Jillian Zielinski

First off, I understand I am 5 years late to the game... But, after watching the first episode tonight, I have more than a few issues. Cool that you've created a female lead, who is highly sought after by both criminals and federal agencies alike. Intelligent and seemingly "strong". However, is it absolutely necessary for her to have 5 separate emotional breakdowns within the first episode? Breakdowns that are so intense that, at one point, even cause her to collapse to the ground in a puddle at her workplace? They've captured the essence that is "women" (or so we are conditioned to accept): The nurturer. The caretaker. The one who needs the support of her partner in order to make it through her day... Her partner who, in fact, is a traitor to their country and their marriage. Implying in such a subtle way, that this intelligent agent, although highly trained and educated, is still a feeble and easily-fooled love struck goon. And then we bring in the idea that she was going to adopt a child... Why? Was she not able to conceive naturally? Another subtle shame arrow projected her way, because what is woman without child... And who is the young girl that she now instantly falls into a maternal setup with? Her parents dead, her husband gone, no child to care for... Chaos surrounds her, leaving her with her pooch in a pitiful heap, once again. Now who shall she turn to when she is feeling so lost and alone? Oh yes, the "criminal" whom she has suddenly established a bond with after stabbing in the neck. Is it a fatherly figure she is reaching for? Or is this another portrayal of dominance and sexual tension on the patriarchal hierarchy that is Blacklist.... Obviously I have to watch another episode at a later date to delve further into this mind f$&%. But in the mean time.. For shame, writers. For shame. That is all.