‘Prodigal Son’ Season 2 Episode 2 Recap: “Speak of the Devil”

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January 19, 2021

Prodigal Son Season 2 Episode 2 — Michael Sheen and Tom Payne in ‘Prodigal Son’ season 2 episode 2 (Photo by Phil Caruso © 2021 Fox Media LLC)

Season two episode two of Fox’s Prodigal Son opens with Martin (Michael Sheen) in the middle of a therapy session. After a little prompting, he confesses he’s worried about his son. And speak of the devil (which is also the episode’s title), said son is getting grilled by his mom over skipping out on visits to his therapist.

Malcolm (Tom Payne) reveals he’s on a break from therapy. He claims he’s just going through the regular “life of a serial killer’s son” stuff.

Martin rings up his son, begging for a visit. He’s excited he now has access to the yard and suggests that a visit could be helpful, given the horrible secret Malcolm’s keeping. Martin believes he’s the only one who can help Malcolm work through things.

Back at home, Malcolm catches Ainsley (Halston Sage) with a knife and is doubly shocked to learn it’s because she’s actually helping out by setting the table. She’s concerned she still doesn’t remember much from the night Nicholas died. The subject turns to a less stressful topic; Ainsley announces she’s moving back to her apartment.

Jessica (Bellamy Young) seems fine with this and is even helping her move out. Jessica’s in a good mood and Malcolm asks if it’s because of her relationship with Gil. The question shocks both Jessica and Ainsley, and Jessica denies there’s anything going on between them.

Fortunately, Jessica’s let off the hook when Malcolm’s called out to a murder scene. JT (Frank Harts) is already there and claims he’s doing okay after being nearly killed by racist cops who assumed he was a perp, not one of their own.

JT describes their new case as “creepy ass” which is actually a perfect description. The murder victim, whose name is Father Reyes, was strung up by his feet and left hanging from the ceiling. There are restraints, holy water, and a crucifix nearby along with the victim’s blood. Both Edrisa (Keiko Agena) and Malcolm believe it looks ritualistic, and a giggly Edrisa jokes about how they finish each other’s sentences.

Edrisa describes Father Reyes as having been expertly exsanguinated.

Sister Agnes found the body and after explaining how she came upon the scene, Malcolm asks if Father Reyes performed exorcisms. His question stems from a well-used copy of the Rite of Exorcism on the floor, spattered with blood.

Sister Agnes won’t confirm or deny anything.

From her vantage point on scaffolding above the crime scene, Edrisa points out the blood on the floor is either a symbol or letters. It turns out the writing is in Aramaic, according to Sister Agnes, and spells out Abaddon…as in Abaddon the Destroyer, angel of the abyss from the Book of Revelation.

Malcolm tells those assembled he knows the killer’s name. Wait for it…it’s the Devil!

Professor Jonah Shaw (Damian Young) joins the group and explains he’s been helping preserve the artwork but doesn’t attend the church. He barely knew Father Reyes but had heard about the Father being an exorcist.

The next to join the investigation is Archbishop Argento who refuses to discuss Father Reyes’ work or share his records. Gil (Lou Diamond Phillips) appears to be okay with that, but Malcolm is visibly frustrated. Gil explains he’s simply trying to establish a rapport with the Church.

Gil asks for a profile and Malcolm believes it was a ritual performed by someone who identifies as a demon. The killer would be presenting symptoms similar to possession. He’s not sure who might have done it but thinks Martin might be able to offer some insight.

Martin’s outside in the yard on a tight leash but able to walk around the garden when Malcolm seeks his help. He comes up with an expert they can use, a fellow inmate who goes by the name Friar Pete (Christian Borle). Friar Pete went on a killing spree after being kicked out of a monastery and now he’ll serve as their consultant.

Together, Martin, Malcolm, and Friar Pete come up with the idea that the 44 cuts inflicted on Father Reyes have to do with exorcism. Friar Pete thinks they should look for a doctor who approves exorcisms for the Catholic church.

Gil uses his charm to get info on a doctor connected to Reyes, and Malcolm and JT show up at one of his patient’s home following a lead. Before they head inside, JT explains the patient – Norman – was violent and untreatable, causing the doctor to refer him to Reyes.

Norman’s mom appears to be scared of her son and crosses herself before laying down a line of salt in the doorway. She warns Malcolm and JT to stay inside the salt lines on the floor in Norman’s room.

