When we talk about a crime drama like Will Trent, it’s easy to get caught up in the intricacies of the cases, the twists, and the high-octane action. However, what truly sets this show apart in its third season is the acting. The performances on display this season are not just good — they’re exceptional, with each actor pushing the limits of their craft and creating characters that feel as real and raw as the crimes they solve.
Ramón Rodríguez as Will Trent is the beating heart of the show. In Season 3, Will’s internal struggles become even more pronounced, as he’s forced to confront his past and his vulnerabilities head-on. What’s remarkable about Ramón’s portrayal is how effortlessly he blends Will’s cold, methodical nature with the emotional complexity of a man haunted by his history. There’s a depth to his performance that goes beyond the usual detective archetype. Ramón gives us a Will who’s broken yet resilient, haunted yet determined. He doesn’t just solve cases — he feels them, and so does the audience. Every look, every pause, every quiet moment on screen is packed with emotion, and Ramón commands attention in every scene.
But Ramón is far from alone in carrying the weight of this season. Enter Gina Rodriguez as Assistant District Attorney Marion Alba — the new face in town. Gina brings an intensity and freshness to the series, seamlessly fitting into this complex world. Her character is confident, no-nonsense, and often just as tough as the criminals she seeks to bring to justice. But there’s more to Marion than just her strong exterior. Gina beautifully reveals the vulnerabilities lurking beneath, showing a woman who is determined but also emotionally torn between her ambition and her integrity. The chemistry between Gina’s Marion and Ramón’s Will is electric — there’s a palpable tension between them, as both navigate the world of crime and justice. Together, they make an excellent team, but their relationship is far from simple. The cracks in their partnership are just as interesting as their moments of unity, and Gina’s performance anchors this complexity perfectly.
Then, there’s Erika Christensen as Angie Polaski. From the very first season, Angie has been a character with a gritty, raw edge — a woman who’s been through a lot and is still standing, albeit a bit broken. In Season 3, Erika takes Angie’s emotional depth to new heights. Angie’s struggle with addiction, loyalty, and love takes center stage this time around, and Erika’s portrayal is nothing short of haunting. There’s a quiet desperation to her performance — you can see the weight of her decisions and the way they slowly chip away at her, but also the flickers of hope and love that keep her going. Erika excels at showing the cracks in Angie’s armor, and it’s hard not to feel for this complex character who’s often caught between the pull of her past and the desire to do better.
And of course, we can’t forget Iantha Richardson as Faith Mitchell. Faith’s journey this season is one of emotional growth and strength. Iantha plays her with such subtlety and grace that every moment feels earned. Faith may be a strong character, but she’s also deeply compassionate — and Iantha effortlessly conveys that balance. Her ability to show Faith’s tenderness while never sacrificing her tough-as-nails exterior is what makes her so compelling. Faith is a character who anchors the team, always bringing a steady presence when things get rough, and Iantha brings that strength to life with sincerity and depth.
What makes Season 3 of Will Trent truly stand out, however, is how the actors’ performances work in tandem to elevate the storytelling. It’s not just about the emotional highs and lows of each character individually — it’s about the way they interact, the way their personal struggles and relationships are woven into every case they solve. This season feels like a perfect storm of talent, with each actor bringing their A-game and feeding off one another’s energy. It’s clear that the entire cast is fully invested in their roles, and it shows in every scene.
Will Trent has always been a show that’s more about the people than the cases they solve. Yes, there’s the crime, the investigation, the suspense — but at the heart of the show is the emotional journey of these characters, and that’s where the actors truly shine. Season 3 takes this to new heights, with performances that are at once grounded and raw, while also full of the intensity and tension that make crime dramas so captivating.
If the Emmys are truly about recognizing the best in television, then Will Trent should absolutely be in the conversation this year. With its emotionally-charged performances, rich character development, and the way each actor brings their character to life with such depth and authenticity, this season proves that Will Trent isn’t just a crime drama — it’s a masterclass in acting.a
