Who is the Killer in Presumed Innocent? What Happens in Presumed Innocent?
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Updated Jul 10, 2024
Who is the Killer in Presumed Innocent?
In both the original novel and the adaptation, "Presumed Innocent," the killer of Carolyn Polhemus is revealed to be Rusty Sabich's wife, Barbara. She murders out of jealousy upon discovering Rusty's affair with Carolyn.
Barbara's actions drive the plot as Rusty works to clear his name by uncovering key evidence and inconsistencies in the case. Ultimately, Barbara confesses to the crime, admitting her motives of jealousy and rage, which dramatically alters the course of the legal proceedings and Rusty's life. This revelation clears Rusty of suspicion in Carolyn's murder.
What Happens in Presumed Innocent?
In Apple TV+'s version of "Presumed Innocent," Rusty Sabich (played by Jake Gyllenhaal) is suspected of killing his ex-girlfriend, Carolyn Polhemus. The show makes big changes from the original book by Scott Turow, like making Rusty's boss Raymond Horgan his lawyer instead of a witness against him. They also give more attention to Tommy Molto (played by Peter Sarsgaard), the prosecutor who doesn't like Rusty.
The series examines Rusty's life, focusing on his troubled marriage to Barbara (played by Ruth Negga) and his relationships with his two teenage kids. It doesn't just point the finger at Rusty for the murder—other characters like Barbara, Raymond, Tommy, and even Rusty's kids are considered suspects.
Overall, the show keeps the mystery of who killed Carolyn while adding new twists and exploring different reasons why someone might have done it. It keeps viewers guessing and interested in finding out what happened.
Presumed Innocent Episode 5 Ending Explained
In the concluding moments of Presumed Innocent, Episode 5 plunges viewers into a gripping courtroom saga where Rusty Sabich confronts mounting doubts about his innocence. Tommy Molto's impactful opening statement intensifies the trial's drama, casting shadows over Rusty's defense. As tensions escalate, Rusty wrestles with newfound revelations and suspicions, striving to unveil the true culprit behind Carolyn's murder. The episode unfolds with suspense, hinting at potential motives and unveiling layers of emotional and psychological turmoil within Rusty and his family. As the series progresses, the mystery deepens, promising a riveting exploration of justice and personal redemption.
Presumed Innocent
"Presumed Innocent" is a new TV series on Apple TV+ created by David E. Kelley, based on Scott Turow's book from 1987. It's the first time this story has been made into a TV show, following a movie in 1990 with Harrison Ford. The series started on June 12, 2024.
The show is about a prosecutor who becomes the main suspect in his colleague's murder. The main actors are Jake Gyllenhaal as Rusty Sabich, Ruth Negga as Barbara Sabich, Bill Camp as Raymond Horgan, and others like O-T Fagbenle and Nana Mensah in supporting roles.
The series has eight episodes, each with its own story directed by different people. Filming started in February 2023 in Pasadena, California. "Presumed Innocent" first showed at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival on June 9 and then went on Apple TV+ on June 12.
Presumed Innocent Plot
"Presumed Innocent" follows the story of Rusty Sabich (played by Jake Gyllenhaal), a promising Chicago prosecutor whose life is upended when he becomes the prime suspect in a murder case involving someone from his own office. As Sabich fights to clear his name, he navigates the complexities of the legal system while protecting his loved ones from the fallout. Based on Scott Turow's acclaimed crime novel, the series promises a gripping exploration of justice, betrayal, and personal sacrifice.
Presumed Innocent Cast
Cast |
Character |
Jake Gyllenhaal | Rusty Sabich |
Ruth Negga | Barbara Sabich |
Bill Camp | Raymond Horgan |
O-T Fagbenle | Nico Della Guardia |
Chase Infiniti | Jaden Sabich |
Nana Mensah | Det. Alana Rodriguez |
Renate Reinsve | Carolyn Polhemus |
Peter Sarsgaard | Tommy Molto |
Kingston Rumi Southwick | Kyle Sabich |
Elizabeth Marvel | Lorraine Horgan |
Lily Rabe | Dr. Liz Rush |
James Hiroyuki Liao | Herbert Kumagai |
Virginia Kull | Eugenia |
Matthew Alan | Dalton Caldwell |
Noma Dumezweni | Judge Lyttle |
Gabby Beans | Mya |
Mark Harelik | Liam Reynolds |
Tate Birchmore | Michael Caldwell |
Rosanna Arquette | Kate |
Sarunas J. Jackson | Clifton |
Marco Rodríguez | Brian Ratzer |