[s2e9] So Help Me God - July 29, 1957 Apr 2026

“This is not one of the better episodes... Sam is absolutely a white savior.” Medium · Jennifer R. Povey · 3 years ago

Tyra Ferrell is consistently highlighted for her "arresting" and raw performance as Lila. [S2E9] So Help Me God - July 29, 1957

Some contemporary critics argue that while the episode captures the era's brutality, it suffers from a "white savior" narrative, as Sam (a white lawyer) is the primary engine of justice for a Black woman who remains largely silent. “This is not one of the better episodes

Several critics compare the episode’s tone to Harper Lee’s classic, though noting it doesn't quite reach the same level of absolute triumph. Some contemporary critics argue that while the episode

The episode leans heavily on Sam’s personal faith and his frustration with legal precedents—like the Miranda Rights —that had not yet been established in 1957. Critical Reception

Sam eventually uncovers that Lila was protecting the victim’s mother, Sadie Cotter, who actually pulled the trigger during a domestic dispute.