Frank Pembleton was the most
intellectual of the detectives on the
squad. A
lapsed catholic, his
intensity and
control were the
trademarks of his
character.
So, it was one of the mosy electrifying moments of the series--for all that that is a cliche, it was nevertheless true--when Pembleton had a stroke at the end of one season. Pembleton on the ground, writhing, was etched into the minds of all long-time viewers.
After having been in control of the situation, and the suspects for so long, it was intriging to watch Andre Braugher, the actor, act against the character he had established. This is the mark of a great actor.