I am sick and tired
of doing these cute little
d*ck and Jane stories.
I have brains, I have talent.
All I want
is a chance to use them.
If we're not
working together
it'll make some things
a lot less complicated.
And..
...we can spend a lot of that
less complicated time together.
Joannie is one of the most
sensible people I know.
I'm sure she'll find a way
to work it out.
Hi. Jeff and I
are getting married.
["Eight Is Enough"]
♪ There's a magic in the early
morning we've found ♪
♪ When the sunrise smiles ♪
♪ On everything around ♪
♪ It's a portrait
of the happiness ♪
♪ That we feel
and always will ♪
♪ For eight is enough ♪
♪ To fill our lives with love ♪
♪ Oh we spend our days ♪
♪ Like bright
and shiny new dimes ♪
♪ If we're ever puzzled ♪
♪ By the changing times ♪
♪ There's a plate
of homemade wishes ♪
♪ On the kitchen windowsill ♪
♪ And eight is enough ♪
♪ To fill our lives with love ♪♪
(Nancy)
'I found it!
I found it.'
(Mary)
'I didn't even know
it was lost.'
(Elizabeth)
What did you find?
The latest issue
of "BeeKeepers Digest."
I had to go to
every newsstand in town
but I found it.
Does that mean you're
gonna become a beekeeper?
No, it means
I'm gonna be famous.
Yeah, as the first person
to ever buy a copy
of "BeeKeepers Digest."
Do you remember that print ad
I did for Sunshine Soda?
Well, it just came out.
Oh, this is exciting.
Now, let's see,
which one is you?
Oh, come on, dad,
you mean you can't recognize
your own daughter?
Oh, yes, of course I can.
I was just kidding.
Uh, uh, isn't that
you in the purple?
No, this is her,
right here in the sunglasses.
Nancy, there's only one left.
- The one with the moustache?
- It's a shadow.
Oh, well, we can tell
it's a shadow.
He was just lookin' at it weird.
Imagine, my own daughter,
immortalized
in the pages
of "The BeeKeepers Digest."
'I mean, who'd have
ever thought.'
Yeah, well, better be careful
if you go out today.
Why?
Don't you realize
what this means?
Every beekeeper in Sacramento
is gonna recognize you.
[instrumental music]
(Jeffrey)
A talking squirrel?
- As in a squirrel that talks?
- Yes.
- Well, not exactly.
- Uh-huh?
- But almost.
- An almost talking squirrel.
Maybe we could find
an almost flying horse
we could do
a double feature.
I'm serious, Jeff.
Mr. Koppel wants me
to do a story
about a couple that adopts
a little baby squirrel
and teaches it to communicate
with them through signals.
Why don't we wait until
it learns how to sing and dance?
We can do a variety act.
Honey, I'm sorry,
I didn't think
you were taking this
so seriously.
Did you tell him
any of your story ideas?
- I tried.
- What'd he say?
The same thing that he said
the last three times
that I asked him, to please
let me do a serious story.
"You're not ready?"
I am so tired
of this, Jeffrey.
How am I ever going
to get anywhere
if he never
gives me a chance?
Listen, couldn't you say
something to him?
I-I mean, you can
tell him that you think
I'm ready for heavier stuff.
- I can't do that.
- Why not?
Because Koppel is probably
aware that you and I
are rather fond of each other.
How's it gonna look if
I start fighting your battles?
Yeah, you're right.
Besides, if you feel
you're being treated unfairly
you're the one
who's got to tell him.
- You're right again.
- Good.
That's exactly
what I'm going to do.
Good luck.
Tommy.
Tommy. Boy, am I glad
you're here.
Why shouldn't I be, Henry?
Rehearsal was an hour ago.
Rehearsal?
Oops.
How could you forget
about a rehearsal
in your own basement?
I guess I just got so excited
over what happened.
- Wait'll I tell ya!
- Well, let me tell you.
If you're gonna play
in this band, the first rule is
is that
you take rehearsal seriously.
Tommy, will you
let me finish?
I just met this guy who plays
warm up for Jethro Tull.
They're having this concert
here in two weeks. Guess what?
This guys says
he can get us backstage.
And maybe he can get somebody to
listen to a tape of our stuff.
You're kiddin'!
We're going backstage?
Henry, I take back everything
I ever said about you.
- Where's my ticket?
- Ticket?
The concert's been sold out
for a week.
You did ask the guy
for tickets?
Oops.
Joannie, you will have a chance.
- It takes time.
- How much time?
I'm sick and tired
of doing these cute little
d*ck and Jane stories.
Mr. Koppel, I have brains,
I have talent.
All I want is a chance
to use them.
Joannie, it is not that
I doubt your potential.
But my first responsibility
is to the show.
And I don't think you have the
experience to handle hard news.
Or serious,
investigative reporting.
I am not asking
for anything like that.
I-I'll work up to that.
