Television shows often resemble a carefully crafted recipe, where each ingredient must be precisely measured and combined at the right moment to create a satisfying final product. While change might be the essence of life, even a minor deviation—such as a shift in the show’s narrative arc—can dramatically affect the overall flavor of the series. The room for error is minimal, and the consequences of missteps can be dire, potentially alienating loyal viewers and jeopardizing the show’s future. This is why most series resist altering their established patterns, preferring to stick with what has proven successful.

They say revenge is best served cold, but what about the concept of redemption? How can a family-centered show become even more compelling by removing one of its core characters? This intriguing dilemma is explored in Ray Donovan—a compelling crime drama that delves into themes of family, power, and redemption, created by Ann Biderman for Showtime and featuring Liev Schreiber in the lead role. Ray Donovan serves as a “fixer,” a character who navigates the murky waters of crime and corruption by employing bribes, threats, and various tactics to safeguard his clients’ interests.

Ray’s unwavering devotion to his family, particularly his complex relationship with his wife Abby—played by Paula Malcomson—anchors the narrative. Other significant characters include Terry Donovan (Eddie Marsan), Bunchy Donovan (Dash Mihok), Daryll Donovan (Pooch Hall), Bridget Donovan (Kerris Dorsey), and Mickey Donovan (Jon Voight). The pivotal moment occurs with Abby’s death in the Season 5 episode titled “Horses,” which fundamentally transformed the show’s direction, altering its tone and emotional landscape from that point onward.

Season 4 of ‘Ray Donovan’ Culminated in a Pivotal Moment for the Series

After the uplifting finale of Season 4, it became clear that significant changes were necessary. In an interview with Variety, showrunner David Hollander revealed they faced two potential paths: either the Donovan family would emerge more united than ever, or an unprecedented event would occur, threatening to fracture their bond. The episode “Horses” tackles the impending death of Abby, the family’s matriarch—a development that viewers had been anticipating since the beginning of Season 5. Abby was the emotional glue holding the Donovan family together through numerous trials and tribulations. Her sudden demise, following a battle with stage-zero breast cancer, sends shockwaves through the family and propels the series into a bold, new narrative direction.

Prior to “Horses,” Season 5 had felt somewhat stagnant, as if the show had lost its momentum and was merely going through the motions. The introduction of Abby’s death at the season’s start, coupled with subsequent flashbacks, provided the much-needed narrative spark that revitalized the storyline. Interestingly, Abby, who sometimes appeared one-dimensional and served primarily as a foil to Ray’s character, became a focal point of character development. While this narrative strategy has been utilized in other series, it is not always successful. A notable example can be found in the character arc of Skyler, portrayed by Anna Gunn in Breaking Bad, where audience reception shifted dramatically following her character’s evolution.

Skyler’s transition to a more assertive and outspoken character shocked audiences, a reaction that even surprised the show’s creator, Vince Gilligan. This precarious balancing act is something the creators of Ray Donovan had to navigate carefully. By granting Abby agency and a voice in her narrative, they risked alienating viewers who had grown accustomed to her supporting role. Yet, in a show focused on familial bonds, Abby’s newfound autonomy challenged the patriarchal dynamics established by Ray. Ultimately, the decision proved to be a pivotal moment, as Abby’s ability to take control of her fate allowed her character to evolve from being merely the silent spouse of a powerful Hollywood fixer to a fully realized individual whose story resonated deeply, contributing to a richer narrative tapestry.

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In exploring Abby’s death, Hollander opted for a nonlinear storytelling technique that enhances the themes of grief and memory. A linear narrative would have diminished the suspense and led to an overly causal tone. By establishing Abby’s death early on and interspersing flashbacks throughout the season, the series is able to delve deeply into the psychological ramifications of loss for each character, particularly for Ray. This nonlinear approach, rich with dreams and memories, keeps viewers invested and illustrates how grief evolves and lingers over time, steering clear of predictable plot developments while enriching the story’s complexity. Abby’s passing instigated several pivotal changes, prompting Ray to relocate to New York and presenting fresh challenges and dynamics that revitalized the series.

Abby’s Passing in “Horses” Revealed Ray’s Inner Turmoil and Self-Destructive Patterns

The harsh reality of Abby’s death compels Ray to confront a more introspective and vulnerable side than previously showcased. The overwhelming grief and guilt he grapples with for failing to protect Abby, despite his violent capabilities to safeguard others, drives him toward a quest for redemption that complicates his relationships with his children, his father, and his professional obligations. Moreover, Abby’s death significantly alters the dynamics within the Donovan family, straining ties between Ray, Bridget, and Conor (Devon Bagby) as each member navigates their unique process of mourning. This traumatic event pushes the family to their emotional limits, testing their loyalty and commitment to one another, resulting in conflicts and realignments within the family structure. On a broader level, the repercussions of Abby’s passing resonate throughout the series, darkening the show’s tone and prompting Ray to confront his past and grapple with emotions he has long suppressed.

Ultimately, the episode “Horses” marks a pivotal turning point that redefines Ray Donovan, demonstrating the series’ commitment to taking risks in pursuit of authentic storytelling. This episode serves as a crucial juncture that altered the trajectory of the show. Hollander’s decision to emphasize Abby’s character development and her eventual departure was bold and ultimately rewarding, as allowing her to pass with dignity enriched the exploration of the characters’ inner lives and propelled the narrative forward in an unpredictable yet profoundly impactful manner.

Ray Donovan is available for streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S.

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Ray Donovan

Seasons

7

Network

Showtime

Release Date

June 30, 2013

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