Welcome to this week’s installment of Geek Girl Authority Crush of the Week, wherein we spotlight strong women and non-binary folks who inspire us. These characters are prime examples of empowerment and how crucial it is for youth to have said examples to follow.
DISCLAIMER: The following contains spoilers for CBS’s The Equalizer, particularly Melody Bayani’s arc.
Melody Bayani
Fast Facts
Liza Lapira plays Melody Bayani, Robyn McCall’s (Queen Latifah) best friend and right hand. As a former Air Force snipper, Mel joins the equalizing team with a set of skills that make her unique and irreplaceable. Her absence from the team is a liability and jeopardizes the cases, putting Robyn’s life at risk. This was seen during the first episodes of The Equalizer Season 5.
Mel comes from a military family, which pushes her to enlist despite (or because of) their resistance. Her time as a soldier isn’t discussed in much detail until Mel is taken hostage by two young men whose father she killed.
RELATED: Read our recaps of The Equalizer
After this traumatic event, Mel pulled herself away from the equalizing team to focus on her healing. This storyline opened the floor for the show to discuss PTSD and how veterans deal with it. Even though she is resistant to therapy, Mel has found other ways to process her experience.
Her connection to the military is also the focus of the story when her brother is in trouble. As part of special operations, he comes across information that puts his life in danger. Only with Mel and the rest of the team can he stay alive.
The Real Deal
One of the most essential aspects of Melody Bayani’s storyline is her relationship with Harry (Adam Goldberg). The two showcase what a healthy, loving, caring and devoted marriage looks like. They have been there for each other through fake deaths and countless shootings.
RELATED: Geek Girl Authority Crush of the Week: Robyn McCall
Harry’s cave is located underneath the bar that Mel owns. Nowadays, she uses the bar as a space for expression of art. She created an open night that allowed people to get on stage and show their talent. Most importantly, making this space pushed her to leave her comfort zone and write a song about her traumas.
Why She Matters
Melody Bayani is definitely the best friend, teammate and wife you want in your corner. No matter what happens to her, she will always show up to support those she loves. Without her skills and experience McCall wouldn’t be the equalizer.
So, be like Melody Bayani. Be ready to step into your sniper shoes when needed. Don’t be afraid to take a step back to care for yourself. Give your partner and friends the unconditional support they deserve. Show up for yoga with your best friend’s daughter. And always be ready to run a bar.
The Equalizer airs on Sundays on CBS.
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