'Presumed Innocent': Why the show's most likable character could be the killer

Raymond Horgon's disregard for exploring other suspects to clear Rusty Sabich’s name raises doubts about his true motivations in 'Presumed Innocent'
PUBLISHED JUL 22, 2024
David E Kelley's courtroom thriller 'Presumed Innocent' is based on the book of the same name by Scott Turow (@appletv+)
David E Kelley's courtroom thriller 'Presumed Innocent' is based on the book of the same name by Scott Turow (@appletv+)

Contains spoilers for 'Presumed Innocent

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Set against the backdrop of an enigmatic murder case, Apple TV+'s 'Presumed Innocent' follows Rusty Sabich (Jake Gyllenhaal), a prosecutor and devoted family man, who becomes the main suspect in the brutal murder of his colleague and secret lover, Carolyn Polhemus (Renate Reinsve).

Although Rusty struggles to prove his innocence due to his mysterious stalking habits, he continues to receive support from his family and his senior mentor Raymond Horgon (Bill Camp).

However, Raymond’s complete disregard for exploring other suspects to clear Rusty’s name raises doubts about his true motivations and casts suspicion on his potential involvement in Carolyn’s murder.

Did Raymond Horgan kill Carolyn Polhemus? 

Bill Camp in a still from 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)
Bill Camp in a still from 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)

Raymond is a fan-favorite character who has endeared himself to audiences, but his total refusal to consider other suspects, despite Rusty’s pleas, raises suspicions.

Carolyn was found tied up after her death, suggesting that the perpetrator had knowledge of previously undisclosed details about the Bunny Davis case—information that Raymond, as a state attorney at the time, had access to. This raises doubts about Raymond’s involvement in the murder.

Additionally, various flashbacks in the show reveal the nature of different characters' relationships with Carolyn, but the lack of mention of Carolyn and Raymond's relationship raises doubt about their true dynamics.

What could be the reason behind Raymond Horgan killing Carolyn Polhemus?

(@appletv+)
Jake Gyllenhaal and Bill Camp in a still from 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)

We’ve all seen Raymond's desperation to hold onto his position of power, making it plausible that Carolyn was murdered to protect that authority, which he eventually loses to Nico Della Guardia (O-T Fagbenle).

It’s possible that Raymond enraged upon discovering Rusty’s romance with Carolyn, blames Rusty for his election defeat. This suggests that Raymond may have murdered Carolyn to protect his political ambitions.

Additionally, Carolyn's murder could be linked to corruption, as she may have been aware of wrongdoing within the State Attorney's office and possessed evidence against Raymond. To preserve her silence, Raymond might have murdered Carolyn.

Additionally, unaware of Rusty’s connection with Carolyn, Raymond blamed Rusty for his election defeat and defended him in court to divert attention from himself, feeling guilty for the suffering endured by Rusty and his family.

How to stream 'Presumed Innocent'?

(@appletv+)
Jake Gyllenhaal as Rusty Sabich in a still from 'Presumed Innocent' (@appletv+)

You can watch the show that will take you to the fascinating world of courtroom and legal drama if you have a subscription to Apple TV+'s streaming service.

For a monthly subscription price of $9.99, users can access all of the original episodes and films available on Apple TV+.

'Presumed Innocent' trailer



 

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

Mystery Inc. gang set to come back on Netflix, with production kicking off in Atlanta.
17 hours ago
'Star Wars: The Acolyte' failed to find viewers when it first dropped, but for unexpected reasons, it is getting a new life now.
20 hours ago
Jamie Ding participated in his 34th continuous game in Friday's episode of 'Jeopardy!'
20 hours ago
A sudden shake-up hits ‘The White Lotus’ Season 4 just as filming begins, triggering a major rewrite and casting change behind the scenes.
20 hours ago
'Dutton Ranch', latest 'Yellowstone' spinoff, has reportedly fired its showrunner ahead of its May 15 debut after tensions with cast
21 hours ago
'The Night Agent' Season 4 will arrive with fresh faces, new secrets, and dynamics, as Netflix announced four new cast members.
21 hours ago
‘Dutton Ranch’ expands Yellowstone universe with country artist Morgan Wade in key recurring role
21 hours ago
‘Helluva Boss’ returns with a bigger plan, as Season 3 splits into two parts and promises a longer, expanded story for fans to follow.
21 hours ago
'Chicago Fire' set to part ways with its showrunner, who has been a vital part of the show since season 1.
22 hours ago
The previous seasons of 'Fargo' have had long waiting periods between seasons, with Season 5 premiering three years after the Season 4 finale.
23 hours ago