Ep 7. Joey and the Poker

Joey season 2 episode 7, titled "Joey and the Poker," follows Joey as he tries to prove himself as a serious actor. Joey is elated when he lands a lead role in an independent film, but his enthusiasm quickly fades when he realizes that the part requires him to play a serious poker player. Despite having little knowledge of the game, Joey believes that with enough research and practice, he can pull off the role convincingly.

Joey's determination to master poker leads him to reach out to an old acquaintance, a professional poker player named Ronnie. Ronnie agrees to teach Joey how to play, but Joey quickly realizes that he may have bitten off more than he can chew. Ronnie is an intense and aggressive player, and Joey struggles to keep up with him during their sessions.

Meanwhile, Joey's sister Gina is dealing with her own career issues. She is frustrated with her job at the salon and feels that she is not being taken seriously as a hairdresser. When her boss gives her an important client to work with, Gina sees it as an opportunity to prove herself. However, the client turns out to be a difficult and demanding actress who makes Gina's job even more challenging.

As Joey struggles with his poker lessons and Gina deals with her difficult client, both siblings turn to their friend and neighbor Michael for support. Michael tries to help Joey by playing practice games with him, but his lack of poker skills offer little assistance. Meanwhile, Michael listens sympathetically to Gina's complaints about her client and tries to offer her advice.

The episode culminates in a high-stakes poker game, where Joey's acting career hangs in the balance. Ronnie agrees to let Joey play in a professional game, but warns him that the other players may not play fair. Joey puts on his best poker face and tries to keep up with the other players, but he quickly falls behind. Just when it seems like all hope is lost, a stroke of luck turns the game in Joey's favor.

Back at the salon, Gina also has a stroke of luck when her difficult client suddenly becomes impressed with her work. The client offers Gina a job as her personal hairdresser, which could mean big things for Gina's career. Both Joey and Gina celebrate their victories with Michael, grateful for his support and encouragement throughout their struggles.

Overall, "Joey and the Poker" showcases the highs and lows of pursuing a career in the entertainment industry, as well as the importance of friendship and support along the way.