I just want a chance
to do something
that I can take seriously.
Joannie, I sympathize
with your frustration.
But there is only
so much I can do.
Now, I'm sure
you understand.
No, Mr. Koppel,
I don't understand at all.
[instrumental music]
[door slams]
I don't think either
of you realize
what it would do
to my image
if anyone I know
saw me grocery shopping.
Oh, Nancy, Susan
wanted us to pick up
some disposable diapers
for Sandra Sue.
Jeremy, could you go get--
Uh, Nancy, I already
got your dad's prune juice
and Nicholas' sugar puffies.
A guy's gotta
draw the line somewhere.
Oh, listen, you two go get
in line and I'll go get them.
Okay. Okay.
Uh, Nancy, why don't you
come look at this?
What?
[instrumental music]
Don't take it so hard,
you gave it your best shot.
Yeah, well, lately my best shot
isn't worth very much.
Hey, listen, come here.
Wait a minute.
Sooner or later Koppel is
gonna come to his senses
and realize he's been sitting
on a gold mine.
I doubt it.
I hope you're right.
Anyways, I'm sorry
I had to dump all this on you.
- I..
- Nonsense.
I want you to feel free to come
cry on my shoulder anytime.
[clears throat]
I don't wanna cause
an office scandal.
You'll just have to
consider yourself hugged.
Okay.
- Got a great idea though.
- What?
Why don't we go out
for dinner?
Afterwards you can get
the real thing.
Sounds nice.
Might even cheer you up
a little.
Hmm, probably not.
Might make being depressed
more fun.
- Right.
- Bye.
[sighs]
It's just a hunch, but
are you upset about something?
My feet are aching,
my career is deteriorating
and I'm questioning
the meaning of life.
Well, at least
it's nothing serious.
I have been all over town
looking for a ticket
to the Jethro Tull concert.
- No luck, huh?
- Are you kidding?
The few tickets
that are left are being sold
by scalpers for bucks a shot
and those are the bad seats.
I haven't gotta prayer.
Why don't you just buy one
of their albums and turn it up
real loud?
Just trying to help.
- I'm depressed.
- Line forms to the right.
Hey, what's wrong?
Well, me and Melvin entered
a contest at the drug store.
You know, one of those
"Guess, how many
jelly beans are in the jar?"
And I won.
So why does that depress you?
Well, I thought
it was gonna be a great prize.
You know, something like,
free milkshakes
for the rest of my life.
So what was the prize?
Oh, some ticket
to a rock concert.
Jethro Tull?
Oh gosh,
that's rough, Nicholas.
I'm working on the squirrel
story right now, Mr. Koppel.
Yes, I'll call you as soon
as it's done, alright? Bye.
Let's see, Bradford.
You better get a move on.
They want you at the zoo
at : with a minute count.
The zoo?
Yeah, they're getting
a new hippo.
A new hippo?
Why, the old one
go out of style?
- It died.
- Oh, I'm sorry.
I didn't mean to be glib, I..
I'm just not having
a terrific day.
I can't believe it.
After everything I've been
through today.
I gotta go cover a story
about a dying hippo.
Listen, don't take it so hard.
I hear he went in his sleep.
(Nancy)
'Well, I knew they were planning
to use me in the campaign'
but I had no idea the campaign
was gonna be so big.
Did you call the ad agency?
Yeah, and they said I'm gonna be
in every ad for Sunshine Soda.
'In newspapers, magazines,
posters. Everything.'
- That's great.
- I'm gonna be famous.
- I'm gonna be a celebrity.
- I'm gonna be sick.
(Abby)
'Jeremy.'
Don't worry,
I'll leave the room first.
What Jeremy is trying to say
in his own crude fashion
is that we're all
very proud of you.
That's quite an accomplishment
for your short time
in this business.
Maybe it's destiny.
Oh, yeah,
today "BeeKeepers Digest"
tomorrow the world.
Do I detect a slight degree
of jealousy?
Alright, I admit it.
I do feel threatened
by any woman
who looks good
in a moustache.
- Hi, Joannie.
- Hmm, hi.
Hey, Joannie, wait'll you hear,
Nancy's gonna be a celebrity.
Yeah, sit down,
we'll fill you in during dinner.
No, thanks.
[instrumental music]
Excuse me.
Besides the fact that Sandra Sue
could cover this story
'how many people
in Sacramento really care'
if the hippo is happy
in his new home?
Oh, Abby.
I feel like
I'm playing games
while my whole life's
passing me by.
Joannie, you have to
have patience.
It takes time
to build a career.
I know.
But I'm so tired of being
on my way to being something.
You know, even if
I make it eventually
I can't stand feeling
so worthless right now.
I know how you feel.
I used to go through
the same thing myself.
Yeah?
[sighs]
What do you suggest?
You should take a vacation,
just take a little time away.
