In this week’s episode of The Pitt, more casualties & chaos enters the hospital as Dr. Robby (Noah Wyle) identifies someone familiar among the injured. If you are new to the show or need a refresher, The Pitt is a medical drama with a 24 concept where each episode is an hour in the show’s time. I recently watched a few episodes from the beginning again, and it’s amazing how much has changed within one day when for us, the viewers, it’s been several months. We are nearing the end of the show. Not only is this another incredible episode… it’s my 2nd favorite episode after episode 8.

Clocking in at 43 minutes, the viewers may continue to show some concern over such a short episode. Much like the other shorter episodes, this one utilizes every minute. The episode starts off somewhat slow as it is revealed where the police believe the shooter will show up at the hospital. It changes the mind frame of those who know to not only be safe, but to also continue to be as quick as possible, even when newer patients coming in. You may be excited for the next episode like I am, but nothing will prepare you for how emotionally charged this episode is.

There are a lot of incredible standout moments that continue to give these characters amazing depth. After Patrick Ball’s return as Dr. Langdon in last week’s episode, it’s amazing how Dr. Robby is warming up to his return. A few episodes ago, Robby kicked Langdon out due to the doctor stealing drugs from the hospital. While he was frustrated with his return, he knows that he needs Langdon. It’s not revealed, but I have a funny feeling Langdon will still leave the hospital after this is all done.

Taylor Dearden as Dr. King continues to be amazing. What’s incredible here is that due to an small accident from Dennis Whitaker, she takes the time to huddle everyone for a quick teaching moment. It’s a remarkable moment showing that Dr. King has real potential to be a leader. Even more, there is Dr. Santos who has been widely disliked, but has also made some solid points why she deserves the contrary. She makes a quick decision that leads to the frustration of a higher-up, but soon shares his respect. It’s a nice, funny moment in a highly intense episode.

Speaking of funny, Dr. McKay has one of the funniest scenes of the entire series. I won’t spoil what it involves, but you’ll know what I mean when you see it. Knowing her soon is in the other room waiting on her also brings a lot of uncertainty for her family. Once again, the show has phenomenal female characters that are perfectly written & performed. The growth and the decisions these women go through truly makes this compelling television.

Based on the clues the show has been giving since the beginning, it’s fair to make assumptions as to who the shooter is. My early prediction may be proving false. I knew either way, I’d be okay with it. There is somewhat of a reveal, and I’m glad that I was wrong. This show tackles a lot of important themes. Gun violence is vital topic to me, and the show perfectly capitalizes how dangerous gun violence has become.

I’m sure if you’ve made this far into the show, you are more than likely a fan of Noah Wyle’s performance as Dr. Robby. I can’t emphasize this enough… His performance here will wreck you. As the synopsis would indicate, there is a reveal forcing him to make a big and risky decision. His decision is not out of selfishness, but out of love and doing things due to the amount of love he has for others. You can sense where this happy guy got bitter and bitter due to what he experienced in life, forcing him to be more humble and learn from what he’s done.

This episode has a lot of emotionally charged moments that had me on the edge of tears throughout. The ending, however, wrecked me. He is forced to reckon with the deaths that he has encountered before the shooting occurred. The dialogue that is spoken to him pushes him over the edge, giving Wyle the opportunity to deliver one of the best scenes in the entire series. Just when he is still dealing with one trauma, he is now going through a new one. I know this show is fictional, but when it’s tackling real events with real characters, it’s hard not to see the importance of this show.

Overall, a phenomenal episode that tackles themes that I hold near and dear to me. From the amazing, emotional performances to its high energy pacing, this episode will deeply resonate with viewers. With only 2 episodes left, I have no idea how it’s going to wrap everything up. I am just glad I am taking each hour in weekly doses rather than being in real time with these characters.

VERDICT: 5/5 (Perfect)