Masterpiece Season 33 Episode 9 Prime Suspect 6: The Last Witness (1)

Prime Suspect 6: The Last Witness (1) is the ninth episode of season 33 of Masterpiece, a mystery/crime show that follows Detective Superintendent Jane Tennison who investigates complex cases while navigating personal and professional challenges. This episode serves as the first part of a two-part installment that sees Tennison return to work following a brief hiatus.

Tennison's return coincides with a chilling case involving the murder of a young girl in London. The victim, Sallie Sturdy, was a 14-year-old witness in a trial against a local crime lord, and her testimony was crucial to getting the conviction. However, her murder raises questions about whether the trial was mishandled, and if Sallie's life could have been saved had proper precautions been taken.

As Tennison dives into the case, she faces a variety of obstacles and challenges. For one, the trial was conducted by a different team than her own, and they are defensive of their work and reputation. Tennison also clashes with the new head of the station, who is more interested in keeping his unit clean than in finding the killer. On top of that, Tennison is struggling personally, grappling with her own demons and anxiety as she tries to navigate a tough case.

The episode plays out like a classic crime procedural, with Tennison and her team sorting through evidence, interviewing suspects, and chasing leads. However, the show does an excellent job of humanizing all the characters involved, showing the personal toll that a case like this can take on people. From Sallie's mourning family to the various police officers and lawyers involved, everyone is wrestling with their own feelings of guilt, grief, and anger.

The performances in the episode are top-notch, with Helen Mirren delivering a powerful turn as Tennison. She brings depth and complexity to the character, capturing both her grit and her vulnerability. The supporting cast is equally strong, with actors like Frank Finlay and Robert Pugh standing out in their roles as key players in the case.

Overall, Prime Suspect 6: The Last Witness (1) is a gripping and atmospheric episode that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. It's a masterful exploration of the complexities of justice, grief, and power, and a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.