Norman’s seated at a piano when they begin their questioning. Norman recalls Father Reyes visited him last week here in his room. “The salt keeps him out,” says Norman who claims he never leaves home. When JT asks who he’s referring to, Norman says the demon.

JT and Malcolm have a whispered conversation about Norman’s possible guilt. Malcolm doesn’t think he’s the killer but, against JT’s advice, he tests the young man by crossing over the salt lines. After he moves over the line, Norman turns to Malcolm and says, “I knew it was you. You’re a demon.”

Norman’s extremely agitated as he confesses he’s a killer…and so is Malcolm. Norman says the demon’s in his blood and launches an attack at Malcolm which is abruptly cut off once Malcolm returns behind the salt.

After Norman’s hauled off to the hospital, Malcolm informs Gil and Dani that Norman has recurrent identity disturbances. Gil and Dani believe Norman’s the killer, but Malcolm doesn’t think so. The 44 cuts were too precise and Norman has demonstrated he would have been uncontrollable during an attack.

Malcolm believes whoever did it read the Field Guide to Surgery, published in 1517. It shows how to do the exact bloodletting performed on Father Reyes.

Meanwhile, Ainsley wants to know what’s up with her mom and Gil. She tells her mom to talk to Gil instead of ignoring his calls. Jessica promises she will.

Malcolm returns to the church to further question Sister Agnes. She claims not to be familiar with Field Guide and then suggests prayer will help Malcolm with his troubles. He’s momentarily distracted and when he looks at Sister Agnes again, she’s transformed into his sister. Ainsley tells him he needs to come clean with what he did while trying to hand him a knife.

It turns out the visit to Sister Agnes was just a dream. When he wakes up at the police station, Dani and the rest of the officers are all wearing body armor. Still nervous he might do something, Dani explains the protection’s because he fell asleep and his nightmares are epic.

JT and Gil have a heart-to-heart and JT confesses he’s worried about reporting what happened. If he files a grievance, there might be repercussions. He doesn’t want to take that chance. Gil understands and admits nothing about this is right.

Dani drives Malcolm home and he confesses his dream involved Sister Agnes. She asks if he wants to discuss it, but he doesn’t want to talk about how he’s feeling. Dani confesses she’s having a rough time. “It’s always bad, the difference is people are paying attention. It’s like they just realized that the world is racist and cops target Black people,” says Dani. “JT and me don’t get a pass.” (Love me some #Brightwell!)

As they discuss a painting by Francisco Goya on his wall, Malcolm explains Goya died from lead poisoning from the paint. Malcolm suddenly realizes lead poisoning from old paintings causes symptoms that could be mistaken for possession. They immediately connect that to Sister Agnes and Professor Shaw who have been restoring old paintings together.

Gil, Malcolm, JT, and Dani rush over to the church and learn Sister Agnes didn’t show up that day. Professor Shaw confirms they’ve been working with lead white paint, but they’ve been careful to wear masks and gloves. Malcolm explains to Archbishop Argento that Sister Agnes could be suffering from paranoid delusions.

As they talk a loud thud is heard from the crypt. Gil, JT, and Dani head down to check it out and JT makes a call for backup. He’s told by whoever answers that he’s not a real detective and they’re not going to respond to his request for help.

While the team’s off hunting Sister Agnes, Malcolm chats with Archbishop Argento about exorcisms. He admits if they actually worked, it would make his life easier. They’re interrupted by Shaw who’s going a bit bonkers, repeating things to himself. Shaw cradles the how-to book and keeps mumbling as Malcolm uncovers the painting Shaw was working on. When he pulls off the drape, he discovers the painting’s been ruined.

The team finds Sister Agnes tied up and gagged in the crypt.

Malcolm sends the Archbishop away to keep him safe, advising him to lock the doors behind him. He rings up his dad and asks for everything he knows about lead poisoning. Shaw’s hallucinating and Malcolm wants to know how to help him. Martin suggests he lock Shaw away in a room by himself, but Malcolm can’t do that. Shaw has somehow gotten ahold of a weapon and advances on Malcolm. Malcolm tries to explain to Shaw he’s been poisoned but it’s not getting through to him.

Martin compliments his son’s bedside manner as he listens in.

