Ep 4. The Stratford Wives

In Newhart season 2 episode 4, titled The Stratford Wives, the focus is on Stephanie Vanderkellen, the narcissistic and self-absorbed maid at the Stratford Inn. Stephanie is played by the talented Julia Duffy, who brings humor and charm to the role.

In this episode, Stephanie becomes convinced that her husband, Michael Harris (played by Peter Scolari), is cheating on her. Her obsession with catching him in the act leads to several comedic misunderstandings and mishaps, including her mistakenly thinking that a guest at the Inn is her husband's mistress.

Meanwhile, Dick Loudon (played by Bob Newhart) and his wife Joanna (played by Mary Frann) are dealing with their own issues. They are trying to impress a group of potential investors who are visiting the inn. However, their attempts to do so are continually thwarted by the wacky antics of their staff and the strange habits of some of their guests.

The plot of this episode is filled with hilarious moments and clever writing. One of the highlights is a scene where Stephanie tries to seduce her husband by wearing a disguise and pretending to be a French maid. The scene is both ridiculous and charming, and shows off Duffy's comedic talent.

Another memorable moment is when Dick and Joanna attempt to entertain their guests with a Shakespearean play. However, as the performance progresses, it becomes clear that none of the actors know their lines, and chaos ensues.

Overall, The Stratford Wives is a classic Newhart episode that showcases the strengths of the show's cast and writers. It is a perfect example of the show's blend of wit, charm, and absurdity. Whether you are a fan of classic sitcoms or are new to the world of Newhart, this episode is sure to entertain and delight.