12 Times BBC’s The Fall Deserved A Standing Ovation

(Image: The Fall / BBC)

Make me SIO.

In Season 1, Stella is unexpectedly still in Belfast when Paul’s most recent victim is discovered. So even though she’s there to review older cases, she is perhaps the most knowledgeable when it comes to the serial murders.

After taking charge at the crime scene, she pulls Jim aside and asks to be named acting Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) — basically, she thinks she should be in charge of the investigation moving forward. She very plainly cites her qualifications and experience as the reasons why she deserves to be in charge. This clear and concise claim of deserved power is yet another time Stella takes control without questioning how she will look to those around her.

And it worked. Stella is given the power to run the investigation and find the serial killer. Honestly, she’s the most likely to actually find him. Later on, during a staff meeting, some co-workers joke that basically everyone “hates women who occupy powerful positions”. Stella expertly side-eyes them without saying a word but boy does she convey a lot in a single look. Does she really care if you hate her for being the boss? Nope. Role model material right here. Take note everyone.

Next: Men can be monsters.