The programme was very skillfully finessed to get over the seemingly crippling loss of Brenda. It's very much a team show now, although I wish they'd get rid of the kid, I find him a pain. I think he was introduced to show off the softer, maternal side of Sharon. You recall she was a real badass villian and instrumental in Brenda's departure towards the end of The Closer. I agree, it's a well made series that is consistently good, except for Rusty. Everytime Julio speaks up I think of Breaking Bad. The series returns in November. Right, Julio is underwritten and underused. Send Rusty off to Africa ala E.R. and give his screen time to Julio.