This wasn’t an easy feat considering the debut success of other FX or Hulu hard-hitters, such as The Bear, The Handmaid’s Tale, and The Great.

Immediate comparisons to Game of Thrones were inevitable, given the show’s heavy political intrigues set in 17th-century feudal Japan.

As with most popular debuts that delve heavily into cultures foreign to our own, some critics pointed to the white savior trope, drawing lines between Shogun and Dances with Wolves, The Last Samurai, and even Avatar.

Fortunately, those lines failed to meet reality.

The sympathetic, apologetic nature of the white savior plot doesn’t stand up to scrutiny within Shogun’s carefully constructed mimicry of real-life Japan in the 1600s.

The attention to detail is bar none, with creators Justin Mark and Rachel Kondo (a husband and wife team), alongside Hiroyuki Sanada of John Wick: Chapter 4 fame, indulging in a painstaking recreation process.

The “stranger in a strange culture or land” archetype is often an integral storytelling device.

Often enough, the Graham Wellingtons of the world are inexplicably immersed into an alien and sometimes hostile environment, surrounded by average thinkers, bumbling supporting characters, and a savage, oppressive antagonist. You know how the story unfolds from there.

The white protagonist follows the typical hero’s journey, elevating the lesser races around him and ultimately saving them from either an outside force or their self-destruction.

Shogun embraces a more realistic vision of an ancient time, when most of the horizon was filled with lush greenery and mountains layered in blankets of mist, rather than the dull, dead metal and plastic machinery of modern industry.

It also reflects a time when almost every nation, Japan included, was leery of foreigners.

Before sakoku (a shogunate policy of trade isolation), Japan historically held a loose trade and religious relationship with Portuguese merchants and missionaries.

This is the timeframe in which Shogun falls, just as the English make their way into the picture, manufacturing a collision between multiple cultures, religions, and ways of life. 

In the series, John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) is the Anjin (Pilot) of the Dutch warship/trading ship, the Erasmus. Shogun Season 1 Episode 1 opens with the Erasmus at a turbulent time, both within and without.

As a storm batters the ship, the captain finds the nearest exit to the afterlife, with Blackthorne assuming technical command.

A title card sets the scene, with the Erasmus eventually floundering on the sharp rocks of Ajiro, on Japan’s shoreline, before being captured by the local samurai.

We immediately see that the showrunners are taking things in a direction apart from the Shogun novel by James Clavell, the inspiration for the show.

Instead of the white outsider stumbling into a world of indigent peasants, there is a cultural collision of both hilarity and profound savagery. The latter term is used quite a bit, and for good reason. Instead of embracing the white savior trope, Shogun instead opts for a more inclusive tone.

Unfortunately, ‘inclusion’ comes with its own caveat. While the captured, emaciated sailors (Blackthorne included) are foul-mouthed, unwashed, shambling corpses in all but name, the Japanese are cultured, sophisticated, respectful, and solemn.

But don’t let the guise fool you. Soon, Kashigi Yabushige, the ruler of this local fief, is boiling a man alive. Blackthorne witnesses another man suddenly and viciously beheaded for the crime of standing in place for too long.

What could have been another rehash of Dances with Wolves, the Japanese version, is instead an intense revelation of the astonishing differences in ancient, mostly isolated cultures, along with the cruel similarities shared by all human beings over the centuries.

In feudal Japan, it’s best to mind your manners, or you’ll find yourself eight inches shorter in a hurry. Instead of immediately rising up the ranks in a foreign society, Blackthorne spends most of his time jumping back and forth between astonished befuddlement and terror.

Jarvis does an excellent job of conveying the horror of being taken prisoner by a foreign society, of which little to nothing is known; his every movement and gesture is potentially perceived as a killing insult.

The language is entirely foreign to him, and his life and death hang in the balance while he stands inside a cone of silence and confusion. 

One scene in particular sets the tone for the entire first episode and beyond. As Blackthorne kneels before Yabushige, a Portuguese interpreter is brought to the fore. This interpreter speaks mangled Japanese at best and has nothing but a ferocious antipathy towards the prisoner.

As Blackthorne tries to say his piece, the interpreter angrily translates, often inserting his own biases and hilariously (if not for the situation) terrible Japanese.

Eventually, Blackthorne descends into bouts of vulgarity and violence, born of the confusion and fear of the moment. It’s a crystal-clear view into the impact of two outsiders, foreign to each other, dealing with another foreign party whose interests are mostly hidden.

The first episode spends most of its time with Blackthorne but alternates between him and Lord Yoshi Toranaga, one of the five regents that rule Japan as a council.

This council exists at the behest of the late Taiko, as the heir is too young to rule in his own right. This is where the show’s political intrigue picks up. Again, the white savior trope is deftly turned aside.

Instead of a backward civilization needing saving, we witness a complex power struggle within a cultured, sophisticated society with its own advanced architecture and solemn, aesthetic beauty.

Four of the five regents are set to vote on the impeachment of Toranaga, arguably the series’ chief or, at the very least, co-equal protagonist.

In this case, an impeachment led by the Council of Regents means death. Toranaga, brilliantly played by Hiroyuki Sanada, is essentially the captive of Ishido Kazunari (Takehiro Asano), one of the regents who also happens to have the remainder of the council under his influence.

We’re also introduced to Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai), a Toranaga loyalist and recent Catholic convert.

While Toranaga and Mariko form the political foundation of the series, they also join Blackthorne as the three protagonists around which the entire series revolves.

Instead of sticking with the PoV of Blackthorne, like the book, the series delves deeply into the viewpoints of all three, bringing 17th-century Japan to roaring life in the process. 

One thing the series and the book share closely is the world that surrounds these characters. It is lush, vibrant, and teeming with life via characters, the buildings of the time, the rituals, and the colliding religious belief systems.

While Toranaga and Mariko navigate an in-depth political conflict, Blackthorne, as a Protestant, faces his archenemy in the Catholic church. Soon, however, Blackthorne finds himself within the presence and influence of Toranaga and Mariko.

Though Blackthorne exhibits an affinity for helping to save the day, he also falls victim to the political machinations of Toranaga and the romantic influence of Mariko.

Anna Sawai is fun to watch as she ties the threads of Toranaga’s political intrigues together, navigates her home life against a verbally abusive and dismissive husband (Buntaro), and serves as a translator for Toranaga. 

As the series progresses, the intense and delicate political situation is balanced by dramatic sub-plots and Blackthorne’s feelings towards the Portuguese Catholic presence.

Though Blackthorne is a significant character throughout, his elevation in Japan’s unique but familiar feudal system is entirely due to the good graces of Toranaga.

