Ep 7. Kirby

Kirby Anders has always been a force to be reckoned with on "Dynasty," and season 3 episode 7 gives viewers a closer look at her character's depth and complexity. The episode, aptly titled "Kirby," delves into her backstory and the struggles she's faced throughout her life.

The episode begins with Kirby waking up in a hospital room after what appears to have been a suicide attempt. As she tries to push away the medical professionals tending to her, flashbacks from her childhood and young adulthood start to surface. We see her growing up with her mother, who was incredibly controlling and verbally abusive towards her. Despite her mother's best efforts to shape her into a certain version of herself, Kirby still managed to forge her own path and leave for college.

But even outside of her mother's grasp, Kirby continued to battle demons of her own. Throughout the episode, we see her battling depression and self-doubt, particularly as it relates to her relationship with Adam Carrington. Kirby loves Adam deeply, but is constantly plagued by the fear that she's not good enough for him or that he'll ultimately leave her.

As we learn more about Kirby's past, we also see how her relationships with the other characters on the show have evolved. She has a touching conversation with Culhane about their shared experiences with addiction and the impact it's had on their lives. She also clashes with Sam, who continues to harbor resentment towards her for her role in Steven's departure from the show.

One of the most poignant moments in the episode comes when Kirby confronts her mother in a dream-like sequence. As they argue, Kirby finally stands up to her and tells her that she's not going to live the life her mother wants for her. It's a powerful moment that showcases Kirby's growth and her ability to break free from the toxicity and control of her past.

Throughout "Kirby," we see the character at her most vulnerable and authentic. Though she's always been a strong and independent figure, this episode humanizes her and allows viewers to see her struggles in a new light. It's a testament to the show's writers and to Maddison Brown's portrayal of the character that we're able to empathize with Kirby and root for her even when she's at her lowest.

The episode also sets up some intriguing plotlines for the rest of the season. With Kirby's struggles with depression and anxiety now front and center, it will be interesting to see how the other characters on the show rally around her and help her through this difficult time. It also raises questions about what the future holds for her and Adam, who have always had a complicated and at times toxic dynamic.

Overall, "Kirby" is a standout episode in an already strong season of "Dynasty." It shines a light on a character who has often been pushed to the sidelines and shows that there's much more to her than meets the eye. With a powerful performance from Maddison Brown and some poignant writing, it's an episode that's sure to stay with viewers long after the credits roll.