Ep 8. The Working Man's Friend

Arli$$ is a comedy series that aired from 1996 to 2002, created by Robert Wuhl. The show revolves around the life of Arliss Michaels (played by Robert Wuhl), a powerful and influential sports agent in Los Angeles, who represents some of the biggest athletes in the world. Arliss is known for his wit, charm, and knack for sealing lucrative deals. The series offers an inside look into the glitzy and cutthroat world of professional sports, as Arliss navigates the challenges and complexities of the industry while trying to balance his personal and professional life.

In Season 3, Episode 8 titled "The Working Man's Friend," Arliss finds himself facing an ethical dilemma that puts both his reputation and business at risk. The episode begins with Arliss signing a contract with a young and talented basketball player named Darrien Hatch (guest star Brian White). Darrien is a humble and hardworking player with a promising career ahead of him, and Arliss sees an opportunity to secure a significant endorsement deal that could set Darrien up for life.

However, as Arliss delves deeper into Darrien's background, he discovers a troubling secret. Darrien's father, Charles Hatch (guest star Delroy Lindo), was a legendary basketball player himself, but his career was cut short due to a gambling addiction. Charles, once a revered figure in the sports community, is now struggling to make ends meet and has fallen on hard times.

Arliss, torn between his business instincts and moral compass, must decide whether to exploit Darrien's potential endorsement deal or use it as an opportunity to help Charles. He knows that if he proceeds with the deal, it could have detrimental effects on Charles' fragile situation. As a sports agent, Arliss is used to making tough decisions, but this situation presents a unique challenge that tests his principles and values.

To complicate matters, Arliss finds himself caught in the middle of a bitter dispute between Darrien and his mother, Lila Hatch (guest star Crystal Chappell). Lila, who has recently divorced Charles, is determined to secure financial stability for herself and Darrien. She sees the endorsement deal as their ticket out of their current struggles. Meanwhile, Darrien, who deeply cares for his father, wants to ensure that Charles receives the support he desperately needs.

As Arliss tries to find a resolution, he enlists the help of his trusted assistant, Rita Wu (played by Sandra Oh). Rita, known for her sharp wit and resourcefulness, proves to be an invaluable ally as they navigate the complex dynamics of the Hatch family.

"The Working Man's Friend" takes an introspective look at the ethical dilemmas faced by sports agents and the larger responsibility they have towards the athletes and their families. It explores the fine line between business interests and personal morals, and delves into the challenging choices that must be made when money, career, and relationships collide.

With its clever writing and well-developed characters, "The Working Man's Friend" offers both comedic moments and poignant insights into the world of professional sports. As Arliss wrestles with his decision, viewers are treated to a thought-provoking exploration of the blurred boundaries between personal gain and doing what is right.

Overall, Season 3, Episode 8 of Arli$$ titled "The Working Man's Friend" is a compelling and engaging installment that highlights the complexities of the sports agency business while questioning the true meaning of loyalty, integrity, and family.