Smoke Season 1 Episode 6, titled “Manhood”, delivers intense drama as Dave Gudsen’s twisted hero complex clashes with Freddy Fasano’s violent breakdown. The episode sets the stage for a explosive confrontation in Episode 7, airing August 1, 2025, on Apple TV+.
Dave’s Downfall and Freddy’s Final Stand
After surviving a car crash, Dave (Taron Egerton) faces his crumbling marriage. His wife Ashley bluntly calls him a failure, leading to a bitter split. Dave then spirals deeper into his delusions, imagining himself as a detective hero while obsessively hunting Freddy (Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine), the “Milk Jug Arsonist.”
Meanwhile, Michelle (Jurnee Smollett) and Ezra (John Leguizamo) convince Harvey (Greg Kinnear) that Dave is the real arsonist. A key clue comes from Dave’s book, where he mentions “stipachio”—a mispronunciation only the real arsonist would know.
“The only way Dave could’ve known ‘stipachio’ is if he was there. That’s proof,” Harvey realizes, horrified.
Freddy, now fully unhinged, targets Brenda (Adina Porter), dousing her home in gasoline. Dave bursts in, stops him with a fire extinguisher, and gets a disturbing rush from the act—complete with an uncontrollable erection.
What to Expect in Episode 7
Episode 7, titled “Whitewashed Tombs”, will explore the fallout of Freddy’s arrest and Dave’s growing suspicion that Michelle is onto him. Key developments include:
- Dave’s Hero Complex: His arrest of Freddy boosts his ego, but Harvey’s team inches closer to exposing him.
- Michelle’s Family Drama: Her mother’s prison release adds emotional tension.
- Freddy’s Backstory: More details on his traumatic past may emerge during interrogations.
Fan Reactions and Critical Praise
The episode has been hailed as the best of the season, with standout performances from Egerton and Mwine.
“Taron Egerton is terrifyingly good as Dave. That final scene? Chilling.” — Collider
“Freddy’s breakdown is heartbreaking and horrifying. Mwine deserves awards.” — TV Fanatic
Where to Watch
New episodes drop Fridays on Apple TV+. Episode 7 releases August 1, 2025, at 12 AM ET/5 AM GMT.
Also read: Apple TV+’s Crime Drama ‘Smoke’ Season 1: Episode Guide, Release Dates, and Finale Review
Credits: Sources include Collider, TV Fanatic, Rotten Tomatoes, and IMDb.
