Ep 3. In-Laws and Outlaws

In-Laws and Outlaws is the third episode of the third season of the popular American television show, Melrose Place. The episode originally aired on September 19, 1994, and was directed by Charles Braverman.

The episode begins with Amanda (Heather Locklear) planning a surprise birthday party for Jake (Grant Show) at Shooters. Meanwhile, Jo (Daphne Zuniga) tells Jake that her parents, who she is estranged from, are coming to town, and she wants to try to make amends with them.

At the hospital, Michael (Thomas Calabro) is offered a job as Chief of Staff, but he's hesitant to take it as he doesn't want to give up his private plastic surgery practice. Jane (Josie Bissett) encourages him to take the job, but Michael is worried about the political maneuvering that comes with the position.

As Jo prepares for her parents' arrival, Alison (Courtney Thorne-Smith) offers to help her spruce up the apartment. Jo is hesitant at first but eventually agrees. As they work together, Alison confesses to Jo that she's been having dreams about Billy (Andrew Shue) and is feeling guilty about her feelings for him. Jo advises her to talk to Billy about it.

When Jo's parents, Frank (Andrew Prine) and Margaret (Lenore Kasdorf), arrive, there is an awkward silence. Frank is cold and distant, while Margaret is overbearing and intrusive. Jo tries to break the ice by inviting them to dinner, but it doesn't go well. Frank is critical of Jo's life choices, and Margaret is more interested in talking about her own life.

Meanwhile, at the party, Amanda's plan to surprise Jake is ruined when he gets a call from Jo and has to leave. Alison tries to talk to Billy about her feelings but is interrupted when Brooke (Kristin Davis) arrives. Brooke is jealous of Alison's relationship with Billy and tries to cause trouble by flirting with him.

Back at Jo's apartment, things go from bad to worse when Frank accuses Jo of being irresponsible and tells her that he's not proud of her. Jo storms out, and Jake goes after her. They end up at Shooters, where they talk about their pasts and the recent events in their lives. Jo admits that she's afraid of disappointing her parents, and Jake tells her that he admires her for being brave enough to pursue her dreams.

The episode concludes with Michael accepting the position as Chief of Staff and Brooke trying to seduce Billy. Alison arrives at Billy's apartment, ready to talk to him about her feelings, but finds Brooke there instead.

In-Laws and Outlaws is a poignant episode that explores the complicated relationships between parents and children. It's also a reminder that sometimes the people who are supposed to love us the most can be the most critical and hurtful. The episode showcases the talented cast of Melrose Place and their ability to bring depth and nuance to their characters. Fans of the show will appreciate the drama and intrigue that this episode delivers, and it's a must-watch for anyone who enjoys compelling television.