Episode 2: Be a Pal

Episode 2: Be a Pal

Airdate: October 22, 1951

Grade: B-

This made me laugh out loud, although I didn't really like the poker scene because Lucy was too much of an idiot. The Cuban stereotypes are over the top, but I did like learning that Ricky's mother not only bore six sons but she was a singer and dancer.

It's interesting that Ethel is the plot-driver here, using advice from a "Book of the Week" selection (four times as good as a "Book of the Month") to help Lucy regain Ricky's interest. Ethel even dresses in drag. She probably knows recapturing Fred's interest would be impossible, since he just sort of tolerates her, like a '50s Mr. Roper on Three's Company. At least we're spared hearing how horny Ethel is.

Tony Michaels plays Charlie here and would be a laundryman later. Richard J. Reeves has his first of nine roles on the show, as Hank, a poker player like Charlie.

Marc Daniels directed again.