Ep 18. The Boarder

Florida Evans, portrayed by Esther Rolle, is taking on a new boarder in the fictional Chicago housing projects where the Evans family lives. J.J. Evans, played by Jimmie Walker, convinces Florida to rent out their spare room to ease their financial struggles.

The boarder turns out to be an older white man, Arthur Silver, who is initially reluctant to move in, thinking that the Evans family may be uncomfortable with him as a white man living in a predominantly black community. However, upon meeting Florida and the rest of the family, he feels welcomed and decides to move in.

Throughout the episode, the characters grapple with their biases and preconceived notions about people from different walks of life. J.J., for example, is initially hesitant to let a white man move in with his family, but eventually learns to accept Arthur. Meanwhile, Thelma Evans, played by BernNadette Stanis, struggles with her own prejudices when she assumes that Arthur is a wealthy man.

The Boarder also touches on the theme of loneliness and isolation. Arthur reveals to Florida that he is estranged from his family and has no one to turn to. Despite a rocky start, the Evans family begins to see Arthur as one of their own and invites him to share meals and participate in family activities.

The episode's climax revolves around a misunderstanding that leads to Arthur being accused of stealing Florida's rent money. The family confronts Arthur but eventually realize their mistake and apologize. Arthur decides to stay with the Evans family after all and becomes an integral part of their household.

The Boarder addresses race and class issues in a way that was not often seen on television at the time of airing. By showcasing the Evans family's acceptance of a white man in their home, the show challenged prevailing stereotypes about race and class. It also highlighted the importance of treating others with kindness and understanding, regardless of their differences.

Overall, The Boarder is a heartwarming episode of Good Times that tackles complex issues with sensitivity and humor. It is a testament to the show's enduring popularity and relevance, even decades after its initial release.