Content Warning: This episode features suicide and depression.
In this week’s 9-1-1, we finally learned what happened to Maddie. “Boston” was darker in tone that what we’re used to seeing, but it was a much needed episode. We learned what Maddie’s been going through for all these months, and why she felt she had to leave her daughter and Chimney behind.
Leaving L.A.
The beginning of “Boston” takes us back to Maddie leaving her daughter at the firehouse. She’s in a deep depression and thinks she’s a danger to her daughter. The scariest moment in 9-1-1 5×12 ”Boston” was her walking into the ocean. We wanted to scream at her to stop, but she kept going. Luckily, she survived. And at this point she finally realizes she needs help.
She goes to Boston and checks herself into the hospital. She undergoes testing and attends group therapy where she meets Tara, played by the fabulous A.J. Cook. Cook and Jennifer Love Hewitt starred on Criminal Minds together during the 10th season. It was a wonderful casting choice by the show.
Tara and Maddie become friends and bond over not being able to see their kids. Maddie says that she thinks Chimney hates her because she almost killed their child.But this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Chimney doesn’t hate her. He spent weeks camped outside the hospital waiting for Maddie to walk out those doors.
The day that Maddie’s released from treatment, Tara starts drinking again. She’s upset that Maddie’s leaving and she feels like she’s losing her only friend. Maddie takes her to the hospital to sober up and they discover the missing poster with Maddie’s face on it. It’s finally clear to Maddie that Chimney never hated her.
Maddie and Chimney: Reunited
Maddie and Chimney finally find each other on St. Patrick’s Day while trying to save Tara. Maddie visits Chimney and her daughter and she’s overwhelmed by how much she’s missed. After a few more visits and discussions with Chimney, she decides she’s ready to go home.
This was a dark episode but, luckily, it was one that has a happy ending. Jennifer Love Hewitt was phenomenal in “Boston.” We could see how desperate she was when she checked herself into the hospital, and we could feel the relief when she finally knew what was causing her depression. Kenneth Choi also gave a wonderful performance as Chimney. It’s clear that he cares about Maddie and wants her to be safe. We’re also glad that this show isn’t afraid to focus important topics that may help save someone’s life.
What’s Next?
When Maddie and Chimney return to L.A. will Chimney still have his job? Bobby already hired two new people at the 118 so returning home may not be as easy as Chimney thinks. And as much as Chimney loves Maddie and is glad she’s better, we have to wonder if he has some underlying resentment towards her for leaving. We know she was sick, but we would understand if he felt hurt by Maddie’s actions.
Other Thoughts
- Bagpipe lung? That’s a new one. And how gross were the bagpipes that were filled with mold? Ewww. Clean your instruments, people!
- We felt for Maddie trying to find Tara during the St. Patrick’s Day festivities. We can see why she hates that holiday.
9-1-1 airs Mondays at 8/7c on Fox.