Shaw claims to be Abaddon and Friar Pete – who’s also listening in – thinks Malcolm’s going to die. He says an exorcism is the only way to hold off Shaw. Friar Pete tells Malcolm to repeat after him and begins speaking in Latin. Malcolm does as told and Shaw momentarily freezes in his tracks but then begins taunting Malcolm. Over the phone, Martin prompts Malcolm to really get into the act. Malcolm yells, “The power of Christ compels you!” and Shaw falls to the floor. He tries to rise and Malcolm knocks him out with a heavy candlestick.

Martin’s proud of his son and cheers as Shaw’s knocked out.

Later at the station, Gil yells into the phone, enraged anyone would ignore JT’s call for backup. JT thinks it’s going to get worse, upset his fellow cops looked at him and saw a Black man and not a cop who’d put his life on the line for 10 years. Dani wants JT to tell the union, but he reminds her he needs to protect his job and family. He heads off saying he’s going to take care of it.

Gil shows up at Jessica’s place and is happy she finally returned his calls. Their conversation’s awkward and Gil admits he thought they had a real thing going on. When she says she’s cursed, Gil realizes she overheard his conversation with Dani at the hospital. Jessica believes she’s broken and that whoever she gets close to gets hurt. If something happened to him, she’d carry that guilt. Gil stops her in her tracks by correcting her assumption. “Jess, you saved me,” says Gil.

By sending him away Jessica thinks she’s saving him again. She begs him to leave and he does without putting up any more of a fight.

Ainsley accidentally overheard part of their conversation and admits that to her mom. She realizes her mom’s a little broken and confesses she might be, too. She also reveals she’s not moving out after all.

Malcolm visits his dad and thanks him for his help. Martin tries to get him to unburden himself and Malcolm admits he was the one who decided to lie to his sister and dispose of the body. Martin says it’s because of him that he knew how to save Ainsley, and that’s what parenting is all about. Malcolm acknowledges he’s finally coming to terms with the fact his dad is a part of him.

Martin’s pleased with this development, but Malcolm quickly shuts down his joy by reminding him now that he knows he’s there, he can tune him out. Malcolm believes he might now be capable of actually leaving his dad behind.

‘Snowpiercer’ Snags an Early Season 3 Renewal

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Rebecca Murray

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January 19, 2021

Snowpiercer Season 2 — Daveed Diggs and Jennifer Connelly star in ‘Snowpiercer’ (Photo Credit: TNT)

TNT’s just given the critically acclaimed sci-fi thriller Snowpiercer an early season three renewal order. The news comes less than a week ahead of the series’ season two premiere.

Season two will debut on January 25, 2021, with new episodes arriving on Mondays at 9pm ET/PT.

The cast of Snowpiercer includes Oscar winner Jennifer Connelly (A Beautiful Mind) as Melanie and Grammy and Tony Award winner Daveed Diggs (Hamilton) as Layton. Emmy nominee Alison Wright (The Americans), Mickey Sumner (Frances Ha), Iddo Goldberg (Peaky Blinders), Katie McGuinness (Dirty Filthy Love), Tony Award winner Lena Hall (Hedwig and the Angry Inch), Annalise Basso (Bedtime Stories), Sam Otto (Jellyfish), Roberto Urbina (Narcos), Sheila Vand (Argo), and Steven Ogg (The Walking Dead) also star in season two. Sean Bean (Game of Thrones) joins the cast of the sci-fi thriller as Mr. Wilford.

Graeme Manson, Marty Adelstein, Becky Clements, Matthew O’Connor, Ben Rosenblatt, and Scott Derrickson executive produce the series. Bong Joon Ho, Miky Lee, Tae-sung Jeong, Park Chan-wook, Lee Tae-hun, and Dooho Choi – producers of Snowpiercer the film – also are involved as executive producers.

According to TNT, season one ranked as the top new cable drama of 2020.

The Season 2 Plot:

At the end of Snowpiercer season one, the survivors of the revolution are trying to pick up the pieces and maintain a fragile peace amongst the now merged classes with Layton emerging as the train’s leader. Discovering Mr. Wilford is alive and headed their way on a rival train, Melanie risks going outside to prevent him from invading Snowpiercer. While she’s out there, it’s revealed that Alexandra, Melanie’s daughter, who she thought had died, is alive and has become Wilford’s dedicated protegee.

In season two, an entirely new power struggle emerges, causing a dangerous rift as people are divided between their loyalty to Layton and to Mr. Wilford, who has a new train, new technology and a game plan that keeps everyone guessing. While Layton battles Wilford for the soul of Snowpiercer, Melanie leads the charge on a shocking new discovery that could change the fate of humanity.

