenyra can take the throne—if she believes Alicent. Alicent is at the mercy of a woman she once called her friend. She’ll be painted as a villain who grasped for power and lost, but Alicent does not care. She just wants to be free of all of it and die in peace. Alicent invites Rhaenyra to join her, but Rhaenyra has a different path to walk and cannot.
What for a moment sounds like “Tubular Bells” plays as Hugh, Ulf, and Addam don their new armor. The montage also shows Lady Rhaena running toward the wild dragon, and Vhagar soaring over the Hightower army as it marches. House Stark’s army is given access to cross over the Green Fork, and we’re shown Lord Jason Lannister riding in front of his men (and lions) as they move toward Harrenhal.
The clips continue with Daemon looking at his men camped outside Harrenhal, while Ser Tyland Lannister and Admiral Lohar sail toward the blockade. Lord Corlys and Alyn row to The Queen Who Never Was in uncomfortable silence. Our final season two trip to the Vale shows Lady Rhaena near the wild dragon that’s eating a fresh kill. She stops in her tracks and it snarls in her direction.
Season two ends with Ser Otto Hightower behind bars, looking worse for wear. His daughter, Alicent, arrives back at King’s Landing only to discover her plans have been thwarted. Lord Larys has whisked King Aegon away.
Hugh Dillon, Jeremy Renner, Derek Webster and Derek Basco in ‘Mayor of Kingstown’ season 3 episode 10 (Credit: Dennis P. Mong Jr./Paramount+)
Paramount+’s Mayor of Kingstown season three did a fantastic job of building the tension between KPD, the Crips, Aryan Brotherhood, and the Russians. In episode 10, the season finale, it all pays off with a massive, game-changing shoot-out. The season three finale closes multiple storylines, kills off a few key characters, and leaves one of the few characters whose moral compass remains mostly intact in dire straits.
(Warning: this recap of season three episode 10 has spoilers.)
In a voiceover, Mike (Jeremy Renner) reveals his mom only visited once while he was in jail. She told him to survive, acknowledging that she understood he’d have to do whatever it took to make it out of jail alive. “She was giving me permission to become a stranger to her,” says Mike. He took that advice and now admits he did evil things inside. But did he become evil? When he got out, his mother’s hug confirmed he’d been absolved.
Mike and Bunny (Tobi Bamtefa) discuss their plans to end the war today. Mike will inform the Russians of the route Bunny’s men will take moving the guns, and Bunny has the perfect spot picked out for an ambush. KPD will take down all the Russians if the Crips don’t handle it themselves. Mike will personally handle Konstantin.
Once it’s all done, Bunny will be the King of Kingstown and Mike will finally have peace. A twisted peace, but peace, nonetheless.
Ian (Hugh Dillon) is interviewed about Charlie’s death and lies, claiming he shouldn’t have let his guard down. Evelyn (Necar Zadegan) grabs a moment when he’s done and wonders why he logged Charlie out once for the dentist. That date coincides with the murder of KPD whistleblower Morrissey. Ian acts insulted, accusing her of disrespecting him. He’s guilty as hell but doing a great job of acting offended.
Meanwhile, Konstantin (Yorick van Wageningen) is worried when he can’t reach Roman. Iris wonders if he’s dead or has taken off, and Konstantin’s certain he didn’t bolt. And if Roman’s dead, should they leave? Konstantin can’t but Iris (Emma Laird) can.
The pressing concern now is who killed Roman: the Russians or Bunny Washington? Konstantin thinks either is too logical of an answer.
Speaking of Roman, his tortured body has been strung up from a bridge by the river. Mike meets Ian and Stevie (Derek Webster) at the crime scene, and Ian’s worried. This looks like Konstantin’s man, which means Iris isn’t safe. Ian points out Roman’s wearing a gas mask, indicating the killer might have been Russian. It’s not the Crips’ or Aryans’ MO.
Mike heads over to Konstantin’s boat to inform him Roman is dead. Konstantin believes Milo’s returned and is behind Roman’s death, the bombings, and the deaths of the women on the bus. Milo was warned and survived, and Mike thinks if that’s true it doesn’t change a thing.
