9-1-1 Review: May Day (Season 5 Episode 16)

We’ve been saying all season that the 118 needed to handle a big fire related emergency. Well on that mark, 9-1-1 Season 5 Episode 16, “May Day,” is a resounding success.

In fact, the whole episode is exciting and captivating from start to finish — which is not something we can easily say about this season overall. With Eddie back in firefighter mode and the whole team coming together for one of their own it takes us back to the better seasons of this show. 

“This is Firefighter Eddie.”

Who could’ve guessed that Eddie taking charge of the emergency at the dispatch center would be such a heart stopping moment. Something about the way he just jumps right in without any preamble gets us excited for him and the growth he is displaying.

Only a month ago an emergency of this magnitude would’ve stopped Eddie in his tracks. He would’ve had a panic attack and been unable to carry out the calm, composed demeanor this situation called for.

It’s beautiful to see his therapy progress in action and in a manner that shows Eddie will never walk away from the firefighter life because it is who he is in his soul. Seeing him take charge of the whole situation proves that he is that much closer to making a full return to the 118 as a better, stronger, more put together Eddie.

Along with the return of Firefighter Eddie we get to see him back in action with Buck at his side. The way these two know each other’s next moves without having to say is a dynamic this show has been severely lacking. Having that back even for a little while is a breath of fresh air.

“Wait! That’s my dad, can I go with him?”

One of the other big surprises from 9-1-1 is May finally, verbally acknowledging the relationship she shares with Captain Bobby Nash. She’s always been open to him being in her life and helping her mom with guiding her and caring for her, but she’s never actually come out and said it.

It’s evident from her concern and panic at the thought of being separated from him after he saved her life from a falling ceiling. They’ve always had a beautiful bond, one that is tinged with the knowledge that Bobby lost his own daughter and son in a fire that was his fault. 

To see her finally take that leap and call him dad makes everyone emotional, and if you didn’t get choked up you are lying. It’s going to be interesting to see if this shared experience will further bond them and shape their relationship going forward.

One thing is for sure, May is not the same young woman who went into work that day. Her conversation with Claudette and her near death experience are proof of that.

“I want you to quit if that’s what you want.”

The relationship between Chim and Albert has always been fun to watch. This episode is no different because they always bring a dynamic that the show lacks when they aren’t together.

Watching Chim and Albert vent the roof of the dispatch center had our hearts in our throats the whole time. It is just way too reminiscent of the loss Chim suffered at the start of his career with his other “brother.” 

Honestly, when Albert falls through that roof I couldn’t breathe and you could tell Chim couldn’t either. It’s in that moment that he realizes how wrong he had been to push Albert into this career despite his reservations.

To see Chim realize that and be able to reassure his brother that he respects him and loves him too much to allow him to be just okay at something is what this show is all about. These connections and bonds between characters are why we tune in every week, not the action.

“I should have been able to save her.”

The most shocking moment of the whole episode comes in the final moments, as 9-1-1 is wont to do. This whole episode audiences are terrified between the fear that May is going to die, and then Bobby, and then Albert. 

This means no one is expecting anything terrible to happen to Claudette. So, when Jonah brings her into the hospital and she is pronounced right there, of course we want answers.

The most chilling part of it is Jonah’s response. He isn’t distraught or trying to explain himself, instead he’s frustrated. 

Good ole Hen catches that about him and questions it immediately. I’m glad it’s Hen who is going to be following through on this case because it comes full circle to show she was right all along about him. 

Minor Emergencies:

• I loved seeing Taylor go head to head with Lucy over Buck. I just wish Buck would man up and tell her everything.
• Can every job have a quiet room? I know I’d greatly appreciate one.
• Josh deserves love, please give him some.
• Also, MORE PAPA BEAR NASH! Please and thank you!

 

What did you think of this episode of 9-1-1? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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9-1-1 airs Mondays at 8/7c on FOX.

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