The final episode of “Hill Street Blues,” titled “Here’s Adventure, Here’s Romance,” doesn’t offer neatly tied resolutions, instead opting for a bittersweet tapestry of closure and uncertainty. While the precinct survives a potential shutdown, the departure of Captain Frank Furillo signals a significant shift, leaving viewers with a poignant sense of change and the enduring impact of flawed heroes.
A Precinct on the Brink
The episode centers on a major crisis: severe budget cuts threatening to shut down the Hill Street precinct. The city’s new bean-counting mayor, a recurring antagonist, is determined to close what he sees as an ineffective money pit. The entire squad rallies to prove their worth, undertaking a high-stakes operation to apprehend a group of violent extortionists terrorizing local businesses. This operation forms the dramatic backbone of the episode, showcasing the team’s camaraderie and resilience under pressure.
The Final Stand
The extortion case provides a compelling narrative arc for the final episode. Detectives like Renko and Hill, now more seasoned and pragmatic, work tirelessly to gather evidence and track down the perpetrators. The operation unfolds with the show’s signature blend of gritty realism and black humor. We see the detectives employing their street smarts and resourcefulness, facing down danger and navigating the ethical ambiguities inherent in their jobs. The tension builds as they close in on the suspects, culminating in a tense showdown that underscores the precarious nature of their work.
Furillo’s Departure: The End of an Era
While the precinct faces financial ruin, Captain Frank Furillo, the moral compass of the Hill Street station, makes a life-altering decision. He accepts a position as a public defender, driven by a desire to fight for justice from a different angle. This decision is presented not as a failure but as a natural evolution of his character, a weary warrior choosing a new battleground. His departure leaves a void, symbolizing the end of an era and the changing face of law enforcement.
A Sentimental Farewell
Furillo’s goodbyes are understated yet deeply moving. He shares quiet moments with key characters, offering words of encouragement and acknowledging the challenges they face. His farewell to Joyce Davenport, his partner and the precinct’s public defender, is particularly poignant, highlighting their unwavering commitment to justice and their enduring love. The episode avoids grand pronouncements and melodramatic displays, instead focusing on the quiet dignity of a man making a difficult but necessary choice.
Loose Ends and Lingering Questions
True to the series’ commitment to realism, the final episode doesn’t tie up every loose end. While some storylines reach satisfying conclusions, others are left open-ended, reflecting the messy and unpredictable nature of life. We see glimpses of the characters’ personal lives, their hopes, and their fears, reminding us that they are more than just cops; they are complex individuals struggling to navigate the challenges of their profession and their personal lives. This ambiguity contributes to the episode’s lasting impact, leaving viewers pondering the characters’ futures and the enduring legacy of “Hill Street Blues.”
A Premonition of Change
The final scene shows the remaining officers gathered in the squad room, reflecting on Furillo’s departure and the uncertain future of the precinct. There’s a sense of both sadness and resilience, a recognition that while things may change, the spirit of the Hill Street precinct will endure. The episode ends not with a bang but with a quiet resignation, a poignant reminder that even in the face of adversity, life goes on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was the significance of the title “Here’s Adventure, Here’s Romance”?
The title is taken from the song “Everything Possible,” a folk song often played at graduations and other transitional events. It highlights the theme of change and new beginnings, both for Furillo as he embarks on a new career path and for the precinct as it faces an uncertain future. The title also references the inherent risks and rewards of police work, highlighting the adventurous and romanticized notions that often clash with the gritty reality of the job.
Did anyone die in the final episode?
No, no major characters died in the final episode. This was consistent with the show’s general avoidance of sensationalistic plot devices. The focus remained on the characters’ internal struggles and the challenges they faced in their professional lives.
Why did Michael Conrad (Sgt. Phil Esterhaus) appear in the final episode despite his death earlier in the season?
Michael Conrad, who played the beloved Sgt. Phil Esterhaus, had passed away earlier in the show’s final season. His appearance in the final episode was a recycled scene from an earlier episode, used as a tribute to the actor and his iconic character.
Who replaced Frank Furillo as captain of the Hill Street precinct?
The episode does not explicitly state who replaces Furillo. His departure leaves a leadership vacuum, creating a sense of uncertainty about the future direction of the precinct. This ambiguity is intentional, reflecting the show’s commitment to realism and its reluctance to provide easy answers.
Was the “Hill Street Blues” finale considered a success?
The reception to the “Hill Street Blues” finale was mixed. Some viewers appreciated its realistic and understated tone, while others felt it lacked closure and dramatic resolution. Overall, the episode is remembered for its poignant portrayal of change and its exploration of the characters’ emotional journeys.
Did any of the characters get married in the finale?
No, no marriages took place in the final episode. The focus remained on professional changes and personal reflections rather than romantic resolutions. While romantic relationships were a significant part of the series, the finale prioritized the characters’ individual journeys and their connections to the precinct.
What happened to Renko and Hill’s partnership in the end?
Renko and Hill’s partnership remained intact in the final episode. They continue to work together, demonstrating their enduring friendship and their commitment to serving the community. Their relationship, a cornerstone of the series, provided a sense of continuity and stability amidst the changes taking place.
Was the ending planned from the beginning of the series?
No, the ending was not pre-planned. The writers and producers made the decision to end the series after the sixth season, and the final episode was crafted to reflect the characters’ evolution and the show’s overall themes.
Did Joyce Davenport remain at the Hill Street precinct after Furillo left?
The episode does not explicitly state whether Joyce Davenport remained at the Hill Street precinct. However, it’s implied that she continued her work as a public defender, serving the community and fighting for justice within the legal system.
What was the significance of the ongoing budget cuts storyline?
The budget cuts storyline served as a metaphor for the challenges faced by law enforcement in the real world. It highlighted the constant pressure to do more with less, the political realities that often impact police work, and the sacrifices made by officers to protect their communities.
How did the finale address the social issues that were prevalent throughout the series?
The finale touched upon various social issues, including poverty, crime, and corruption, albeit in a less overt manner than in earlier episodes. The extortion case highlighted the vulnerability of small businesses to organized crime, while Furillo’s decision to become a public defender underscored his commitment to social justice.
Is there any chance of a “Hill Street Blues” reboot or revival?
While there have been occasional rumors and discussions about a potential “Hill Street Blues” reboot, nothing concrete has materialized. The show’s creator and writers have generally expressed reluctance to revisit the series, feeling that it concluded in a satisfying and appropriate manner.