Ian snags time alone with Mike and confesses that Evelyn is investigating the days he took Charlie out. He’s never told Mike that Charlie killed Morrissey, and now he’s scared Evelyn will pin the murder on him. Mike walks him through that day, and it’s not looking good for Ian. Evelyn obviously already has someone doing a thorough investigation and Ian wasn’t exactly careful. Ian begs Mike to tell Evelyn to be a team player. Mike’s not sure that’s possible.
Robert (Hamish Allan-Headley) calls an urgent meeting and informs Mike, Ian, and Kyle (Taylor Handley) that the DA is calling him in. Ian reminds Robert he’d be in jail if Morrissey wasn’t dead, but Robert’s adamant he’s not going to jail over Ian’s screw-up. Mike wants everyone to focus on shutting down the Russians today, but Robert’s like a dog with a bone. He needs Mike to get Evelyn to stop her investigation. Only Mike can do it without violence, and Robert warns that he’ll take her out if it comes to that.
Warden Kareem Moore (Michael Beach) views security footage from the day the prison was attacked. He watches the new guard, Kevin, signal someone outside the prison that Callahan and the AB are in the yard. Now he’s certain who the inside man is. He talks with Kevin and advises him not to justify doing wrong by claiming it’s loyalty to family. Bunny will use him and toss him aside when he’s no longer needed, and then where will Kevin be?
Bunny calls Mike as his people are on the move, and Mike immediately informs Konstantin that Bunny’s guys are heading to the Sixth Street Bridge. Mike claims not to know where they’re heading but suggests Konstantin’s men just follow the truck.
However, the guns aren’t in the truck that Konstantin will be following. Bunny reminds his men to draw the Russians into the kill zone and then wipe them out. The convoy heads off after Bunny tells his guys to watch each other’s backs.
Mike spares a few minutes of his busy day to ask Evelyn to back off. Ian’s a good friend and that should carry some weight. “I would chew through a f**king brick wall to get at Robert Sawyer. If I have to go through Ian, so be it,” says Evelyn. She wants Sawyer but if Mike has a different way to get to him, she’s ready to listen. Mike doesn’t offer an alternate solution.
The SWAT team suits up, ready for what’s about to go down. Robert reminds Kyle that he brought him in and asks about what Kyle’s going to say when Evelyn questions him. Kyle’s going to stick with the party line and so will Ian. Robert’s not so sure about Ian. He also wonders about Mike and whether he’ll side with Evelyn. Also, will Kyle choose Mike over his SWAT team brothers?
After their conversation, Kyle has every reason to be on guard around Robert.
Kareem calls his daughter and tells her he’s proud of her and loves her before getting on the phone with his wife. Kareem wants her to tell Russell he’s proud of him and give him a hug.
Kareem hangs up and looks out over the yard. He radios the guards, lies that a prisoner is down, and then steps into the locked yard with the Aryan Brotherhood. Kareem requests backup and is heard on the radio ordering the prisoners to back up. (They’re nowhere near him and confused.) He walks among them and doesn’t move when one approaches him with a knife. He’s repeatedly stabbed and beaten as the men cheer.
The guards arrive but it’s too late to save Kareem. The warden chose death by inmate – and the insurance and other benefits that will take care of his family – after being told he had two weeks left in his employment.
Aidan Gillen as Milo, Yorick van Wageningen as Konstantin, Emma Laird as Iris, and Jeremy Renner as Mike McLusky in ‘Mayor of Kingstown’ season 3 episode 10 (Credit: Dennis P. Mong Jr./Paramount+)
Konstantin and Iris return to his boat to discover Milo (Aidan Gillen) and his men are waiting below deck. Milo’s guys kill Konstantin’s guard as Milo orders Iris to use the phone Mike gave her and to call him. Konstantin’s shocked that Iris lied to him, and Iris admits she chose to be a spy for Mike. He didn’t force her.
Meanwhile, Bunny’s guys have made it onto the bridge at the same time as the Russians. A massive shootout commences, with innocent civilians trapped in their cars on the bridge as bullets ring out from automatic weapons.
Milo claims he doesn’t want to hurt Mike, but Iris still won’t call him. Milo does it himself and confirms he’s on Konstantin’s boat. Mike hangs up and pulls a U-turn, heading to the boat as Ian calls with news there’s a battle on the bridge, and civilians are caught in the crossfire.
None of this is going down exactly as Mike planned, and he doesn’t have a solution to the Crips and Russians bridge bloodbath. Instead, he needs to head to Konstantin’s and meet with Milo. Ian and the KPD will have to handle the bridge.
