Ep 7. Sex Education
- TV-NR
- November 6, 1976
- 25 min
-
6.0 (7)
Alice is a 1970s sitcom that follows the life of a recently widowed housewife named Alice Hyatt. In season 1 episode 7, titled "Sex Education," Alice becomes concerned about her son Tommy's lack of knowledge about sex education. As a single mother, she struggles to know how to broach the subject with him and ultimately seeks advice from the others at Mel's Diner, where she works as a waitress.
Throughout the episode, the topic of sex education is explored through various comedic storylines. The other waitresses, Vera and Florence, offer their own advice on the matter, with Vera recommending that Alice show Tommy graphic medical images while Florence suggests that she simply tell him "the facts of life." Meanwhile, Mel offers his own solution: sending Tommy to a "manly" summer camp where he can learn about sex from his fellow male campers.
As Alice tries to figure out the best way to handle the situation, she also grapples with her own feelings of loneliness and sexual desires. She finds herself attracted to one of the customers at the diner, a handsome truck driver named Earl, and the two begin a flirtation that culminates in a date at a local seafood restaurant. However, their romantic evening is cut short when Alice becomes embarrassed by her lack of sex education knowledge and abruptly ends the date.
The episode ultimately concludes with a heartwarming scene in which Alice has a frank and honest conversation with Tommy about sex and relationships, using the metaphor of a baseball game to explain the various stages of physical intimacy. Tommy expresses his gratitude for his mother's guidance and the two share a touching moment of connection.
"Sex Education" is a lighthearted and humorous exploration of a common parental dilemma. The episode tastefully tackles the topic of sex education while also delving into Alice's personal struggles with loneliness and desire. With its memorable characters and heartfelt moments, Alice continues to be a beloved classic sitcom.