Ep 17. Sam Time Next Year

In the Cheers season 9 episode 17 titled "Sam Time Next Year," Sam and Diane attempt to rekindle their relationship by agreeing to meet at the bar every year on the anniversary of their break-up. However, as the years go by, their lives take very different paths, leading to some awkward and unexpected encounters.

The episode begins with Sam and Diane reminiscing about their past relationship and how much they miss each other. They come up with the idea to meet at Cheers every year on the anniversary of their break-up to see if they still have feelings for each other.

The first year, both Sam and Diane are excited to see each other and catch up on each other's lives. They flirt and reminisce, but ultimately realize that they are still not right for each other and part ways.

As the years go by, their interactions become more and more awkward. In year two, Sam brings his new girlfriend to the bar, which makes Diane jealous and uncomfortable. In year three, Diane has just gotten married and Sam is shocked to hear the news.

Despite their growing differences, Sam and Diane continue to meet every year, and the encounters become even more bizarre. In one year, a pregnant woman named Loretta shows up claiming to be Sam's wife, causing all sorts of chaos. In another year, Diane is accompanied by her new husband, Frasier Crane, who is less than thrilled to see Sam.

As the years go by, Sam and Diane's lives take drastically different paths. Sam becomes a successful businessman and philanthropist, while Diane struggles to make it as a writer. Despite their differences, they continue to meet at Cheers every year, even though it becomes more and more clear that they will never be able to rekindle their romance.

In the final scene of the episode, Sam and Diane meet for the last time, 17 years after their break-up. They are both middle-aged and noticeably different from the young, carefree couple they once were. They sit at the bar and reminisce about their past, but it is clear that they have both moved on. As they prepare to leave the bar, they both turn to each other and acknowledge that they will always hold a special place in each other's hearts, but that their time as a couple has passed.

Overall, "Sam Time Next Year" is a poignant and bittersweet episode that explores the complexities of love and relationships. It is a fitting end to the tumultuous love story of Sam and Diane, and a testament to the enduring power of Cheers as a place where everyone knows your name.