Production
"Chuck Versus the Marlin" was the last episode written before the writers' strike put an end to production. It was decided by Josh Schwartz not to continue with the season, despite the full 22-episode pickup, once the strike concluded and to start afresh again with Season 2. Although not written as such, this made the episode the show's season finale. Schwartz admitted this wasn't the ideal situation, but was the best decision. The episode aired on January 24 as part of a two-episode block. It was preceded by "Chuck Versus the Undercover Lover" at 8pm EST, and an episode of The Apprentice at 9pm. The block was promoted by Zachary Levi, Yvonne Strahovski and Sarah Lancaster.
"Chuck Versus the Marlin" was the second appearance by Fulcrum in the show, and referenced the possibility of Chuck being forcibly relocated to a secure facility for his safety that was previously discussed in "Chuck Versus the Intersect". This episode also marked the last appearance of the Wienerlicious, as Sarah would move to the Orange Orange frozen yogurt shop at the beginning of Season 2. Big Mike's last name was also revealed to be Tucker, and that he named his marlin Norman. Morgan was revealed to have been born by Cesarean section. The GLG-20 device would later be used by the team in "Chuck Versus the Best Friend." This episode is also the first time Chuck is shown handling a gun.
The marlin can be seen in Big Mike's office throughout the season, and this is the first episode to call attention to it. Since Lizzie broke the marlin in half to extract the receiver, the marlin is taped up with duct tape at the end.
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Famous quotes containing the word production:
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