Ep 22. The Lullaby League

The Lullaby League is the twenty-second and final episode of the first season of the critically acclaimed drama series, Picket Fences. Set in the charming town of Rome, Wisconsin, the show takes an unconventional look at the lives of its quirky residents, particularly the people involved in law enforcement and their families. With a perfect mix of drama, humor, and social commentary, Picket Fences captivates viewers week after week.

In The Lullaby League, the season comes to a gripping conclusion as the town of Rome is thrown into turmoil when an anonymous baby is left on the doorstep of the Brock family. As the baby's presence creates an uproar in the town, Sheriff Jimmy Brock (Tom Skerritt) and his wife, Judge Jill Brock (Kathy Baker), find themselves at the center of the controversy.

Sheriff Jimmy soon discovers that this abandoned baby is not an isolated incident. In fact, several babies have been abandoned in the town, all presumably left by the same mysterious individual. This alarming trend brings to light the issues of child abandonment and the struggles faced by parents who feel they have no other options. The case quickly becomes a big talking point in Rome, raising questions about responsibility, compassion, and the limits of the law.

Meanwhile, Jill is presiding over an emotionally charged case involving a loving couple, the Bartons, who are fighting for custody of their adopted child. The couple faces opposition from the child's biological mother and her family, who want the child returned to them. Jill must carefully navigate the complexities of the legal system and make a difficult decision that will shape the lives of all parties involved.

As tensions escalate in the town, other storylines interweave with the central narrative. Dr. Carter Pike (Kelly Connell), the town's medical examiner, finds himself at odds with the local religious community when he begins assisting patients with euthanasia. This controversial topic fuels debates among the townspeople, challenging their moral beliefs and forcing them to confront their own biases.

At the same time, Deputy Maxine Stewart (Lauren Holly) and Kenny (Costas Mandylor), a young man with Down syndrome, find themselves dealing with a hate crime after Kenny becomes the victim of a malicious prank. Maxine takes it upon herself to uncover the truth behind the incident and ensure that justice is served.

Emotionally charged and thought-provoking, The Lullaby League delves into the deep-rooted issues surrounding parenthood, morality, and the judicial system. The episode raises questions about the complexities of human relationships and challenges viewers to consider their own values and beliefs.

With a stellar ensemble cast, Picket Fences masterfully blends humor and darkness, tackling sensitive subjects with finesse. The performances are nuanced and captivating, allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The show's unique storytelling style, combining episodic narratives with ongoing character arcs, keeps audiences engaged and eagerly awaiting the next installment.

The Lullaby League is a compelling end to an exceptional first season. It leaves viewers with dangling threads that will undoubtedly be explored further in the subsequent seasons, promising more captivating storylines and thought-provoking moments. Picket Fences is a show that consistently challenges societal norms, making it one of the most groundbreaking and unforgettable dramas of its time.