Ep 1. The Blankie

After seven hilarious seasons, "According to Jim" returns for its eighth and final season with the first episode titled "The Blankie." Jim Belushi, the lovable and boisterous comedian, continues to charm audiences with his quick wit and relatable family antics.

In "The Blankie," Jim and his wife, Cheryl (played by Courtney Thorne-Smith), find themselves tangled in a relatable parenting predicament. Their youngest daughter, Gracie (played by Billi Bruno), has grown attached to her old blanket, lovingly known as "Blankie."

The episode begins with the family gathering for breakfast in the kitchen. Jim, always the prankster, tries to playfully steal Gracie's blanket, unaware of the emotional attachment she has to it. Chaos ensues as Gracie throws a tantrum, refusing to eat her breakfast without her precious "Blankie." This sets the stage for Jim and Cheryl's dilemma.

Unsure of how to tackle the situation, Cheryl suggests it's time for Gracie to outgrow her attachment to the blankie. Jim, on the other hand, insists that "Blankie" holds sentimental value, reminding him of the precious moments when Gracie was just a baby. This divide between Jim and Cheryl sparks a hilarious debate about the role of sentimental items in a child's life.

Eager to prove his point, Jim decides to give up his prized possession, the classic muscle car he's been meticulously restoring. He believes that by sacrificing something he holds dear, he can inspire Gracie to let go of her "Blankie." However, instead of helping, this gesture only leaves Gracie confused and upset.

Meanwhile, their eldest daughter, Ruby (played by Taylor Atelian), offers her own unique perspective on the matter. As a teenager, Ruby assumes a more mature role in the family and tries to help Gracie understand the importance of growing up. Her attempts, however, only serve to push Gracie further into the arms of her blanket.

Jim, feeling defeated, seeks advice from his best friend and brother-in-law, Andy (played by Larry Joe Campbell). Andy, always the source of comic relief, hilariously recounts his own childhood attachment to a stuffed animal named "Mr. Bungles." Through their conversation, Jim realizes that perhaps he has been too focused on his own sentimental feelings, neglecting to acknowledge Gracie's needs.

Through a series of comedic mishaps, Jim finally finds a way to connect with Gracie, showing her that growing up doesn't mean losing her special bond with "Blankie." They share a heartwarming moment that highlights the importance of understanding and compromise within a family.

In the final scenes of the episode, Jim and Cheryl unite in their understanding of Gracie's attachment to her blanket. They realize that while it's essential for children to grow and evolve, it's equally important to foster a sense of security and comfort. The family's journey in this episode reinforces the value of appreciating sentimental items while grasping the significance of personal growth.

"The Blankie" explores the challenges of parenting, the importance of compromise, and the unconditional love within a family with its signature blend of humor and heartwarming moments. As fans bid farewell to this beloved sitcom, they can anticipate an entertaining and heartfelt conclusion to Jim's adventures as a husband, father, and friend.