Ep 1. Co-Hostess Twinkie

Bob Newhart is back for another hilarious season of "Newhart"! In the premiere episode of Season 5, titled "Co-Hostess Twinkie," we find Bob Hartley, played by the brilliant comedian Bob Newhart, in the midst of his usual charming and somewhat chaotic life as the owner of the Stratford Inn in Vermont.

As the episode begins, Bob's wife, Emily, is away visiting her Aunt Martha, leaving Bob to navigate the inn's operations by himself. The typically composed and slightly neurotic Bob is determined to keep things running smoothly, but as fans of the show know, chaos is never too far away in this small town.

Bob's committed and resourceful employee, Joanna Loudon, portrayed by Mary Frann, attempts to take charge and help Bob manage the inn in Emily's absence. Joanna, known for her sharp wit and humorous banter, steps into the role of "co-hostess," but her unorthodox methods and lack of familiarity with the inn's daily operations lead to some unexpected challenges.

One of the bigger obstacles Bob and Joanna face revolves around the arrival of a well-known travel critic, Ms. Twinkie Sandefur, played by iconic actress Betty White. Ms. Sandefur is known for her tough critiques and high standards, making her visit a crucial opportunity for the Stratford Inn to garner positive publicity.

Bob, eager to please the discerning critic and boost the inn's reputation, anxiously ensures that everything is in order. However, as fate would have it, a series of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings ensue, seemingly conspiring against Bob's best efforts.

Adding to the comedic chaos, Bob's eccentric guest Larry, portrayed by William Sanderson, unintentionally creates a stir with his peculiar behavior. Larry's oddities test Bob's patience and ability to maintain composure. Meanwhile, his brother Darryl, played by Tony Papenfuss, and his other brother Darryl, played by John Voldstad, continue to provide comic relief with their silent yet hilarious antics.

Throughout the episode, the talented ensemble cast of "Newhart" delivers their signature brand of wit, timing, and physical comedy. The charming and picturesque Vermont town serves as a delightful backdrop to the hilarity that unfolds, capturing the essence of small-town life with its quirky characters and endearing charm.

As the visit from Ms. Sandefur progresses, Bob's mounting stress and desperation to impress her lead to a series of hilarious misadventures. From mistaken identities to culinary mishaps, the episode delivers laugh-out-loud moments, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats to see how Bob will ultimately salvage his chances for a positive review.

As always, the brilliant writing, impeccable comedic timing, and stellar performances make "Co-Hostess Twinkie," and "Newhart" as a whole, a true gem of television comedy. Fans of the show will undoubtedly be delighted by the mix of familiar characters, uproarious situations, and witty dialogue that have become the series' trademark.

So, sit back and prepare for another entertaining ride as Bob Hartley faces one hilarious debacle after another in Season 5, Episode 1, "Co-Hostess Twinkie." Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the show, this episode promises to keep you laughing and eagerly awaiting the next installment in Bob and his friends' unpredictable adventures at the Stratford Inn.