‘Blue Bloods’ Season 11 Episode 5 Photos, Plot, Cast and Air Date

By

Rebecca Murray

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January 19, 2021

Blue Bloods Season 11 Episode 5 — Donnie Wahlberg as Danny Reagan in ‘Blue Bloods’ season 11 episode 5 (Photo: Patrick Harbron © 2020 CBS Broadcasting Inc)

Eddie and her partner are in hot water on CBS’s Blue Bloods season 11 episode five, “Spilling Secrets.” Episode five was directed by John Behring from a script by Daniel Truly and will air on Friday, January 22, 2021 at 10pm ET/PT.

Tom Selleck returns to lead the cast as Frank Reagan, Donnie Wahlberg is Danny Reagan, and Bridget Moynahan plays Erin Reagan. The cast also includes Will Estes as Jamie Reagan, Len Cariou as Henry Reagan, Sami Gayle as Nicky Reagan-Boyle, Marisa Ramirez as Det. Maria Baez, and Vanessa Ray plays Officer Eddie Janko.

Guest stars include Sophia Gennusa, Kristine Nielsen, Brian Keane, Cameron Scoggins, Brandon Williams, Opal Alladin, Leah Pressman, Kurt Uy, Matt Consalvo, Lou Martini, Jr, Ramona Floyd, and Shawna Christensen.

“Spilling Secrets” Plot: Eddie and her partner, Officer Rachel Witten (Lauren Patten), are heralded for their bravery for stopping an active shooter, until a civilian comes forward to accuse them of faking the incident as part of a government conspiracy.

Also, Frank pries into a decades-long history of cash payments his father Henry has been making to an unknown recipient, Danny and Baez find themselves in the middle of a fierce sibling rivalry between two brothers as they investigate the murder of the men’s father, and Sean contends with his school locker being vandalized with anti-police sentiment.

Series Description, Courtesy of CBS:

Blue Bloods is a drama about a multi-generational family of cops dedicated to New York City law enforcement. Frank Reagan is the New York Police Commissioner, and heads both the police force and the Reagan brood. He runs his department as diplomatically as he runs his family, even when dealing with the politics that plagued his unapologetically bold father, Henry, during his stint as Chief.

A source of pride and concern for Frank is his eldest son, Danny, a seasoned detective, family man and Iraq War vet who on occasion uses dubious tactics to solve cases with his partner, Detective Maria Baez. The Reagan women in the family include middle daughter, Erin, a New York Assistant D.A. who serves as the legal compass for her siblings and father, and is a single parent to her daughter Nicky, who is pursuing a career in San Francisco. Jamie is the youngest Reagan, a Harvard Law graduate and the family’s “golden boy.”

Unable to deny the family tradition, Jamie decided to give up a lucrative future in law and follow in the family footsteps as a cop. He’s found a friend and ally in his wife, Eddie, who keeps him on his toes, and has very different reasons than the Reagans for joining the police force. The Reagans welcomed a new family addition after Frank learned his deceased son, officer Joe Reagan, has an adult child they never knew about, a young man who is a rising NYPD cop.

‘S.W.A.T.’ Season 4 Episode 8 Photos: “Crusade” Plot, Cast and Air Date

By

Rebecca Murray

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January 19, 2021

SWAT Season 4 Episode 8 — Jay Harrington, Alex Russell, Lina Esco, Shemar Moore, and David Lim in ‘S.W.A.T.’ season 4 episode 8 (Photo © 2021 CBS Broadcasting, Inc)

The team takes on extremists on CBS’s S.W.A.T. season four episode eight, “Crusade.” Directed by Billy Gierhart from a script by Sarah Alderson, episode eight is set to air on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at 10pm ET/PT.

Shemar Moore leads the cast as Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, Alex Russell plays Jim Street, Jay Harrington is David “Deacon” Kay, and Lina Esco plays Christina “Chris” Alonso. Kenny Johnson stars as Dominique Luca, David Lim is Victor Tan, Patrick St. Esprit is Commander Robert Hicks, and Amy Farrington plays Lieutenant Piper Lynch. Lou Ferrigno, Jr. recurs as Rocker, Laura James is Molly, Otis Gallop is Stevens, and Lyndie Greenwood is Erika.

