Imagine a world where a single episode of a TV show can ignite a firestorm of emotions, sparking debates about motherhood, loss, and the relentless pressure women face in the spotlight. That’s exactly what happened when The Morning Show star Nicole Beharie delivered a jaw-dropping performance in the latest season. But here’s where it gets controversial: her character’s shocking admission isn’t just a plot twist—it’s a mirror held up to society’s expectations of women, both in the workplace and at home. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the drama; it’s about the raw, unfiltered truth of what it means to be human.
Last season, The Morning Show writers boldly tackled the overturning of Roe v. Wade, rewriting an entire episode after the Dobbs v. Jackson decision leaked in May 2022. In that episode, titled ‘Strict Scrutiny,’ Nicole Beharie’s character, Chris Hunter, delivered a fiery rant at a high-end fashion event, warning that the decision would lead to dire consequences for women, particularly women of color. Her iconic moment—writing ‘Abort the Court’ on a bathroom mirror in red lipstick—became a symbol of resistance. Fast forward to the current season, and viewers are given a deeper, more personal glimpse into Chris’s passion. In the episode ‘Amari,’ Chris is accused of doping during her Olympic career, a revelation that forces her to confront a devastating secret: her use of performance-enhancing drugs after losing her unborn son, Amari, midway through her pregnancy.
In a heart-wrenching monologue, Chris lays bare her pain, her depression, and the lengths she went to reclaim her identity. ‘My body was just gone,’ she confesses, a line that resonates far beyond the screen. This isn’t just a story about a character; it’s a story about the invisible struggles women face, the sacrifices they make, and the secrets they carry. But here’s the controversial part: does society forgive women for their mistakes as readily as it forgives men? And why do we expect women to be flawless, both as professionals and as mothers?
In an exclusive conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Beharie opens up about the weight of this episode and the responsibility she feels in portraying such a complex narrative. ‘I feel a responsibility,’ she admits, ‘because we’re on this show about women in the workplace, and this is a big thing that happens to women—being a mother, loss, sacrifice, and what happens to our bodies.’ Her words are a call to action, a reminder that these stories matter, not just for entertainment, but for representation and understanding.
When asked about her preparation for the role, Beharie reveals her deep dive into the world of athletes and working mothers. She draws parallels between the relentless demands of Olympic training and the unseen struggles of motherhood, highlighting the blistered feet, the painkillers, and the ‘mom guilt’ that never goes away. Her admiration for women like Reese Witherspoon, who juggle immense success with the challenges of motherhood, shines through. ‘There’s nothing like a mama bear lioness,’ she says, a sentiment that will undoubtedly resonate with many.
The episode’s impact extends beyond the screen, sparking conversations about authenticity, forgiveness, and the cost of perfection. As Chris’s career hangs in the balance, her decision to speak her truth becomes a turning point, not just for her character, but for the audience. But here’s the question: would we be as understanding if this were a man’s story? Or do we hold women to a different standard?
Beharie’s co-stars, including Marion Cotillard, add to the show’s powerhouse energy, though she jokingly laments not sharing any scenes with the iconic actress. Yet, it’s clear that the women of The Morning Show are more than just characters—they’re catalysts for change, challenging norms and inviting us to rethink our assumptions.
As new episodes of The Morning Show drop every Wednesday on Apple TV, one thing is certain: this isn’t just a show; it’s a movement. And Nicole Beharie is at the forefront, reminding us that the most powerful stories are the ones that make us uncomfortable, that force us to confront our biases, and that ultimately, make us feel seen. So, what’s your take? Do we hold women to an impossible standard, or is this just the cost of being in the spotlight? Let’s talk about it in the comments.