No. I'm not gonna solve anything
by running away from it.
I'm not saying run away.
I'm saying just stand back a
little, get a fresh perspective.
You can take a little time
for yourself.
Listen, I bet
if you got some rest
you're gonna feel
like a brand new person.
Yeah, maybe you're right.
Maybe that's exactly
what I need.
I could talk to Jeff
about it at dinner.
See how I should go about it.
Yeah.
(Jeff)
I think it's a terrific idea.
Besides, there's a dozen
other reporters
dying to get their hands
on the hippo story.
- Oh, Jeffrey, I'm serious.
- I know.
I need some time to think.
I don't know
how much time either.
Don't worry about it.
I'll juggle some schedules.
Things may get a little hectic.
But this is important.
I don't want you to come back
till you feel ready.
[chuckles]
If I ever do.
I keep thinking, you know
if I don't want
this job bad enough
to put up with all the garbage
that goes with it
maybe I just don't want it
bad enough at all.
[sighs]
Oh, I'm having
an existential crisis.
Hey, don't worry about it.
[indistinct]
You know something,
you're completely overlooking
the positive side of it.
Oh, what's that?
Well, if we're not
working together..
...it'll make some things
a lot less complicated.
- Yeah.
- Uh-huh.
And...we can spend a lot
of that less complicated
time together.
[instrumental music]
(Tommy)
'Look, what's the problem?'
'You said you didn't
want the ticket anyway.'
- That was before.
- Before what?
Before you wanted it.
See, I learned all about this
in Mrs. Roger's class.
Learned about what?
Business, you know,
supply and demand?
See, the more
someone wants something
the more it's worth
to who ever has it.
Well, I got news
for you, Nicholas.
There's a flaw
in your theory.
The supply can only be worth
what the demand has to give.
Huh?
What I mean is,
is if I had any money
I wouldn't need yours,
I'd just buy my own.
Oh.
Besides, I really didn't
want the ticket that badly.
But I figured, since I didn't
have any money to buy a ticket
and you had a ticket
that you didn't want
we could do each other a favor,
and I'd take it off your hands.
But if you're not interested
it's not that big a deal.
I don't care.
Okay.
Oh, and, uh, besides
Kenny P. Landers says
his brother will pay a lot
of money for this ticket.
Nicholas, come back here.
[knock on door]
(Nancy)
'I'll get it.'
- Hello.
- Yeah.
I'm looking for
a Nancy Bradford.
Well, you're in lucky,
you found one.
You're the Sunshine girl?
I guess, you do a lot
with makeup, huh?
Can I help you?
Oh, yeah, I-I brought this stuff
from the Sunshine offices.
Thought you might like
to look through it.
What is it?
Letters mostly.
There's a few small packages.
Who from?
From your fans,
who else?
Fans? I have fans?
[giggles]
People are writing to me?
Do you believe it?
Frankly...no.
I guess it's then
the blue and the red.
What do you think?
- Which one do you like?
- I like the blue.
But Jeff hates it.
Well, does Jeff
like the red one?
Yeah, but I hate it.
- Oh.
- Yuck.
Oh, you know, I forgot.
Yes, yes.
This one.. What do you think?
It's perfect.
You both like it?
No, we both hate it,
but it's impartial.
- That's good.
- Yeah.
- Okay, are you alright?
- Hmm? Oh, yeah, I'm fine.
No major problem?
No, except that I forgot
I lent Elizabeth the shoes
I was gonna wear.
Hey, listen, it's okay if you
don't wanna talk about it.
Talk about what?
Your problems
with your job and everything.
Oh, that problem.
Oh, I'm just having
so much fun with Jeff
I don't have the time
to think about it.
So you don't have any plans
to go back anytime soon?
I don't think so.
Not yet.
This break's the best thing
that's ever happened to me.
I've got you to
thank for it too.
Excuse me.
[instrumental music]
(Elizabeth)
So far you've gotten
proposals.
And one was even for marriage.
I can't believe this, guys
want to take you to Europe
'and one guy wants
to take you to Pittsburg.'
- What's in Pittsburg?
- His mother.
He sent her your picture
and told her
you two were engaged.
Are you kidding?
Nancy, you gonna have
to get used to it.
There's an awful lot
of weirdos out there.
Yeah, look, when you're
in the public eye
the people seem to think
that they own your life.
Oh, I don't mind,
I think it's kind of fun.
(Elizabeth)
Well, this is a sweet one.
This guys says
that you're the most
beautiful woman he's ever seen.
Yeah, you see,
it's just like Mary said.
There're a lot of weirdos
out there.
[all laughing]
Hi, honey, I'm home.
Where's little Ricky?
[laughs]
Oh, you! Hi.
Oh, wherever he is,
I hope he stays there.
Dinner will be ready
in a few minutes.
- I don't care.
- Well, you better care.
You're gonna give me the
"I slaved all day over
a hot stove routine"
Bradford."
