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‘Manhunt’ Episode 3 Takeaway: President Andrew Johnson and Edwin Stanton clash over reconstruction plan

'Manhunt' follows Edwin Stanton, Abraham Lincoln's secretary of war, as he hunts down John Wilkes Booth

Contains spoilers for ‘Manhunt’ Episode 3 on Apple TV+

WASHINGTON, DC: Apple TV+ has officially released 'Manhunt' Episode 3, continuing the gripping historical drama that delves into the aftermath of President Lincoln's assassination. 

‘Manhunt’ stars Tobias Menzies as Edwin Stanton, Anthony Boyle as John Wilkes Booth, Glenn Morshower as Andrew Johnson, Lovie Simone as Mary Simms, Matt Walsh as Dr Samuel Mudd, and Hamish Linklater as Abraham Lincoln.

In 'Manhunt' Episode 2, Edwin Stanton, Abraham Lincoln's secretary of war and friend, initiates the manhunt following Lincoln's assassination.

There's a lot to uncover in 'Manhunt' Episode 3. So, let's jump in!

Dramatic showdown ensues between President Johnson and Edwin Stanton in Manhunt' Episode 3 

In Episode 3 of 'Manhunt', viewers are drawn into a dramatic showdown between President Johnson and Edwin Stanton as they clash over the implementation of President Lincoln's reconstruction plan.

Stanton emphasizes the importance of taking a firm stance against traitors, warning that failure to do so could have significant consequences. He underscores the need to capture John Wilkes Booth, the assassin of President Lincoln.

As the newly appointed president following Lincoln's assassination, Johnson openly vents his frustration over the inability to apprehend Booth, viewing it as a sign of weakness.

As the episode unfolds, viewers witness Stanton's unwavering belief to completely dismantle the existing network of Southern leaders, whom he perceives as deeply entrenched in the old order that caused the Civil War.

Surprisingly, President Johnson shows interest, suggesting a change from his previous leniency towards Southern leaders.

Edwin Stanton's trust is shattered by President Johnson's betrayal 

As the episode progresses, tensions reach a boiling point as social unrest following Lincoln's assassination intensifies.

A Black man is with his horse when the police question the ownership of the animal, sparking a confrontation. In a tragic turn of events, Frank Leech (Ted Welch) shoots and kills the young man.

This event sparks anger and results in Leech being arrested. However, the situation takes a surprising turn when a man reveals to Stanton that Leech had delivered a letter from a councilman to President Johnson, advocating for Leech's pardon.

President Johnson surprisingly indicates a willingness to grant clemency to Leech, despite the seriousness of his actions.

In a tense confrontation, Stanton directly challenges President Johnson regarding his actions. However, Johnson defends himself by asserting that Leech acted in self-defense when he killed the young man.

Johnson has additionally decided to grant an official pardon to the leaders of the Confederacy.

Stanton's anger boiled over in the final moments of 'Manhunt' Episode 3 as he discovered President Johnson had deceived him.

‘Manhunt’ Episode 3 is now streaming on AppleTV+