'Presumed Innocent': Barbara Sabich's steamy makeout session may hide a darker truth

Apple TV+'s courtroom drama 'Presumed Innocent' delves into the murky waters of law where a famous prosecutor battles to prove his innocence
PUBLISHED JUL 8, 2024
Barbara Sabich faces moral dilemma after a kiss in 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)
Barbara Sabich faces moral dilemma after a kiss in 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)

Contains spoilers and speculations for 'Presumed Innocent'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: While the central premise of Apple TV+'s courtroom drama series 'Presumed Innocent' is Rusty Sabich's (Jake Gyllenhaal) attempt to prove his innocence, the show also expertly establishes Rusty's familial dynamics.

In David E Kelly's series, Rusty, a respected prosecutor, becomes the lead suspect in Carolyn Polhemus's (Renate Reinsve) murder case.

The show explores Rusty's family dynamics, especially his relationship with his wife Barbara Sabich (Ruth Negga).

As we have seen in the series, Barbara copes with the terrible revelation of her husband's dishonesty but chooses to stick by him, expressing her support despite the betrayal.

But later in the series she lets her guard down and has a fling with a barman named Clifton (Sarunas J Jackson).

What happened between Barbara Sabich and Clifton in 'Presumed Innocent'?

Ruth Negga and in a still from 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)
Ruth Negga and in a still from 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)

Barbara has always supported her husband, Rusty, despite his infidelity, motivated by a desire to keep the family intact.

However, recent events indicate a shift in her views as Barbara seeks consolation in a bar after being harassed by the media and advised to take a break from work, confiding in a sympathetic barman named Clifton.

In another episode, after a fierce dispute with Rusty, who blames her for their marital issues, Barbara once again seeks solace in Clifton's companionship.

Barbara begins to form a connection with Clifton after her therapist encourages her to value her individuality as she nervously contacts him and, despite her doubts, agrees to a date.

During the date, they share a kiss, which Barbara later tells her therapist was a way for her to escape her unhappy marriage and self-esteem issues. 

Why is Barbara Sabich avoiding an affair with Clifton in 'Presumed Innocent'?

Ruth Negga as Barbara Sabich in a still from 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)
Ruth Negga as Barbara Sabich in a still from 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)

Barbara's main motivation for avoiding an affair with Clifton is her dedication to her family and her conflicted feelings for Rusty.

Despite her frustrations and the emotional support she receives from Clifton, Barbara is unwilling to totally commit to the affair.

She still has a strong, if problematic, relationship with Rusty, and her internal conflict is a reflection of her desire to fulfill her family duties.

Barbara's therapist also impacts her behavior as she tells her to find comfort in the relationship with Clifton. 

How to stream 'Presumed Innocent'?

Jake Gyllenhaal, Chase Infiniti, Ruth Negga, and Kingston Rumi Southwick in a still from 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)
Jake Gyllenhaal, Chase Infiniti, Ruth Negga, and Kingston Rumi Southwick in a still from 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)

In addition to 'Presumed Innocent,' you can watch a wide range of content on Apple TV+ by subscribing to the streaming service.

For a monthly subscription fee of $9.99, consumers can watch all of Apple TV+'s original shows and movies.

'Presumed Innocent' Trailer 



 

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