You're becoming
incredibly domestic.
- I know. Isn't it great?
- Alright, who are you?
What have you done
with the real Joannie Bradford?
I'm serious, Jeffrey.
I wouldn't have
believed it myself.
But this is not that bad.
Come here,
see what I've done.
- Hey.
- Isn't it pretty?
Roses, candlelight..
Oh, you know,
my biggest problem all day
was to decide whether
you wanted mash potatoes
or stuffing
with your meatloaf.
- What do you want?
- I can't believe you said that.
Oh, don't make fun of me.
Alright, either one
will be fine, really.
All I care about in the entire
world...is being here with you.
Me too.
[instrumental music]
It's just a figure of speech,
I can't be your sl*ve for life.
- You want the ticket?
- 'Yeah, but--'
Then it's settled,
you do everything I say.
For the rest of my life?
Well, I'll be nice.
How about just from now
until the concert?
- I guess I can do that.
- And it's a deal?
Alright, it's a deal.
Tommy, Mrs. Rogers says
you shouldn't shake
on real business deals.
What do you wanna do?
Draw up a contract?
Hey, that's a good idea.
Oh, and while I'm drawing up
the contract
you can get started
by doing my homework.
It's a term paper
on reptiles.
But I don't know anything
about reptiles.
That's okay. That's what
all these books are for.
Have a good time.
This is gonna be
one long week.
[instrumental music]
(Jeffrey)
'That was a wonderful dinner,
Bradford.'
[Joannie chuckles]
- Jeffrey.
- Hmm?
Do you think we've known
each other long enough
that you could call me
by my first name?
[laughs]
Allow me my affectations.
It's all part of my spellbinding
wit and devastating charm.
- Not to mention your humility.
- That too.
[laughs]
- This is so nice.
- What?
Everything.
Being here with you,
this entire week.
Spending all this time together
without worrying
every five minutes of how
getting too involved with you
would complicate
our professional lives.
You don't have to tell me
the symptoms.
I'm suffering
from the same illness.
- You think we found a cure?
- Possibly.
Maybe even a permanent cure?
[music continues]
This conversation is
beginning to sound familiar.
I know.
Every time we had it before
it never ended the way I wanted.
So I thought
I'd give it another shot.
[chuckles]
What makes you think it'll be
different this time?
Because...before your excuse
was always your career.
The way things have been going..
...at least I can
get us a new excuse.
[chuckles]
Think about it.
[music continues]
Nancy, I really
don't wanna go here.
This place serves
the worst pizza in town.
Come on, Elizabeth,
it'll be fun. I'm starving.
[instrumental music]
Elizabeth, look.
I don't believe it.
Let's see, what should we have?
- Want some pizza?
- I guess.
What will it be?
Um, medium-sized,
pepperoni pizza
and two glasses
of Sunshine Soda.
- Anything else?
- 'Uh, no.'
But could we please
have our drinks right away?
I really love Sunshine Soda.
Two Sunshine Sodas coming up.
Um, you know..
ever since I discovered
Sunshine Soda
'I think it's the best thing
that's ever happened to me.'
Honey, I'm real happy for you.
Nancy, what are you doing?
Well, I wanted her
to take a look at me.
Oh, I know you're gonna think
this is strange, but..
...all my life
I had this fantasy
what it would be like
to be famous, you know?
And have strangers
recognize me.
You think it's weird.
Well, Nancy, it's not weird.
You just gotta be
more subtle, I think.
Okay.
Oh, excuse me, but, uh,
doesn't this face look familiar?
- Subtle.
- Well, yeah.
But I don't know why.
[music continues]
You're the Sunshine Soda girl?
Well, isn't that the darndest
thing? Me meeting you.
Well, I do a little
modeling myself.
My husband's
a professional photographer.
Sort of,
except he's not very good.
Actually, he's lousy.
'Well, the problem is
I just haven't been able'
'to meet
the right people, you know.'
Get the right contacts.
Hey! Maybe you could help me.
I've got some pictures
in the back.
It would just take me
a second to get them.
Just hold on, okay?
Just a second.
I'll be right back.
[laughing]
Abby, I don't think the problem
is nearly as serious
as you make it out to be.
Yeah, have you talked
to her lately?
I haven't seen her lately.
Well, that's exactly
what I mean.
She's always either
with Jeff
or she's at his apartment,
waiting for him.
Yeah, well,
that's normal, isn't it?
I mean, she's just excited
about being in love.
Yeah, and I think
that's terrific
but she can't use that
to escape
all of her other
frustrations, I mean..
Look, it is very
difficult to balance
a career and a relationship.
Joannie's had
no experience with that.
Joannie is one of the most
sensible people I know.
I'm sure she'll find a way
to work it out.
[knock on door]
Come in.
Hi!
I'm-I'm sorry to bother
you so late.