SWAT rolls up on the bridge and Robert reminds his men to carefully identify their targets and avoid collateral damage. (Night’s fallen and it’s hard to see who is who.) KPD enters the fight, with dozens of cops and SWAT blocking the bridge with their vehicles at both entrances.
The Crips only have three options: kill, die, or dive off the bridge. They choose kill. SWAT moves through the crowd, clearing the civilians as they advance in a line across the bridge closer to the action. They exchange fire after most civilians have been rescued and continue to advance.
Someone inside a car has a weapon and Kyle orders him to drop it. He refuses because he needs to protect his kids. More bullets fly as Robert kills a Crip who has his hands up and has surrendered. He then joins Kyle and orders the civilian, still seated in his car, to lose his weapon. Robert doesn’t listen to Kyle when Kyle screams at him that they’re innocent. The SWAT team leader’s on the verge of pulling the trigger when Kyle shoots him twice.
Back on the boat, Milo and Konstantin exchange insults. (Konstantin calls Milo a half-assed movie gangster.) Milo still wants the Russian drug pipeline, and apparently, Roman confirmed the Russians don’t care if he or Konstantin is in charge. Mike shows up and Milo asks if they can start fresh. Milo wants Kingstown back and reminds Mike they used to work well together. Mike’s not going for it and suggests Milo should shoot him now. Milo threatens to kill Iris if Mike doesn’t fall in line, and Iris says she wants to stay with Mike. However, that’s not an option. It’s either stay and die or leave and live, but either way, Iris needs to kill Konstantin.
Konstantin tells Iris it’s okay and that he deserves to die. Mike doesn’t want Iris to do Milo’s dirty work, but Milo’s got another card up his sleeve. He tells Konstantin that Mike played him. Bunny’s guns aren’t even in the truck on the bridge.
Again, Milo insists he just wants things to go back to how they were. Bunny can have his turf, Milo will take charge of the Russians, and the war will be over. But first Iris must take the gun and shoot Konstantin. Finally, she grabs it and points it at Konstantin’s head. Konstantin begs her to do it, but she refuses until he calls her Hannah. She pulls the trigger.
Iris points the gun at Milo, but it’s empty. Milo only loaded it with one bullet. Now that she’s done what he asked, she can leave. Milo’s even set her up with money and IDs for a new life. Iris still refuses to leave, and Mike tells her it’s time for her to go. He makes her promise she won’t look back and will never see him again.
Gunshots ring out on the deck above, and Mike uses the distraction to knock Milo’s gun out of his hand. They fight, and Mike gains the upper hand and holds Milo at gunpoint. Ian rushes down the stairs after taking out Milo’s men, and Mike orders him to take Iris to the bus station and cancel the unit that’s on the way. It won’t be necessary.
Milo admits to everything he’s done, including bombing the cemetery, and Mike thinks they’ve crossed the point of no return. When Milo mentions Mike’s mom, Mike shoots him in the side. Milo does it again and earns a fatal shot in response.
Mike tosses the gun in the river and leaves.
Taylor Handley as Kyle McLusky in ‘Mayor of Kingstown’ season 3 episode 10 (Credit: Dennis P. Mong Jr./Paramount+)
The gun battle on the bridge is over when Mike arrives. Ian’s forced to break the news that Kyle shot Robert, but Robert isn’t dead. A witness says it was attempted murder, and Ian sums it up as a clusterf**k. Everything’s on video thanks to body cams and civilians filming with their phones.
Mike spots Evelyn as Kyle’s taken away in the back of a cop car. She can’t cut Kyle loose because he shot another cop, and Mike reminds her Kyle’s his brother. Evelyn has no choice but to charge Kyle with attempted murder.
Ian warns Mike to keep his head down and stay calm. Mike drives away while thinking about the day he was released from prison. Kyle, Mitch, and their mom were waiting for him outside the gates, and all he wanted was to get away from the prison. Still, he lingered long enough to let his family hug him.
Iris boards a bus heading out of town. She takes two pills and sinks back into a seat. When the bus stops for a restroom break, the driver discovers that she’s dead.
Season three ends with Mike acknowledging he was a changed man after serving time. He did what he had to do to survive but wasn’t certain once he was set free if he could ever return to himself.
