Ep 16. The Job

Becker, a medical comedy-drama series, revolves around the life of a cynical and opinionated doctor named Dr. John Becker (played by Ted Danson). The show follows Dr. Becker, his quirky patients and his group of friends as they navigate through life in New York City. In season 5 episode 16, titled "The Job," Dr. Becker finds himself in a difficult position when he is offered a job as Chief of Staff at a hospital in Portland, Oregon.

The episode begins with Dr. Becker having a day off from work at his Bronx practice. In his usual sarcastic and blunt manner, he expresses his disinterest in spending his day off doing anything except staying at home and watching TV. However, his plans are derailed when he receives a call from Dr. Franklin (played by Tom McGowan), a former colleague who now works at a hospital in Portland. Dr. Franklin informs Dr. Becker that the hospital he works at is looking for a new Chief of Staff and that he recommended Dr. Becker for the job.

Initially, Dr. Becker is dismissive of the offer, stating that he is not interested in leaving his beloved New York City. However, as the day progresses, he begins to reconsider. His friends, Reggie (played by Terry Farrell) and Jake (played by Alex Desert), urge him to think about the opportunity seriously, citing the fact that it could be a chance for him to advance in his career. Meanwhile, Linda (played by Shawnee Smith), Dr. Becker's receptionist, seems to be happy at the prospect of him leaving as it would mean that she wouldn't have to put up with his grumpiness anymore.

As Dr. Becker considers the job offer, he struggles with the prospect of leaving behind the life he has built in New York. However, a conversation with Dr. Franklin makes him aware of the responsibilities that come with being Chief of Staff and the potential impact he could have on patients' lives. This realization prompts him to seriously consider taking the job.

Dr. Becker decides to take a trip to Portland to see the hospital and meet the staff. Once there, he is impressed by the facilities and the high regard in which Dr. Franklin and the other doctors hold the hospital. However, he is still unsure whether he wants to leave New York and start anew.

The episode concludes with Dr. Becker returning to his practice in the Bronx, where he is greeted by his friends and patients. After some contemplation, he finally makes a decision about the job offer. The audience is left wondering whether he will stay in New York or take the job in Portland, as the episode ends on a cliffhanger.

Overall, season 5 episode 16 of Becker titled "The Job" showcases Dr. Becker's dilemma as he considers the possibility of leaving his life in New York behind for a job opportunity in Portland. The episode highlights the various factors that contribute to his decision-making process, including his own desires, perspectives of his friends, advice from former colleagues, and his sense of duty towards his patients. It is a fresh take on the character's usually cynical and self-centered persona, showing a softer and more contemplative side of Dr. Becker.