Not only does this work within the story’s fiction, but it also makes sense from a realistic standpoint. Feudal Japan was not some lost society, wandering in and out of caves, wielding clubs as weapons, and fingerpainting their country’s history on rock walls.

They were an established, complex society with internal and external struggles. Blackthorne is an outsider looking in, owing his rise to their generosity.

Toranaga is no fool; he recognizes the value of what Blachthorne brings to the table and uses him like a chess piece in his survival game.

His connection with Blackthorne leads to mutual respect, which pays dividends in Shogun Season 1 Episode 5, as Blackthorne comes to Toranaga’s aid out of allegiance rather than from the angle of a superior to an inferior.

From the standpoint of character growth, the white savior is, again, neatly deflected. Instead, we witness a fascinating arc that transcends the Hollywood of yesterday’s propensity towards the white salvation archetype.

Blackthorne goes from an alternately confused and shocked outsider to one that embraces many of the qualities that made Japan the mystical, impressive empire of its day.

Mariko balances a journey from the housewife, living under the yoke of a husband who clearly despises her, to a keen political ally while embracing and navigating a world outside the stricture of Buntaro’s shadow.

Toranaga plays the reluctant warrior, refusing the path that may lead to Shogun only to acquiesce reluctantly.

His instincts are top-notch, and his designs are complex and fun to watch. By the end of episode ten, there is no feeling of watching a society saved from its faulty designs by a white, honorable hero.

Though the vast engine of the entertainment industry once played the white savior card to both apologize to and sympathize with various cultures, it was always done at the expense of that culture.

It’s hard to apologize to someone while calling them a wasteful dullard with no hope of self-salvation. That said, Shogun does something that many of today’s popular and unpopular shows fail to do.

It manufactures a world that’s loosely based on historical reality, free of the white savior trope, without falling victim to becoming a preachy caricature of modern political arguments.

It entertains without insulting the audience’s intelligence or the culture of another country and its people.  

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Thomas Godwin is a staff writer for TV Fanatic. You can follow him on X

The post Shogun Dodges White Savior Tropes at Every Turn, Despite Some Critics’ Claims appeared first on TV Online.

Elijah Stone has been filling that role on The Rookie, tormenting members of the LAPD’s Metro Division over the past two seasons (although it feels longer).

Sadly, complex villains such as Stone have recently become less of a thing on broadcast TV.

Let’s look at the famed Hawaii Five-0 villain, Wo Fat, as a case study.

During the series’ original run, Wo Fat was a crime boss, a red Chinese spy who answered to Peking (it was a different time) and served as the primary enemy of Steve McGarrett (played by Jack Lord).

Wo Fat (portrayed by Khigh Dhiegh) hung like a dense fog over that version, appearing in 15 episodes over nine of the show’s 12 seasons.

In the rebooted series, Wo Fat (Mark Dacascos) was a crime boss and former Chinese Ministry of Interior agent. appeared in 11 episodes over five seasons as the archrival of Steve McGarrett (Alex O’Loughlin), then returned in two posthumous episodes as well.

Dacascos’s modern incarnation was a more layered, scheming villain. But he lacked the menace the original projected (although that may be coming through a nostalgic haze). He was gone at McGarrett’s hands on Hawaii Five-0 Season 5 Episode 7.

Why are there fewer recurring villains on network TV today? Here are a couple of possible reasons.

First, cable and streaming programs can get away with so much more in terms of character development. Because of censorship standards, network villains are bound to pale in comparison.

Second, with networks canceling series willy-nilly with little warning, why put too much effort into developing a long-running, recurring villain? Instead, a villain will appear for a season, tops. There is no sense in getting attached to one.

That’s why the emergence of Stone has been such a revelation. He’s an old-school villain in a modern world.

Much of that credit should go to the actor who portrays him: Brandon Jay McLaren.

The always enjoyable Canadian actor has been best known for good-guy roles on shows such as Graceland and Ransom.

That’s why playing Elijah represents a 360-degree turn for McLaren. And he attacks the role with relish.

Perhaps running through Stone’s clashes with Metro will help to reveal more about his character.

The actions of a desperate Wesley Evers on The Rookie Season 4 Episode 1 began Elijah’s increasingly frequent interactions with Metro.

Angela Lopez, Wesley’s wife, had been abducted by cartel leader Sandra de La Cruz and taken to Guatemala.

Evers asked Elijah for help in locating her. Stone agreed in exchange for Wesley becoming his dirty lawyer.

During Stone’s subsequent three appearances, Evers attempted to fulfill his promise to Elijah while staying on the right side of the law. Stone made this more difficult by threatening harm to Wesley’s family.

Their relationship was severed on The Rookie Season 4 Episode 9, when Evers tried to wear a wire to implicate Stone. Elijah realizes what’s happening and threatens Lopez and the LAPD.

In that same episode, Stone was arrested after most of his crew by Abril Rodas, de La Cruz’s second in command, who sought vengeance on him for revealing Angela’s location to Wesley.

But the case against Elijah fell apart on The Rookie Season 5 Episode 6.

Also introduced in that episode was the public face of his empire, lawyer Monica Stevens, portrayed by the always watchable Bridget Regan. Monica was also Wesley’s ex-fiancee, adding to the palpable tension among the trio.

To avoid a lawsuit, Evers reluctantly issued a public apology to Stone in front of the media on The Rookie Season 5 Episode 7.

Elijah got away with machinations a couple of more times despite the best efforts of Angela and her detective partner, Nyla Harper.

Lopez hatched a scheme to take down both Stone and Abril on The Rookie Season 5 Episode 15. This went awry after Aaron Thorsen accidentally tipped off Elijah, and the two gang leaders became partners instead.

Things fell apart for this new partnership on The Rookie Season 5 Episode 17 when the LAPD interrupted a drug deal between Stone and Abril, and Monica got wounded in the shootout.

It takes the combined efforts of Lopez and Harper to take down Elijah, who boasted that he’d sent a hitman to kill Evers. But Wesley survived, largely thanks to bodyguard Charlie Bristow.

A battered Stone ended up in prison with the ever-talkative Oscar Hutchinson, who has had his share of adventures with Metro, as his neighbor. That can’t be a positive development.

So, a savvy villain is now imprisoned. Does that mean that Elijah has flamed out?

What’s the first rule of imprisoned villains on TV? Just because they’re inside doesn’t mean they’re out of the game.

Monica, who seems to be repping every baddie (including Oscar now), is still on the outside.

Stone may not have appeared onscreen on The Rookie Season 6, but that doesn’t mean his influence hasn’t been felt.

