Ep 14. Larry Spoke

Becker season 1 episode 14, titled "Larry Spoke," follows the cranky and opinionated Dr. John Becker (played by Ted Danson) as he deals with the everyday challenges of running his medical practice in the bustling New York City borough of the Bronx.

The episode starts with Becker's secretary, Linda (played by Shawnee Smith), telling him that a patient named Larry Willoughby (played by Travis T. Flory) is waiting for him in the exam room. Larry, who is a young boy with Down syndrome, has been coming to Becker's office for his medical needs for a while, but this time, he seems to have something important to say.

Larry tells Becker that he had a dream the previous night where he spoke normally and that he wants to learn how to speak like that. Becker, who is not known for his compassion or patience, dismisses Larry's request and tells him that it is impossible, given his condition.

However, Linda senses that Larry truly wants to learn how to speak and convinces Becker to help him. They start with the basics, including the different vowel sounds, and Larry struggles to make any progress. Becker is ready to give up, but Linda insists that they keep trying.

Meanwhile, Becker's ex-girlfriend, Chris (played by Nancy Travis), drops by the office to talk to him. They had broken up recently, and Chris wants to give their relationship another chance. Becker, who is still processing his feelings, is hesitant, but Chris is persistent.

As the episode progresses, Larry's progress in learning to speak frustrates Becker, but Linda remains optimistic and encourages him to keep trying. She even brings in her nephew, a speech therapist, to help out.

As the session continues, Larry seems to make some progress, and he tells Becker that his dream was about him being a firefighter, something that he has always wanted to do. Becker realizes that Larry's dream is within reach, and he starts to see him in a new light.

The episode ends with Becker and Chris having a heart-to-heart conversation, where they agree to give their relationship another chance. Meanwhile, Larry gives Becker an origami crane as a present, and Becker is touched by his gesture.

Overall, "Larry Spoke" is an episode that highlights the human side of Becker, who is at times portrayed as a grumpy and unfeeling doctor. Through his interactions with Larry, we see that he is capable of showing compassion and empathy, even towards a patient with whom he has had a difficult relationship. The episode also explores the themes of perseverance, hope, and the power of dreams, making it an inspiring and heartwarming addition to the show's first season.