Why do fans think Dante is leaving The Equalizer? Explained

The Equalizer is an action-crime drama airing on CBS, inspired by the classic 1980s show of the same name. The 5th season of the re-imagined series premiered on October 20, 2024. The show follows Robyn McCall (Queen Latifah), a former CIA operative who steps into the role of a vigilante, using her powers to help the people of New York City.

The show introduces an ensemble cast that includes Chris Noth, Liza Lapira, Harry Keshegian, Tory Kittles, Laya DeLeon Hayes, and Lorraine Toussaint.

Marcus Dante (Tory Kittles) is a dedicated NYPD detective who is initially suspicious of Robyn McCall but becomes an ally as the story progresses.

Disclaimer: The article contained major spoilers ahead.

At the end of season 4, Dante got a promotion and a better career opportunity in Los Angeles. He left in the season finale, leading the fans to think that Marcus Dante is departing from The Equalizer. However, from the three episodes released so far, it can be presumed that Dante's story is not over yet, and the character will stay a part of the series this season.

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Is Marcus Dante not a part of The Equalizer season 5?

The ending of The Equalizer season 4 left fans wondering about the fate of many major characters. Robyn and Dante's romantic storyline reached a milestone when the pair shared a kiss, but this arc did not last very long.

In the finale, Dante received the opportunity to be a part of the Federal Unit in California, with a promotion and a salary increase.

Robyn was torn by the thought of Dante moving away, but at the fear of holding him back, she did not voice her feelings. By the time she did, it was too late, and by the end of the season, Dante had decided to move to Los Angeles.

This storyline gave fans the impression that Dante was leaving the show. On the other hand, Mel, who was kidnapped in the season 4 finale, subsequently decided to step back from the team to heal her trauma.

However, in an update from TVLine dated September 6, 2024, it was confirmed that Tory Kittles' Dante and Liza Lapira's Mel will stay a part of the show for season 5. It reads:

"They will both be back, but maybe not back back just yet. Lipira’s Mel, as you know, walked away from Equalizing, but guilt will consume her as she sees McCall and Harry face unprecedented danger due to her absence. Kittles’ Dante, meanwhile, moved to L.A. to join the FTF, but juggling that new gig and a very personal matter will start to take its toll on McCall’s ex."

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What's new in The Equalizer this season?

Robyn McCall and Marcus Dante (Image via Instagram/@theequalizercbs)

With two of the fan favorites taking a backseat, The Equalizer season 5 started with Robyn going head-to-head with a weapons cartel in an attempt to help a pair of siblings. The audience also witnessed Delilah and Harry helping Mel in her healing journey.

There was a glimpse of Dante's life in Los Angeles when Harry contacted him for help on the ongoing case. Harry told Dante that Robyn missed him and his being a part of the team.

Later, Harry encouraged Robyn to call Dante, which she did. This indicates that Dante and Robyn's story still has a lot of layers left to unfold.

Moreover, the upcoming episode 4 will put Dante back in the limelight, according to the official synopsis, which says that Dante is back in New York City to visit his father.

Fans can look forward to Robyn and Dante's interaction in the next episode, as their dynamic takes a new route this season.

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Catch The Equalizer on CBS and Paramount+.