But I couldn't wait till
morning to tell you the news.
(Abby)
'What news?'
Jeff and I are gettin' married.
Oh!
[dramatic music]
[instrumental music]
[knock on door]
(Abby)
'Come in.'
Abby, can I borrow
that brown sweater
that goes so good with this?
Sure, it's on the
top shelf of the closet.
Okay, thanks.
What are you gettin'
all gushied up for?
Oh, not gushy, exactly.
I'm going out to lunch
with Jeff though.
You sure don't mind
if I borrow this?
- No, go ahead.
- Great.
- Joannie.
- Yeah?
- Never mind.
- No, what is it?
No, it's not important, really.
Oh, Abby, you have your
guidance counselor look on.
I'd know it anywhere.
You're about to give me
your, uh..
"I don't wanna interfere, but
I'm worried about you" speech.
Well, it's because
I don't wanna interfere
but I'm worried about you.
Well, there is no reason
to worry. I'm fine.
Joannie, do you remember the
other night when you said that..
You said that you couldn't
solve your problems
by runnin' away from them.
You think that's what I'm doing?
Look, Joannie, I know
how important
your relationship with Jeff is.
But...but, your career is always
been real important to you
and I'd just hate to see you
throw it away.
Abby, you were the one
that told me
to take all the time off
in the first place.
I wanted you
to take time off because
I wanted you to think about the
things that were bothering you.
But lately all you've
thought about is Jeff.
Yeah. I'm a lot happier too.
Are you sure
you're happy or..
...or are you just convincing
yourself you are?
Why would I do that?
Joannie, don't get me wrong.
I think it's terrific that
you're in love with Jeff.
But you can't use
your relationship with him
to escape from the, from the
other things in your life.
I just don't want you to rush
into something as important
as marriage with, uh, without
first being sure of yourself
and-and the things
you really want from life.
I-I won't, Abby.
Well, it's not like
the wedding is tomorrow, Abby.
We haven't even set a date yet.
I just want you to slow down
long enough
to think about it, okay?
Okay. I gotta go.
Jeff's waiting.
[instrumental music]
Bye.
[door shuts]
I don't believe this.
calls in minutes.
Most are from out of town.
Oh, here comes
the famous person.
Hey, we collected a couple
of phone calls for you
while you were in the shower.
Oh, boy, I don't even
know these people.
[laughs]
Oh-h-h!
I'm afraid so, Nancy.
Your adoring public.
- Oh, no.
- 'You wanted to be famous.'
Yeah, but, uh, why did
this one guy call ten times?
Well, that's Phil McDonalds,
your fiance.
My what?
You know, the guy,
with the mother in Pittsburg?
Oh, yeah.
[phone rings]
You might as well
get that, Nancy.
I'm sure it's for you.
Hello.
Oh, hi, Bill.
'Uh, yes, I got the messages.'
This weekend?
Uh, no, I don't think so.
Because I can't go to
Pittsburg this weekend.
I don't even know you!
Well, I guess you'll
just have to tell her
that the wedding
has been postponed.
- Oh, brother!
- Bum-bum-ba-bum.
- Don't know why she's so upset.
- Really.
Can't you take a break
just for a few minutes?
No way,
I've got too much to do.
Why're you doing this,
anyway?
Because it's Nicholas'
Saturday job
and he has a ticket
to the Jethro Tull concert.
"The" concert?
The one that's gonna
launch our career?
That's right,
and in exchange for the ticket
I have to do
everything he says.
Which is about to k*ll me.
Hey, Tommy.
Yes, Nicholas?
A little less chin music,
and a little more elbow grease.
You see what I mean?
You heard the man!
Don't stand there
runnin' your mouth.
You got work to do.
[instrumental music]
[phone ringing]
- May I help you?
- Oh.
No, I'm just waiting
for someone.
Uh, may I..
Oh, d-do you work at this desk?
- Well, sort of.
- Oh, sorry.
What do you mean sort of?
Well, you see,
I'm-I'm supposedly
a temporary replacement,
but, uh..
the rumor has it
that the girl I'm replacing
might not be coming back.
- Really?
- 'Well..'
I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
This could be my big break.
Yeah.
Uh, um, excuse me,
gotta keep on my toes.
- Oh, sure.
- Hello.
Hello, Mr. Koppel.
The squirrel story,
it will be ready at noon.
No problem.
[instrumental music]
Oh, Jeff, hi.
Oh, Joannie, I was gonna call
you, but you'd already left.
- Oh, is something wrong?
- No, no, no.
It's just that I'm not gonna be
able to take you to lunch.
Things are really getting crazy.
This story just came in
and I gotta get it
on the air by : .
You know how it gets
around here.
- I-I-I really am sorry though.
- It's okay, I understand.
Look, I gotta run.
I'll see tonight, okay?
Oh, uh..
- Bye.
- Bye.
