ABC's hit series Will Trent continues to delve into the complexities of its characters as it airs Season 3, Episode 14, titled "A Funeral Fit for a Quartermaine." This episode not only explores the emotional depths of its main character, Will Trent, played by Ramón Rodríguez, but also brings to light the personal struggles of his friends and colleagues, particularly Rafael Wexford and Detective Michael Ormewood.
In this episode, viewers witness a significant turning point as Rafael (Antwayn Hopper) confronts the death of his grandmother. This tragic event forces both him and Will to face their painful pasts while navigating dangerous present circumstances. The episode opens with Rafael delivering the heartbreaking news of his grandmother's passing, a woman who once welcomed a young Will into her home when he had nowhere else to go. Flashbacks reveal the warmth of her spirit and the bond formed between the two young men, who found solace in each other amidst their troubled upbringings.
As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Rafael's past is not just a personal narrative but intertwined with a life debt owed to Will. Years ago, during a criminal endeavor involving stolen rugs, Rafael saved Will's life by committing an act of violence against a thief who threatened him. This act of loyalty has haunted Will, creating a complex relationship between the two men that is further complicated by Rafael's current predicament.
Meanwhile, Will is not just dealing with Rafael's emotional turmoil; he is also faced with the reality of Rafael's life being in danger. As they prepare for the funeral, Will discovers that there are threats looming over Rafael due to his involvement in a gang takeover, with someone in his inner circle plotting to steal $4 million that Rafael has hidden in a casket. The stakes are incredibly high, and the tension escalates when an attacker arrives at the funeral, leading to a dramatic confrontation.
In a desperate move to protect Rafael, Will attempts to arrest him, but the situation spirals out of control. Luckily, both men survive the encounter, and Rafael ultimately decides to accept arrest as a means of ensuring safety for himself and his daughter, Sunny. This decision marks a pivotal moment in their relationship, illustrating the lengths to which they will go for one another.
In a parallel storyline, Detective Michael Ormewood, portrayed by Jake McLaughlin, faces a life-altering diagnosis of a brain tumor that threatens his career and family life. Dr. Seth McDale explains that the tumor is located in an area of the brain that affects his spatial awareness, leaving Ormewood grappling with his mortality and the impact it will have on his two children, Max and Cooper. This subplot adds a layer of emotional depth to the series, as Ormewood reflects on his father's untimely death and the fear of leaving his own children behind.
Co-showrunners Daniel Thomsen and Liz Heldens have crafted this storyline with personal resonance, drawing from their own experiences to portray the fear and vulnerability that come with such diagnoses. They emphasize the emotional journey Ormewood will undertake as he navigates this new reality, balancing his responsibilities as a father and a detective.
As the episode progresses, viewers are left questioning how these character arcs will evolve. Will Rafael's decision to enter witness protection lead to a permanent separation from Will? Will Ormewood's health crisis force him to confront his own vulnerabilities and the relationships he holds dear? The episode concludes, leaving these questions hanging in the air as the series prepares for its next installment.
Looking ahead, Episode 15, titled "The Most Beautiful, Fierce, Smart, Powerful Creature in the Whole World," promises to bring more twists and turns. In this upcoming episode, Amanda (Sonja Sohn) and Evelyn Mitchell (LisaGay Hamilton) embark on a seemingly idyllic getaway that quickly turns dark with the discovery of a shocking murder at their luxury resort. Back in Atlanta, Angie (Erika Christensen) faces her own emotional challenges as a family member's health deteriorates.
The anticipation surrounding Will Trent continues to build as the show has already been renewed for a fourth season. Despite the challenges faced by the characters, the series maintains a strong following, with viewers eager to see how each storyline unfolds. Co-showrunner Liz Heldens has hinted that while Marion Alba, played by Gina Rodriguez, will not return for the remainder of Season 3, there is hope for her character's return in Season 4. This news brings optimism to fans who appreciated her role in Will's life.
As Will Trent navigates these intricate storylines, it remains a poignant exploration of friendship, loyalty, and the complexities of human emotions. With its blend of crime drama and personal narratives, the series continues to resonate with viewers, making each episode a compelling watch.
In the end, Will Trent not only tells the story of crime-solving but also delves into the emotional landscapes of its characters, creating a rich tapestry of human experience that keeps audiences engaged week after week.
