Ep 5. The Man I Most Admire
- TVPG
- October 8, 1974
- 25 min
-
6.9 (72)
JJ is excited to enter a photography competition at school, but he soon realizes that he needs a role model to photograph in order to win. He and Michael go on a search for the man JJ most admires. They start at the neighborhood grocery store, where JJ talks to the owner Mr. Rogers, a successful black businessman. JJ is in awe of Mr. Rogers and decides to make him his subject for the photography competition.
However, JJ soon discovers that Mr. Rogers isn't perfect. He's not as friendly as JJ initially thought, and he's even rude to the Evans family when they visit his store. JJ's admiration for Mr. Rogers starts to wane, and he begins to look for inspiration elsewhere.
Eventually, JJ finds his true inspiration in his own father, James. James is a hardworking man who goes to great lengths to provide for his family. He may not have the wealth or success that Mr. Rogers has, but he's a kind and caring father who always puts his family first. JJ photographs James and enters the competition.
Meanwhile, Florida is dealing with her own problems. She's been having trouble sleeping, and she's worried about her husband's safety at work. James is a bus driver, and he's faced with dangerous situations every day. Florida's anxiety reaches a boiling point when she hears about a fellow bus driver getting beaten up on the job.
In the end, JJ's photograph of James wins first place in the competition. JJ learns that the man he most admires isn't someone with wealth and success, but someone who always tries his best and cares for his family. Florida also finds comfort in James' love and support, and she's able to overcome her anxiety about his safety. The episode ends with the Evans family coming together, thankful for each other and the little victories in their lives.