'Cheat' Episode 3 becomes frustrating to watch as Adam allows himself to be deceived repeatedly
Spoilers ahead for episode 3 of 'Cheat'
At this point, it is really difficult not to despise Adam (Tom Goodman-Hill). But we feel more than just a strong dislike - we pity him. Wrapped around Rose's (Molly Windsor) finger, completely taken in by her puppy face and innocent blue eyes, Adam has easily become the most despicable character on the show, even more so than the antagonist herself. Even when Leah finds out about his very crass sexting session with Rose, all he is concerned about is the pregnancy.
It was evident from the very beginning that 'Cheat' is a story about someone paying the price of someone else's mistake; evident that Leah (Katherine Kelly) is caught in a web of lies and mind games. Yet, it is hard to relate to her for the atrocities Rose inflicts on her seem unreal. That, however, doesn't mean it is not something that can't really play out.
Rose's issues stem from a devastating past involving her mother. It speaks of a lifetime worth of pain and anguish. She has been plotting vengeance for a very long time now, which is evident in the intricacies of her plan. Perhaps the most frustrating part about her character is that she isn't even hiding her intentions from anyone - everyone around her is privy of the fact that she is up to something, only they can't put their finger on it.
So does the audience. Which makes it difficult to remain patient with her. In addition to that, the back and forth between Adam and her is not only cringe-worthy but absolutely pathetic. There is no reason for someone to repeatedly fool themselves into believing the wrong person - it's plain pitiful. Adam's character falls to a new low this episode. We're almost glad they got rid of him.
First three episodes of 'Cheat' are currently streaming on AMC Networks' streaming service, Sundance Now. Episode 4, the series finale, will be out on December 12, 2019.