Welcome back to this week’s edition of TV Corner Notes—your roundup of standout episodes, news, and finales that had TV fans buzzing. Let’s dive in.
Alien: Earth: “Metamorphosis”
I didn’t think episode three could top the first two, but I was very wrong—and happily so. “Metamorphosis” might just be the strongest hour yet. From Wendy and Hermit battling the Xenomorph to Wendy actually killing it (WHAT?!), the tension was sky-high.
But the creepiest beat? Morrow’s conversation with a child he’s manipulating through an implanted device. It’s deeply unsettling, and it adds another layer of menace to the already grim stakes.
The biggest question hanging over the series now is Wendy’s possible connection to the alien species. Her eerie draw toward the facehugger research team is a detail that feels like a powder keg waiting to explode.
The writing here continues to impress, developing characters like Morrow, Krish and Curly while deepening rivalries and loyalties. Performances from Sydney Chandler, Timothy Olyphant, and Babou Ceesay are top-notch. Overall, I give this episode a 9.5/10.
Countdown: “Run”
This week, Countdown raised the stakes by introducing its most disturbing villain yet.
The team investigates TK, who seemed like a prime suspect after renting a cabin under his name. But TK insists he was just a pawn, supplied with cash and credit cards to cover for the real mastermind. That real figure is Todd, whose backstory we follow in chilling flashbacks. From betrayal by his partner to cruelty toward an innocent puppy (yes, he kills it—and yes, he’s now officially the worst), Todd is a monster hiding in plain sight.
Meanwhile, Shepard makes contactwith Todd and gets the answers to his manifest. At the same time, Oliveras and Meachum return to the spotlight with sharp, funny, and heartfelt bickering that shows their chemistry hasn’t faded despite time apart.
“Run” delivered a strong mix of personal drama and genuine menace, cementing Todd as a far scarier villain than Volchek. Overall, I give this episode an 8.5/10.
What did you think of Todd’s reveal? Creepy enough to be a long-term series villain?
NBC’s Big Swing: Sunday Night Baseball
Reports are circulating that NBC is exploring the rights to Sunday Night Baseball, and honestly, it’s a brilliant move.
NBC already dominates Sunday nights with Sunday Night Football and now has Sunday Night Basketball coming with the NBA’s return. Adding baseball to that trifecta? A total power play. Compare that to their scripted spring lineup, which failed to stick. NBC hasn’t had a truly reliable Sunday slate since the early 2000s (American Dreams, Crossing Jordan, The West Wing).
If NBC pulls this off, it’s a no-brainer win. Fans get a consistent live sports block, and NBC finally stops relying on reruns and short-lived dramas.
The Institute: “Fight” (Season Finale)
The season finale of The Institute delivered thrills, heartbreak, and a tease for what’s to come.
Luke returns to help Avery and the other kids escape after their powers connect with counterparts in other facilities. But in a gut-punch moment, Avery stays behind, sacrificing himself so Luke, Kalisha, and Nick can get free. Luke then channels his abilities to collapse the Institute in a massive, destructive final act.
Meanwhile, Tim and Wendy regroup to figure out their next move. And in one last chilling tag, Ms. Sigsby, very much alive, hitches a ride with a stranger, which feels like terrible news for whoever offered her a lift.
The finale stuck the landing. It balanced emotional stakes with action and gave us one of the best closing shots of the season. Overall, I give the finale a 9/10.
What to Watch ThisWeek:
Monday, August 25:
Upload Fourth and Final Season on Prime Video
Wednesday, August 27
The Terminal List: Dark Wolf (Prime Video, three-episode premiere):
The prequel follows Taylor Kitsch’s Ben Edwards throughout his journey from the Navy SEALs to the clandestine side of CIA Special Operations
Thursday, August 28
Saturday, August 30
Catch up on my review of Netflix's new miniseries Hostage.
Closing Thoughts:
Between Alien: Earth’s shocking turns, Countdown’s disturbing new villain, NBC’s sports gamble, and The Institute’s explosive finale, it’s been a huge week for TV and there's even more to come.
What did you think of these shows? Which twist surprised you most? Drop a comment and let’s talk TV.
You can catch Alien: Earth Tuesdays at 8/7c on FX and Hulu. Countdown on Wednesdays on Prime Video and The Institute Season 1 is available on MGM+.
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