Saagar Kote
ABC’s ‘Fisk’ is a comedy drama series that revolves around the life of Helen Fisk and her colleagues at Gruber & Fisk Solicitors, a wills and probate firm in Melbourne. It delves into the intrigues of the workspace, while also dealing with the ideas of loyalty, professional relations, friendship, and ambitions. The nucleus of the show is the relationship between the main characters, namely Helen, Roz, Ray, and George. In the third season of the show, viewers are introduced to a woman named Melissa, who plays a vital role in Ray’s character arc. The nature of character and her relationship with Ray lead to intriguing scenarios that prove to be vital in the storyline. SPOILERS AHEAD.
Melissa is the Owner of Sassy Socks and Ray’s Love Interest in the Narrative
Melissa Marner is first mentioned during a conversation between Roz and Ray, wherein the latter tells his sister that Melissa gave him a free consultation and is supposedly a “fashion psychologist.” Ray says that he and Melissa have been friends with benefits for nearly three weeks after befriending each other three months ago. Things get complicated because Ray’s love interest, like him, is also a member of Gruber & Fisk’s networking group called “Business and Breakfast chapter,” which prevents members from dating each other. Due to his romantic engagement, Ray quits the networking group. Viewers get to see Melissa for the first time when Ray introduces her to Helen during the voting for a new member of the networking group.
Melissa instantly makes the protagonist feel awkward by judging her fashion sense and attributing it to shame. It is evident from her first appearance that she’s very straightforward, almost bordering on being rude towards others. Later, when Roz looks to find a new mediator to work with her at “Conch Mediation Services,” the fashion psychologist brings her son Bubby to the firm, hoping to see him get the position. It is also revealed that Melissa owns a fashion brand called “Sassy Socks.” During her son Bubby’s job interview with Roz, the brand owner supports him by speaking on his behalf, much to Roz’s dismay. Ray calls her his “lady love,” which makes everyone else cringe. The fashion psychologist also designs very weird socks called “socks for sandals” that surprisingly sell very well.
In a pivotal moment at a later stage in the season, Ray dresses up to propose to Melissa, but his surprise proposal is rejected by the brand owner, who blames him for choosing to pop the question in his firm, in front of his family and friends. Despite her initial feelings, Melissa finally accepts Ray’s proposal and the two of them hilariously announce that they are “engaged to be engaged.” This engagement announcement also comes with its share of sad news, as Ray decides to leave his legal career, sell the firm, and help Melissa expand her fashion business. Ray and his lover are later seen dancing in the photographs from Tony’s funnily planned pre-death funeral. Melissa presumably has a major role to play as Ray’s partner in the future.
Justine Clarke Brings the Fashion Psychologist Melissa to Life
Melissa Marner is an unpredictable and powerful woman who has her sway over professional and personal relationships. She is also an ambitious business owner who wants to expand it and gain more influence. Her love for her son Bubby also makes her a very protective mother, who encourages his weird use of fashion vocabulary. Her character arc is consequential, as it leads to some of the most pivotal moments in the third season. Her chemistry and relationship with Ray lead to changes in the workings of Gruber & Fisk.
Justine Clarke is an Australian singer and actress who has been entertaining people from a young age. As a child artist, she appeared in TV commercials and also portrayed Brigitta in the musical ‘The Sound of Music.’ She is also an author and TV host who has been involved in important projects throughout her illustrious career. Her career started to grow with the portrayal of Anna Goanna in the movie ‘Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome,’ and Tina in the show ‘The Maestro’s Company.’
Justine’s breakout role came in the Australian show ‘Home and Away,’ making her popular in her home country. Her recent acting stints include titles like ‘Wildlife ER,’ ‘RFDS,’ and ‘Turn Up the Volume.’ Additionally, she continues to enthrall audiences with her portrayal of the titular role of Julia Gillard in the play ‘Julia.’ Justine’s performance in ‘Fisk’ is entertaining as it perfectly reflects Melissa’s affirmative attitude. She is also set to star in a guest role in the series ‘Return to Paradise,’ showing that her acting skills are in demand.
Read More: Is Gruber & Fisk Solicitors a Real Wills and Probate Firm in Melbourne?
