Ep 17. Mamed

Designing Women season 6 episode 17, titled "Mamed," is a heartwarming and emotional installment that introduces a new character into the mix and explores the challenges of reconnecting with a long-lost family member.

The episode opens with the ladies of Sugarbakers Design, Mary Jo (Annie Potts), Julia (Dixie Carter), Charlene (Jean Smart), and Suzanne (Delta Burke), receiving a surprise visitor in the form of Mary Jo's estranged half-sister, Frances (guest star Beverly Todd). Frances is looking for a place to stay while she attempts to reconnect with her daughter, who she gave up for adoption over 30 years ago.

Initially, Mary Jo is resistant to the idea of allowing her sister to stay with her, as the two have had a rocky relationship in the past. However, Julia and Charlene convince her to give Frances a chance and offer her a job at the design firm to help get her back on her feet.

As Frances settles into her new role at Sugarbakers, she shares stories about her life with Mary Jo and the other women, including her difficult upbringing and her struggle with addiction. She also reveals that her daughter has reached out to her and expressed interest in meeting her for the first time.

Despite initial reservations, Mary Jo begins to soften towards her sister and even opens up about some of her own struggles, including her recent divorce and her son's decision to move out of state for college. As the two women begin to connect, Frances reveals that she has a terminal illness and doesn't have much time left to make amends with her daughter.

Moved by her sister's plight, Mary Jo accompanies Frances to meet her daughter, who is initially hesitant to forgive her mother for giving her up. However, through Frances' heartfelt apology and Mary Jo's encouragement, the two are able to start rebuilding their relationship.

Back at the design firm, the other women are dealing with their own crises, including Charlene's struggle with weight gain and Suzanne's insecurities about her intelligence. However, the focus of the episode remains on the powerful bond between sisters as Mary Jo and Frances navigate the complex emotions of forgiveness, regret, and love.

Overall, Designing Women season 6 episode 17 offers a poignant reminder of the importance of family and the power of forgiveness. It is a touching and well-crafted episode that showcases the talents of the show's talented cast, and is sure to tug at the heartstrings of audiences.