In New York State, approximately one million rental units are protected under rent stabilization regulations, which govern how much and how often landlords can increase rents. An even smaller segment falls under rent control, which allows tenants to maintain their rental costs for extended periods. Rent control specifically applies to buildings constructed before February 1947, benefiting tenants who have resided there since at least July 1, 1971. This means some fortunate individuals pay significantly lower rents—often hundreds of dollars—compared to their neighbors who may face rates ten times higher. However, these rent-controlled apartments are at risk of being deregulated once the original tenants vacate, unless they are inherited by qualified family members.
The dynamics of rent control are poignantly explored in the latest episode of “Poker Face,” titled “A New Lease on Death.” The episode features Anne Saint Marie, an elderly woman portrayed by Lauren Tom, who has cherished her rent-controlled apartment in Brooklyn since the 1970s. Her plot thread revolves around her hope to adopt her granddaughter, Maddy, played by Awkwafina, in an effort to ensure the apartment remains within the family.
The episode captures the intensity and desperation surrounding the value of these coveted living spaces, a theme that resonates particularly in a city like New York, where high living costs have led to fierce competition for affordable housing. The guest star packed episode utilizes these elements to weave a suspenseful narrative as Anne encounters Kate, a character with sinister intentions, portrayed by Alia Shawkat.
Kate, a career criminal, sees an opportunity to secure the rent-controlled unit for herself, setting up a series of manipulations aimed at removing Maddy from the equation. The stakes are high, illustrating the lengths to which individuals might go to capitalize on the city’s life-altering real estate dynamics.
David Alan Grier also makes an appearance as Otto, the landlord, adding to the rich tapestry of characters that explore the intersection of crime, comedy, and the challenges of urban living. Viewers can catch new episodes of “Poker Face” every Thursday on Peacock, where they can also binge-watch the earlier episodes.
This episode not only entertains but also raises awareness about the realities faced by those living within New York’s precarious housing market. The portrayal of these relationships and the characters’ struggles highlights a hopeful narrative about community, resilience, and the value of family, even amidst the backdrop of ambition and adversity.