Advance Review: Tom Swift Needs No Introduction In Nancy Drew Backdoor Pilot, “The Celestial Visitor”

Tonight, May 12, Nancy Drew will air the backdoor pilot for it’s upcoming spin-off, Tom Swift. Titled, “The Celestial Visitor”, the Drew Crew is introduced to gay, black, billionaire Tom Swift (Tian Richards), who is on the hunt for a meteorite. As per normal with Nancy and the gang, nothing is easy and the paranormal decided to take them all for a dangerous ride.

Swift’s introduction is as big as his ego. He comes sweeping into The Claw to upturn the lives of our favorite sleuthing team. After some quick introduction between Swift and the Drew Crew, Nancy and Tom set out to find a meteorite that crashed into the town many years ago. However, the pair find themselves clashing when Swift’s science or nothing mindset does not agree with Nancy’s “the paranormal exist” mind.

As a backdoor pilot, this episode does a wonderful job of introducing Swift and setting the foundation for his story without taking away from Nancy’s arc. The conversations between he and Nick (Tunji Kasim) lead to an even more emotional and honest conversation between Nick and George (Leah Lewis) about identity, their relationship, and the struggles they face living in a town that is predominantly white. It’s a beautiful moment between the pair that is interrupted too soon by the paranormal.

The episode also does a wonderful job of showcasing Swift’s intelligence, tech, including his AI Barclays (voiced by LeVar Burton), and his motivation for visiting the town. Plus, there is one particular moment where Swift shares with Nancy why he wears an armor to protect his identity that will certainly hit home for many struggling with their own identities.

Richards is a joy to watch as Swift. He manages to bring just enough ego and charm to the character that viewers will not help, but love him. The fact that viewers could potentially look forward to a full season of Richards as Swift is exciting. Richards will have no problem leading his own show after fans see him in tonight’s episode.

“The Celestial Visitor” has everything a backdoor pilot should have, a great introduction, a hook to lure fans into the new series, and a wonderful leading character. Hopefully, The CW does the right thing and greenlights this series because fans deserve to watch Richards shine on his own show.