One, Monica makes a phone call to an unidentified someone, and one of the Fed bank robbers ends up dead.

Also, why does Monica represent Oscar if not on Elijah’s command after he receives valuable intel?

Coincidences? Who knows? But likely not.

Let’s hope Elijah, one of the most intriguing villains on broadcast TV, still has his hand in it.

Because the medium could use more memorable villains such as him.

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Dale McGarrigle is a staff writer for TV Fanatic. Follow him on X.

The post The Rookie: Broadcast TV Needs More Complex Villains Like Elijah Stone appeared first on TV Online.

While both characters left the show years ago, their names lived on, and the actors were ready to make a guest appearance at any time.

Now, NCIS fans are getting the reunion we’ve wished for in a surprising way!

Earlier this month, Paramount+ announced the exciting news that fans will get to enjoy yet another NCIS spinoff.

This time, writers have brought back Ziva and DiNozzo, along with their daughter Tali. Here’s everything we know about the unnamed NCIS Tiva TV series.

What is the Story Behind the NCIS Tony and Ziva Spinoff?

The unnamed TIVA NCIS spinoff — affectionately nicknamed NCIS: Europe — will feature former NCIS special agents Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David in their retirement years.

We fell in love with the dynamic — strictly professional despite their chemistry — throughout several NCIS seasons.

Ziva David was the first to leave the show in NCIS Season 11, with several references throughout later seasons. She was last on NCIS to tie up her storyline in 2017, which set the stage for the series spinoff with former NCIS partner DiNozzo.

Tony DiNozzo also exited the show at the end of NCIS Season 13 to headline his own CBS series production Bull, which lasted from 2016 to 2022.

His ending was a happy but sad event, as he left to raise Tali, his and Ziva’s secret love child. At the time, the storyline was that David had died, leaving their child an orphan. So, Toni left NCIS to meet — and raise — his daughter alone.

He did return at the ending of the tribute on NCIS Season 21 Episode 2, titled “The Stories We Leave Behind,” to honor series regular and fan-favorite Dr. Donald (Ducky) Mallard.

The actor, David McCallum, who portrayed the charismatic medical examiner turned NCIS historian, sadly passed in 2023.

However, during NCIS Season 16 Episode 24, we learned that David wasn’t dead but hiding. After completing her final mission, Ziva and Tony finally reunited.

They’ve created a nice life with their daughter Tali in Europe and are still going strong in their marriage. Fans will finally get to witness their love and chemistry instead of imagining it.

This series will be the second time NCIS has based a spinoff show outside the country. Don’t be surprised if we see some of Europe’s most popular places as Tony and Ziva go on the run.

NCIS: Sydney — just renewed for a second season — features a dual-nationality team of American NCIS and Australian Federal Police.

Weatherly and de Pablo have been in talks of bringing their characters back to the screen long before now. The two actors, along with John McNamara (The Librarians) will be executive producers. They released a statement saying,

“The world of Tony and Ziva (and daughter Tali) promises to be an action-packed roller coaster fueled by love, danger, tears, and laughter.”

They also thanked fans for their continued support for the TIVA relationship. It’s because of the extended interest in their relationship that the new NCIS spinoff is happening.

What Will the NCIS Tony and Ziva Spinoff be About?

The as-yet-unnamed NCIS will focus on the lives and current events of the TIVA relationship. We join the couple as they live happily in Europe, raising their daughter together.

But after an attack on Tony’s security team, the family must run across Europe. While we watch them try to unravel the mystery of who’s after them, we also get to see the perfect — and imperfect — sides of their love story.

I’m thrilled to see them as a couple and hope the current writers can stick with their trademark banter. I’m excited to see how David’s badassery has balanced over the years with motherhood.

And if fatherhood has toned down Tony’s childishness or made it worse.

How Many Episodes Will the NCIS Tony and Ziva Spinoff Have?

The current word is that this spinoff will have ten episodes in the first season. It’s unexpected that this series will have any overlap with the current NCIS shows or cameos from past friends and colleagues.

But plenty of fans out there — including this gal — wouldn’t mind witnessing a traditional Gibbs head slap or a McGee moment.

Maybe if we all beg the network enough, the TV genies will make it come true!

Other than the pilot episode and the decision to give fans ten packed episodes, there is no word on whether Paramount+ hopes to turn this spinoff into the next hit series in the NCIS universe.

It’s being filmed at the same time as another NCIS spinoff – NCIS: Origins.

If you want to know how Gibbs came to be the hardass, brilliant, and strong special agent we love in NCIS, check out everything we know about where he got his start.

Or it could be a single-season show like Taylor Sheridan has become popular doing with series like 1883. There are talks that the vision for this show is to be more like an extended movie, broken down into longer episodes.

We’re all in for multiple seasons of this Tiva spinoff. It’s not like we’ve waited over a decade for this reunion or anything.

Who is in the Cast of the NCIS Tony and Ziva Spinoff?

Thankfully, producers have decided to bring back the original actors to resume the roles of lovers Tony and Ziva.

In the role of Tony DiNozzo, is the charming Michael Weatherly. Although most known for his role as the handsome and smart DiNozzo on NCIS, Weatherly also headlined in the lead role as Dr. Jason Bull in the CBS series Bull.

Weatherly also appeared in Dark Angel, filling the role of Logan. His efforts earned him the Teen Choice Actor award in 2001. In 2001 and again in 2002, he earned the Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Television Series.

Michael started his career on The Cosby Show. Other credits include Loving, Jesse, and Significant Others. Movies include The Last Days of Disco, Gun Shy, Charlie Valentine, Venus and Mars, Trigger Happy, and The Specials.

Returning as former Israeli Mossad agent Ziva David is Cote de Pablo. She got her acting start on the ABC soap opera All My Children. Along with acting, Cote is also a singer, doing her own music, and appearing on Broadway in 2005.

Along with several years on NCIS, and a short stint on NCIS: LA, Cote also appeared in The Dovekeepers, The Jury, 33, and The Last Rites of Ransom Pride.

Is There a Trailer for the NCIS Tony and Ziva Spinoff?

Sorry, fans, but there’s no sneak peak yet to whet our appetites for this epic love story 10 years in the making. But best believe, we’ll have it here when one drops. Are you a fanatic about us? Prove it with a like, share, or comment.

When is the Release Date for the NCIS Tony and Ziva Spinoff?

There is no word yet on a release date for the Europe-based NCIS Tiva spinoff. Filming is expected to begin in the summer, leaving fans eagerly hoping for episodes to drop in 2025.

If that’s too long to wait to see these lovebirds in action, take a page from my book and check out old episodes. Despite seeing them all multiple times, I still rewatch former seasons. There’s always something to catch.

