Black Lightning Round Table: Is Jefferson Strong Enough to Save Everyone?

at .

What will become of Black Lightning?

That is one of the bigger questions after Black Lightning Season 1 Episode 5 in which the superhero struggled with the demands. 

Below, TV Fanatics Jasmine Blu, Andy Behbahkt, and Paul Dailly discuss Jefferson's struggle, Jennifer's actions and so much more. 

What did you think of Jefferson struggling to with the physical demands of being a superhero?

Jasmine: I loved it. I enjoy that touch of realism to a superhero tale. It adds another layer to Jefferson, and it puts into perspective how much he sacrifices and the toll it takes on him. 

Andy: Even though it was painful to watch it... can I stress how great it was to see a realistic take on an older superhero dealing with the demands from a physical standpoint?!

Because I was waiting for something like this to happen. If he had gotten through the whole first season by jumping back into the suit with no problem, it would have been a stretch. This is where I think Thunder and Lightning will become important more than ever as he can't protect Freeland alone anymore.

Related: The CW Expands Programming to Six Nights!

Paul: I agree, it was great to see that this man is not as invincible as you would expect a superhero to be. The journey for the characters thus far has not been easy, and I expect things to get worse before they get better.

A Father-Daughter Chat - Black Lightning Season 1 Episode 5

Was Jennifer justified in her actions towards the two girls who tried to attack her?

Jasmine: "Talk sh!t. Get hit." I'm kidding, mostly. Jennifer didn't have to go so far as to actually break the girl's arm. She could have made her point without going that far, but she wasn't wrong to defend herself. I shudder to think how awful it would have been if both girls successfully ganged up on her. The best part of that entire situation was Jefferson trying to hide how impressed and proud he was.

Andy: Am I a bad person for thinking that it was awesome seeing Jennifer kicking some ass - well, in this case, breaking some arms - because they were two against one! I agree with Jasmine, Jefferson's whole "I'm so proud of my baby girl!" part cracked me up.

Paul: I think Jennifer was put in a difficult situation. It was a fight or flight situation, and those two girls would have given chase if Jennifer ran off. They were nasty to her, and I agree with her actions. They would have done the same to her if they could have. 

What's Going On? - Black Lightning Season 1 Episode 5

What message was Lady Eve trying to send to Tobias by sending the powder?

Jasmine: I think it was a power move. She was trying to remind him that she's in charge and he shouldn't be making moves or going rogue with his own plans or else. I loved the callback to her story about albinos. I love Jill Scott in this role. 

Andy: Jill Scott legit terrifies me in all the best ways, that was a powerful move and reminder. I just hope we get to see her and Black Lightning clash at some point. Because I wouldn't be surprised if they make us wait until next season to see Black Lightning and Tobias Whale clashing.

Related: Black Lightning Review: A Sibling Rivalry

Paul: I agree. Lady Eve wanted Tobias to know she was still watching his every move and awaiting the news that Black Lightning had been taken out of the equation for good. 

What Really Happened? - Black Lightning Season 1 Episode 5

Will Gambi come clean to Jefferson now that Tobias has come knocking?

Jasmine: I hope he does, but I doubt he will. Gambi is a man of many secrets.

Andy: I think eventually, but it might come at the end of the season or the beginning of the next one. 

Paul: I'm on the fence with Gambi right now. Without knowing more details, it's difficult to assess the situation. 

Why Is Gambi Lying? - Black Lightning

What did you think of Anissa suiting up and sleuthing to find out more about the other people with abilities?

Jasmine: OMG, Anissa trying put together her superhero costume was the absolute best. I couldn't stop laughing. I love that she's coming into her own. Typically,  reckless sleuthing bugs me, but I'm enjoying this, and I look forward to seeing how her quest for the truth pans out. Anissa is my fave,  at the moment. 

Andy: I am not going to lie, I have been rewatching this part over and over again this whole week because that was so much fun! And so empowering too. I am curious though if Grace might be one of the people with abilities because, in the comics, she is an Amazon.

Paul: I loved this so much! Anissa is one of my favorite characters on all of TV. It makes sense that she would try to find out more information before it was too late. There's a conspiracy in the town, and she will find out the truth. 

Okay, Black Lightning Fanatics! What do you think of the questions and answers?

Hit the comments with your thoughts right now!

Remember you can watch Black Lightning online right here via TV Fanatic. Get caught up on all the action right now. 

Black Lightning returns February 27!

Paul Dailly was an Associate Editor for TV Fanatic.Follow him on X.

Show Comments
Tags: ,

Black Lightning Season 1 Episode 5 Quotes

Jefferson: Are you sure about this?
Gambi: In theory.
Jefferson: That's not the vote of confidence I was looking for.

Jefferson: What the hell were you thinking?
Jennifer: Okay, look. It wasn't my fault.
Lynn: It doesn't matter whose fault it was. Did you not see the cast on her wrist?