Introduction: A Disappointing Chapter in FBI Season 7
Every long-running procedural has its highs and lows, and FBI is no exception. Season 7 has generally balanced suspenseful plots with strong character arcs, but Episode 10 feels like a misstep. While Jeremy Sisto, who plays Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jubal Valentine, continues to deliver a commanding performance, the storyline supporting him simply isn’t strong enough.
In this review, we’ll unpack why Episode 10 feels thin, how it impacts character development, and what this stumble means for the rest of the season.
Episode 10 Plot Overview
The episode centers around a case that initially promises high stakes: a potential terrorist plot tied to a shadowy organization. The agents scramble to prevent disaster, but the narrative loses steam quickly. Instead of building tension, the pacing feels rushed, and several twists land flat.
Jeremy Sisto’s Jubal Valentine plays a central role in the investigation, yet the script doesn’t give him enough depth to elevate the episode beyond average.
Jeremy Sisto’s Performance: The Silver Lining
If there’s one saving grace in this episode, it’s Jeremy Sisto. As Jubal, he embodies authority, empathy, and determination. He’s the kind of leader you’d want in a crisis—calm under pressure, yet deeply human.
Unfortunately, even Sisto’s layered performance can’t completely mask the weaknesses in the script. It feels like the writers handed him a puzzle with missing pieces, and while he tried to make it work, the story never quite clicked.
The Problem With the Storyline
So, what went wrong with Episode 10’s narrative? The core issue is its lack of emotional depth and originality.
Unlike previous standout episodes that combined gripping investigations with personal stakes, this one leans heavily on clichés. The suspects feel one-dimensional, the conflict resolves too conveniently, and the subplot meant to highlight Jubal’s leadership doesn’t push his character forward in a meaningful way.
Comparing Episode 10 to Earlier Episodes in Season 7
Earlier episodes in Season 7 showed the writers at their best—balancing tense investigations with character-driven moments. Episodes that focused on Maggie, OA, or Tiffany offered new layers and made viewers care deeply about the outcomes.
Episode 10, by contrast, feels like filler. It advances neither the overarching narrative nor the personal growth of key characters.
Missed Opportunities for Jubal Valentine
Jubal is one of FBI’s most compelling characters because of his complex history—struggles with addiction, personal challenges, and his leadership style. Episode 10 had the chance to explore these layers further, but instead, it skimmed the surface.
Viewers were left wanting more: more vulnerability, more conflict, and more personal stakes that would make the storyline resonate.
How the Writing Let the Episode Down
Procedural dramas thrive on tight, engaging writing. When the script feels lazy, even the strongest cast members can’t carry it. Episode 10 suffers from:
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Predictable twists that seasoned viewers saw coming.
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Shallow dialogue that lacked the intensity of earlier episodes.
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Underdeveloped subplots that left dangling threads instead of satisfying conclusions.
Fan Reactions to Episode 10
Fans took to social media quickly after the episode aired, and the responses were mixed at best. Many praised Jeremy Sisto’s performance, calling him the highlight of the episode, but criticized the weak storyline. Others compared it to filler episodes that stalled momentum in earlier seasons.
This reaction shows that while the fan base remains loyal, they expect better storytelling from a show that has proven it can deliver.
The Importance of Strong Storytelling in Procedurals
Procedurals like FBI face a unique challenge: keeping stories fresh despite a formulaic structure. Viewers tune in for both the case-of-the-week and the characters they’ve grown attached to. When one of those elements falters, the entire episode feels off balance.
Episode 10 demonstrates just how crucial it is to maintain strong writing—even more so when the plot leans heavily on a character as important as Jubal Valentine.
Lessons for Future Episodes
The takeaway from Episode 10 is clear: character-driven stories work best when paired with high-stakes, unpredictable plots. The writers would do well to:
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Craft cases that feel urgent and original.
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Give Jubal more nuanced challenges that tap into his past struggles.
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Balance action with emotion to keep viewers invested.
What Episode 10 Means for the Rest of Season 7
While this episode may have stumbled, it doesn’t spell doom for Season 7. In fact, weaker episodes often serve as a reminder of what makes the stronger ones shine. With the season still unfolding, there’s plenty of room to regain momentum and deliver the kind of gripping storytelling fans expect.
Jeremy Sisto’s Place in FBI Going Forward
Jeremy Sisto has consistently proven he’s one of the show’s strongest assets. Even when the material falls short, his performance keeps viewers engaged. Moving forward, the writers should leverage his talent by giving him richer storylines that explore his vulnerabilities and leadership challenges.
Procedural Fatigue: Is FBI Falling Into a Trap?
Another question Episode 10 raises is whether FBI is beginning to show signs of procedural fatigue. After seven seasons, keeping plots fresh isn’t easy. The danger lies in relying too heavily on recycled ideas instead of pushing the boundaries of storytelling.
Why Viewers Still Stick Around
Despite the missteps, fans remain loyal to FBI because of its dynamic cast, high-stakes drama, and occasional moments of brilliance. Even with a weaker episode like this one, the show has built enough trust to keep audiences tuning in.
Final Thoughts on FBI Season 7, Episode 10
Episode 10 is not without merit—Jeremy Sisto shines, as always—but the thin story prevents it from reaching its full potential. It’s a reminder that even strong shows can have off weeks, and it sets the stage for future episodes to deliver the depth and excitement fans crave.
Conclusion
FBI Season 7, Episode 10 serves as a cautionary tale: even talented actors like Jeremy Sisto can’t save an episode weighed down by weak writing. The episode had potential but ultimately felt like filler rather than a must-watch installment. Fans can only hope the rest of the season bounces back with stronger, more character-driven stories.
FAQs
1. Why was FBI Season 7, Episode 10 considered disappointing?
Because the storyline lacked depth, originality, and emotional stakes, despite Jeremy Sisto’s strong performance.
2. Did Jeremy Sisto’s performance stand out in Episode 10?
Yes, he was the highlight of the episode, but even his acting couldn’t fully overcome the weak script.
3. How does Episode 10 compare to earlier episodes in Season 7?
It feels weaker and less engaging than most earlier episodes, many of which balanced strong cases with character development.
4. Is FBI starting to show signs of procedural fatigue?
Some viewers feel it is, as certain plots are becoming repetitive, but the show still has the cast and format to stay compelling.
5. What should the writers focus on for future episodes?
They should create more original, high-stakes cases while diving deeper into character development, particularly with figures like Jubal Valentine.
