Ep 7. 5/1

In season 1 episode 7 of The Newsroom, titled "5/1," the newsroom team is reeling after the death of Osama bin Laden. Anchor Will McAvoy (Jeff Daniels) and executive producer MacKenzie McHale (Emily Mortimer) struggle to keep the staff on task as they adjust to the historic news.

As they prepare to go on air, Will and MacKenzie field questions from the staff about the implications of bin Laden's death for national security and the war on terror. Meanwhile, reporter Jim Harper (John Gallagher Jr.) is dispatched to cover the jubilant crowds at Ground Zero and gets caught up in the excitement of the moment.

Back in the newsroom, senior producer Don Keefer (Thomas Sadoski) clashes with his ex-girlfriend and fellow producer Sloan Sabbith (Olivia Munn) over coverage of the bin Laden story. Don seeks to downplay the celebratory mood and focus on the long-term implications of the news, while Sloan argues for exploiting the emotional resonance of the story to boost ratings.

As the broadcast begins, tensions continue to flare between the staff. Will struggles to maintain his composure as the enormity of the news sinks in, while MacKenzie tries to keep the broadcast on a steady course. But when a technical glitch threatens to derail the entire show, they must work together to keep the news rolling.

Throughout the episode, flashbacks reveal the backstory of the relationship between Will and MacKenzie, shedding new light on their dynamic and giving deeper insight into their struggles in the newsroom. As the show comes to a close, the staff reflects on the day's events and looks ahead to the challenges yet to come.

"5/1" is a poignant and powerful episode that captures the raw emotions and high stakes of covering a major news event. It showcases the skills of the talented ensemble cast and leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, eager to see how the newsroom will navigate the ever-changing landscape of journalism.