In the latest episode of Reasonable Doubt, actor Joseph Sikora offers insights into his character Bill Sterling’s complicated dynamic with Jax Stewart, played by Emayatzy Corinealdi. Sikora emphasizes that despite Bill’s underhanded tactics to secure a partnership, he holds a genuine respect for Jax’s exceptional skills as an attorney.
In a conversation with TheWrap, Sikora elaborated on Bill’s admiration for Jax, stating, “I think that Bill is a complex character in the way that he sees Jax for who she is … she is exceptional.” He highlights that Bill is drawn to Jax’s talent, noting, “Hey, look, all of these things I can learn from Jax.” This admiration, however, is overshadowed by Bill’s ambition, leading him to navigate ethically questionable paths in his career.
Conflict and Confrontation in Episode 9
The tension between Bill and Jax escalates significantly in Episode 9, as the personal and professional boundaries blur. Bill’s pursuit of partnership has driven him to engage in questionable behavior, including a romantic entanglement with Jax’s close friend Sally, portrayed by Nefetari Spencer. This situation culminates in a dramatic confrontation between the two attorneys.
During their heated exchange, Jax confronts Bill about his manipulative actions, stating, “So the plan is that I win and you get promoted. What do I get? Do I get to tell them that you’re divorcing your sympathetic Black wife while currently f—king another Black woman, who happens to be my friend, behind my back?” Her remarks highlight the ethical dilemmas that underpin their professional relationship.
Bill retaliates, asserting that Jax’s leadership style is flawed: “You say you want me to learn, this is our case, but you just want an assistant! A lackey to hang on to your every word.” The escalating conflict underscores the deeper issues at play as both characters grapple with their ambitions and personal struggles.
Understanding the Characters
Sikora believes that while Bill respects Jax, he also harbors a desire to prove himself. “He has been honest about how much he does respect Jax, and how much he has learned from Jax,” Sikora explained. Yet, Bill’s ambition leads him to challenge Jax’s authority as he attempts to position himself as the leading figure in their case.
As tensions mount, Bill’s strategy involves aligning himself with other partners, Steven and Vince, to undermine Jax’s role as the case’s closer. This move reflects Bill’s desperation to secure his future at the firm amidst personal turmoil, including his ongoing divorce.
Despite the challenges they face, Sikora acknowledges the complexity of Bill’s feelings for Jax. He states, “To get to places, you have to have that belief in yourself, that last oomph of belief, which Jax has in spades. Bill is trying to say, ‘Hey, I got it too.’ But I think there is a true respect.” This duality adds depth to their relationship, making it a focal point of the series.
Reasonable Doubt releases new episodes every Thursday on Hulu and Disney+, continuing to explore the intricate dynamics between its characters and the ethical dilemmas they face within the legal profession.