[phone ringing]
[music continues]
(Jeremy)
'Hey, Nancy, there's this guy
on the phone for you.'
He says
he's your number one fan.
Oh, I have spent the last
three hours on the phone
talking to
of my number one fans.
I can't take it anymore.
What do you want me
to tell him?
Tell him I died tragically
over the weekend.
Nancy, I can't tell him
you died.
It will break
the poor guy's heart.
Well, then, tell him I'm in a
coma, and the chances are slim.
Nancy, you wanna go with me?
At least then
you won't have to lie.
- Where are you going?
- Just to the movies.
It's not very exciting,
but it's now.
Great. Anything
is better than this.
- Okay, come on.
- Yeah, let's get outta here.
Would you just hold on there?
Don't push.
You know, wait..
What-what was your name?
What was your name? Tom?
Tom? Okay, hold on. Just a sec..
Guys, you know, the movie's
gonna start any second.
Any more bright ideas?
Ah-ha!
- How's that story coming?
- Terrific!
It will be ready just in time
for the o'clock news.
Oh, that's great,
I've got another one
I want you to get someone on.
- Who's available?
- Are you kidding?
Everybody in this staff
is so busy
they're making
appointments to breathe.
What is it?
It's a view of
the chemical waste program.
On a local level,
it's nothing major
but it could be interesting.
As long as words
are shorthanded
you know who could be
perfect for this story?
- Who?
- Joannie Bradford.
One little problem,
she's on leave of absence.
- Call her, get her back here.
- Call her back?
- Is there some other problem?
- No.
It just.. She might not wanna
interrupt her vacation--
Oh, nonsense, she's been
begging me for months
for stories just like this.
She'll bust the door down to get
back in here. You call her.
Alright, I'll call her.
Great.
Yeah, great.
[instrumental music]
Uh! There.
I think that just about
covers everything.
Mary, would you do me favor
and run this up to Nicholas?
- Why? Is he sick?
- No, but I'm working on it.
Huh?
Well, you see, I sort of
made this deal with him.
I'd be his sl*ve for a week.
I figured, how bad
could it be, right?
And you were wrong.
Boy, was I wrong!
I haven't had a break all day.
I'm supposed to be
at rehearsals right now.
I'm hoping that after he eats
all of this garbage
'he won't feel like
ordering me around anymore.'
What is all of this?
(Tommy)
One peanut butter
and jellybean sandwich.
One bowl of potato chips,
one chocolate shake.
One candy bar and
one chocolate cream pie.
- No chocolate ice cream?
- Almost forgot.
- Tommy, this is really cruel.
- No, it's not. It's survival.
Oh, uh, Nicholas,
I was just on my way
to bring you a little snack.
No, thanks.
But I fixed all your
favorite goodies.
I'm not hungry.
Besides, you better get to work.
You've got extra homework
to do tonight.
- Says who?
- Mrs. Rogers.
You know that term paper
you did for me?
Yeah.
You flunked.
(Joannie)
'I don't know,
I've just been kind of down'
since this afternoon, I guess.
You know being back in
the newsroom made me realize
how much I miss
being part of all that.
If I go back to work, though
it's gonna be the same
old garbage again.
[indistinct chatter]
[sighs]
Oh, Jeff,
I don't know what to do.
[sighs]
You blew it.
What?
That was your cue to say
something to cheer me up.
Oh, I'm sorry. I..
I guess I'm not in
a very good mood either.
Oh, Jeff, did you have
a bad day at work?
Look, could we talk
about something
besides work for a while?
Sure.
I've had it. I'm gonna spend
the rest of my life at home
where nobody can bother me.
Hey, Nancy, my favorite
Sunshine girl. How's it going?
(all)
Hey!
Jeremy, what is going on?
These are some guys
from school.
I kinda told them
they could meet you.
Then I kindly suggest
you tell them you're breaking
your promise.
- But, Nancy, why?
- Jeremy, look, you heard me.
I'm tired of being on exhibit.
- Jeremy, what's going on?
- What's going on?
[indistinct chatter]
Look, Jeffrey, why don't you
build the fire in the fireplace
and put some music on,
and all that other trite stuff?
Then we'll try to think of
something to do
to cheer us both up, huh?
Okay.
What is bothering you, Jeffrey?
It's nothing.
It's just, uh..
It's just something
that happened at work today.
Well, can you tell me about it?
Koppel came into my office
this afternoon with a story
he said it'd be perfect for you.
[chuckles]
What is it this time?
A dolphin that recites
the Gettysburg Address, right?
Nope.
It's a legitimate news story.
You'd love it.
Really? Really, Jeff?
Koppel's gonna let me do a real
story? I don't believe it.
That's what he said.
Well, what's wrong?
Why did you wait
so long to tell me?
Why, don't you think
I can do this story?
(Jeffrey)
'Of course.
Don't be ridiculous!'
- Well, what is it then?