Guest stars include Joy Osmanski, Adam Aalderks, Geoff Meed, Isabella Hoffman, Larissa Jewel, and Traci Belushi. Michael Miranda, Patrick Day, Guido Cocomello, Nancy De Mayo, Juanita Jennings, and Ptosha Storey also guest star.

“Crusade” Plot: SWAT searches for a group of extremists carrying out coordinated attacks against local businesses. Also, Deacon and his wife, Annie, find themselves at odds when Annie wants to enroll their daughter, Lila, in private school.

Series Description, Courtesy of CBS:

Inspired by the television series and the feature film, S.W.A.T. stars Shemar Moore as a former Marine and locally born and raised S.W.A.T. sergeant, tasked to run a specialized tactical unit that is the last stop in law enforcement in Los Angeles. Torn between loyalty to where he was raised and allegiance to his brothers in blue, Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson strives to bridge the divide between his two worlds and acclimate to his new duties as the legal guardian of a teenager.

‘The Muppet Show’ Will Be Available on Disney+ Beginning in February

By

Rebecca Murray

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January 19, 2021

It’s time to play the music…it’s time to light the lights… Or, at least on February 19, 2021 it will be as Disney+ has confirmed The Muppet Show will be available to stream beginning on that day via the subscription service. Muppet fans will not only have access to seasons one through three but also seasons four and five. Four and five have never before been available on home entertainment prior to their arrival on Disney+.

“It’s going to be great to welcome back longtime fans, and to give a new generation of fans a chance to see how we got our start, how Miss Piggy became a star and so much more,” stated the world’s most famous frog, Kermit. Hecklers/lifetime balcony dwellers added, “Sorry, guys, but….here we go again.”

Jim Henson’s The Muppet Show features Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, and the Swedish Chef. The variety show starring lovable muppets premiered in 1976 and featured musical numbers, comedy bits, and appearances by big-name guest stars. Steve Martin, Elton John, Liza Minnelli, Alice Cooper, Julie Andrews, Bernadette Peters, Diana Ross, Gladys Knight, Gene Kelly, and Mark Hamill are just a sampling of the celebrities who shared the stage with Kermie and the rest of the Muppet gang.

‘The Good Doctor’ Season 4 Episode 8 Photos, Plot, Cast and Trailer

By

Rebecca Murray

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January 19, 2021

Shaun prepares for his first visit with Lea’s parents on ABC’s The Good Doctor season four episode eight. Directed by Rachel Leiterman from a script by Patti Carr, episode eight is set to air on Monday, January 25, 2021 at 10pm ET/PT.

The cast of season four includes Freddie Highmore as Dr. Shaun Murphy, Antonia Thomas as Dr. Claire Browne, Hill Harper as Dr. Marcus Andrews, and Richard Schiff as Dr. Aaron Glassman. Christina Chang plays Dr. Audrey Lim, Fiona Gubelmann is Dr. Morgan Reznick, Will Yun Lee is Dr. Alex Park and Paige Spara stars as Lea Dilallo.

Eden Summer Gilmore, Kristoffer Polaha, Barclay Hope, Julie Warner, Brian Marc, Bria Samoné Henderson, Noah Galvin, and Summer Brown guest star.

“Parenting” Plot: The team treats a teenage gymnast who experiences complications from her intensive training. Meanwhile, Shaun meets Lea’s parents for the first time.

Series Description, Courtesy of ABC:

Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, continues to use his extraordinary medical gifts at St. Bonaventure Hospital’s surgical unit. As his friendships deepen, Shaun tackles the world of dating for the first time and continues to work harder than he ever has before, navigating his environment to prove to his colleagues that his talents as a surgeon will save lives.

The Good Doctor Season 4 Episode 8 — Paige Spara and Freddie Highmore in ‘The Good Doctor’ season 4 episode 8 (ABC/Jeff Weddell)

The Good Doctor Season 4 Episode 6 — Richard Schiff and Paige Spara in season 4 episode 8 (ABC/Jeff Weddell)

‘SEAL Team’ Season 4 Episode 6 Plot, Photos, Cast and Trailer

By

Rebecca Murray

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January 19, 2021

The team continues their quest to free Ray on CBS’s SEAL Team season four episode six. Directed by J. Michael Muro from a script by Matt Bosack and Mark H. Semos, episode six will air on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at 9pm ET/PT.

