Ep 19. The One With Joey's Interview

In Friends season 8 episode 19, titled "The One With Joey's Interview," Joey finds himself in a sticky situation when he is offered an opportunity to be a host on a game show called "Bamboozled." While he is excited about the prospect of having his own show, he soon realizes that the producer, Mackenzie, has a rather unconventional approach to running the program. The game show involves tricking contestants into thinking they are winning money when in fact they are being scammed, and this does not sit well with Joey.

As Joey grapples with whether to accept the offer or not, his friends try to offer their support and advice. Chandler tries to be the voice of reason, telling Joey that he should not compromise his values for a job. Meanwhile, Ross and Rachel offer to help him prepare for the interview by going over potential questions and ensuring that he is well-dressed and confident. Monica offers her own unique brand of support by bringing over a "lucky" suit that she insists will help Joey seal the deal.

Despite his friends' encouragement, Joey still feels torn about what to do. His decision becomes even more complicated when he runs into his old roommate, Eddie, who is now working as a janitor in the same building where the interview is being held. Eddie's presence causes Joey to flashback to a time when he was struggling to make ends meet and had to take any job he could get, no matter how humiliating or degrading.

As Joey arrives for his interview, he is introduced to Mackenzie and her team of producers. His initial excitement turns to confusion and concern when he realizes just how much the game show is rigged against the contestants. Mackenzie tries to persuade Joey to join her team, telling him that he could make a lot of money and become famous. Joey is tempted, but ultimately decides to follow his instincts and walk away from the offer. He cannot bring himself to be associated with a program that takes advantage of people's trust and goodwill.

The episode culminates in a heartwarming scene where Joey's friends show up to support him after the interview. They are proud of him for standing up for his principles and not giving in to temptation. Joey is grateful for their support and realizes that he made the right decision by choosing integrity over fame and fortune. The episode ends with the friends sharing a moment of camaraderie and laughter, enjoying each other's company and savoring the simple pleasures of life together.