Hill Street Blues Season 3 Episode 20

Ep 20. Spotlight on Rico

  • TV14
  • April 28, 1983
  • 49 min
  • 8.2  (94)

Detective Rick Hunter must face his past when an old partner and love interest resurfaces in "Spotlight on Rico," the twentieth episode of Hill Street Blues season 3. Set in the bustling and crime-ridden Hill Street police precinct of an unnamed city, this critically acclaimed drama series delves deep into the personal and professional lives of its diverse characters, exploring the complexities of their relationships, ethical dilemmas, and the challenges they face as they strive to maintain law and order.

As the episode begins, the precinct is abuzz with anticipation as the news team from local TV station KHBX arrives to film a documentary series shining a light on the daily operations of the Hill Street police force. Eager to put their best foot forward, the officers nervously prepare for their close-ups, knowing that the cameras will capture both their triumphs and their failures.

Meanwhile, detective Rick Hunter (played by James Sikking) is about to confront a different kind of spotlight. His former partner and lover, Denise ("Rico") Ricono (guest star Loni Anderson), returns to town, igniting a whirlwind of emotions for Hunter. Rico, a tenacious investigative reporter, is in town to cover the trial of a notorious gang leader, Dante Salerno, and Hunter quickly realizes that her presence could complicate matters.

Haunted by their tumultuous past and a painful breakup, Hunter fears that Rico's reappearance will stir up old wounds and jeopardize his objectivity in pursuing justice. Nevertheless, the two former flames must find a way to navigate their undeniable chemistry and work together—each with their own professional agenda.

As the trial unfolds, tensions rise both inside and outside the courtroom. The case against Salerno proves to be a complex web of lies, corruption, and high-stakes power plays involving influential figures that could shake the city to its core. Hunter's dedication to his duty and relentless pursuit of the truth are put to the test as he grapples with his unresolved feelings for Rico and the weight of the investigation.

Back at the precinct, the documentary crew captures the daily challenges faced by Captain Frank Furillo (played by Daniel J. Travanti) and his team. From juggling limited resources and managing internal conflicts to dealing with the demands of a politically charged environment, the officers' commitment to their community and their struggle for justice is laid bare for all to see.

As the trial inches towards a climactic conclusion, the spotlight intensifies on Hunter and Rico. They find themselves entangled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse, with personal agendas and conflicting loyalties threatening to derail their pursuit of justice. In this high-stakes environment, where lines between right and wrong become blurred, the moral compass of both individuals is put to the ultimate test.

"Spotlight on Rico" serves as a captivating exploration of the capacity for forgiveness, the consequences of deception, and the pursuit of truth in a world filled with gray areas. As the episode reaches its gripping conclusion, viewers are left questioning the motivations and loyalties of each character, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in their intertwined stories.

Hill Street Blues season 3 episode 20, "Spotlight on Rico," showcases the masterful storytelling and exceptional performances that have made this series a celebrated television classic. With its authentic portrayal of the complexities faced by those in law enforcement, the episode offers a thought-provoking and emotionally charged experience that leaves a lasting impact on its audience.

Description
Watch Hill Street Blues - Spotlight on Rico (s3 e20) Online - Watch online anytime: Buy, Rent
Hill Street Blues, Season 3 Episode 20, is available to watch and stream on NBC. You can also buy, rent Hill Street Blues on demand at Amazon, Vudu, Google Play, Apple TV online.
  • First Aired
    April 28, 1983
  • Content Rating
    TV14
  • Runtime
    49 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    8.2  (94)