Ghosts 2×18, “Alberta’s Descendent,” is a musical tribute to Alberta (Danielle Pinnock) and a perfect story about realizing dreams. It’s always a good time when descendants of the ghosts visit Woodstone. Now, not only do we get introduced to objectively one of the best descendants. Alberta’s murder podcast is also back, and not a moment too soon. So much of Alberta’s story is still unwritten, and there’s so much much of her character to explore.
Alberta, the Greatest Ancestor
How amazing is Alberta? Seriously, let’s all just take a moment to bask in how phenomenal she was in life and what a kickass ghost she’s become. She may be the de facto mother of this chaotic crew, always passing out the best advice. It’s nice to see her on the receiving end of wisdom this time. Thor (Devan Chandler Long) and Pete (Richie Moriarty) may be misguided in their parenting tips, but it’s clear that they and the rest of the ghosts care about Alberta deeply.
This episode makes it perfectly clear that Alberta is an incredibly deep character. Sure, in life she was an awesome bootlegging backstabbing jazz star and looked flawless doing it. However, this episode is clear that she recognizes what a hard life this was and what a fight it was to survive her cutthroat world. She wants better for Alicia (Ashley D. Kelley), and she’s clearly looking out for her as any good family member would.
Alberta’s ability to reflect on her own life and acknowledge the struggles she faced in life is such a credit to this character. After such a rough life, she deserves an afterlife filled with laughter and shenanigans. The fact that she is surrounded by so much love is enough to illicit happy tears. It may not matter who killed Alberta (although, her sister?!). What matters is that she’s able to live her best possible afterlife where she can lovingly roast everyone around her, living and dead.
Alicia, the Best Descendant
Ghosts 2×18, “Alberta’s Descendant,” also features a guest appearance for the ages. Alicia is a gem. Full stop, no notes. She has obviously gained an incredible amount of success in her professional life as a lawyer. It’s obvious that she is a tribute to Alberta’s legacy from the moment we meet her. In a series that continues to feature phenomenal guest stars, Kelley is a shining star above the rest. Her humor and heart ensure that she fits right in with the chaos that is Woodstone Manor.
What works about this story is the fact multiple things can be true at once. As much success as Alicia has seen in her day job, like her ancestor, she’s so much more. She has the beautiful and unique gift of music. It would frankly be a crime if she didn’t at least try to explore this part of herself. The breathtakingly beautiful duet with her ancestor ties them together in a poignant and powerful way. Hopefully, Alicia will always feel welcome at Woodstone.
Yet Another Love Story for the Ages
Sam (Rose McIver) and Creepy Todd (Rodrigo Fernandez-Stollare) are back with their podcast that, let’s be honest, we’d kill to listen to. Jay (Utkarsh Ambudkar) as the commercial guy works because he’s clearly so passionate about Woodstone and wants it to succeed. Now, the podcast is serving an even more essential purpose, playing matchmaker to two unlikely people bound by their love of Alberta.
It’s not just funny that Alicia and Creepy Todd have an instant connection. The best part is watching the ghosts come together to sabotage this relationship before it has a chance to get off the ground. Sure, these two are definitely not meant to be together. It’s still funny watching the ghosts go all in on derailing Alicia from even considering Creepy Todd as an option. Alicia deserves a better version of Creepy Todd, who loves her ancestor but is, you know, less creepy.
The Best Kind of Blackmail
Ghosts 2×18, “Alberta’s Descendant,” sees Nigel (John Hartman) continue to settle into Woodstone as the newest ghostly resident. After walking in on Hetty (Rebecca Wisocky) and Trevor (Asher Grodman), he’s obviously not going to let that rest. Trust Nigel to take full advantage of the situation and try to turn two Americans against each other. Typical British solider, honestly.
The humor just emphasizes how oddly sweet Hetty and Trevor are as a couple. Trevor sees how special Hetty is. Underneath that 90s Wall Street Bro bravado is still that heart of gold. The fact that he is willing to give Hetty her space, but fight for her when it matters most, shows that he is truly a prince among men (or in this case, ghosts). Hopefully, Hetty will be able to overcome her reservations, and the two will be able to continue this powerful ghostly love story.
Ghosts has added a whole new dynamic to Alberta’s story. With only a few episodes remaining in the season, hopefully there is time to wrap everything up. Hopefully, there is also more time to focus on the blossoming romances that are just adding to the joyful chaos that this show is all about. And hopefully, music will always remain an integral part of the Woodstone story.
Ghosts airs Thursdays at 8:30/7:30c on CBS.
