Diff'rent Strokes Season 1 Episode 1

Ep 1. Movin' In

  • TV-PG
  • November 3, 1978
  • 22 min
  • 7.2  (167)

Movin' In is the very first episode of the popular American sitcom, Diff'rent Strokes. The show premiered in 1978 and ran for eight seasons, capturing the hearts of viewers with its unique blend of humor and social commentary.

In this episode, we are introduced to the central characters of the show, the Drummond family. Phillip Drummond is a wealthy widower living in his luxurious penthouse apartment in Manhattan. He is a successful businessman who has recently adopted two African American brothers, Arnold and Willis. The brothers have grown up on the streets of Harlem and are now struggling to adapt to their new surroundings.

As the episode begins, Mr. Drummond is preparing to welcome his two new sons into his apartment. He has arranged for a housekeeper, Mrs. Garrett, to take care of the boys and has hired a tutor to help them catch up on their schooling.

Arnold and Willis arrive, and it becomes apparent right away that they are out of their element. They are amazed at the luxury of the penthouse and are almost overwhelmed by the size of it. They are also fascinated by the many gadgets and technology that they've never seen before.

Despite his initial reservations, Mr. Drummond quickly grows fond of the boys. He is shocked to learn that they have never had their own room before and decides to let them share the spare room in his apartment.

The boys are thrilled with their new living quarters, but it quickly becomes apparent that they are not used to the kind of discipline that Mr. Drummond expects. They are loud and unruly, and Mr. Drummond begins to regret his decision to take them in.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Garrett is struggling to connect with the boys. She comes from a completely different background and doesn't know how to relate to them. She attempts to win them over by baking them cookies, but they are unimpressed. Arnold even makes a joke at her expense, which leaves Mrs. Garrett feeling hurt.

As the day progresses, tensions rise in the Drummond penthouse. Mr. Drummond is frustrated with the boys' behavior and begins to fear that he has made a mistake. Arnold and Willis, for their part, are confused by the rules and expectations of their new home.

Things come to a head when the boys accidentally break a valuable vase in the living room. Mr. Drummond is furious and demands that they apologize. The boys are defensive, unwilling to admit fault.

In the end, Mr. Drummond sits down with the boys and talks to them about their behavior. He explains that he cares about them and wants them to succeed. He also makes it clear that there will be consequences if they continue to act out.

Moved by Mr. Drummond's kindness, the boys apologize for their behavior and promise to do better. Mrs. Garrett, who has been listening in on the conversation, is touched by the exchange.

The episode ends with the characters settling into their new roles in the Drummond household. Arnold and Willis are still getting used to the rules and expectations, but they are beginning to understand that the Drummonds care about them and want them to succeed.

All in all, Movin' In is a charming and heartfelt introduction to the world of Diff'rent Strokes. It sets the stage for the issues that the show will explore throughout its run, such as race, class, and family dynamics. With its mix of humor and heart, this episode is sure to entertain and leave viewers eager for more.

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Description
  • First Aired
    November 3, 1978
  • Content Rating
    TV-PG
  • Runtime
    22 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    7.2  (167)