Along with the 21 seasons of NCIS, you can binge-watch the entire NCIS: LA and NCIS: New Orleans since they’ve been canceled.

Or get up to date on NCIS: Hawai’i — currently in its 3rd season — or take a trip down under with the diverse team on NCIS: Sydney — just confirmed to have a Season 2.

If you’re Gibbs-obsessed, and who isn’t, be sure you’re following TV Fanatic everywhere to get updates on the newest NCIS spinoff series NCIS: Origins.

It will be mind-blowing to see an entire series dedicated to the stories of a young Gibbs as he starts out with NCIS. And it’ll be a bit exciting to return to the normalcy of the 90s.

Where to Watch NCIS: Unnamed TIVA?

The NCIS universe — flagship NCIS, NCIS: Hawai’i, and the upcoming prequel series NCIS: Origins — airs on CBS.

The first international NCIS spinoff — NCIS: Sydney — originally premiered on Paramount+ Australia, but because of the 2023 writers’ strike, CBS picked up the series for their fall lineup.

It was a success, leading to CBS ordering a Season 2 along with Paramount+ Australia. However, because of its inclusion, executives made the decision to push the Tiva spinoff to streaming instead.

We know many of you aren’t keen on buying into streaming, but if you want your favorite franchises to continue, now is the time to act.

Will you move mountains to see Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David reunite for more adventure?

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Sara Trimble is a staff writer for TV Fanatic. You can follow her on X.

The post NCIS Tony and Ziva Spinoff Series: Everything We Know So Far appeared first on TV Online.

Based on its ratings, S.W.A.T. should have been a sure shot for CBS to renew.

In Live + 7 results, S.W.A.T. Season 6 averaged 6.8 million viewers and a 0.7 rating in the demo.

This made the series the No.3 show in the demo on the network and No. 10 among total viewers.

Despite that, the ax fell on S.W.A.T. last May, with storylines left hanging, the worst possible fate for a veteran series.

Star Shemar Moore blasted the decision because he and the other cast members saw those rating numbers and felt confident about a renewal.

The cancellation stood for two days. Then CBS caved in the face of a deluge of outrage from the series’ fans, and S.W.A.T. was renewed for a 13-episode final, seventh season, giving it a chance for closure.

Then came the lengthy actors’ and writers’ strikes, pushing most scripted programming, including S.W.A.T., back into 2024. It finally returned on February 16.

Logically, viewers who had strayed away from the program during its six seasons might return to see how it got wrapped up, giving S.W.A.T. a ratings bump.

Through six episodes, S.W.A.T. Season 7 has averaged 4.85 million viewers in live ratings (not the same as the Live + 7 ratings above), down 3 percent from the same episodes last season. It’s down even further (3.66 percent) among the advertiser-desired 18-40 demo.

Not helping matters are networks airing reruns more frequently this season because episodes aren’t being produced at a fast enough clip due to the strikes.

So why did CBS cancel S.W.A.T in the first place, a decision that stunted the show’s momentum every bit as much as the two strikes?

In simple terms, it’s economics. The longer a series is on the air, the more expensive it is for the network to air. A big chunk of that rising cost is actors’ salaries.

In fact, Blue Bloods cast members took a 25 percent cut in salary to ensure they would get one more season to wrap up their characters’ journeys.

In this streaming age, a broadcast network is more likely to dump an established series that’s on the bubble renewal-wise (let’s say Magnum P.I.) in favor of a new program that catches viewers’ attention (let’s say Fire Country).

Look at all the other shows in their seventh and final seasons: Station 19, Young Sheldon, and The Good Doctor.

With broadcast networks imploding, cheaper is better, whether that’s a new show or imports from Canada and elsewhere. And don’t get me started on reality shows, another less-expensive alternative.

For all that S.W.A.T. brings to the table, it’s been on the bubble for much of its existence. So, it was ripe for cancellation.

Even its second chance at life came with a catch. To reduce costs, Kenneth “Kenny” Johnson (Dominique Luca) and Alex Russell (Jim Street) were demoted to recurring players for this season.

This status has been the norm for Luca, who has been missing from a handful of episodes since the program’s third season.

On his first appearance this season on SWAT Season 7 Episode 6, Luca was gunned down while attempting to stop a robbery while off-duty.

His fate hangs in the balance until the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament concludes. But as the oldest member of the 20-David Squad, he could well be headed for a training job even if he survives.

On that same episode, Deacon (Jay Harrington) contemplates leaving SWAT and working only at his security firm so that his wife Annie can pursue her legal career.

Street departed on S.W.A.T. Season 7 Episode 5, going home to Long Beach to take over that department’s SWAT team when its captain (who was also his mentor) is killed in the line of duty.

Adding Lina Esco’s departure after S.W.A.T. Season 5, that could add up to four of the original seven members of 20 Squad who have left.

S.W.A.T. has the feel of a series that’s wrapping up, not one that’s hoping to continue, tying up loose ends and everyone’s stories.

Moore said in a recent interview that he remains optimistic about a future for the series.

But maybe it’s time for his Derrick Morgan to return instead to the BAU on Criminal Minds: Evolution. At least that’s sure to have another season.

Would increased ratings for the remaining episodes leading up to the finale make a difference for its future?

With what cast? No one is looking for S.W.A.T.: The Next Generation, featuring a whole new team with Hondo taking over as commander after Hicks (Patrick St. Esprit) retires.

Still, stranger resurrections have happened on streaming services. But too many of those comebacks last just another season as the streamers discovered the series didn’t have the juice for more.

So let’s enjoy what developments remain for Hondo, Tan, Hicks, Powell, the new guy taking Street’s slot, and maybe Luca and Deacon. That’s seven episodes to complete their journeys.

Only a few TV series last decades. Most have a “watch by” date.

Be satisfied that S.W.A.T., unlike too many shows, didn’t hang around a season or two too long. Its end is on the horizon.

Do you feel that S.W.A.T.’s time has come?

With much of its cast leaving, would you want it to continue?

What did you enjoy most about S.W.A.T.?

Comment below.

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Dale McGarrigle is a staff writer for TV Fanatic. Follow him on X.

The post Were Economics the One Enemy That S.W.A.T. Couldn’t Overcome? appeared first on TV Online.

The first four episodes of The Crown Season 6 launched earlier this month and were as controversial as ever.

Will the series be able to go out on a more low-key note with the second batch of episodes?

We’re not sure that’s possible, but it would be interesting.

The last batch of episodes are set to premiere on Thursday, December 14, 2023.

