Ep 34. Ep 34 - My Girl, Henrietta

Good Times is a classic American sitcom about the struggles and joys of an African American family living in a public housing project in Chicago. In season 2 episode 34, titled "My Girl, Henrietta," the focus is on JJ, the eldest son of the Evans family, as he struggles to help his girlfriend Henrietta, who is dealing with family problems.

The episode opens with JJ and Henrietta watching a movie at the Evans' apartment when Henrietta receives a call from her mother. Henrietta's mother left her father several years ago and has recently started dating a new man. However, Henrietta's father is angry and wants her mother to come back. He has been calling Henrietta and threatening her in order to reach her mother. Henrietta is worried about her mother's safety and doesn't know what to do.

JJ tells her that they need to go to the police, but Henrietta is reluctant because she doesn't want to get her father in trouble. She also doesn't want to cause further conflict within her family. JJ tries to convince her that they need to act, but she still hesitates.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Evans family is dealing with their own issues. Willona, their neighbor, is worried about her new job, while Florida, the mother, is concerned about the safety of her children in the neighborhood. Michael, the youngest son, is also worried about Henrietta's situation and questions why they can't just leave everything to the police.

As the episode progresses, JJ and Henrietta continue to argue about what to do, with JJ wanting to take action to protect Henrietta's mother and Henrietta feeling torn between her loyalty to her family and her fear for her mother's safety. Eventually, the situation comes to a head when Henrietta's father shows up at the Evans' apartment looking for his daughter.

The tension comes to a climax as JJ confronts Henrietta's father, and Florida attempts to diffuse the situation. However, it's ultimately Henrietta who takes charge and makes the decision to call the police to protect her mother.

Overall, "My Girl, Henrietta" is an episode that touches on themes of loyalty, family dynamics, and safety. It highlights the complex relationships that people have with their families and the difficult decisions they must make when family members are in danger. The episode is also notable for its strong performances, particularly by Jimmie Walker as JJ, who gives a nuanced portrayal of a young man who is torn between his love for his girlfriend and his desire to protect her from harm. With its heartfelt writing, relatable characters, and engaging storylines, "My Girl, Henrietta" is a standout episode of Good Times season 2.