The Equalizer Season 5 Episode 3 Review: Just Fans

Even though most people tune into The Equalizer to watch Robyn McCall fight the bad guys and win, the show has done a great job raising awareness of other important topics. The Equalizer Season 5 Episode 3, “Just Fans,” does so by talking about women’s pay and body autonomy.

By making the main character a badass woman instead of the usual equalizer, a man, the show is already changing the norm and highlighting that women can do what men do. However, they take the time to showcase, in this case, that women don’t get paid the way men do.

As they bring this topic to the conversation, they introduce the fact that many women must find other ways to increase their incomes to keep their families afloat. Because of this, Lily finds herself in danger, pushing her to blame herself for her kidnapping.

Last week, The Equalizer Season 5 Episode 2, “Haunted Heights,” discussed women’s health. This week, they discuss women’s compensation at work and how difficult it can be for them to make a living. However, the most crucial thing they mention is women’s control over their own bodies.

By bringing two relevant contemporary subject matters to the screen (women’s pay and the use of websites such as OnlyFans), the show stays on top of trending topics, engages with the audience, and highlights the message of each episode.

The Equalizer has always uplifted women, showcased their strength, and empowered them in whatever they do. Doing the kind of work she does, Robyn has never judged a woman for doing what needs to be done to survive, and that is exactly what this case’s victim needs.

While Lily quickly blames her side hustle on her kidnap, Robyn reminds her it’s not her fault. A woman is free (or should be) to do whatever she wants with her body and give or take away consent as she pleases. Her line of work doesn’t give her kidnapper the right to do with her what he wants.

Sometimes, these topics are treated lightly or misrepresented on screen, but the episode reminds viewers to be nonjudgmental. Robyn never considers judging Lily for what she does or giving up on her case because of this.

And, not that any woman needs a man to remind her of this, it helps the case that Harry mentions he isn’t judging, nor should anyone judge Lily for choosing to work for an adult website.

Because female empowerment has always been so important to The Equalizer, the show has given room for female relationships to be explored onscreen. One of the most vital relationships of the show has always been Mel and Robyn’s friendship.

However, since the beginning of the season and Mel’s decision to step down from equalizing, every encounter between these two women has been awkward. While it’s clear that Robyn supports Mel’s decision because she wants her to heal, she is still trying to navigate this new dynamic.

Where does their friendship stand if they cannot talk about work or share the one thing that has strengthened their bond?

It is interesting to see where Robyn’s bond seems to have gotten loose, Mel’s bond with Delilah is only getting stronger. Where a mom had to step away, a daughter stepped in.

While it seemed Mel was always the one to protect Robyn and show up when her friend needed her most, Delilah is the one showing up for Mel when she needs a friend the most. Her healing journey involves her best friend’s daughter in a way that maybe should involve her best friend.

The Equalizer Season 5 Episode 3, “Just Fans,” is another tease for Dante and Robyn shippers as the couple (if we can even call them that at this point) shares another phone call.

However, Dante’s final FaceTime with his son is the most interesting call this episode. As he mentions he will visit his sons soon, we wonder if that visit will include seeing Robyn.

If he ever hopes to have a relationship with her, he should make sure to visit soon, as things are getting harder for this duo that’s been chasing one another since Season 1.

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What did you think of this episode of The Equalizer? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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The Equalizer airs Sundays at 9:30/8:30c on CBS.

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