- Just..
I was under the impression
that you were happy
with the way things were going.
And obviously I was wrong.
You don't want me
to go back to work.
Is that what
this is all about?
I just wish you should
make up your mind.
Last week you hated the job,
this week you can't wait
to go back.
What am I supposed to do?
Put my life on hold
while you make up your mind--
Well, am I suppose
to do, Jeffrey?
Give up my chance at a big story
because you want
your dinner on the table--
It's not just that!
Use your head!
Things are different now.
It could get very awkward
at work
if you come back
as my fiance!
Oh.
Well, there's a very simple
solution to that problem
isn't there?
[intense music]
[door slams]
[instrumental music]
(Joannie)
'Oh, I told Koppel
that I'd come in early'
'get started on that story.'
Are you okay?
Well, it's not the easiest thing
that I'd ever had to do.
I'll survive.
If there's anything I can do
to help, would you let me know?
I'll be fine, Abby, really.
Okay.
[instrumental music]
Nancy, what are you doing?
- Picking out on nose.
- Oh, ho ho.
(Tom)
'You're going to change
your nose?'
No, I'm gonna change
my whole face.
I'm just starting
with my nose.
Why? What's wrong
with your face?
(Nancy)
'Nothing, except for the fact
it can't go anywhere anymore'
without being mobbed, screamed
at, sung for, or proposed to.
Hmm, in other words, uh..
fame isn't all you dreamed
it would be, right?
Well, dad, I think it's exactly
what I dreamed it would be.
I just never figured
it would bother me like this.
Am I gonna have to spend
the rest of my life
running from the phone and
wearing disguises in public?
Maybe...but, you know, if you
ever feel that the rewards
aren't worth it,
you can always just quit.
Yeah, quit.
Besides, look at all the good
things that have come of it.
Do you realize
what you've done?
You've found yourself a career
that you're good at.
And you've gone
right to the top.
How many people
can say that?
Yeah, I guess I could have
a lot worse problems
than a career
that's going too well.
And isn't it
worth the inconvenience
knowing that your family
feels lucky just to be related
to someone as special as you?
And isn't it
worth the inconvenience
knowing that you have a father
that's very proud of you?
You bet it is.
Oh, thanks, dad.
You're terrific.
Yeah. Well, I have
an ulterior motive.
Yeah?
I know who's gonna end up
paying for that new nose.
[laughing]
- Hi.
- Hi.
How's the story going?
Umm. I don't really know.
I just got started.
Joannie, I think
we oughta talk.
I'd like a chance
to explain about last night.
The explanation
seems obvious, Jeff.
You want a wife,
but not a fellow reporter.
I know it's unfair for me
to expect you to give up
your career, but it's also
unfair for you to expect me
to give up
all the things I want.
What do you want?
I never actually realized it
until I came this close
to having it.
I guess what I really want
is a home..
...a family..
...somebody to give me that.
'Is that so horrible?'
No.
[sighs]
Except it can't be me.
- Not right now, anyway.
- I know, I know and I'm sorry.
I can't help the way I feel.
Any more than you can help
the way you feel.
'I guess there's just no way
that we can have each other'
'and still have all the other
things that we both want.'
I guess not.
So..
I think the best thing is, um..
...for us to go back
to the way things were
before we got involved
in this relationship.
Fine.
I want this section!
And since when
do you read anything
heavier than the comics?
Since they started printing
Nancy's ad in the Metro section.
I promised to get it autographed
for Kenny P. Landers.
Well, Nicholas, if I were you,
I wouldn't ask her
anytime soon, okay?
- Poor Nance.
- I know.
I don't know how much
more fame she can stand?
Hey, what's this?
Not another moustache.
No, that's not Nancy.
It's a guy.
The Sunshine boy.
That's terrific.
- They have a new campaign.
- What?
Hey, let me see.
(Elizabeth)
'Nancy, your troubles are over.
You've been replaced.'
Does that mean
Nancy's going back to being
a normal person again?
No. That means Nancy's
gonna be a has-been.
- What is with her?
- I can't figure it out.
I think it's gone
to her head.
Tommy, you're still asleep?
Yeah, 'cause I'm exhausted,
I was up till : a.m.
doing your homework.
Yeah, well, get up, you've
got a lot more things to do.
[sighs]
Right now I can't move.
You've worn me out.
If it wasn't
for the concert tonight
I'd sh**t myself and
put myself out of my misery.
Well...I guess
you can have today off.
You want your ticket now?
Tommy? Tommy?
- Is Tommy still sleeping?
- Yeah, he's pretty tired.
I guess I worked him
a little too hard.
Oh, why don't you surprise him
when he wakes up
and give him his ticket?
No. I think I'm gonna do
something even better than that.
(Jeremy)
'Hey, if it'll make
you feel any better'
you got nicer legs
than that new guy.
Thanks.
Hey, you even look better
in a moustache.
