Ep 1. Zirconias Are A Girl's Best Friend
- April 24, 1987
Zirconias Are A Girl's Best Friend is the exciting season 4 premiere of the beloved television sitcom, Mama's Family. Set in the charming and quirky town of Raytown, the show follows the hilarious misadventures of the Harper family, led by the indomitable matriarch Mama, played by the legendary Vicki Lawrence.
In this episode, we find the Harpers going about their daily lives with their usual mix of love, laughter, and eccentricities. As always, Mama's quick wit and sharp tongue are on full display, making for endless amusement. Much to her chagrin, Mama finds herself at odds with her troublesome and goody-two-shoes neighbor, Iola Boylan.
The episode kicks off with Mama and Iola participating in a local charity fashion show organized by the Raytown Historical Society. Mama, who prides herself on her thrifty nature, is dismayed to discover that she has been assigned to wear fake, or zirconia, jewelry for the show. She believes that nothing but genuine gemstones should grace her presence. Iola, on the other hand, is thrilled by the zirconia accessories and begins showcasing them with an over-the-top enthusiasm.
As the fashion show approaches, tensions rise between Mama and Iola. Mama's determination to dress exclusively in the finest jewels leads her on a quest for genuine gems within her tight budget. With her trademark resourcefulness, Mama embarks on a mission to find an affordable gemstone to wear, refusing to let Iola outshine her with her zirconia treasures.
In the midst of this rivalry, the rest of the Harper family gets entangled in their own uproarious subplots. Vinton, Mama's son, is struggling to find stable employment, leading to financial strain and tension with his equally eccentric wife, Naomi. Vinton's frequent job-hopping, fueled by various oddball schemes and get-rich-quick ideas, has become a running gag throughout the series, and this episode is no exception.
Meanwhile, Mama's daughter, Eunice, and her long-suffering husband, Ed, are entangled in their usual bouts of bickering and marital discord. Their seemingly endless arguments provide both comedic relief and a relatable reflection of the ups and downs of married life. Eunice's perpetual dissatisfaction with her husband Ed fuels her quest for a more fulfilling relationship, often leading her to fantasize about a life without him.
Amidst the chaos, Mama's grandson, Bubba, adds a dose of youthful energy to the storylines. Bubba's charming innocence and mischievousness offer a refreshing contrast to the adulthood troubles of the other characters. His shenanigans often serve as a catalyst for comedic moments and help bridge the generation gap within the show.
As the fashion show finally arrives, tensions between Mama and Iola reach their peak. Both determined to make a lasting impression, they find themselves locked in a fierce competition that escalates into a hilarious jewelry showdown.
Through a series of unexpected twists and turns, Mama's determination to obtain real gemstones ultimately leads her on an adventure that tests her resourcefulness and reveals the true value of friendship and family.
Zirconias Are A Girl's Best Friend is a heartwarming and side-splitting episode that showcases the best of Mama's Family. With its amusing characters, witty dialogue, and relatable family dynamics, the show continues to captivate its audience and bring laughter to households across the nation. Tune in for this unforgettable season opener that sets the stage for a season filled with laughter, love, and Mama's unique brand of comedic chaos.
