Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Gone too soon

courtesy of Fox

courtesy of Fox

On September 17th, 2013, Fox premiered a program that highlighted the comedic adventures of a group of detectives set at the fictional 99th precinct located in Brooklyn, New York City. The series stars the always funny Andy Samberg as Detective Jake Peralta, who, as his yogurt-loving Sergeant Terry Jeffords (played by the loveable Terry Crews) puts it: "He likes putting away bad guys, and he loves solving puzzles. The only puzzle he hasn't solved is how to grow up." The series continued for eight seasons, with the final two episodes airing on September 16th, 2021.

The writers managed to create a cop show fun by injecting humour into serious issues. The show talks about important topics such as racism, homophobia, and sexism. One of the essential issues that became a recurring theme was the issue of homophobia and racism. This storyline was represented by the captain of the Nine-Nine, Captain Raymond Holt. The character, perfectly portrayed by Andre Braugher, is a gay black man who sadly had to deal with both homophobia and racism during his time coming up through the ranks of the NYPD. But while some of these more serious topics are presented while adding humour without crossing a line, other problems such as murders, thefts, mobsters, and assaults, allow for some comedic moments that will have you laughing over and over again.

A group of detectives rounds out the main cast: the tough Rosa Diaz, the inept Charles Boyle, Amy Santiago, who has a type-A personality, ending with Norm Scully and Michael Hitchcock, two lazy detectives who would rather do the paperwork than solve crimes. The cast is also joined by Captain Holt's administrative assistant, the sarcastic and self-centred Gina Linetti. In addition, several memorable minor characters were introduced throughout the series run that only added to the wonderfully funny memories that this show produced. A couple of examples of these characters are loveable criminal Doug Judy, aka, the Pontiac Bandit (portrayed by The Office's Craig Robinson), and the hilariously psychotic Adrian Pimento, who is portrayed by Jason Mantzoukas (who I believe can do no wrong playing this type of character).

One of the best stories that happened to become a series tradition was the Halloween Heist. Originally started as a competition between Detective Peralta and Captain Holt, the activity became one of the best recurring gags involving incredibly elaborate plans that basically become borderline overkill for such a small reward on their end. But for those of us watching? The prize was much bigger. Every season, the heist would become more elaborate, while the backstabbing even funnier. This fun tradition is one reason why I continued to watch this show.

While I understand all good things must come to an end, it is unfortunate that this hilariously delightful and entertaining comedy has decided to end. But while we must bid adieu, as someone who watches a possibly unhealthy amount of television and has seen many good shows end, I can honestly say that the show managed to do what few shows managed to do- have a good ending. So, if you haven't seen the show yet, and need an excellent laugh, I highly recommend it. And if you have seen it, why not watch it again?

Nine-Nine!

Courtesy of NBC

Courtesy of NBC


Philippe MacDonald

Philippe MacDonald

Philippe MacDonald is a second-year Professional Writing student. He enjoys food (both cooking and eating), watching movies and television, reading, spending time with his friends and family and gets easily distrac… ooh, red ball…ted.

Quotes about Philippe

Mother: “He’s my favourite son.”
Complete stranger: “Who?”
Annie the cat: just stares blankly