A lot of TV shows in the crime drama space try to show us that we can have it all. We can be parents and have a fulfilling career at the same time. That’s not always possible, and it’s not always the right thing to do. FBI season 7, episode 6 saw Maggie face a difficult decision.
Maggie took on custody of her best friend’s daughter, Ella, after Jessica’s death. It was joint custody with Ella’s uncle, Kevin, and something that Maggie clearly wanted. However, she had to make a selfless decision.
Now I know a lot of people are angry at the decision. It seems to be a step back for Maggie, showing that people can’t have it all. The truth is, not everyone can have it all. Maggie had to do what was right for Ella in the moment.
Maggie chose to give up custody of Ella in FBI season 7
At the start of FBI season 7, episode 6, Kevin came to Maggie with questions about Ella’s care. Ella had punched a child at school, and Ella’s therapist pointed out that the instability with Maggie’s career was likely making a tough situation worse. After all, Ella has already been through a traumatic life losing her mom at a young age.
If this was Maggie’s biological daughter or an adopted daughter without the trauma, Maggie could have likely made it work. A lot of parents do make it work. However, Ella is going through a lot more, and she needs something that Maggie can’t offer her.
Kevin can. Kevin is able to offer the stability and the safety. This episode alone showed that Maggie had no idea that she was being followed by a serial stalker and killer. How could she keep Ella safe if she wasn’t able to keep herself safe?
If Kevin pushed things and took Maggie to court for full custody, he would likely win. Ella’s therapist would be able to vouch for why stability is needed, and others would point out the dangers of Maggie’s career. And Maggie isn’t going to want to give up her career. Handing over full custody to Kevin doesn’t mean that Maggie has to say a forever goodbye. This could be a win-win situation for everyone, but most importantly Ella.
I wish when people complained about what a story seems to be saying that they look at the full picture. Ella was already lashing out, and Maggie being selfish wouldn’t help that situation. That doesn’t mean that Kevin’s is the right place either. It’s something that has to be trialed.
Does this mean that Maggie shouldn't have children? Absolutely not. However, the message of the decision is also that women don't have to be mothers to offer value to the world. There are so many women who can't or don't want to have children, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. As long as the children are put first and their safety and mental wellbeing are considered as top priority, then women should get the choice.
FBI airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on CBS. Catch up the following day on Paramount+.
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