In the eighth episode of Only Murders in the Building Season 3, "Sitzprobe,"
the trio of amateur detectives continue their investigation into Ben Glenroy's
murder, while also navigating the complexities of their personal
relationships.
The episode opens with a flashback to Loretta's past, revealing how she became pregnant and gave up her baby for adoption to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. We also learn that the baby she gave up was Dickie, Ben's brother.
Loretta, driven by her desire to reconnect with her son, has been following his life from afar. She has been attending Ben's performances and has even written him a letter explaining her connection to him.
As the cast of the theater production prepares for their sitzprobe, Mabel arrives with a shocking revelation: she believes that Dickie is the killer. Oliver, eager to get involved in the investigation, immediately jumps on board.
Meanwhile, Detective Williams arrives at the theater to interrogate the cast and crew. She quickly recognizes Kimber, an actress from a previous production, and is intrigued by the possibility of her involvement in the murder.
Oliver, desperate to impress Maxine, the theater critic, invites her to attend the sitzprobe. However, her presence causes tension among the cast and crew, as sitzprobes are typically closed rehearsals.
As the sitzprobe begins, Mabel and Howard discover a clue in the locked room: a shredded document. They believe that by piecing together the shredded pieces, they can uncover the truth about Ben's murder.
Loretta, torn between her love for her son and her desire to protect him, approaches Mabel and reveals her secret. She admits that she knows Dickie is the killer, but she is afraid of what will happen to him if he is caught.
Mabel, determined to bring justice for Ben, continues her investigation. She uncovers evidence that suggests Dickie was the one who poisoned Ben and then finished him off in the elevator.
However, just as Mabel is about to expose Dickie, Loretta steps in and confesses to the murder. She takes the blame for her son, hoping to protect him from the consequences of his actions.
The episode ends with a shocking twist as Oliver, heartbroken by Loretta's confession, suffers a heart attack. The future of the show and the trio's friendship hangs in the balance.