Gone are the crisp suits and meticulously organized workspace. Jasper’s new reality is a world of clanging cell doors, stale air, and let’s be honest, questionable hygiene. Our favourite germaphobe criminology professor isn’t exactly thriving. He’s constantly on edge, flinching at every interaction and desperately clinging to the last shreds of his sanity (and probably dreaming of a lifetime supply of disinfectant wipes).
View this post on Instagram
But here’s the thing about Jasper – the man’s a genius, even in the face of utter discomfort. He starts to see a bizarre silver lining in his imprisonment. Maybe, just maybe, being surrounded by actual criminals will offer him a unique perspective, a glimpse into the criminal mind from the inside out. Think of it as the ultimate “walk a mile in their shoes” experience, prison edition.
He even manages to consult on a new case with Dan and Lisa – something about a murder involving two feuding brothers. Of course, brainstorming detective work is a little trickier when you’re constantly interrupted by cell checks and the clatter of metal trays in the cafeteria.
Speaking of the cafeteria, let’s just say Jasper’s usual gourmet lunches have been replaced with…well, let’s use the term “institutional cuisine” generously.
The wait is finally over…
Brand-new #ProfessorT starts tonight at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX pic.twitter.com/H2aqkHe8WZ
— ITV (@ITV) March 27, 2024
But the most surprising aspect of the episode was the emotional depth. Jasper, the ever-stoic professor with an aversion to vulnerability, finally cracked open a window into his soul during a session with his therapist, Helena. We get a glimpse into the tragedy of his father’s death and how it’s shaped him all these years. Seeing that usually unyielding persona crumble was genuinely moving.
Overall, this season’s premiere was a masterclass in taking a show in a completely unexpected direction. It’s a perfect blend of the Professor T we know and love – the quirky brilliance, the offbeat humor – with a hefty dose of personal growth and a whole lot of prison drama thrown in for good measure.
This season is shaping up to be something truly special, and I, for one, am absolutely here for it. Jasper might be behind bars, but trust me, this is one professor who’s still going to crack the case – and maybe even crack open a few personal demons along the way.