David Boreanaz leads the cast as Jason Hayes, Max Thieriot plays Clay Spenser, and Neil Brown Jr. stars as Ray Perry. AJ Buckley is Sonny Quinn and Toni Trucks is Lisa Davis. Recurring cast members include Justin Melnick as Brock Reynolds, Tyler Grey as Trent Sawyer, Scott Foxx as Full Metal, and Judd Lormand as Lt. Cdr. Eric Blackburn.

Episode six guest stars include Parisa Fakhri, Tim Chiou, Philip Shahbaz, Artoun Nazareth, Kaliayh Rhambo, Mo Anouti, and Jamal Antar.

“Horror Has a Face” Plot: As Ensign Davis tracks Ray’s location to a shipping container in the Mediterranean Ocean, Bravo team becomes increasingly desperate to rescue their brother before it’s too late.

Series Description, Courtesy of CBS:

SEAL Team is a military drama that follows the professional and personal lives of the most elite unit of Navy SEALs as they train, plan and execute the most dangerous, high-stakes missions our country can ask of them. Jason Hayes is the respected, intense leader of the Tier One team whose home life has suffered as a result of his extensive warrior’s existence. His team includes his trusted confidant, Ray Perry, the longest-tenured operator with whom Jason shares an ingrained shorthand; Sonny Quinn, an exceptional, loyal soldier with a checkered past who still combats self-destructive tendencies; and Clay Spenser, a young, multilingual, second-generation SEAL with insatiable drive and dedication. Vital to the team’s success is Ensign Lisa Davis, a no-nonsense, take-charge officer.

Deployed on clandestine missions worldwide at a moment’s notice, and knowing the toll it takes on them and their families, this tight-knit SEAL team displays unwavering patriotism and fearless dedication even in the face of overwhelming odds.

SEAL Team Season 4 Episode 6 — Neil Brown Jr. as Ray Perry in ‘SEAL Team’ season 4 episode 6 (Photo: Cliff Lipson © 2020 CBS Broadcasting, Inc)

‘9-1-1’ Season 4 Episode 2 Photos, Plot, Trailer and Air Date

By

Rebecca Murray

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January 19, 2021

The Hollywood sign’s down and mudslides cause problems for the first responders on Fox’s 9-1-1 season four episode two. Episode two, “Alone Together,” will air on Monday, January 25, 2021 at 8pm ET/PT.

Season four’s cast includes executive producer Angela Bassett as Athena Grant, executive producer Peter Krause as Bobby Nash, and Jennifer Love Hewitt as Maddie Kendall. Oliver Stark plays Evan “Buck” Buckley, Aisha Hinds is Henrietta “Hen” Wilson, Kenneth Choi is Howie “Chimney” Han, Ryan Guzman plays Eddie Diaz, and Rockmond Dunbar is Michael Grant.

“Alone Together” Plot: In the aftermath of the dam break, massive mudslides wreak havoc throughout Los Angeles. As Athena fights to save herself and an agoraphobic woman after her house collapses, Bobby, Hen and Eddie rush to save hikers endangered by the falling of the Hollywood sign.

Meanwhile, Buck and Chimney must rescue a group of pregnant women trapped in a submerged house.

Series Description, Courtesy of Fox:

Creators Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk and Tim Minear reimagine the procedural drama with 9-1-1, exploring the high-pressure experiences of police officers, firefighters and dispatchers who are thrust into the most frightening, shocking and heart-stopping situations. These emergency responders must try to balance saving those who are at their most vulnerable with solving the problems in their own lives.

911 Season 4 Episode 2 — Angela Bassett and guest star Lilli Birdsell in ‘9-1-1’ season 4 episode 2 (Photo © 2021 FOX Media LLC)

Critics Choice Awards TV Nominees: ‘Ozark,’ ‘The Crown’ Snag 6 Each

By

Rebecca Murray

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January 18, 2021

The Crown Season 4 — Princess Diana (EMMA CORRIN) and Prince Charles (JOSH O CONNOR) in ‘The Crown’ season 4 (Photo Credit: Netflix)

Nominations have been announced for the television side of the 26th Annual Critics Choice Awards set to air on The CW on Sunday, March 7, 2021. Netflix’s Ozark and The Crown top the list of nominees, with both dramas picking up six nominations. HBO’s Lovecraft Country, FX’s Mrs. America, Pop’s Schitt’s Creek, and FX’s What We Do in the Shadows followed close behind with five each.

