The Blacklist season 8 episode 17 brings more intense stories for both Raymond Reddington (James Spader) and Liz Keen (Megan Boone). This week's episode is titled "Ivan Stepanov," a reference to the long-time friend of the former known as the "Friend from the East."
The Blacklist season 8 episode 17 picks up what transpired in episode 16, titled "Nicholas Obenrader." Stakes are even higher for Reddington since Neville Townsend (Reg Rogers) kidnapped Stepanov. The latter has been working with Spader's character for decades, but their relationship remains a mystery.
With Stepanov's presence, there is a huge possibility that the series will address his backstory with Reddington. However, the biggest problem is that he's under Townsend's watch at the moment and the situation is particularly dangerous for Liz.
In the promo of The Blacklist season 8 episode 17, Reddington made it clear that Townsend could kill Liz in the event that Stepanov talks. He goes to the Task Force and asked for their help, as he believes that his former partner is in grave danger.
Reddington cares for Liz even though she's been finding ways to bring him down once and for all. But, while one of his top priorities is to ensure her safety, it looks like he does not want Stepanov to talk because his real identity might be revealed to everyone.
There have been a lot of speculations that Reddington is a double agent, working both for the Russians and Americans. Therefore, it would be risky for him if Stepanov revealed everything to Townsend and it will hurt Liz in the process, as well.
But, despite the danger around her, Liz joins hands with Townsend in The Blacklist season 8 episode 17. The two will try to make Stepanov talk about the "N-13," which they believed to be Reddington. Now, their main goal is to prove that their suspicion is true all along.
Reddington's relationship with Stepanov remains to be a mystery at the moment, but this will be probably fleshed out in this week's episode. After all, they have been working for the last 30 years and they likely know each other's secrets.
As the synopsis notes, Reddington is desperate to save an old friend no matter what happened, while Liz and Townsend began with their interrogation. It remains to be seen whether or not the former can convince that her former partner is in danger if ever Stepanov talks.
The Blacklist season 8 episode 17 airs on Friday, May 14, on NBC.
