Ep 3. J.J. Becomes a Man (2)

JJ Evans is one of the most popular characters on the show Good Times, and in season 2 episode 3, titled "J.J. Becomes a Man (2)," viewers get to watch him take his first big steps into adulthood. The episode picks up where the previous one left off, with JJ struggling to find a job after dropping out of high school.

JJ's parents, Florida and James Evans, are concerned about their son's future, but JJ remains stubborn in his refusal to go back to school. Instead, he devises a plan to make money by using his talents as an artist, something his family is skeptical of due to his lack of success in the past. JJ sets up shop in the family's living room and starts creating portraits for people in the community.

As JJ's business grows, so does his confidence. He begins dressing differently, sporting a new hairstyle and more mature clothing. However, his newfound independence comes at a cost as he starts to distance himself from his family. JJ even misses a family dinner, choosing to work on his art instead.

The tension between JJ and his parents comes to a head in a heated argument, with Florida insisting that JJ needs to have a plan for his future and not just rely on his art to make a living. The argument leads to JJ storming out of the house, leaving his parents worried and frustrated.

Despite the argument, JJ's business continues to thrive, and he even secures a local art exhibit to showcase his work. However, JJ's success is short-lived as he soon finds out that one of his clients is actually a con artist. The client pays him with a bad check, leaving JJ in debt and unable to pay his rent.

Feeling defeated, JJ turns to his family for help. His parents come through, bailing him out of his predicament, and JJ is forced to admit that he still has a lot to learn about the real world. Florida and James remind JJ that he can't do everything on his own and that he still has a lot to learn about becoming an adult.

Overall, "J.J. Becomes a Man (2)" is a coming-of-age story for JJ, as he struggles to find his place in the world and assert his independence from his family. It's a relatable journey that many viewers, young and old, can relate to, and it's a testament to the show's enduring popularity.