Ep 11. The Book of Samuel

The Book of Samuel is the eleventh episode of the fifth season of the popular American sitcom Cheers. The episode revolves around the character of Sam Malone, the owner of Cheers bar, and his relationship with his former baseball teammate and childhood friend, Dave Richards, who is now a famous sportswriter.

Sam is excited to reunite with Dave after a long time, and he is eager to catch up on old times. Dave arrives at the bar, and the two friends joke and laugh like old times. Dave is a little surprised to learn that Sam is still running a bar and hasn't moved on to something bigger and better. However, the visit quickly takes a sour turn when Dave reveals that he has written a book– a memoir which details the wild times he and Sam had back when they played baseball together.

Sam is shocked and appalled at the idea of his old buddy revealing their wild past in a book. He is worried that this book will tarnish his reputation and make him look bad, especially with his new-found respectability as a businessman. However, Dave insists that the book is a true reflection of their lives, and that it's not fair to leave out the wild and crazy parts. Sam is deeply hurt by Dave’s claims and feels that his friend is trying to exploit their history for his own gain.

As the night goes on, the tension between Dave and Sam becomes more palpable. Dave reveals that he is struggling with alcoholism and has been sober for a few days now. He reveals the book is his way of reaching out and reconnecting with Sam, his old friend.

The episode concludes with Sam finally reading the book and realizing that Dave didn’t write it to exploit their past but to reconcile with the harm he may have caused Sam over the years.

The Book of Samuel is a classic episode of Cheers, showcasing the strength and importance of friendship, and how all good things come to those who may reconcile their differences. The episode is a beautiful ode to the power of forgiveness and the importance of moving on and letting go of the past. Fans of the show will love this episode for its heart and the stellar performances of the entire cast, including Ted Danson as Sam Malone and Haywood Nelson as Dave Richards.

Overall, The Book of Samuel is a great addition to the fifth season of Cheers, and one that fans won't want to miss. It's a perfect example of the charm and intelligence that endeared the show to audiences worldwide, and it's a classic that will stand the test of time. If you're a fan of the show or just looking for a great comedy with heart, The Book of Samuel is an episode you shouldn't miss.