Third Watch Episodes and Controversy

Third Watch Episodes presents the harsh, gritty truth of a dramatic/action genre television show so frankly, that many people were unable to absorb its full force. Frequently criticized for its use of harsh language, graphic violence, and depictions of nudity, Third Watch did not protect the viewer from reality, but endeavored to immerse the audience in a deep sea of human triumph and despair.

Third watch frequently touched on themes that are considered taboo in American culture. Captain Finney (Charles Haid) committed suicide to hide a cover-up that threatened to destroy years of honorable work. Brooke Doherty (Eva LaRue) divorced her husband after a graphic depiction of his marital infidelity was shown on television. Detective Grimaldi couldn't open his mouth without uttering an NC-17 word. Third Watch takes television to a place where no one ever though it would go, the real world.

Third watch was almost pulled from the air on multiple occasions, as censors feared the long term impact its airing might have. Why were they so scared? Television isn't usually a place where reality is presented in clear fashion. Television shows have a way of separating the audience from real life. Television is fundamentally escapist. Third Watch is anything but fantasy. Third Watch holds the mirror of conscience up to the viewers face and screams "This is you!". It forces the audience to recognize themselves in the characters, to see their own lives being played out in front of them.

If I were to guess what frightened the censors, I would say that it is the same thing that frightens everyone. We all fear failure, despair, and suffering. Third Watch shows the viewer their worst fears with a clean verisimilitude that prevents argument or negotiation. Third Watch suggests that we can strive to better ourselves, and the rest of the world. Third Watch shows each of us that we cannot win without losing, which we cannot grow without deep personal struggle. The really unique thing about Third Watch is the way it takes a deeply rooted, personal concept and plasters it on a 27" screen.