Ep 1. Turpitude

In the season 2 premiere of "Picket Fences," titled "Turpitude," the charming and quirky town of Rome, Wisconsin, is back with another puzzling case that will leave the residents on edge. With its peculiar blend of humor, drama, and moral quandaries, this critically acclaimed series continues to explore the complexities of small-town life through the eyes of its eccentric inhabitants.

As the episode begins, Sheriff Jimmy Brock (Tom Skerritt) finds himself tangled in a web of scandal when he discovers a promiscuous photo of himself circulating around town. The revelation shocks the community and puts his reputation on the line. With his wife, Jill (Kathy Baker), by his side, Jimmy must navigate the fallout and strive to restore the trust of his constituents.

Meanwhile, the town's quirky medical examiner, Dr. Carter Pike (Kelly Connell), faces a professional dilemma when he must perform an autopsy on a beloved member of the community. Wrestling with his personal convictions and the expectations of others, Dr. Pike finds himself at odds with the religious beliefs that permeate the town. This ethical dilemma forces him to confront his own values and make a difficult decision that could have lasting consequences for his career and relationships within the town.

Another captivating storyline unfolds with Judge Henry Bone (Ray Walston) presiding over a controversial case involving censorship at the local library. When a concerned mother challenges the accessibility of explicit materials, the judge must grapple with the delicate balance between free speech and protecting the interests of the community. As the debate unfolds, Judge Bone must consider the potential impact of his ruling on the future of intellectual freedom in Rome.

Meanwhile, the charismatic and enigmatic mayor of Rome, Howard Buss (Don Cheadle), faces his own personal struggles. Battling with depression and questioning his purpose, Mayor Buss embarks on a soul-searching journey to find himself and seek guidance in the most unexpected of places. Through introspection and unexpected encounters, he gradually begins to rediscover his zest for life and embraces the challenges that lie ahead.

In a parallel narrative, the charming Brock children, Kimberly (Holly Marie Combs) and Matthew (Justin Shenkarow), continue to navigate the turbulent waters of adolescence. Troubles arise when Kimberly becomes the target of vicious rumors spread by her classmates, while Matthew explores his own budding romantic interests. These storylines explore the challenges of growing up in a small town and the effects of gossip and prejudice on young minds.

Throughout "Turpitude," the show delves into the moral complexities and contradictions of small-town life. It offers a multifaceted exploration of the human condition, examining themes such as loyalty, justice, faith, and personal identity. As the citizens of Rome grapple with their own moral dilemmas and confront the consequences of their actions, the true heart of the show shines through – the interconnectedness of its characters and the resilient spirit of a community bound together by shared experiences.

"Picket Fences" season 2 episode 1, "Turpitude," invites viewers to once again immerse themselves in the idiosyncratic world of Rome, Wisconsin. With its rich blend of humor, drama, and thought-provoking narratives, this beloved series continues to captivate audiences as it combines the eccentricities of small-town life with profound social commentary.