Once again, the hit drama is doing the time warp by leaping forward to find William (Ed McVey) and Harry (Luther Ford) growing up while trying to come to terms with the tragic loss of their mother, Diana.

In Part 2, “Prince William tries to integrate back into life at Eton in the wake of his mother’s death as the monarchy has to ride the wave of public opinion,” Netflix teases. 

Wednesday Season 2: Everything We Know

“As she reaches her Golden Jubilee, the Queen reflects on the future of the monarchy with the marriage of Charles and Camilla and the beginnings of a new Royal fairy tale in William and Kate,” the logline concludes.

It’s a wild thought that we’re reaching the end of this journey because, while it’s covered various moments in British history, it has done so with a whole lot of controversy.

There have been calls for disclaimers that it’s a work of fiction and even for it to be purged from existence.

Many people like the Royal Family, so many vocal fans will likely speak about how these final six episodes bring the series to a close.

Many moments remain for the series to chart, including the first meeting between William and Kate Middleton.

Their love story won them many fans, and they’re still together all these years later.

Watching the origins of their relationship should be interesting, but again, it all comes down to how it’s handled.

There’s also Charles and Camilla’s 2005 wedding.

Stranger Things Season 5: Everything We Know

They look pleased to finally be walking down the aisle in the photos, but will the series capture everything that went on between them?

We’ll need to wait until next month to find out, and given the series’ handling of other topics, there’s no telling what’s about to happen.

The cast is rounded out this season by Imelda Staunton and Jonathan Pryce as Elizabeth and her husband, Prince Philip, with Dominic West as Elizabeth’s eldest son, Prince Charles, and Lesley Manville as Elizabeth’s sister, Princess Margaret.

These episodes mark the first appearances of McVey, Bellamy, and Ford, marking the final casting shifts for the veteran drama.

The Crown typically recasts roles every two seasons, but thanks to the accelerated timeline of the final season, there had to be some changes here.

If you’re not ready to say goodbye to the Royal Family, you’ll probably be happy to know that a prequel series is in the works.

According to creator Peter Morgan, it will take us way back in time.

“If I were to go back into The Crown,” the creator shared in a recent interview.

Shadow & Bone, Glamorous, Three More Canceled at Netflix

“It would definitely be to go back in time.”

Taking to the past would be interesting because wouldn’t it be fun to go through storylines that we haven’t lived through the headlines?

What are your thoughts on the final photos?

Are you ready for this story to end?

Hit the comments.

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Paul Dailly is the Associate Editor for TV Fanatic. Follow him on X.

The post The Crown Teases Kate Middleton’s Arrival, Charles & Camilla’s Wedding, and More appeared first on TV Online.

Aren’t they the most joyous occasions? People eat, drink, dance, and have a good time.

And for the couple, it is an extra special time when they celebrate their love in front of friends and family.

Of course, this is the rosy, idealistic version of events because, at many weddings, many people are present out of obligation, the food might not be that good, some couples are not in love, and enemies are usually in the midst.

Mai Ling and Li Yong’s wedding was a mix of both on Warrior Warrior Season 3 Episode 8.

Was the wedding beautiful? Yes. All weddings are beautiful because everyone looks their best.

Mai Ling’s was no different with everyone who’s everyone present.

There were some Chinese wedding traditions to observe, including a friendly sparring between Li Yong and Kong Pak, which would foreshadow something.

But the plotting never ends.

Unlike Wayne and his friends on Letterkenny, who don’t fight at weddings, any occasion is fair game in Chinatown.

Mai Ling and Li Yong’s marriage was built partly from love, duty, and dependency.

Father Jun: Where are you coming from?
Young Jun: Mai Ling’s wedding.
Father Jun: So she finally decided to marry Li Yong?
Young Jun: Yeah. Let’s see how long he lasts.
Father Jun: He’ll be fine. He’s a follower, unlike Mai Ling and your brother.
Young Jun: That’s not Ah Sahm.
Father Jun: His intentions may be different, but in the end, a man like that will never accept being led, so he’ll always be a threat. Young Jun: He’s been fucked up lately. But he would never challenge me for the tong.
Father Jun: That’s what I said about you.

Li Yong has always been a follower. It would take someone like Father Jun, who had always been there since Long Zii, to make such an assessment. Li Yong felt useful when he was serving someone.

After Mai Ling took over, the duty continued.

His feelings became complicated when he entered a sexual relationship with her, and he might have fallen in love.

For him, this was a great outcome. He gets to be told what to do and some sticky. It was more than he could have dreamed when serving Long Zii.

Mai Ling loved having a protector and lackey. She loved having to say jump and Li Yong asking how high. She fell in love with that dynamic. Does she love him? Probably not, as she can’t name one thing unique about him.

Does she love the idea of having Li Yong around? So much so that she married him.

Li Yong: Kong Pak was right. I didn’t wanna listen. And now he’s gone. The elders are gone. There’s only Mai Ling.
Wang Chao: No, there’s you. Mai Ling has always done whatever she has to to protect herself, including marrying you. Hey, I’m not saying she doesn’t love you. But I am saying she can’t do this without you.

This was one complicated marriage if I’ve ever seen one.

The elders had been thinking of removing Mai Lings as Long Zii’s leader for a while now, and they expressed this on Warrior Season 3 Episode 5.

She was well aware. So when Li Yong disappeared for a chat with them, it didn’t take a genius.

Ruthlessness was her middle name; as Li Yong got lost in lovemaking, she imagined all the old men getting killed.

Kong Pak survived the murder attempt but would meet death at Li Yong’s hands.

It was sad for Li Yong to kill someone he’d grown to respect and attached to. Sometimes it takes a shock to the system for someone to see the truth. Kong Pak’s death was that shock.

Elsewhere, Walter was sworn in.

I, Walter Franklin Buckley, do solemnly swear to perform the duties as Mayor of San Francisco to the best of my ability, so help me God. It is not enough to complain about the Barbarians at the gates of our great city bringing our hands as we wait for the state or nation to intervene. The defense of our city and our way of life falls to us. It is the fighting spirit of Americans that led to the birth of our great nation. We must preserve that spirit and not allow the insidious insurgents of a devious alien race to come between us and our destiny. With your continued support, we will cleanse every trace of this rot and infection from our streets, our ports, our factories, and our fields. And our shining golden city will light the way forward not just for California but for the entire United States.

Walter

Did he deserve it? No. The man had no balls. He was a puppet. And the puppet masters had begun circling to pull his strings.

Leary had gotten comfortable with the new flow where you give favors to cash them in later. But as he came to learn, not every favor is worth cashing.

Sometimes the good ol’ fists have to do the work.

