9-1-1: Lone Star Season 4 Episode 11, “Double Trouble,” had an idea that didn’t quite come together. While it’s always good to see the show focus on literally any other character besides Owen (Rob Lowe), this episode features misguided storylines and confusing character development. There is a lot of unrealized potential here, which is disappointing. Mateo (Julian Works) deserves better.
Mateo has always been an underrated VIP of the 126. There have been a lot of possible stories set up for him. He also has proven time and again that he is a crucial part of this work family. He has always supported his colleagues. Now, he’s the one who needs support. This episode could have focused on everything Mateo brings to the group and how much the 126 loves him. This episode could have solidified just how essential he is to the team and how much he needs them.
9-1-1: Lone Star Season 4 Episode 11, “Double Trouble,” still doesn’t exactly do this character justice. There actually is a veneer of a compelling story here. The “twin cousin” bit could have worked. It could have also been a chance to delve deeper into how and why Mateo has ended up where he has. This comparison could have added further context to Mateo’s character. Instead, it feels like a cheap way to get some laughs.
Mateo and Nancy (Brianna Baker) have also never really been given the chance to develop as a couple. While it’s great that Nancy is given a chance to set some real boundaries like a boss (or try to), their relationship still feels lacking. If there was more time spent with them, even interacting while working together, this has the potential to be such a sweet romance to cheer for. Unfortunately, it’s easy to forget these two are even together sometimes.
Mateo’s relationship with Owen (Rob Lowe) is doing nothing other than creating more content for The Owen Show. These characters don’t interact nearly enough to have the emotional conversations that they have here. More often than not, Owen is obsessed with himself and his misguided romantic adventures. It makes no sense that he would be so in tune with what is happening with Mateo that he would be able to offer any kind of guidance.
In terms of that dream sequence, it could have been better, it could have been worse. The fact that it is so jarring doesn’t help. This story perhaps would have been better if the entire episode took place in a dream sequence. This could have created an alternate universe that may have been fun to visit for one episode. There isn’t enough effort put into this bit to make it interesting like it maybe could have been.
9-1-1: Lone Star had an idea, and it didn’t quite come together. There are some interesting stories that never fully get explored. This is an unfortunate misstep in what has been a fairly positive trajectory recently. Hopefully, Mateo will be given his due as a character and be allowed to grow. He may be a key ingredient in making this series as great as it could be.
9-1-1: Lone Star airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on Fox.