One way stands apart from other police procedurals is how its unique format allows for different kinds of stories than a typical “case of the week.” The show cleverly blends two distinct stories that fit the “Mad About Murder” title. Similarly, this episode includes some narrative asides that continue a larger theme about making the LAPD better, while breaking up the tension with humor.

This episode of The Rookie stands in stark contrast to Episode 12, “April Fools,” which also tried to blend humor, action and heavy drama. “Mad About Murder” proves the storytellers know how to do this successfully, making the previous misfire even more of an outlier. Still, in both cases, the series’ “heart” was in the right place by attempting to deliver a high-stakes conflict, allowing its characters to be heroic, along with a reminder that cops aren’t always heroes. The story centered on Celina Juarez reminds viewers that dichotomy is directly related to the character’s backstory. While also focusing on these issues, the episode also offers a sharp critique of the troubling true crime podcast trend. Meanwhile, Miles Penn (Deric Augustine) takes on a humorous side-quest with heart, and the episode ends with a bit of pure relationship-affirming fun. It’s the kind of episode only a show like The Rookie could pull off.