Big Bill had braved grueling manual labor, and when he was promoted, he was to work under a kid, taking orders from him.

Oh, how the mighty fall. The bigger they are, the harder they fall. Would he believe he would be drowning his exhaustion in Banshee like any other working Irishman if he had been told so a year ago?

It was time to reclaim his natural place as leader, and the arrested boys were a way to do it.

The new powerful characters in Warrior Season 3 don’t seem to disappoint.

I was impressed by Chief Atwood’s dedication to keeping the law equal for everyone, and when he walked into that cell room with his booming voice, I swear I jumped off the seat.

Leary: Time to go, lads.
Chief Atwood: No one’s going anywhere. I always knew you weren’t much of a cop, O’Hara. Harrison put the prisoners back in their cells, lock the door and then cuff these two and bring them up for processing.
Harrison: Sorry, Chief. I left my cuffs upstairs.
Big Bill: These boys don’t belong here. We’re paying their fines, and we’re bringing them home.
Chief Atwood: We? It didn’t take you long to find your level now, did it, Irishman? I hear you’re fond of a wager, O’Hara. So here it is. You knock me down. The Donahue boys are free to go. Otherwise, the two of you join them.
Big Bill: Look. If you think I’m stupid enough to fight the chief of police…
Chief Atwood: [lands a blow on Big Bill’s face]

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Sometimes, characters show up being all bark, but no bite, but like Big Mo assessed Gina on Your Honor, Chief Atwood was not all bark. He got bite.

Watching onions of a slight build scrap till death is always enjoyable, but big grown men delivering punches with such experience was exhilarating.

I won’t lie. I was team Atwood, and boy, did he deliver until the last minute when he convinced himself he’d won. Goes to show that the beginning of a journey doesn’t matter as the end.

Working all those muscles in manual labor was advantageous to Big Bill.

At Mai Ling’s, another battle was going on between Li Yong and Kong Pak.

In the Warrior Season 3 Episode 7 review, I presented that Ah Sahm threatened Young Jun. Stupidly enough, Young Jun had not noticed it. Again, it took the wisdom of Father Jun to paint a proper picture for Young Jun. And Father Jun didn’t lie.

If Young Jun was fidgety before, now how was climbing walls. He’s dangerous when he acts like that.

Love was in the air as Ah Sahm realized he was screwed. For many people, realizing you’re in requited love is thrilling. It was not so much for Ah Sahm.

He had caught the bug for the printer, and Young Jun was looking to close ranks. She was going to get killed.

But the damage was already done because Lee had connected the dots.

Agent Mosely: Drinks. Music. The whole spread. Long Zii knows how to throw a party, I’ll give him that. Can’t be cheap. Maybe we’ve been looking in the wrong direction. What is it?
Lee: Long Zii and Hop Wei at a party together.
Agent Mosely: Is that not part of the course?
Lee: Not without a lot more blood.

How were the Tongs showing such a united front when normally it’s bloodshed? Even a wedding could not have that effect. Speaking of the wedding, what was the printer’s daughter doing at a Tong wedding when she was not part of any Tong?

What was a printer’s daughter doing on premises suspected of printing fake money? If you want to know what’s happening worldwide, follow the money. If you want to know where the money is, apparently you follow the printer’s daughter.

Ah Toy attended the wedding for shits and giggles but found herself in another fight. But how she handled the fight was the most interesting thing.

Even on Warrior Season 3 Episode 7, she struggled to protect herself but was back in shape after months of recuperating.

And just in time, one of her girls had found a way into Douglas’ house. What’s that they say about payback? Right.

Based on the story’s direction, “You Know When You’re Losing a Fight” was never expected to progress the storyline, but if anything, it muddled it up.

We expected the strengthening of the Tongs’ alliance, but so much happened the episode lost track of it.

Mai Ling’s wedding should have been grander in scale and duration.

It’s not like they didn’t have the chop for it. Despite being the main attraction, the wedding became an afterthought as other stories took center stage.

However, the episode was entertaining, but with two episodes remaining until the Warrior Season 3 finale, they must chart a clear course.

What did you think?

Let us know in the comments section.

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Denis Kimathi is a staff writer for TV Fanatic. He has watched more dramas and comedies than he cares to remember. Catch him on social media obsessing over [excellent] past, current, and upcoming shows or going off about the politics of representation on TV. Follow him on Twitter.

The post Warrior Season 3 Episode 8 Review: You Know When You’re Losing a Fight appeared first on TV Online.

Willa sees Raylan’s decision as backstabbing when he’s doing what a father needs to do. Sweety is conflicted but desperate about turning over the weapon. Sandy’s affection for Skender is purely transactional in light of her relationship with Clement, but even that is negotiable.

As is true with most dangerous options, it is not an easy choice, but it usually looks to be the only one.

And then there’s Carolyn Wilder, our acolyte of Lady Justice.

She knows the Law doesn’t always mete out true justice, but it’s the system she’s chosen to work within.

So can she support Sweety in his choice while representing Clement and still be considered pristine in the eyes of the law? Will this be as much of an obstacle to her bid for a judge’s position as her ex-husband’s tax lien?

She and Raylan recognize in each other a desire for Clement to meet with appropriate consequences, but they diverge on the means to that end.

I know that’s your kid. You’re angry. I get it. I’d be angry too. But everybody doesn’t get to be angry the way you do.

Carolyn

I appreciate the facets of Carolyn we’re seeing. She’s a brilliant litigator in court, passionate in her defense of her client.

Away from her legal opponents, she’s not afraid to call out her clients for bad behavior and foolish choices.

Carolyn: Messing with a U.S. Marshall’s daughter. I don’t know what you think you’re doing.
Clement: What am I doing? Whatever I want.

On Justified: City Primeval Season 1 Episode 2, she implies to Raylan that she recognizes the level of crazy Clement Mansell operates at. Here, we see her stand her ground when he’d push into her life and space outside office hours.

Knowing what he’s capable of and not panicking or caving when facing him on her own speaks volumes about what she’s seen and done to get where she is.

As does her kindness towards Willa. She sees who the vulnerable are. She doesn’t let her feelings towards… say, their dad affect the respect with which she speaks and acts toward them.

Willa: Did you like the drink he sent you at the bar?
Carolyn: Oh, that was you. The sparkler was a nice touch. Thank you.
Willa: He’s not bad for a white guy.

It shows her heart isn’t as steely as her spine is, which means she’s still vulnerable if she’s not careful.

Meanwhile, Raylan realizes Willa’s been right all along in her assessment of where this adventure’s been going for the two of them.

