In the fourth episode of Hulu's legal drama All's Fair, titled 'Everybody Dance Now,' Niecy Nash-Betts delivers a powerful performance as Emerald faces the aftermath of a sexual assault. The story takes a dark turn as Emerald and her colleagues hunt down her attacker, only to learn he has been killed under mysterious circumstances. This installment marks a significant shift for the series, drawing praise for its intensity and emotional depth.
Episode Overview
All's Fair, Hulu's new legal drama, takes a gripping turn in Episode 4, 'Everybody Dance Now.' The episode centers on Emerald (Niecy Nash-Betts), who attends a singles event encouraged by her inner circle to step away from her usual dating apps. There, she connects with an attractive man and dances to the episode's namesake song, but the night ends in horror as she is drugged and sexually assaulted. Nash-Betts portrays Emerald's trauma with harrowing intensity, navigating the character's confusion, reporting process, and rape kit examination with grace and raw emotion.
Triggering Case and Pursuit of Justice
Emerald's resolve is tested by a parallel divorce case at her firm, Grant, Ronson and Greene. Her colleague Carrington represents a male client seeking spousal support after learning his wife hid an abortion years ago. Carrington argues that men's suffering is overlooked, which enrages Emerald and fuels her determination to identify her attacker. Teaming up with Allura, Liberty, and Dina, they use guest lists, traffic cameras, and image enhancement software to track him down. Dina reveals the man's father was a Ponzi scheme perpetrator she prosecuted, leading to his suicide—a connection suggesting the assault was revenge against Dina.
The Attackers Mysterious Death
Tension escalates when Emerald's detective friend discloses the attacker died from a gunshot wound to the head, initially ruled a suicide but potentially a homicide. Emerald, Allura, Liberty, and Dina become suspects, as they were among the few who knew his identity. Emerald insists on her innocence, while speculation arises about Dina's guilt or even Emerald's sons—Ezra, Egypt, and Elijah—whose alibis seem shaky. The episode ends on a rift between Emerald and Dina, highlighted by Emerald's emotional outburst: "I don't need you to tell me how I should or shouldn't feel... You brought that man into my life."
Critical Reception and Series Impact
Reviewers note this episode as a turning point for All's Fair, elevating it beyond frothy side plots like Allura's husband's infidelity or Liberty's engagement woes. Niecy Nash-Betts' spotlight performance invests viewers in Emerald's arc, overshadowing ensemble elements and veteran Ed O'Neill's role. While not flawless, it showcases the show's potential when focusing on powerhouse acting amid the firm's distinctive hallways.