Netflix led all networks/streaming services with 26 total nominations. HBO/HBO Max collected 24, FX earned 14, CBS/CBS All Access received seven, and Hulu also earned seven. AMC/AMC YouTube, NBC, and Pop scooped up six nominations each. Amazon Studios and Showtime earned five.

Taye Diggs is returning to host the 2021 Critics Choice Awards, marking his third consecutive year guiding the show.

“We are so thrilled to be celebrating the incredible work that was released during this extended season,” said Critics Choice Association CEO Joey Berlin. “In a year when the need for entertainment was undeniable, the industry rallied to deliver beautiful series that delighted us, educated us, challenged us, and most importantly, brought us all together.”

The Critics Choice Awards are voted on by Critics Choice Association members (of which I’m one) and honor the best in films and television. CCA will be announcing the film nominees on February 8, 2021.

SERIES NOMINATIONS FOR THE 26TH ANNUAL CRITICS CHOICE AWARDS

BEST DRAMA SERIES
Better Call Saul (AMC)
The Crown (Netflix)
The Good Fight (CBS All Access)
Lovecraft Country (HBO)
The Mandalorian (Disney+)
Ozark (Netflix)
Perry Mason (HBO)
This Is Us (NBC)

BEST ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES
Jason Bateman – Ozark (Netflix)
Sterling K. Brown – This Is Us (NBC)
Jonathan Majors – Lovecraft Country (HBO)
Josh O’Connor – The Crown (Netflix)
Bob Odenkirk – Better Call Saul (AMC)
Matthew Rhys – Perry Mason (HBO)

BEST ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES
Christine Baranski – The Good Fight (CBS All Access)
Olivia Colman – The Crown (Netflix)
Emma Corrin – The Crown (Netflix)
Claire Danes – Homeland (Showtime)
Laura Linney – Ozark (Netflix)
Jurnee Smollett – Lovecraft Country (HBO)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES
Jonathan Banks – Better Call Saul (AMC)
Justin Hartley – This Is Us (NBC)
John Lithgow – Perry Mason (HBO)
Tobias Menzies – The Crown (Netflix)
Tom Pelphrey – Ozark (Netflix)
Michael K. Williams – Lovecraft Country (HBO)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES
Gillian Anderson – The Crown (Netflix)
Cynthia Erivo – The Outsider (HBO)
Julia Garner – Ozark (Netflix)
Janet McTeer – Ozark (Netflix)
Wunmi Mosaku – Lovecraft Country (HBO)
Rhea Seehorn – Better Call Saul (AMC)

BEST COMEDY SERIES
Better Things (FX)
The Flight Attendant (HBO Max)
Mom (CBS)
PEN15 (Hulu)
Ramy (Hulu)
Schitt’s Creek (Pop)
Ted Lasso (Apple TV+)
What We Do in the Shadows (FX)

BEST ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES
Hank Azaria – Brockmire (IFC)
Matt Berry – What We Do in the Shadows (FX)
Nicholas Hoult – The Great (Hulu)
Eugene Levy – Schitt’s Creek (Pop)
Jason Sudeikis – Ted Lasso (Apple TV+)
Ramy Youssef – Ramy (Hulu)

BEST ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES
Pamela Adlon – Better Things (FX)
Christina Applegate – Dead to Me (Netflix)
Kaley Cuoco – The Flight Attendant (HBO Max)
Natasia Demetriou – What We Do in the Shadows (FX)
Catherine O’Hara – Schitt’s Creek (Pop)
Issa Rae – Insecure (HBO)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES
William Fichtner – Mom (CBS)
Harvey Guillén – What We Do in the Shadows (FX)
Daniel Levy – Schitt’s Creek (Pop)
Alex Newell – Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist (NBC)
Mark Proksch – What We Do in the Shadows (FX)
Andrew Rannells – Black Monday (Showtime)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES
Lecy Goranson – The Conners (ABC)
Rita Moreno – One Day at a Time (Pop)
Annie Murphy – Schitt’s Creek (Pop)
Ashley Park – Emily in Paris (Netflix)
Jaime Pressly – Mom (CBS)
Hannah Waddingham – Ted Lasso (Apple TV+)

