9-1-1: Thoughts on the Cliffhanger’s End in “Fight or Flight”

So, how about that cliffhanger? We got to see both “fight” and “flight,” and it was great to see that response coming from a place we may not have expected. It was a long two weeks to wait to learn what happened to Maddie and Chimney. Now that we know the outcome, let’s talk about what went down.

Chimney’s Recovery

Last week’s episode about Chimney’s past really upped the tension about what was happening with him, so it felt like a little bit of a letdown when this week left us with relatively little worry about him. I mean, it’s not as if we thought he’d be killed off. I can only speak for myself, but that would likely kill my love for this show as well. But, I think if they had ramped up his anxiety a little about what was happening with Maddie, it might have felt less anti-climactic.

That said, turning away from Chimney put all eyes on Maddie, which is definitely where they should have been.

Angela Bassett as Athena. Photo: Jack Zeman / FOX.

Maddie’s Survival

Even though it was a pretty traumatic situation to witness, there were some great things about how this week played out. Domestic abuse is such a complicated issue, as is how someone might respond to an abuser. It was great to see so much thought packed into this one episode. First, the crew discussed the realities faced by women in these situations. Leaving is the most dangerous time for many who are in an abusive relationship, and things can indeed become dangerous quickly. It was great to see Athena and Buck, along with others, doing whatever they could to help Maddie, both during the kidnapping, but also in the months leading up to it as she worked through what she had lived. When it came down to it though, Maddie saved herself. She read the situation and did the best she could to survive and escape. Certainly this will take some recovery, but I think her actions speak volumes about just how far she’s come since she left her abusive spouse.

Also, it must have been weird for Jennifer Love Hewitt playing this with her real-world husband Brian Hallisay. I suppose it would be best to be opposite someone that you love and trust for something that could be emotional and physically strenuous, but it must be hard to conjure up, and then erase, the feelings of a domestic violence situation with a loved one. It looks like we won’t be seeing much more of Doug though.

Guest star Brian Hallisay and Jennifer Love Hewitt. Photo: Jack Zeman / FOX.

The Reunion

Maddie and Chimney’s reunion was very emotional. They didn’t create a scenario where the two would run dramatically into each other’s arms. Instead, it was more slow and sweet, which is much more fitting for the relationship these two have with each other. In some ways I think the soundtrack did a lot of the heavy lifting here. I mean, it’s hard keep a dry eye when “To Make You Feel My Love” is playing. Now we get to see what’s next for Maddie and Chimney, and we get to see Maddie continue to bloom in a world where she doesn’t have to hide anymore.

If you are experiencing domestic violence, seeking resources or information, or questioning unhealthy aspects of a relationship help is available online or by phone at the Domestic Violence Hotline.

Domestic Violence Hotline: Phone: 1-800-799-7233 or www.thehotline.org/

9-1-1 airs Mondays at 9/8c on Fox.