Willa: I wish you’d just say it.
Raylan: What are we talking about now?
Willa: I got in the way and you got in trouble and it woulda been so much easier if I weren’t around.

It has to be galling to a marshall known for his decisive — if questionable — actions that he is completely stymied by a fifteen-year-old.

The writers have been subtle — or I just haven’t been paying attention until now — but they’ve been filling in Willa’s character outline with how Raylan might’ve been at her age.

She’s inherited his quick fists and his ability to justify the need for violent resolutions.

Willa: C’mon, Dad, I don’t want to do this.
Raylan: I’m guessing you’ll think about that next time you consider punching a girl in the face.
Willa: I barely touched her!
Raylan: You broke her nose.
Willa: She deserved it.
Raylan: That’s not the point.

While she didn’t seem to cotton onto Clement‘s intentions, she kept calm when Tyrone and buddy ran her and her dad off the road. She appeared completely confident Raylan would have no issues dealing with them.

She’s keenly observant of how things unfold at the police station and how Carolyn intrigues her dad.

As his kid, she’s stuck in a situation she sees no way out of.

As her dad but also a US Marshall, Raylan’s just as stuck.

And knowing she’s just as stubborn and proud as he is, he recognizes what it costs her to offer to go to Graceland if he’ll only let her stay with him.

Raylan: It’s hard, Willa.
Willa: What’s hard? Your life? You do whatever you want.
Raylan: You’re my life.
Willa: But am I? Like, am I even in it?
Raylan: To even hear you say that!
Willa: How do you think it feels to ask?

Of all the “betrayers” presented, Raylan probably regrets his actions most, despite being arguably the most justifiable.

I have a terrible feeling about Sweety and that gun. Correction: many terrible feelings.

With the episode titled “Backstabbers,” one naturally sees turncoats everywhere.

I don’t like that he showed the gun to his staff member and hid it in such an accessible space.

I don’t like how sure Carolyn is that she can get him immunity through her connections at the prosecutors’ office.

I REALLY don’t like that Bryl told Clement that Sandy stopped at Sweety’s after going to the river.

And after the debacle that was Bryl and Robinson tailing Clement and Skender, I can only assume the writers thought the white hats needed a Dewey Crowe on their side this time out.

While it might’ve gone against Clement’s inclination to kill Sweety back in 2017 due to his connection with many musical greats, I cannot see Clement hesitating to retaliate if he learns that Sweety’s struck a deal with the prosecutors to turn over the gun.

Clement: You keep them all loaded?
Skender: What use is unloaded gun?

Of course, he’s not lacking for weaponry now. We didn’t actually see Skender’s body when Maureen alerts Raylan that there’d been damage, but I doubt the Albanian love dope survived the night.

And with his entire stash of loaded collectors’ guns just sitting there, Clements probably got some visions of gunslinging his way to infamy dancing in his head.

That leaves Sandy on the board as a piece that may play for either side.

She’s already distanced herself slightly by not throwing the gun away as directed. She takes another step by lying to Clement about it.

With the judge’s killing, she insisted he not tell her about it in some sort of strategy of plausible deniability.

But she’s not stupid.

If Skender’s as dead as we think he is, she’s now a witness and an accomplice to murder.

And if her memory is sharp enough to remember where Clement said he hid the gun at Sweety’s, she will remember how he wouldn’t let her use the bagel toaster and wonder what he is hiding in there.

One must wonder how Clement plans to retrieve the judge’s notebook since that penthouse will probably be off-limits to him and Sandy after the Skender incident.

Also, how did Maureen’s team miss finding it when they searched the place?

If anything, it’s an implicit commentary on systemic racism in policing if you look at how Bryl’s crew took Sweety’s place apart. (And also didn’t find the evidence they were looking for.)

With so many players making moves, the momentum is building toward potentially tragic and assuredly intense collisions.

Somewhat like a cop car getting sideswiped when running a red in pursuit of a Range Rover it’s trying to tail. Seriously, that just can’t be “how sh*t gets done in Detroit.”

Finally, riddle me this: How do you draw a line between Clement and Judge Guy when the murder was a random road rage incident?

I imagine the parkade surveillance footage might be the only thing that might connect the dots for the team.

Over to you, Fanatics. How’s this new, mellower, less-trigger-happy Raylan sitting with you? Was sending Willa away his only choice? With his luck, how long will she stay out of the picture?

What’s your take on Carolyn? Can she lean in on justice without overstepping the law?

And how will Clement and Sandy ride out the Skender situation? How far will pawning that ring get them?

Hit our comments with your thoughts and theories!

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Diana Keng is a staff writer for TV Fanatic. She is a lifelong fan of smart sci-fi and fantasy media, an upstanding citizen of the United Federation of Planets, and a supporter of AFC Richmond ’til she dies. Her guilty pleasures include female-led procedurals, old-school sitcoms, and Bluey. She teaches, knits, and dreams big. Follow her on Twitter.

The post Justified: City Primeval Season 1 Episode 3 Review: Backstabbers appeared first on TV Online.

Deadline reported Monday that the long-running Hallmark drama series had been granted an “interim agreement by SAG-AFTRA.”

The decision means that production on When Calls the Heart Season 11 can enter production and produce episodes, likely for 2023.

The Erin Krakow-led drama secured an early renewal earlier this year, well ahead of the premiere of When Calls the Heart Season 11.

The news means that there should be no interruption to Hallmark’s rollout strategy.

When Calls the Heart Season 10 is set to premiere on Sunday, July 30, at 9 p.m.  

12 episodes have been ordered, so we have at least 24 episodes of the series left to go.

“I am beyond excited for Season 10 of When Calls the Heart to premiere July 30,” said Krakow, series star and executive producer, in a statement.

“This season is full of beautiful moments and exciting twists and turns.”

“I can’t wait for the Hearties to see what we’ve created for them!”

“And I’m so thrilled, proud and grateful to Hallmark that the show has been renewed for Season 11.”

“We have so many more stories to tell. With our amazing cast, crew, and brilliant writers, there will be no shortage of romance and new adventures for the residents of Hope Valley!”

“Having the Hearties continue this journey with us has meant the world, and we are thrilled to share what’s in store these next two seasons!”

“‘When Calls the Heart’ has continued to be a standout amongst our Hallmark catalogue and we’re thrilled that we’re able to bring more stories of faith and community to the homes of millions of viewers,” said Lisa Hamilton Daly, Executive Vice President, Programming.

“The uplifting nature of the show paired with the love and positivity in the storytelling makes for a very heartwarming television experience and it’s only going to get bigger and better in season 11.”

What are your thoughts on the show being able to continue filming?

