This week’s S.W.A.T. didn’t skimp on the high-octane action, intricate storylines, or Hondo’s dependable leadership. “Human Interest” served up a tense kidnapping scenario, a cartel leader with a penchant for dramatic flair, and a journalist’s gamble that went south faster than a lead balloon.
The episode kicks off with the apparent kidnapping of Tan’s (David Lim) girlfriend, journalist Olivia Navarro (Emily Alabi). 20-Squad, naturally, goes into overdrive, their frantic search intertwining with a DEA investigation into a cartel kingpin known as “The Bloodhound,” a moniker that screams “I try too hard.” Turns out, this whole kidnapping situation takes a turn for the ridiculous when it’s revealed Olivia wasn’t taken against her will. No, she willingly embedded herself with the cartel, hoping to score a career-making interview. Because nothing says “journalistic integrity” like cozying up to violent criminals.
Meanwhile, The Bloodhound (Daniel Edward Mora) isn’t just in Los Angeles for sunshine and avocado toast. He’s on a revenge mission, targeting his ex-girlfriend Maria Lozano, a crucial informant in the DEA’s case. This personal vendetta adds fuel to his already volatile actions, because apparently, drug trafficking and murder sprees weren’t dramatic enough.
Amidst this chaos, Hondo (Shemar Moore) deals with internal team dynamics, because even highly trained SWAT officers need the occasional HR intervention. Deacon (Jay Harrington), on the other hand, enjoys a much-needed win as a dad, reminding us that even in the high-stakes world of law enforcement, there’s still room for heartwarming family moments.
Deputy Chief Bennett’s (Merrin Dungey) ongoing review of SWAT adds pressure on Hicks (Patrick St. Esprit), hinting at a potential power struggle within the LAPD. And to further complicate matters, DEA Agent Rodado (Joey Anaya), the guy on The Bloodhound’s trail, also gets kidnapped. Olivia’s questionable life choices put her and everyone around her in danger, testing her relationship with Tan and the team’s patience. The whole thing plays out like a cautionary tale about the ethical tightrope journalists sometimes walk (or, in Olivia’s case, stumble across blindfolded).
Ultimately, The Bloodhound’s desire for a “Pablo Escobar” image, because apparently being a ruthless criminal isn’t enough, reveals his motivations extend beyond mere profit. Hondo, as usual, demonstrates his strong leadership, tackling both external threats and internal squabbles with his usual blend of firmness and understanding.
S.W.A.T. airs Fridays at 8/7c on CBS.
