This Girl is On Fire (2x09: Hen Begins)

Oh, Henrietta Wilson, the woman that you are. We definitely see you!

This week Han, Cil, and Rachel flock together to discuss Hen's journey from a corporate job to the firefighting world and how that symbolizes a quest for purpose and authenticity. We unpack the toxic dynamics at the 118 under Captain Gerrard, where hazing and discrimination run rampant, contrasting it with the supportive, family-like atmosphere that Bobby brings to the team. 

Hen's character embodies the struggles faced by women, particularly queer women of color as they navigate their careers in fields rife with systemic bias and prejudice. The beginning of Hen's relationships with Chimney and Athena provides crucial support as she faces the challenges of her new role. 

This episode serves as a deeply impactful hero’s origin story for Hen, due in no small part to Aisha Hinds’ real life past experiences with trauma and loss. Showcasing her unwavering commitment to saving lives against the odds, Season 2 Episode 9 of 9-1-1, “Hen Begins” is a testament to tenacity, following your calling, and the power of self-assuredness.

📔 Articles Mentioned:

📰 ‘9-1-1’ Star Aisha Hinds Talks Exploring Henrietta’s Origin Story in ‘Hen Begins’, TV Insider

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Welcome to Dispatch & Calls of the Week (Intro)

(00:02:26) Exploring Origins: Hen's Journey

(00:11:46) Jaws of Life (Deep Dive)

(00:23:53) Flashover (Themes)

(00:34:59) Who’s Cookin’ (Character Arc: It’s the Hen-isode!)

(00:38:07) The Boiling Point: Hen's Decision to Quit

(00:47:29) The Hero's Journey

(00:54:57) Navigating Passion With or Without Eva’s Support

(01:03:14) Hen Versus “The Old Guard” of the 118

(01:15:06) Fostering Friendship (Bestieism Begins) 

(01:24:22) The Evolution of Hen's Journey

(01:37:50) Where’s the Fire? (Scene Dissection)

(01:38:50) Lack of Teamwork and Landscape of Toxicity 

(01:50:25) Antagonist or Ally? (Tommy Talk)

(01:54:38) Oh Captain, My Captain! (Bobby vs Gerrard Leadership)

(02:03:58) Gerrard & Tommy Through the Lens of Season 8

(02:16:32) Exploring Hen's Character Development

(02:21:07) Bring a Buddie With You & Outro

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