9-1-1: Lone Star Season 4 Episode 7, “Tommy Dearest,” is the best episode of the season so far. While this may not be saying much, the show has given fans precious little to work with as of late. This episode brings together everything that makes the show so enjoyable. A wild emergency, heart-to-hearts, and incredible ensemble work are all that this series does best. It’s sad that we are only seeing this at almost the halfway point of the season.
Tommy and the Pastor Sitting in a Tree
After introducing the romance between Tommy (Gina Torres) and Pastor Trevor (D.B. Woodside), we are finally circling back to this relationship. This arc has so much potential. Tommy, in particular, has been through so much. Rather than continuing to spotlight Tommy’s trauma, it’s good to see the show focusing on her new chapter and the healing she’s done. Tommy and Trevor are so well-matched. Hopefully, this is the start of something new for Tommy and her family.
If there’s a criticism about this storyline, it’s villainizing a little girl who’s a little sceptical about her dad dating a new woman. Even the adults who don’t know this little girl are calling her mean names and are convinced that she’s some kind of demon child. Children who are in a moment of transition like this need compassion and understanding. Of course, Tommy gets there eventually. It just takes a little too long for Tommy and everyone else to get on board with supporting this little girl in this transition.
Spotlight on Paul
Paul (Brian Michael Smith) deserves so much more screen time on this show. Every one of his storylines is worth exploring further. Each time he’s allowed to grow as a character, the show is made better for it. Unfortunately, not only is he rarely given sufficient screen time, he’s also rarely allowed to experience character development outside of trauma which is a massive disservice.
9-1-1: Lone Star Season 4 Episode 7, “Tommy Dearest,” finally lets viewers see what makes this character so great. He’s so thoughtful and full of so much love. He deserves nothing less in return. Maybe this budding romance will turn into something, maybe not. At the end of the day, any chance to see Paul being Paul must be savoured.
A Pause on the Owen Show
Finally, Owen (Rob Lowe) is kind of being put in the backseat. At the very least, he’s not being chased by a criminal gang or another stalker for no reason. This allows some of the other characters to take the spotlight, as well as allows the ensemble to do their best work. While Owen’s advice may not be super welcome or sensical, it’s nice to know he cares about his team. Captain Owen is the Best Owen.
9-1-1: Lone Star has been in need of…something this season. This episode is proof that pulling focus from Owen is the best option for the show. As a character, he works better as a figurehead. In the meantime, there are a lot of potential stories to be explored. Hopefully, this episode is a new beginning for the season and a signal for what is to come.
9-1-1: Lone Star airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on Fox.