Angela Bassett’s Character Athena Takes a Cruise
In a surprising turn of events, Angela Bassett’s character, Athena Grant, embarks on a cruise aboard the Odyssey this Thursday, marking the first crossover between two ABC shows created by Ryan Murphy.
Crime at Sea
The pragmatic LAPD sergeant is enlisted to thwart a potential heist during the ship’s Casino Week. The investigation, which involves wearing stunning gowns, ends up taking longer than anticipated.
Stars Tease Ocean’s 11-Themed Episode
Bassett and fellow star Joshua Jackson, known for his role as the charming Dr. Max Bankman on “Doctor Odyssey,” shared some insights about the episode. “It’s like our ‘Ocean’s 11’ episode, complete with a heist,” Jackson explained, characterizing it as a return to the lighter side of storytelling after a suspenseful two-part series that featured numerous shark attacks.
A Welcome Break from Reality
Both actors expressed that the show serves as a pleasant escape from the turmoil of reality, including the recent wildfires in Los Angeles that affected Jackson’s home. They noted the contrast between the chaotic atmosphere of “9-1-1” and the more relaxed pace of filming this special crossover episode.
A Glamorous Change for Athena
When asked about the challenges of taking Athena on another cruise after her previous harrowing experience, Bassett mentioned that while she didn’t need much convincing, Athena does pause to mentally prepare herself for the journey. The episode also allows her character to showcase glamorous undercover looks, blending in with the elegant crowd.
The Difference in Filming
In terms of filming styles, Bassett highlighted that “Doctor Odyssey” offers a less chaotic environment without the typical chaos of emergency vehicles but boasts a beautifully designed casino set. Jackson added that while there would still be significant medical situations, they would be often offset by the characters’ stylish appearances.
Providing a Distraction for Viewers
With the seriousness of current world events, Jackson hopes audiences will see the show’s purpose as a lighthearted escape. He expressed that the intention is to take viewers on an enjoyable adventure for an hour each week, allowing them to forget their troubles. “Each week offers a different vibe,” he said, emphasizing the balance between fun and excitement.
“9-1-1” airs Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC, followed by “Doctor Odyssey” at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Both shows are available for streaming the following day on Hulu.
