What I’m Watching: Billions

Billions: Season 6, Episode 6 “Hostis Humani Generis” (B+)

Even with Axe out of the picture, there is no shortage of power moves that flip the switch numerous times over the course of a single episode. I was happy to see Kevin Chapman from “Brotherhood” and “Person of Interest” as the head of the transit workers’ union, who was a key figure in Prince’s quest to get his extraordinarily generous donation of some very fancy subway cars approved. Chuck knew he could easily persuade Tony to oppose it, but the idea of education and a way to make up for the many jobs lost as a result swayed him to ultimately support Prince. I’m glad to see that Chuck hasn’t lost any time in finding a suitable successor for Kate, one who in this instance was able to outwit her and get the entire deal killed because Dave was able to read her. It was interesting to note the surprise that both Prince and Wendy felt upon learning that this was Kate’s first time losing, and they’ll be even more upset once they learn that Prince’s need to have financial affirmation from his alma mater has now allowed Chuck to employ a plant, one who seems to survive by bargaining his way out of sticky situations. While Philip seemed like a haughty nuisance because of how he was treating Tuk, he came around to supporting his colleague by the end with some help from Ben, and Prince opposed Scooter’s plan to ship him off to a prospective client because they have a much, much bigger endgame that involves him being heir to the throne. Lauren returning to present Taylor with a great option to work with the Prince list ended up being a real problem, one that made Taylor angry and quick to seek vengeance, but it also had implications on Rian’s relationship with Taylor, one that she falsely believed was a partnership.