In the ninth episode of "American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez," titled "What's Left Behind," the narrative takes a poignant turn, shifting its focus away from the central figure of Aaron Hernandez to the lives he left in disarray. This penultimate installment is a masterclass in storytelling, as it delves into the emotional turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by those closest to Hernandez, particularly his fiancée Shayanna Jenkins, her sister Shaneah, and his mother Terri.
The episode opens with the media frenzy surrounding Hernandez's arrest on June 26, 2013, setting the stage for the aftermath that follows. We witness the damage control efforts of New England Patriots' owner Robert Kraft and coach Bill Belichick, who are tasked with the unenviable job of distancing the team from Hernandez. Belichick's somber mood is palpable, and his directive to move forward without mentioning Hernandez again underscores the team's desire to erase him from their history.
The real crux of the episode, however, lies with Shayanna, who is grappling with the reality that her fiancé could be a murderer. Her internal conflict is laid bare as she struggles to remain loyal to both her sister and Hernandez. The tension between Shayanna and Shaneah is electric, especially as Shaneah confronts Shayanna about protecting Aaron. Shayanna's decision to cooperate with the district attorney or risk prison for obstruction of justice is a pivotal moment, one that is fraught with emotion and consequence.
The episode also highlights the pressure on Terri and Hernandez's brother, who are forced to take leaves of absence from their jobs due to the intense scrutiny. Tanya Singleton's arrest and the discovery of a hidden car tied to a double murder further complicate the situation, adding another layer to Hernandez's legal troubles.
"American Sports Story" excels in its portrayal of Shayanna's struggle, boiling it down to a single, impossible choice: to testify against Hernandez or face prison herself. The security tapes showing Shayanna disposing of a box after a call from Hernandez lead to the assumption that she helped him get rid of the murder weapon. Her interactions with prosecutor William McCauley are tense, as he pressures her to cooperate, painting Hernandez as a man destined for life in prison regardless.
Shayanna's testimony is a pivotal moment in the episode, as she chooses to protect Hernandez by claiming ignorance about the contents of the box and its disposal. This decision not only sacrifices her relationship with her sister but also cements her loyalty to Hernandez, despite the overwhelming evidence against him.
The episode's closing scenes provide a stark contrast to the turmoil, offering a calm and peaceful moment of family bonding. The focus on Avielle's birthday and Hernandez's quiet moment of apology to his daughter humanizes him, despite his crimes. The ambiguity of his apology adds depth to the character, suggesting a glimmer of remorse for the impact of his actions on his family.
"American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez" uses "What's Left Behind" to explore the complex dynamics of family, loyalty, and the consequences of fame and adoration. The episode is a powerful reminder of the far-reaching effects of Hernandez's actions and the moral quandaries faced by those who loved him. It is a testament to the show's ability to tell a compelling story that goes beyond the headlines, delving into the human cost of a tragic and complex tale.