'Scandal' Review/Recap: "Put a Ring on It"
Nora Dominick ‘17/ Emertainment Monthly Assistant Stage Editor
This episode of Scandal did not just show the preparation and wedding of Cyrus and Michael but it flashed back to Cyrus’ previous two marriages. For the first time fans got to see Cyrus and his marriage to his first wife, Janet (Emily Bergl). This set of flashbacks were brief but it showed how much Cyrus has grown as a character. When fans first were introduced to Cyrus in season 1 he was a happily, open-gay man. Perry has taken Cyrus through a major character progression and having these flashbacks in this episode helped showcase that. Scandal also took a trip down memory lane and showed Cyrus and James (Dan Bucatinsky) in the early stages of their relationship. This episode was also a stroll down memory lane for fans. When James was killed last season, it was a shock to the Scandal fans. Perry and Bucatinsky continue to have unbelievable chemistry and this episode was very reminiscent of the classic Scandal days.
The first amazing scene showcases Del Negro’s incredible talent. Playing a very sleazy and hated character is never easy and Del Negro does an amazing job at playing the part. This week he strips away this persona and reveals an emotional side to Michael. When Cyrus decides he wants to take down Michael at his family’s dinner, fans could tell this wasn’t going to go well. Del Negro breaks down during dinner with his parents when he finds out they’re only attending the wedding because Elizabeth (Portia de Rossi) is paying them. Del Negro’s ability to strip away the hardened exterior of Michael and show a man who just wants to be accepted by his parents is amazing.
Scandal fans were in for a real treat when it got back to basics with Olivia and Fitz (Tony Goldwyn) this week. Fitz has been absent in storylines these last few weeks however they made up for it with his latest scenes with Olivia. In flashback scenes it’s revealed that Fitz gave Olivia a family heirloom ring the day of Cyrus and James’ wedding. In an amazing scene that is filled to the brim with sexual tension, Fitz tells Liv, “Wear this. If you wear this, even if you hate me I’ll know we will be okay while you’re out there…” Washington and Goldwyn continue to have amazing chemistry and show the foundation of Fitz and Liv. In present day, Fitz sees Liv sporting the ring at Cyrus and Michael’s wedding and the faintest smile shines across their faces. Washington and Goldwyn continue to be one of the main backbones of the show and this throwback to vintage Scandal was definitely one for longtime fans.
Scandal this week was filled to the brim with new and exciting storylines. while being rooted in the past. It was especially refreshing to find out more about Cyrus and his past relationships. This episode was a little dull compared to last week’s but it was mostly because it was focused on character development. With an episode solely focused on Cyrus and Michael, other characters fell through the cracks and made the episode drag out. It looks like next week Scandal will pick up the intensity.
Scandal airs on Thursdays at 9/8c on ABC.
Overall Episode Grade: B+