Ep 16. The Custody Suit
- February 10, 1983
The Custody Suit episode of the second season of Gimme a Break! is a touching and emotional tale of custody battles, unexpected relationships, and the power of hope in the face of difficult challenges.
Nell Harper, the show's protagonist and a recently widowed single mother, finds herself in the middle of a custody dispute when an old friend of her late husband's, Warren, sues for visitation rights with Nell's children. Although Nell is initially hesitant to let Warren into their lives, she eventually agrees to consider his request, hoping that it might be a way for her kids to learn more about their father.
As the custody case unfolds, Nell finds herself increasingly drawn to Warren, despite her reservations about him. Despite their differences, the two begin to bond over shared memories of her husband, and Nell begins to see him in a new light.
Meanwhile, the children struggle with the changes in their lives - Kevin, the youngest, is confused and scared about why Warren wants to see them, while Katie, the eldest, becomes resentful of her mother for letting a stranger into their home. As Nell navigates these challenges, she also faces pressure from her mother, Addy, who believes that she is making a mistake by letting Warren into their lives.
Throughout the episode, the viewer is taken on an emotional journey as Nell and her family grapple with the complexities of the custody suit. Through it all, Nell maintains her trademark sense of humor and warmth, using her sharp wit and boundless love to help her children and navigate the challenges of the legal system.
Ultimately, The Custody Suit is a powerful testament to the strength of family and the power of hope. Featuring poignant performances from the show's talented cast, including Nell Carter as Nell, Dolph Sweet as Addy, and Jonathan Silverman as Kevin, the episode is a touching exploration of the human experience at its best and worst. Whether you're a longtime fan of Gimme a Break! or a newcomer to the series, The Custody Suit is not to be missed.
