Ep 5. Marriage Most Foul

The episode titled "Marriage Most Foul" is the fifth episode of the sixth season of the beloved sitcom, Designing Women. The show was created by Linda Bloodworth-Thomason, and it follows four women working at an interior design firm in Atlanta, Georgia. The series was highly regarded for its portrayal of complex, intelligent, and hilarious female characters, and each episode tackled timely social issues with charm and wit.

In "Marriage Most Foul," the women at Sugarbaker's are grappling with the sudden end of Charlene's marriage to Bill Stillfield. Charlene is devastated, and Julia, Mary Jo, Suzanne, and Anthony are all rallying around her to offer support and comfort. The episode deals with themes of divorce, infidelity, and the fragility of marriage. As the women try to support Charlene in the aftermath of her split, they also explore their own beliefs about marriage and commitment.

In the episode, Charlene reveals that her husband left her for another woman, and she is struggling to come to terms with what this means for her future. The women at Sugarbaker's work to help her heal and empower her to move on from the situation. Throughout the episode, the women share their own experiences with relationships and marriage, each offering their unique perspectives on the complex nature of love and commitment.

The episode features incredible performances from the entire cast, with Delta Burke shining in particular as Suzanne Sugarbaker. Suzanne, who has been married multiple times, has her own opinions on the institution of marriage and the role of wives in relationships. Her antics and one-liners keep the episode light, even as the subject matter becomes heavier.

"Marriage Most Foul" is a touching and insightful episode that captures the heart of what made Designing Women such a beloved series. Through the lens of this episode, viewers are able to explore complex themes of trust, vulnerability, and the power of female friendship. The women at Sugarbaker's offer support and empathy, showing the importance of having a strong network of people to lean on during difficult times.

The episode is also notable for its frank portrayal of divorce and infidelity, two topics that were not often depicted on television in the 1980s and 1990s. The show was ahead of its time in its willingness to address these issues head-on, and "Marriage Most Foul" is a prime example of how the writers were able to tackle difficult subjects with grace and humor.

Overall, "Marriage Most Foul" is an excellent episode of Designing Women that continues to resonate with viewers today. The show's message of female empowerment and the importance of strong friendships is timeless, and this episode is a testament to the show's enduring popularity and legacy.