If you started to watch the fifth episode of the third season of The Morning Show and had a deja vu moment, you weren’t alone. The Morning Show takes a unique narrative turn by revisiting the pivotal events of the January 6 insurrection in Washington, D.C. The series, known for its exploration of significant real-world events, has crafted a storyline that delves into the aftermath of the insurrection, revealing a complex ethical dilemma faced by its lead character, Bradley Jackson. The fifth episode, “Love Island,” transports viewers back to the early days of the COVID-19 outbreak, unraveling the mysteries that unfolded during the two-year gap between seasons three and four.
The episode uncovers a poignant secret as Bradley, while covering the insurrection, stumbles upon her brother participating in an assault on a police officer. Overwhelmed by empathy for her family and her career as a journalist, she decides to omit this critical piece of information from her reporting. The decision introduces compelling ethical questions, exploring how far a journalist can blur ethical lines while maintaining audience support. With the creators promising to further dissect this complex ethical dilemma throughout the season, The Morning Show continues to captivate viewers with its intricate character dynamics and exploration of relevant, real-world issues. The episode’s recreation of the insurrection was both challenging and eerie, as it was filmed with meticulous attention to detail, using exterior footage from the actual event to create an authentic atmosphere.
The Morning Show has consistently tackled significant societal topics, including #MeToo and the COVID-19 pandemic, and continues to explore themes that resonate with its audience. The insurrection storyline remains relevant in today’s headlines, making it a poignant and thought-provoking addition to the show’s narrative. As the characters grapple with difficult choices and navigate ethical grey areas, the series maintains its relatability and engagement. The exploration of the lies we tell ourselves, as mentioned by director Mimi Leder, adds depth to the show’s storytelling. With a fourth season already in the works, the series promises to offer further insight into its characters and the moral dilemmas they face, keeping viewers intrigued and invested in the narrative.
In episode six of “The Morning Show,” things take a somewhat quieter turn compared to the series’ recent high-octane events. The primary focus is on a fiery interview with Paul Marks (Jon Hamm), who is in the midst of a merger that would involve buying UBA for $40 billion. The newsroom organizes a Q&A session for employees to ask Paul questions about his plans, where he addresses issues like employee layoffs and potential conflicts of interest. Alex proposes to interview Paul on “Alex Unfiltered,” marking a shift in their previously flirtatious interactions, now strictly professional.
Tensions rise between Paul and Stella (Greta Lee), a former Hyperion employee, as she hints at a secret that should be addressed in the interview. However, the anticipated scandal falls somewhat flat during the interview when Alex confronts Paul with allegations of stealing a Stanford student’s technology and selling it to law enforcement for racially profiling purposes. While the reveal lacks the dramatic impact of previous moments in the series, it deepens the intrigue around Paul’s character.
Bradley’s storyline takes a more compelling turn as she continues to conceal her brother Hal’s involvement in the insurrection. Hal, visiting New York with his family, plans to turn himself in to the FBI, leaving Bradley in a challenging ethical dilemma. She attempts to persuade him to stay quiet by inviting him to a live news taping, where they interview a former insurrectionist who has lost everything due to his actions. Laura intervenes and convinces Hal to reconsider, leaving Bradley with a note stating his change of heart. However, the episode hints at the impending consequences and turmoil that may continue to haunt the characters in the near future.
The Morning Show airs new episodes every Wednesday on Apple TV+.