In the overall series arc of the relationship between Commander Taylor (Robert Gossett) and Deputy Chief Brenda Johnson (Kyra Sedgwick), "Cherry Bomb" is the episode/case that marks the most dramatic turning point. From the time Brenda first joined the LAPD, Commander Taylor seemed to be the greatest obstacle to everything she wanted to do. He's spent his entire career playing the toady, but when Brenda arrives, he begins to realize how much he's wasted his talents trying to be no more than a "good ol' boy." Finally, he drops the ball on an investigation into the rape of a teenage girl by the son of a powerful LA County sheriff's deputy. When the victim commits suicide a week later, Taylor swallows his pride and begs Brenda to help rectify the mess he's made of the case. As Taylor and Brenda work together to expose the sordid conspiracy concocted by a group of sleazy high-school boys, they must also deal with the volatile temper of the primary suspect's abusive father (Daniel Baldwin).
Besides enjoying the satisfying denouement in this episode, loyal "Closer" fans will note a remarkable turnaround in Commander Taylor's attitude toward Brenda. From this point on in the series, observant viewers will notice numerous instances in which Taylor eagerly does whatever he can to help Brenda in her quest to bring evil doers to justice.
Besides enjoying the satisfying denouement in this episode, loyal "Closer" fans will note a remarkable turnaround in Commander Taylor's attitude toward Brenda. From this point on in the series, observant viewers will notice numerous instances in which Taylor eagerly does whatever he can to help Brenda in her quest to bring evil doers to justice.
