Tyler Perry’s House of Payne | Season 14 Episode 7 Review: Burying The Hatchet

House of Payne Season 14, Episode 7: “Burying the Hatchet” – Review Summary

This episode stirred up plenty of emotions — and controversy. Titled “Burying the Hatchet,” it aimed to explore healing and forgiveness but ended up frustrating some viewers due to unresolved tensions, selective memory, and inconsistent character accountability.

1. Opening Thoughts & Episode Rating

The reviewer bluntly gives this episode a 2 out of 10, despite its emotional ending and Ella’s powerful prayer. The main issue? Characters are still refusing to be honest, and the narrative glosses over major past conflicts. Emotional moments are undercut by a lack of true growth.

2. Jasmine and Jackson – One Scene, Big Problem

The short Jasmine-Jackson scene is a glaring example of why the episode falters. Jackson’s sincere apology is appreciated, but it doesn’t erase his previous betrayal — trying to ruin Jasmine’s academic standing. Everyone in the family seems to forget his sabotage entirely, urging Jasmine to “be nice.” This lack of consequences and character amnesia drags the moment down.

3. Malik, CJ, Janine – Glimpses of What Could Be

There’s a small, refreshing moment where the family dynamics shine: Malik, Janine, and CJ act like functional adults with busy lives and intersecting schedules. It’s what the reboot should have focused on—showing how the family balances real adult responsibilities and careers. It’s brief, but a standout.

4. Laura and Calvin – Still Broken

Tension between Laura and Calvin continues. Laura wants to talk, but Calvin refuses, saying he needs time. This mirrors Zatima’s issues—where women demand immediate emotional labor from men who need space. Laura’s need for control is frustrating, and Calvin’s retreat signals deeper cracks.

5. “Mama Laura” – A Soft Moment

A rare warm moment arrives when Junior calls Laura “Mama Laura,” and she lights up. It’s a sweet touch that adds nuance to her otherwise tense presence.

6. Ella Visits Laura – Awkward & Contrived

Ella shows up at Laura’s condo moments after Calvin leaves (somehow missing him in the hallway). She comes to apologize and “heal the relationship,” but Laura quickly corrects her: “Miss Ella, we never had one.” This bar hits hard. Laura also revisits the infamous “narrow tail” versus “narrow ass” moment, suggesting the family has never truly accepted her.

Despite Ella’s well-intentioned visit, Laura’s honesty highlights the show’s recurring flaw: fake reconciliation without real change.

7. Accountability Still Missing

Just like Karen in Sistas, many characters in House of Payne—especially Ella, Miranda, and Laura—have dodged accountability. Even when apologies are made, deeper issues are left unresolved, and characters are allowed to rewrite history or deny past actions.

Final Verdict

This episode had the potential to be a turning point in emotional healing, but it’s undermined by:

Selective memory and lack of accountability.
Rushed or one-off resolutions to deep-rooted issues.
Missed opportunities for real growth in relationships.

It’s clear the show is trying to push characters toward maturity and understanding, but it’s still clinging to sitcom tropes and emotional avoidance. Fans like the reviewer, who have followed these arcs closely, are understandably frustrated.