Summary
The first half of “Strict Scrutiny” highlights just how bland the series can be when there is no drama or trashy plot twists to get behind. As the episode progresses, though, it starts to deliver on its usual promises, mounting considerable tension in the final third and ending with many dramatic twists.
Apple TV+’s immensely popular original series The Morning Show continues to tackle all of the major news stories from the last few years. In Season 3 Episode 7, “Strict Scrutiny,” the show addresses the changes to the abortion laws in America in 2022.
At the same time, Cory tries to finalize the merger, and Paul and Alex’s secret romance creeps into the spotlight. Our recap recounts all this and more, though with major spoilers.
The Morning Show Season 3 Episode 7 Recap
We open with Paul and Alex’s steamy romance as the two celebrities can’t seem to keep their hands off each other. Paul makes Alex breakfast that morning and they discuss their previous divorces. They both know one another’s flaws and the gigantic consequences of their relationship if it were to go public, but neither wants to stop the romance anytime soon.
They prepare for a fundraiser party happening that very night, agreeing to stay separate from each other whilst in the public eye. Meanwhile, Cory is hounded by Leonard about the merger. A political strategist has been calling the Justice Department nonstop. Cory is ordered to put out yet another fire.
He asks Bradley to tag along, hoping that she will help alleviate some of the pressure. Cory promises that she will be back to host the evening news that night. They head off to Connecticut together. Meanwhile, Mia still hasn’t heard from her lover, Andre. She worries about his safety in war-torn Ukraine.
Who is the political strategist ruining the UBA merger?
Bradley and Cory arrive at the political strategist’s house. Of course, this individual turns out to be Cory’s own mother, Martha. She is the person who is ruining Cory’s UBA merger plans. Bradley and Cory attempt to sweet-talk Martha into easing off.
Martha gives them a tour of her home and she shows off her achievements. She is impressed with Bradley’s journalistic integrity and her work in general. Martha invites them to stay for a meal. Cory is guilted into staying. He gets someone to cover for Bradley’s TV slot in the meantime.
RELATED: The Morning Show Season 3 Episode 6 Recap
Back at the UBA offices, Stella mulls over Paul’s contract. He’s offered her the CEO role and she has her team investigate the deal further. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Stella — she would potentially be earning $14 million a year if she agrees. Her team proposes negotiating the finer details, but Stella is still conflicted.
Stella asks Mia for her opinion on the offer. Mia thinks Cory will be fine even if he’s sacked. But Stella worries about the ruthless nature of the job; she doesn’t want to turn into Cory. This vicious dog-eat-dog world frightens her.
Who is threatening to take Paul and Alex’s relationship public?
The fundraiser gets underway. Paul and Alex are photographed on the red carpet together, although they try to play it cool, keeping things professional. Chris is questioned about the concerns over equity pay at UBA. Paul is then informed that the Vault has a photograph of him and Alex kissing. He tells Alex the bad news and promises to kill the story before it ruins both of their careers.
Next, Stella is visited by her old friend Kate, who has just been fired by Paul from Hyperion. She clearly has it in for her old boss, but she can’t believe how submissive Stella has become. Kate realizes that Paul must have offered Stella a monumental promotion. She warns Stella against accepting the offer though, fearing that Paul will then own her and manipulate her if she signs the deal. This debate turns into an argument.
Meanwhile, in Connecticut, Cory finally addresses the merger issues. He asks his mother to stop pestering the Justice Department. Martha states that she was just trying to help and is hurt by Cory’s demands. Cory tries to win over his mother, but she sees straight through his act.
What is the main news story in “Strict Scrutiny”?
This also turns into an argument. Martha makes some rather nasty remarks and tells Cory to leave. On the drive home, Bradley tries to comfort Cory. Their conversation is interrupted by a breaking news story though. There’s been a Supreme Court brief leak — they are overturning Roe. The abortion rights are in jeopardy. This news makes its way to the fundraiser as well. The team springs into action right away.
Angered by the news, Chris posts a political and highly controversial photograph online. Paul is told that the Vault won’t be paid off, they are going to publish the scandalous photograph of Paul and Alex kissing no matter what.
The Morning Show Season 3 Episode 7 Ending Explained
Stella updates Cory on the developing news stories. She then brings up Paul’s offer in another dramatic twist. Cory is visibly surprised, but not that upset. He tells Stella to sign the employment agreement, then they will have the upper hand over Paul.
It would appear that Cory’s career isn’t dead just yet. Stella looks like she is choosing to side with Cory instead. Will they bring down Paul together now?
As the episode concludes, Cory argues with Leonard, telling him to back off. Then Chip walks in on Alex and Paul kissing.
What did you think of The Morning Show Season 3 Episode 7? Comment below.
Additional reading:
