An Old Flame May Complicate Dex’s First Case On The Next Stumptown

Dex (Cobie Smulders) is finally a licensed private eye. But as this preview of next week’s Stumptown reveals, her first case as a professional investigator will take her back to the past. An old flame comes to town and asks her to help deal with a stalker. Will it rekindle the romance between them?

The decision to structure the first season of Stumptown with a “Dex Begins” plot was, ultimately, really smart. For television, seeing her take the steps to becoming a P.I. gave the audience a chance to root for her across episodes. Sure, Smulders is a winning presence, but the character may not have been as appealing back in the first episode if she was already an old-hand in the business. Additionally, seeing her stumble as she gets into the profession gives the show added texture.

And that texture is important, as we’ve also seen Grey (Jake Johnson) and Hoffman (Michael Ealy) grow beyond their broad TV character types. Although, Hoffman’s moment of decision on the roof this week was totally classic crime show stuff. Considering the show is worldbuilding, it seems likely he’ll face Frank (Jason Manuel Olazábal) again, but maybe will we end up agreeing with his choices in that possible future confrontation?

Stumptown airs Wednesdays on ABC.