Hit the comments.

Check out the official trailer for the new season below.

And don’t forget to return to TV Fanatic for When Calls the Heart reviews.

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Paul Dailly is the Associate Editor for TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter.

The post When Calls the Heart Season 11 Secures SAG-AFTRA Filming Waiver appeared first on TV Online.

Kathy crashed Annie’s party and caused a scene on Sweet Magnolias Season 3 Episode 5, embarrassing herself and everyone else.

In addition, ugly truths flared at Margarita night, and the ladies fought like we had never seen them before.

Family dynamics are complicated, and Ronnie was caught in the middle between his wife and his estranged sister.

Kathy has been rude since Sweet Magnolias Season 3 began, though part of me wonders what started this cold war.

Did Kathy start this war with Dana Sue and Ronnie only because Ms. Frances helped fund Sullivans and left it to Dana Sue?

Getting along with the in-laws can be difficult, especially if the sibling felt like you stole their place.

Don’t you dare drag my real sisters into your mess.

Dana Sue

Kathy thought that Dana Sue stole Ronnie and turned the entire town against her.

She only embarrassed herself by hurling insults at half the town. That was a tricky spot for Ronnie, but his heart belonged to Dana Sue and Annie, and he’s still trying to prove to her that he’s reformed.

Being your own person and not getting lost in the relationship is often challenging.

All the guys have worked on this since they partnered with feisty women.

We have to know who we are apart from them to bring something to the relationship.

Ronnie

Both Cal and Ryan were struggling to find new jobs. Baseball was all Cal identified with, and Ryan had been traveling for months, so now he needed to find something that excited him like law excited Helen.

Ryan was prepared to give everything up for Helen, but he wanted to discuss ground rules. That made Helen panic since it might actually be real.

Even though Annie is technically dating Jackson, Ty was the one who was continually there on her 16th birthday. The two of them are slowly returning to being in each other’s orbits again.

Jackson wouldn’t even attend her birthday party for fear of disobeying his mother. Annie was slowly beginning to realize these quirks. However, Ty wrote and sang a funny and endearing song about what he liked about her.

Music is something Ty always shared with Annie, and it was adorable. Even though Ty liked Annie, he still drove her to see Jackson after her party.

Those chaperoned dates were over, though. Unlike Kyle, Ty feared Mary Vaughn and had difficulty covering for the lovebirds. The lies will come out soon, and then there will be hell to pay.

As mentioned, I think Sweet Magnolias Season 3 has too many unnecessary characters.

I would have liked to see more of Mary Vaughn and her backstory instead of so many scenes with Noreen and the babies.

Allison Gabriel hoped they would have explored the reasons for Mary Vaughn’s rivalry with the Magnolias and delved deeper into her family drama. They whisked the Lewises away without explaining why.

Many fans were hoping Nellie and Kyle would get a second chance, but instead, it looks like he has a secret admirer. Moving to Castlewood hurts Nellie and Jackson more than it affects her rivals or the community of Serenity.

What made this fight even more devastating was only hours before, the ladies were toasting their friendship and considering beginning a new business venture.

Creating a foundation to assist people seems like something the Magnolias would do.

Dana Sue: As long as you two are a part of it.
Maddie: Happily.
Helen: Indeed.

Dana Sue has always been passionate about feeding the community, and Helen enjoys helping the community. Hopefully, we’ll get to see the foundation get used before the end of the season.

These women are the epitome of Serenity, so it was no surprise that Annie craved a friendship like theirs.

Almost everyone had some decent points in this fight, and these accusations ran deep. This isn’t the type of disagreement that blows over in a day or two.

Things were said that the women couldn’t take back. The thing about sisters is they don’t hold back with tough love, and the Magnolias are practically sisters.

Maddie wanted to share all the lessons she had learned now that she and Cal were happier, but this wasn’t the appropriate time.

Sometimes, when you love someone, it’s difficult to watch them make a mistake, and that’s how Maddie and Dana Sue felt watching Helen with Ryan.

What was ironic was that earlier in the evening, Helen defended her friends to Ryan when he felt like every action was under a microscope.

Living in a small town, everyone is up in your business, and it’s worse when your two best friends know everything about you.

While Helen claimed she waited forever for this second chance with Ryan, it also seemed like she wanted to prove they could be happy to the world.

Helen couldn’t bear to be wrong this time. She does love Ryan, and she’d given up too much, so instead,d she lashed out at the people she loved and trusted most.

“On This Foundation” ended unexpectedly. The Magnolias have never fought like that. They should have been toasting their new venture, not questioning Helen’s every move.

Which Magnolia did you agree with? Was Maddie too outspoken, or does Helen have the right to date whomever she pleases?

What is Kathy’s next move against Dana Sue? Do you have any compassion for her as Ryan did?

Chime in below.

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Laura Nowak is a staff writer for TV Fanatic. Follow her on Twitter.

The post Sweet Magnolias Season 3 Episode 5 Review: On This Foundation appeared first on TV Online.

The hit Spanish teen drama is not ending in the near future.

The streaming service on Wednesday morning picked up Elite Season 8.

What’s more, another original character has been locked in to return.

Mina el Hammani, who played Nadia during the hit series’ first three seasons, will return.

No details have been revealed about whether Mina will be a series regular or if she will be a recurring player, but still, this casting news is sure to get fans talking.

Elite has prided itself in revamping the cast every couple of seasons to keep things fresh, so it’s always interesting when a former star returns.

It will be interesting to find out what became of Nadia after Elite Season 3, which found her leaving Spain behind to attend university in New York City.

Nadia did appear on Short Stories following her exit, but it emerged early into Elite Season 4 that she and Guzman had split up.

As previously reported, Elite Season 7 will hit the air on October 20, 2023.

Mina’s on-screen brother Omar Ayuso is set to return for the first time since departing following Samuel’s death on Elite Season 5.

New additions to the cast for Elite Season 7 include Mirela Balic, Gleb Abrosimov, Nadia Al Saidi, Fernando Líndez, Alejandro Albarracín, Iván Mendes, and Maribel Verdú.

They join Elite Season 6 cast members Valentina Zenere, Andre Lamoglia, Carmen Arrufat, Alex Pastrana, Alvaro de Juana, Ander Puig, Ana Bokesa, and Nadia Al Saida.

While Elite lost its spark around the fourth season, the series remains a top draw for Netflix.

The constant cast turnover likely makes the show more lucrative.

What are your thoughts on this TV news?

Hit the comments below.

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Paul Dailly is the Associate Editor for TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter.

The post Elite Renewed for Season 8 With Original Star Set to Return appeared first on TV Online.