Editor’s Note: The following contains spoilers for 9-1-1: Lone Star Season 5.
Even prior to the airing of episodes from its fifth and final season, there were growing concerns about the future of 9-1-1: Lone Star. The show faced a myriad of challenges, including low ratings and cast contract disputes, which fueled speculation about its potential cancellation. With the disappointing performance of its sister show, 9-1-1, after moving to ABC, FOX executives expressed skepticism regarding the series’ continuation. Given this context, the writers had a unique opportunity to develop a compelling final season filled with meaningful character arcs for the entire cast. Ultimately, the lackluster quality of the last season is inexcusable and disappointing for fans.
An In-Depth Critique of ‘9-1-1: Lone Star’s Fifth Season
The fifth season of this beloved series has been notably shorter than previous ones, consisting of only 12 episodes, with the climactic finale scheduled to air on February 3. This condensed format has undoubtedly contributed to the disappointing storytelling and rushed plot developments. For instance, Marjan (Natacha Karam) experiences significant life changes, including dating and marrying a new love interest, all within a single episode. Similarly, Owen (Rob Lowe) is faced with a potential move to New York for a new job, a monumental decision that receives minimal exploration in just a few brief scenes. While these plotlines seem to be sidelined, other story arcs, such as TK (Ronen Rubinstein) and Carlos’s (Rafael L. Silva) adoption process for TK’s younger brother, have garnered excessive screen time. Though this is an intriguing subplot, it has monopolized valuable time that could have been better spent exploring other character journeys.
The narrative also touches on the story of Tommy (Gina Torres), who receives a devastating breast cancer diagnosis early in Season 5. Unfortunately, the majority of her battle against cancer unfolds off-screen, and her character appears to be largely overlooked in the latter half of the season. By the latest episode, the revelation of Tommy’s terminal diagnosis feels like a side note rather than a poignant moment in the narrative. One particularly haunting scene has Tommy interacting with her deceased husband?s ghost, ultimately leaving her isolated on the couch, with only a ticking clock to accompany her. This stark depiction underscores how the writers have neglected her character throughout the season. Tommy deserved a more respectful and substantial storyline. Even if the writers deemed it necessary for her character to die, her cancer journey deserved to be portrayed with the dignity and focus it warranted. The loss of such a significant character in just a few scenes highlights how 9-1-1: Lone Star has faltered in its final season.
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With only two episodes left until ‘Lone Star’ wraps up for good, this storyline makes absolutely no sense.
Disconnected and Inconsistent Storylines in ‘9-1-1: Lone Star’ Season 5
In addition to the disservice to Tommy’s character, numerous other storylines have faltered significantly this season. The announcement of Sierra McClain’s departure foreshadowed the need to write Grace out of the final season, but this transition was executed poorly. In a sudden twist, Grace leaves for a mission, inexplicably abandoning her young daughter and husband. This decision feels illogical for a character that audiences have deeply connected with. Moreover, Judd’s (Jim Parrack) portrayal of grief and subsequent struggles with depression and addiction is alarmingly unrealistic. Instead of receiving support, no one reaches out to Grace, even when Judd’s situation becomes dire, leading to a dramatic phone call that resolves his issues miraculously. This hurried resolution diminishes the authenticity of his character arc, as the series rushes to conclude storylines without proper development.
In the penultimate episode, the 126 Firehouse faces the impending threat of an asteroid hurtling toward Austin. While this setup promises an action-packed finale, it raises concerns about the series’ ability to provide the necessary closure for its characters. The essence of the show has always centered around the camaraderie and familial bonds within the 126 team, but this frantic race to the finish compromises the very elements that made the series beloved. The deep connections among characters have dissipated this season, particularly in light of Tommy’s potential death, leaving viewers disheartened that the series is concluding on such a regrettable note.
The series finale of 9-1-1: Lone Star is set to air on Monday, February 3 on FOX, with episodes available for streaming on Hulu in the United States.
