Ep 6. Why Me?

In The Deuce season 1 episode 6 "Why Me?", tensions rise as the characters' personal and professional lives collide. Vincent (James Franco) struggles to balance his new partnership with Rudy Pipilo (Michael Rispoli) while also trying to maintain his relationship with Abby (Margarita Levieva). Meanwhile, Candy (Maggie Gyllenhaal) continues to explore the world of pornography and faces unexpected challenges.

One of the main plotlines of the episode revolves around Darlene (Dominique Fishback), a sex worker who has become increasingly disillusioned with her job. She confides in Larry (Gbenga Akinnagbe), a fellow sex worker and friend, about her desire to leave the business and pursue a different path in life. However, this proves to be easier said than done, as Darlene's clients and coworkers are reluctant to let her go.

Another storyline involves Frankie (Franco), Vincent's ne'er-do-well brother, who finds himself in deep trouble after getting involved with a group of gangsters. Desperate to protect himself and his family, Frankie turns to Vincent for help. However, Vincent's loyalty is put to the test as he debates whether or not to get involved in his brother's dangerous situation.

Throughout the episode, there are several other subplots and character arcs that intertwine and overlap. For example, Paul (Chris Coy), a bartender at Vincent's bar, struggles with his identity as a gay man in a conservative era. Meanwhile, Ashley (Jamie Neumann), a sex worker who has recently arrived in New York, navigates the dangerous and unpredictable world of the Deuce.

Overall, "Why Me?" is a tense and complex episode that delves deeper into the lives of the show's diverse cast of characters. It balances gritty realism with moments of humor and empathy, and offers an intimate look at the people who inhabit this seedy yet fascinating world.