The Trials of Rosie O'Neill Season 1 Episode 1 Starting Over
- September 17, 1990
- 48 min
Rosie O'Neill is a highly successful lawyer who has recently decided to leave the Chicago law firm where she has been working for many years. She is in the process of separating from her husband, Tim, and she moves back to her hometown of Los Angeles. Rosie is struggling to find her place in the world as a single woman in her 40s after having been defined by her marriage and career for so long.
In the first episode, titled "Starting Over," Rosie moves into a new apartment and starts her new job as a public defender. She quickly realizes that the job is going to be much more challenging than she expected, and she is confronted with the harsh realities of the criminal justice system. Rosie meets with her first client, a young man who has been accused of murder. She tries to empathize with him and understand his story, but she struggles to find a way to defend him.
Rosie's personal life is also in turmoil as she tries to adjust to being single again. She reconnects with her high school boyfriend, Jack, who is now a successful businessman. They have an awkward date where they try to catch up on years of lost time. Rosie also has to deal with her ex-husband Tim, who shows up unannounced at her apartment and tries to win her back. She tells him that she needs space and time to figure out what she wants.
Throughout the episode, Rosie is plagued by self-doubt and second-guesses her decisions. She confides in her sister Peggy, who is happily married with children, but Peggy doesn't understand Rosie's struggles. Rosie also seeks advice from her colleague, John, who has been working in public defense for many years. He encourages her to trust her instincts and not be intimidated by the system.
At the end of the episode, Rosie visits her client in jail and tells him that she believes in him. She promises to do everything she can to get him a fair trial. Rosie also decides to give Jack another chance, and they share a kiss outside of her apartment. She realizes that she is ready to start over and take risks in her life.
Overall, "Starting Over" sets the stage for the rest of the series by establishing Rosie as a complex and relatable character who is navigating the challenges of work and personal life. The show explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and redemption, and promises to be a compelling drama that will keep viewers engaged.