A show gets one chance to end its run with a bang, and it's over before you know it.  That's probably how the seven seasons of The Shield played out – firing bullet upon bullet of tension down the throats of fans.  Tonight, one of the most highly praised series of the generation is all set for departure.  But the series creators made sure you won't forget it as quickly as it goes.

The 90-minute special episode was penned by series creator Shawn Ryan, aptly bestowing upon it the title “Family Meeting.”  He and the writers burnt more than the midnight oil for the groundbreaking drama's send-off, targeting the perfect approach to take.

“I really unhandcuffed the writers,” said Ryan, noting the blood and sweat they've let loose.  “I told them, ‘We're not holding anything back (in this final season), so I don't mind being pitched ideas that are outrageous. Don't hold back.'  There were all sorts of ideas that we investigated and considered, and before settling on the ones we did choose, we considered just about everything - jail, dying, any combination thereof,” he added. 

It's only appropriate that Michael Chiklis' Detective Vic Mackey gets more attention this time.  Just last week, he decided to confess a litany of sins in order to gain immunity from the authorities.  Now, he's tasked to deliver a mastermind drug dealer planning to move a huge shipment of his goods to the city.  He might just earn his title of being television's most beloved murderers, and the finale is just the thing for him to steal the spotlight. 

According to Shawn Ryan, it's easy to understand why fans love Vic.  There are other reasons other than the character being “a testament to Michael Chiklis as an actor.”  Ryan adds, “He plays him in such a compelling, likable way.  He's almost a magician.  He gets people to adore him when they shouldn't.  He's the classic boyfriend you shouldn't love.”  Chiklis' portrayal was well-received by critics too, as he won an Emmy back in 2002. 

Ryan isn't worried about what he's going to leave behind once The Shield wraps up.  “I hope we'll be remembered for our consistency.  I don't think there was a weak season in the bunch.  We never had filler episodes.  We tried to make every episode as good as it could be.” 

“We were never a show 30 percent of the people were watching. We were a show that 3 percent thought was the best show on TV. I'm fine with that. I'd rather have that fanaticism than casualness.”

As evidenced by the preview clip below, the gripping final episode of The Shield will have viewers on the edge of their seats.  Will Vic finally get what he deserves?




Airing at 10pm on FX, every character will play an important role in their search for retribution and a convincing closure.  Fans should be assured that they're going to be deeply satisfied with tonight's finale of The Shield.


-Maria Gonzalez, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
Source: FX, Boston Herald
(Image Courtesy of FX)