Picket Fences

David E. Kelley crafted a unique television experiment with Picket Fences, blending the mundane realities of small-town life with high-stakes legal drama and bizarre supernatural elements. Set in Rome, Wisconsin, the series followed Sheriff Jimmy Brock and his family as they navigated a community where the line between the sacred and the profane often blurred. The show tackled heavy social issues like abortion, euthanasia, and capital punishment without shying away from the messy consequences these topics brought to the town's doorstep.

Tom Skerritt anchored the ensemble as the weary but principled sheriff, while Kathy Baker played his sharp-tongued wife, Dr. Jill Brock. Their marriage provided the emotional core for a narrative that frequently shifted genres within a single episode. Critics praised the series for its willingness to challenge viewers, earning it multiple Emmy Awards including one for Skerritt's performance. The show ran for four seasons on CBS before concluding in 1996. [edit]

The fictional town of Rome, Wisconsin, serves as a microcosm for American society, complete with its own set of eccentric laws, deep-seated grudges, and strange occurrences. Sheriff Jimmy Brock has spent decades maintaining order in a place where the residents are often more interested in gossip than justice. His days involve investigating everything from petty theft to cult rituals, all while trying to keep his family grounded. Dr. Jill Brock works at the local clinic, treating patients who range from the seriously ill to those suffering from bizarre ailments that defy medical explanation. Their home is a constant source of conflict and comfort, filled with three children who witness their parents' struggles firsthand.

Kimberly, Matthew, and Zack Brock grow up amidst the chaos, learning early lessons about morality and survival. Kimberly often finds herself entangled in teenage dramas that mirror the adult conflicts around her. Matthew deals with the pressures of school and his father's demanding job, while Zack, the youngest, brings a perspective that cuts through the hypocrisy of the adults. The family dynamic shifts constantly as they face external threats and internal disagreements, yet their bond remains unbreakable.

Maxine Stewart, the district attorney, acts as both a foil and a love interest for Jimmy. Their professional rivalry often spills over into personal tension, creating a complex relationship defined by mutual respect and frequent clashes. Kenny Lacos, the deputy, stands by Jimmy's side, offering a stoic presence that contrasts with the sheriff's volatility. Other townsfolk like Henry Bone and Douglas Wambaugh add layers of wisdom and absurdity to the community landscape. Each episode presents a new crisis, whether it involves a missing person, a political scandal, or a supernatural event that challenges the characters' beliefs.

Seasons 1 through 3 build the world slowly, introducing recurring themes of justice, redemption, and the cost of truth. The show does not rely on a single overarching villain but rather explores how the community reacts to crises. Season 4 marks a turning point as the Brock family considers their future. The stakes rise as long-standing secrets come to light, forcing the characters to confront their past actions. The narrative arc moves toward a conclusion that prioritizes character growth over dramatic twists, focusing on the emotional weight of leaving a place that has shaped them so profoundly.

The series maintains a distinct tone throughout its run, balancing dark humor with serious drama. It avoids the typical formula of procedural crime shows by allowing the setting and characters to drive the plot. Social commentary is woven naturally into the storylines, addressing issues that were controversial at the time. The writing team ensured that every character felt real and flawed, making their victories feel earned and their failures painful. This approach created a rich tapestry of storytelling that resonated with audiences looking for depth beyond standard entertainment.

As the final season unfolds, the focus shifts to the legacy of the Brock family and the impact they have had on Rome. The town itself becomes a character, reflecting the changes in its inhabitants. The show concludes without a massive explosion or a shocking revelation, opting instead for a quiet departure that feels true to the lives of the people involved. The journey ends with a sense of closure that acknowledges the complexity of human relationships and the enduring nature of small-town bonds.[edit]