On Dying High (Quincy, M.E.)
| On Dying High | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Episode Quote
'"It’s not just what we find in the body, but what the body tells us about society." ~ Dr. R. Quincy
Episode Overview
On Dying High is the eighth episode of Season 7 of the Quincy, M.E. television series. It originally aired on NBC on November 17, 1981. The episode delves into the dangers of a new designer drug hitting Los Angeles, as Quincy investigates the suspicious death of a young man tied to drug culture and addiction, highlighting issues of substance abuse and forensic toxicology.
Table of Contents
Application of The QME Episode Laws
- ✅ Law 1 – Truth & Justice:** Quincy’s investigation uncovers the real cause of death behind what seemed like a typical overdose, ensuring justice for the victim and accountability in the emerging drug trade.
- ✅ Law 2 – Social/Ethical Issues:** The episode tackles the growing problem of designer drugs and the social consequences of drug abuse among youth, stressing public health and preventive measures.
- ✅ Law 3 – Sensitive Complex Topics:** Addiction, drug culture, and associated dangers are treated with nuance and compassion, avoiding sensationalism.
- ✅ Law 4 – Scientific Accuracy:** Detailed forensic toxicology analyses underpin the investigation, showing realistic lab procedures and drug identification techniques.
Together, these elements reinforce the series' hallmark of combining forensic science with socially relevant storytelling.
Episode Synopsis
Dr. Quincy investigates the death of Bobby Walsh, a young man found dead under suspicious circumstances. Initial assumptions point to a common drug overdose, but Quincy's forensic work reveals the involvement of a new, potent designer drug with lethal effects. As he navigates the complex web of addiction, peer pressure, and drug distribution, Quincy exposes the dangers of unregulated substances and advocates for awareness and change.
Plot Summary
Bobby Walsh is discovered dead in his apartment, presumed to have overdosed on an unknown substance. Quincy conducts a thorough autopsy and toxicology screening, identifying the presence of a newly synthesized designer drug that is rapidly gaining popularity on the streets. Working alongside social workers and law enforcement, Quincy traces the drug’s origin, uncovering a local dealer network and the tragic impact on young users. His investigation also explores Bobby’s troubled family dynamics, particularly his father Eddie Walsh and girlfriend Anne Clark, shedding light on the personal toll of addiction. The episode ends with Quincy's call for increased vigilance and education to combat the growing drug epidemic.
← The Late Mrs. Lamb (Quincy, M.E.) • On Dying High • Death Among the Flowers (Quincy, M.E.) Season 7 Overview: Full Episode List
Main Cast
- Jack Klugman as Dr. R. Quincy
- Robert Ito as Sam Fujiyama
- Val Bisoglio as Danny Tovo
- John S. Ragin as Dr. Robert Asten
- Garry Walberg as Lt. Frank Monahan
Guest Cast
- Michael T. Weiss as Bobby Walsh
- Kate Mulgrew as Anne Clark
- Louise Lasser as Dr. Gwen Parker
- Ron McLarty as Eddie Walsh
Case File Summary
Victim: Bobby Walsh Case #: LACC 81.11.157
The victim died due to an overdose involving a new designer drug. Forensic toxicology was crucial to identifying the substance and determining cause of death, leading to a broader investigation into illegal drug distribution.
Additional Victims
- None reported in this episode; focus remains on the single overdose case and community impact.
Alleged Perpetrators
- Unnamed drug dealers and distributors linked to the designer drug spread in Los Angeles.
Filming Locations and Exterior Footage
Scenes were filmed on location in various Los Angeles neighborhoods depicting young adult hangouts and urban apartments, lending authenticity to the drug culture portrayal.
Forensic Science Insight
- The episode showcases advanced forensic toxicology techniques for the early 1980s, including chromatography and mass spectrometry to identify designer drugs.
- Demonstrates the importance of careful autopsy and chemical analysis in drug-related deaths.
- Highlights challenges forensic pathologists face with emerging synthetic substances.
Themes & Tropes
- The Dark Side of Youth Culture – exploring risks associated with drug experimentation.
- Science as Detective – forensic science solves mysteries behind sudden deaths.
- Family in Crisis – personal toll of addiction on loved ones.
- Warning to Society – an early televised cautionary tale on designer drugs.
Reception & Ratings
The episode was positively received for its timely topic and realistic depiction of drug abuse. Critics praised Jack Klugman’s earnest portrayal of Quincy confronting a modern epidemic. Viewership maintained steady numbers during the season’s mid-run.
Trivia
- Kate Mulgrew later gained fame as Captain Janeway on Star Trek: Voyager.
- This episode marked one of the earliest network TV treatments of designer drugs.
- The forensic lab scenes were applauded by medical professionals for their accuracy.
Product Placements
No notable product placements documented.