I really like Silk. Billy is possibly my favorite character because he is so complex. Regarding his prostate cancer. I find it equally fascinating and frustrating he doesn't talk about it to anyone... Is this a faucet of his personality, Being the cockney and hard guy - not sharing his feelings and appearing weak? Just interested in other peoples' take on the subject...
shareMy interpretation of Billy's reluctance to tell anyone about his cancer diagnosis and treatment is based on Billy's character and how he operates.
He has to appear strong, in control and always on top of his game in order to keep Shoe Lane on top in terms of good cases and networking.
Being seen as suffering from a possibly fatal disease would weaken his position in the eyes of those trying to knock him off his perch (especially the new manager Harriet who's been out for his blood from the start.)
It's the old blood in the water and the sharks will surround you concept.
In addition, Billy has mentioned several times that he wishes to have a legacy at Shoe Lane and be sure whoever follows him is good and will keep Shoe Lane healthy and successful. As anybody, he's assessing the legacy he can leave--and he needs time to set this up before telling people or perhaps heading down the road to the end. So he's keeping schtum.
He's now told Martha. But I'm betting she'll keep it secret if he wishes her to. She's not one of his "frenemies" trying to knock him down and take control of his fiefdom.
Well said and thank you.
That is how I felt too.
Really emotive subject and I feel it has been dealt with very sensitively by the writer of the show...
I agree that the character is interesting, but I found him a repulsive bully most of the time. I couldn't be sympathetic to his sickness.