The Super Bowl episode for any show is often one of the least popular, or at least most forgettable, of the entire series for devoted fans of the program.
After all, it's tough for a show find the right kind of balance between the ongoing creative mythology and attracting new viewers in a de facto second pilot.
Fortunately, The Blacklist Season 2 Episode 9 struck that balance.
Watch The Blacklist Season 2 Episode 9 OnlineWhile we anticipated NBC focusing its efforts in luring in new viewers rather than rewarding existing ones, they tried to have their cake and eat it too.
The James Spader-led drama is quietly, but undoubtedly one of network TV's top dramas, and the network is looking to solidify that distinction.
The Blacklist Season 2 Episode 9 definitely had the feel of a one-off event, but did tackle mythology in ways that wouldn't go over new fans' heads.
In the latter half of the installment, the mysterious “fulcrum” (and its role in Red going on the run) is teased, along with the fire that has haunted Liz.
By tackling these topics, the show seamlessly integrated elements that first-time viewers and those who have been there from the start could appreciate.
This isn't to say there wasn't enough to hook new fans, because if this were your first look, you'd want to watch The Blacklist online after the fact.
With Red arrested and held in peril in a secret detention facility, there was plenty of drama and high intensity befitting of a post-Super Bowl episode.
Will it be enough to boost the show's Thursday move, a bold but worthy endeavor? That remains to be seen, but it won't disappoint fans old and new.
Follow the above links to watch The Blacklist's biggest (if not best) episode ever, then for more Super Bowl action, see last night's TV ads below:
2015 Super Bowl Commercials
1. Kim Kardashian T-Mobile Commercial Kim Kardashian shills for T-Mobile in this commercial. But it's not just any commercial: it's a Super Bowl commercial!The Hottest Celebrity Pics and Videos Online, Browse our Gallery to view your favorite Movie Hotties and Models.