Thanks.
Hey, Jeremy.. Jeremy, I'm
really sorry I yelled at you.
That's okay. Getting yelled
at is my specialty.
I've brought you
a present here.
- What?
- Just a little something.
What'd you bring me?
Uh, just some newspaper
clippings and stuff.
Gosh, I can't believe it!
You actually saved
these clippings?
Oh, why?
I thought you maybe
wanna keep 'em, you know?
Oh, that's really nice.
Thanks, Jeremy.
You know, I was just getting
used to the idea of being famous
and now it's all gone.
So, you'll be ready
for it next time.
Yeah, if there is a next time.
Nancy, look,
there's gonna be a next time.
You were a smash hit.
- Think so?
- Yeah.
Besides, I got it
from a very good source
they're looking for a cover girl
for "BeeKeepers Digest."
[both chuckling]
Do you have
the fervor on chlorine?
Thanks.
This isn't easy, Jeff.
I think we're both
professional enough
not to let our personal feelings
get in the way of our work.
Well, that makes one of us.
Joannie, it's getting late.
Why don't you go home
and get some rest?
We can wrap all this up
in the morning.
Are you sure?
Yeah, I'm sure.
- Jeff--
- Just go, Joannie.
Is she alright?
I don't know. I..
I don't think she's been out
of her room since she got home.
Yeah, I know, I-I tried
to take her some dinner
but she said
she wasn't hungry.
I think the hardest part
about being a parent
is having to see your child
go through something
that really hurts and not being
able to do anything about it.
[knock on door]
Oh, come in.
- Hi.
- Hi.
Joannie, are you okay?
I've been better.
I.. It's..
I just wanted to tell you that I
really appreciate your concern.
It means a lot to me.
It's just this is something that
I have to work out on my own.
I know.
Is there anything at all
that we can do?
I could use a hug.
[instrumental music]
[sobbing]
Dad.
What surprise?
What are you talking about?
Mrs. Rogers was right.
Business is easy
once you understand the basics.
Here.
What's this? My ticket?
- No, your share.
- Share of what?
The money I got from
Kenny P. Landers' brother.
- I sold him the ticket.
- You sold the ticket?
Yeah. I asked for twice as much
as it was worth and he paid it.
- You sold the ticket?
- Yeah.
I wish Mrs. Rogers could have
seen me out-business him.
He never knew what hit him.
- He sold the ticket.
- Yes.
See, I remember you were saying
that you didn't have
enough money
to buy your own ticket.
And I wanna do
something nice for you.
So, I'm gonna give you
half my profit.
This way you get your own ticket
and a little extra money too.
Pretty smooth, huh?
Nicholas, you don't understand.
There are no tickets!
The concert's been sold out.
I couldn't get a ticket if I had
five times this amount of money.
What, you couldn't?
Why do you think Kenny's brother
was willing to pay so much?
I thought I wheeled
and dealed them.
I don't believe this.
After all I've been through
and I'm gonna miss the concert!
Would it help
if I felt real bad?
[sighs]
Here's the last of it.
- Not bad.
- Not bad? Is that all?
It's for your first big story.
What do you expect?
Well, uh, I thought,
"Terrific" or "Outstanding."
I'd settle for
a merely "Great."
Joannie, I can't lie to you.
It's..
It's merely great.
- It is?
- Yeah.
You did a terrific job
and you're gonna be
a very good reporter.
And..
And?
And I love you.
Oh, I love you too.
We can't just work together.
- It's too hard.
- I know.
Believe me, I know.
What are we gonna do?
[instrumental music]
I don't know.
All I know is that
I love you too much
to go on like this.
We're just gonna have
to work it out.
I thought you were afraid
of an office scandal.
This is a special occasion.
I'll risk it.
[music continues]
Oh.
[chuckling]
[instrumental music]
Hi, Tommy, you still mad?
Just keep scrubbing, Nicholas,
you've got a long way to go.
It was probably
a dumb concert anyways.
I wish you wouldn't be so mad.
I said I was sorry.
[sighs]
Just keep scrubbing, Nicholas.
I know I was a little rough
on you when you were my sl*ve.
And it was real dumb of me
to sell your ticket.
'But you're my brother,
you're supposed to forgive me'
when I do dumb things.
And I said I was sorry.
Okay, okay.
- You want some help?
- You bet.
Oh, and, uh..
Tommy.
Kenny P. Landers brought
you back this program
from the concert.
I thought you might like
to keep it as a souvenir.
[instrumental music]
I guess that means no, huh?
[theme music]
05x11 - Second Thoughts
Watch/Buy Amazon
The show was modeled on the life of syndicated newspaper columnist Tom Braden, a real-life parent with eight children, who wrote a book by the same title.
The show was modeled on the life of syndicated newspaper columnist Tom Braden, a real-life parent with eight children, who wrote a book by the same title.