Tony Goldwyn

Though Scandal often throws humor into its episodes, rarely does the show deliver an episode that’s as downright hilarious as “Mama Said Knock You Out.” It’s a welcome relief after last week’s devastating heartbreaker, and a nicely contained hour of pure family drama.

How lighthearted this episode began–with Cyrus’s ridiculously perfect wig and facial hair, and Mellie’s adorable bob–only to take a sickeningly horrifying turn midway through. At least “Everything’s Coming Up Mellie” takes a step back from the elections, especially considering last week’s dud episode, but maybe everyone’s emotions could use a few lackluster election episodes to recover.