Ep 14. The Relative

In the episode titled The Relative from season one of the classic sitcom Diff'rent Strokes, the storyline dives into themes of family connection, the complexity of relationships, and the unforeseen challenges that come when distant relatives make an unexpected appearance.

This particular installment of the series opens up at the Drummond household, a setting that has become familiar to audiences as a place of warmth, laughter, and often, the backdrop for important life lessons. Philip Drummond, a wealthy Manhattan businessman, has opened his luxurious penthouse home to two orphaned brothers from Harlem, Arnold and Willis Jackson, committing to their care and integration into a radically different lifestyle from what they knew before.

As the episode unfolds, the Drummond family is in for a surprise when a distant relative shows up unannounced. The anticipation and curiosity about this seldom-seen family member quickly give way to a flurry of emotions and reactions from each character. The relative, whose arrival sparks a variety of comedic and poignant moments, serves as a catalyst for the episode's exploration of familial bonds and expectations.

Philip, with his perpetual sense of responsibility and kindness, sees the visit as an opportunity to strengthen family ties and exhibit his role as a father figure not only to his biological daughter, Kimberly, but also to his adopted sons. Meanwhile, Kimberly, ever eager to please and make new connections, navigates her way through the unfamiliar dynamic with characteristic poise and curiosity.

Arnold, the younger of the Jackson brothers and the show’s source of boundless charm and humor, reacts to the situation with his usual blend of innocence and insight. His witty one-liners and unique perspective often cut through the tension and resonate with a truthfulness that only a child's viewpoint can provide. Willis, more guarded and skeptical due to his older age and experience, exhibits a mix of curiosity and caution, analyzing how the presence of this relative might impact their family.

As the story progresses, the Drummonds, with their diverse viewpoints and backgrounds, are faced with the challenge of navigating the quirks and idiosyncrasies of their guest. The relative’s peculiar habits, unexpected opinions, and old stories from past times serve as a window into the family’s history, often leading to humorous misunderstandings and learning moments. It’s these interactions that give the episode its heart, as they prompt the characters to confront their preconceived notions about family and to consider what truly makes a family strong.

The sitcom, while providing laughs, doesn’t shy away from addressing the occasional friction that this kind of surprise visit can instigate. With the Drummond family being a patchwork of different races, ages, and social backgrounds, the series has an undercurrent of social commentary. This episode is no exception, as the appearance of the relative brings up subtle issues of class, generational gaps, and the integration of various family cultures.

Throughout the episode, viewers observe the characters learning from one another and evolving. Discussions at the dinner table, moments of heartfelt advice in the living room, and the typical family squabbles that ensue are all snippets that build the fabric of this family sitcom. The characters’ individual approaches to the situation reveal their personalities and vulnerabilities, allowing for moments of personal growth and reflection.

The Relative is a testament to the show's overarching themes of acceptance, the value of open communication, and the importance of keeping an open heart. The familial challenges and revelations in this episode offer up both laughs and lessons, as consistent with the heartwarming nature of Diff'rent Strokes.

By the end of the episode, the Drummonds and Jacksons, along with their relative, arrive at a greater understanding of one another. Audiences are left with the recurring message that it is the love and respect shared amongst family – however that family may come together – that holds the power to overcome any unexpected hurdle or to bridge any familial divide.

As the credits roll on The Relative in season one of Diff'rent Strokes, the viewers have been through a roller coaster of comedy, unexpected revelations, some messy but sincere scenes of family bonding, and ultimately, a sense of fulfillment that only a well-written family sitcom can provide. This episode remains a standout in the series for its blend of humor, heart, and the timeless message on the enduring strength of family ties.