Ep 41. Poll Time

Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids was a beloved animated series that aired from 1972 to 1985. The show was created by comedian Bill Cosby and centered around a group of urban children and their adventures in the city. The characters were based on Cosby's childhood friends and each episode taught a valuable lesson.

In season 1 episode 41, titled "Poll Time", the kids are excited to vote for their favorite school mascot. They each have their own unique idea of what the mascot should be and proudly campaign for their choice. However, when the votes are tallied, the winner turns out to be the one character who did not actively campaign.

The episode begins with the school's principal announcing that they will be holding a vote to choose their new mascot. The kids all eagerly discuss their ideas and begin making posters and flyers to campaign for their choice. Fat Albert and his friends each have their own idea for the perfect mascot. Rudy wants a tough-looking bulldog, while Dumb Donald thinks a friendly-looking bear would be perfect. Even Mushmouth gets in on the action and suggests a parrot that can repeat the school's motto.

The kids start campaigning for their mascot choices and the school becomes filled with posters and flyers. Fat Albert even makes a catchy jingle for his choice, a lion that represents the school's strength and pride. However, things start to get a bit out of hand when the kids begin sabotaging each other's posters and flyers.

As the election draws near, the kids become increasingly obsessed with winning. They start to lose sight of what's really important and focus solely on their own desires. Even Fat Albert, who is usually the voice of reason, becomes overly competitive and aggressive in his campaigning efforts.

On election day, the votes are tallied and the winner is announced. Much to everyone's surprise, the winner is a character named Weird Harold, who didn't campaign at all. In fact, he didn't even have a mascot choice.

The kids are initially disappointed and angry, feeling that their hard work had gone unrewarded. However, the principal explains that Harold won because he embodies the spirit of the school. He may not have had a specific mascot in mind, but he always has a positive attitude and works hard to make the school a better place.

The episode ends with the kids realizing that winning isn't everything and that it's important to be true to themselves. They learn that sometimes, the underdog can come out on top. The show's signature message of friendship and positivity shines through in this episode, along with a valuable lesson about the importance of humility and integrity.

Overall, "Poll Time" is a classic episode of Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids that captures the essence of the show. It's a fun and engaging story that teaches valuable life lessons without being preachy or patronizing. The characters are relatable and lovable, and the animation is colorful and vibrant. This episode is a must-watch for anyone who grew up on the show, as well as for new viewers looking for a charming and heartwarming animated series.