Ep 20. Bubble, Bubble, Toil and Murder

Ironside season 5 episode 20 "Bubble, Bubble, Toil and Murder" revolves around the homicide of a co-ed on the campus of San Francisco State College. The victim is found strangled in the steam room of the school's athletic center. The victim, Cheryl, was a student of anthropology and had recently become a research assistant for Dr. Arthur Shannon, a professor of anthropology.

Ironside and his team investigate the case, which includes interviewing several suspects - the jealous boyfriend, the professor who may have had a romantic interest, and even the victim's roommate. They also learn that Cheryl was about to publish her findings on the recent excavation at a local historical site, which could have led to a financial windfall for the college.

As the investigation deepens, the team discovers a web of deceit and corruption among the faculty and administration of the college. The victim's death seems to be connected to the college's push to expand its research programs and the attendant funding, as well as the ambitions of several powerful players in the department.

As the case progresses, Ironside finds himself on the wrong side of the college officials, who are more interested in protecting the school's reputation than in finding justice for the victim. But with his usual determination and intuition, Ironside leads his team to solve the case, unmasking the killer and exposing the folly and greed of those who sought to protect the college at all costs.

The episode is a classic whodunit, full of twists and turns, and keeps the viewer guessing until the very end. It also delves into the politics and corruption often present in academic institutions, even at the expense of the students and researchers themselves. The team dynamic is also a highlight of the episode, with each member bringing their unique skills and insights to the investigation. Overall, "Bubble, Bubble, Toil and Murder" is a satisfying and engaging entry in the Ironside series.