Warning: This review contains spoilers.
Grace “Gigi” Greenleaf (Merle Dandridge) was once a prominent preacher who vacated her calling to pursue a career in journalism. The untimely and mysterious death of her sister, Faith Greenleaf (Terry Abney), ushers her return to the Greenleaf mansion after 20 years for a two-day visit. Accompanied by her teenage daughter, Sophia Greenleaf (Desiree Ross), Grace travels to the Greenleaf mansion for the private funeral service for Faith.
Warmly received by her father, Bishop James Greenleaf (Keith David), as the “Prodigal Daughter,” it is evident that she is still considered the “Black Sheep” of the family by her other family members. Bishop Greenleaf makes several blatant attempts to convince Grace to stay in Memphis as a member of his ministerial staff. Each attempt that he makes fuels long-standing tensions and sibling rivalries.
Grace reconnects with the “Other Black Sheep” of the Greenleaf family, her aunt, Mavis McCready (Oprah Winfrey). Mavis and Grace are natural allies because they are both outsiders. Their trip down memory lane leads to a conversation to Robert “Mac” McCready (GregAlan Williams), Mavis’s brother. Over 20 years ago, Faith confided in Grace that their Uncle Mac had been sexually abusing her for several years, but later recanted her story. Mavis informs Grace of the most recent reports indicating that Uncle Mac may still be molesting underage girls. Mavis gives Grace a mission to right wrongs and stops Robert before someone else is harmed.
The next day, Grace attends Sunday Worship Service with the family. During the altar call, Grace has a “Come to Jesus” moment and meets her father at the altar much to his delight. Later, Grace calls Mavis and promises her that she will not leave like she did before.
This episode gives us insight into the Greenleaf dysfunctional family dynamic. It explores the vulnerabilities and ambitions of each member of the family. Questions to ponder as the series moves further:
- Did Grace decide to stay to investigate the murder of her sister, identify a way to stop her uncle, and/or she truly felt the touch of God return to her post?
- Does Mavis have a hidden agenda and is manipulating Grace to accomplish her mission?
- Did Faith actually commit suicide or was it a murder made to look like a suicide?
- Is Robert connected to Faith’s death?
- What caused the long-standing tensions between siblings?
- How will Bishop Greenleaf resolve both his internal and external pressures?
I am definitely intrigued. Stay tuned!
#OWN #Greenleaf #SatanWeGonnaTearYourKingdomDown
