“Scandal”: Watch It For The "Gladiators In Suits"!

The Official Poster of “Scandal”

I decided to give “Scandal” a chance since I am a devoted fan of “Grey’s Anatomy.” My decision was nevertheless influenced by my best friend with whom I share a love for the same TV shows. Few minutes into the first episode, I exited Hulu. Fortunately, my best friend bugged me more and more till I finished the entire first episode. I was hooked!

“Scandal” is written by Shonda Rihmes, the brilliant creator, executive producer and head writer of the medical drama, “Grey's Anatomy” and its spinoff, “Private Practice” (Both shows have done tremendously well). The series, “Scandal,” is set in the political city, Washington. Rather than focusing on the big public figures like many shows, Scandal gives most of its attention to the highly expensive image makers who are best at what they do: hide scandals (yes, the title is perfect)  and present their clients as perfect human beings.  New York Times TV critic calls it, ““The West Wing” as seen by Ms. Rhimes, not Aaron Sorkin.”

Kerry Washington posing as Olivia Pope!

Olivia Pope, played by the elegance personified Kerry Washington , is the lead character. Before she is even introduced to the audience, it is revealed that she is “as amazing as they say.” Makes you want to know who and what this woman does. So, in the next scene, Olivia Pope is revealed negotiating, no she is actually commending, two Russian mobs to hand over a Senator’s infant whom they had kidnapped.  Mind you, she does this without the police or a gun of her own. I know what you are thinking: it can’t be convincing or nearly realistic. Well, you are wrong. You will not only be convinced, you’ll also admire Ms. Pope for her guts and ability to threaten with oozing confidence. She doesn't even blink.

“Gladiators in suits”

Olivia Pope and her team of “Gladiators in suits” are fixers, that is they fix the problems of big politicians. This includes: helping the United States President win an election, reuniting a senator with his kidnapped baby, playing match-maker for another senator in need of a wife in order to get votes, among other things. The “Gladiators” are devoted to Olivia (you’ll know why once you watch). They allow her to keep secrets without asking questions despite their shock at turn of events (example: how did they suddenly win a case they were clearly going to lose?; S2E1).

“Scandal” is brilliantly written. The plot makes for a successful show. But what makes it effective is the strong, realistic, confident, and experienced cast. Kerry Washington is perfect for her role. She plays Olivia Pope effortlessly. Tony Goldwyn makes a believable president as Fitzgerald Grant, while Bellamy Young easily outdone herself as the conniving, selfish, willing-to-do-anything-to-live-at-the-White House First Lady, Millie Grant.  Jeff Perry’s talent shines in every scene he is in as loving yet mean Chief of Staff, Cyrus Beene. Joshua Malina brings a balance to the all-corrupt political animals as he plays the truthful, hardworking DA David Rosen. His background and experience with “The West Wing” comes out smoothly.

What makes “Scandal” addictive is its ability to always deliver. Every episode manages to have you open your mouth at the revelation of something shocking and unexpected. The series also has its share of cliff-hangers, which are so clever and well done that you’ll go through the rest of the week counting the minutes till Thursday at 9/10c.

“Scandal” returned to TV last Thursday after a break. It truly lived up to its name and rewarded fans for their wait!

Oprah interviews her favorites Kerry and Shonda.

If you are watching “Scandal,” you know all I've written above is absolutely true. And if you are not watching it, I dare you to take the challenge and watch it. Even Oprah watches“Scandal”! So should you!