BEST LIMITED SERIES
I May Destroy You (HBO)
Mrs. America (FX)
Normal People (Hulu)
The Plot Against America (HBO)
The Queen’s Gambit (Netflix)
Small Axe (Amazon Studios)
The Undoing (HBO)
Unorthodox (Netflix)

BEST MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Bad Education (HBO)
Between the World and Me (HBO)
The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel (Lifetime)
Hamilton (Disney+)
Sylvie’s Love (Amazon Studios)
What the Constitution Means to Me (Amazon Studios)

BEST ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION
John Boyega – Small Axe (Amazon Studios)
Hugh Grant – The Undoing (HBO)
Paul Mescal – Normal People (Hulu)
Chris Rock – Fargo (FX)
Mark Ruffalo – I Know This Much is True (HBO)
Morgan Spector – The Plot Against America (HBO)

BEST ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Cate Blanchett – Mrs. America (FX)
Michaela Coel – I May Destroy You (HBO)
Daisy Edgar-Jones – Normal People (Hulu)
Shira Haas – Unorthodox (Netflix)
Anya Taylor-Joy – The Queen’s Gambit (Netflix)
Tessa Thompson – Sylvie’s Love (Amazon Studios)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Daveed Diggs – The Good Lord Bird (Showtime)
Joshua Caleb Johnson – The Good Lord Bird (Showtime)
Dylan McDermott – Hollywood (Netflix)
Donald Sutherland – The Undoing (HBO)
Glynn Turman – Fargo (FX)
John Turturro – The Plot Against America (HBO)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Uzo Aduba – Mrs. America (FX)
Betsy Brandt – Soulmates (AMC)
Marielle Heller – The Queen’s Gambit (Netflix)
Margo Martindale – Mrs. America (FX)
Winona Ryder – The Plot Against America (HBO)
Tracey Ullman – Mrs. America (FX)

BEST TALK SHOW
Desus & Mero (Showtime)
Full Frontal with Samantha Bee (TBS)
The Kelly Clarkson Show (NBC/Syndicated)
Late Night with Seth Meyers (NBC)
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (CBS)
Red Table Talk (Facebook Watch)

BEST COMEDY SPECIAL
Fortune Feimster: Sweet & Salty (Netflix)
Hannah Gadsby: Douglas (Netflix)
Jerry Seinfeld: 23 Hours to Kill (Netflix)
Marc Maron: End Times Fun (Netflix)
Michelle Buteau: Welcome to Buteaupia (Netflix)
Patton Oswalt: I Love Everything (Netflix)

BEST SHORT FORM SERIES
The Andy Cohen Diaries (Quibi)
Better Call Saul: Ethics Training with Kim Wexler (AMC/Youtube)
Mapleworth Murders (Quibi)
Nikki Fre$h (Quibi)
Reno 911! (Quibi)
Tooning Out the News (CBS All Access)

‘Batwoman’ Season 2 Episode 2 Photos, Plot, Cast, and Air Date

By

Rebecca Murray

-

January 18, 2021

Season two episode one of The CW’s Batwoman introduced Javicia Leslie in the title role and found the team attempting to figure out what happened to Kate Kane. Episode one also featured Warren Christie as Tommy Elliott masquerading as Bruce Wayne, courtesy of psycho Alice. And speaking of Alice, she finally filled their dad in on Kate’s secret identity and discovered Safiyah is taking credit for Kate’s death.

Episode two, “Prior Criminal History,” was directed by Carl Season from a script by James Stoteraux and Chad Fiveash and will air on January 24, 2021 at 8pm ET/PT.

In addition to Javicia Leslie as Ryan Wilder/Batwoman, the season two cast includes Rachel Skarsten as Alice, Dougray Scott as Jacob Kane, Camrus Johnson as Luke Fox, Nicole Kang as Mary Hamilton, and Meagan Tandy as Sophie Moore.

“Prior Criminal History” Plot: DOWNRIGHT BATTY – After her quick spin in the Batgear, Ryan Wilder (Leslie) is back to facing the daily challenges of life as herself. Meanwhile, Alice (Skarsten) has a new, devious plan to get the attention of both Gotham and Safiyah (guest star Shivaani Ghai).

With Kate still missing and the city in an uprising, Luke (Johnson) and Mary (Kang) are desperate to find a stand-in. In a pinch, Ryan dons the suit again and comes face-to-face with Alice for the first time. Back at Crows Headquarters, Sophie and Commander Kane try to uncover who may have had a vendetta against Kate.