Ep 11. Everybody Ought to Have a Maid

Title: Everybody Ought to Have a Maid

Episode Number: Season 5, Episode 11

Episode Description:

In this delightful episode of the hit sitcom Newhart, aptly titled "Everybody Ought to Have a Maid," we dive into the wacky world of Bob Newhart and his charming Vermont inn, Stratford Inn, as they encounter an unexpected twist in the form of hired help.

The episode begins with Bob Hartley (played by the incomparable Bob Newhart), the inn's owner, feeling slightly overwhelmed with the responsibilities that come with running a successful inn. With the constant influx of guests, a never-ending to-do list, and the daily demands of life, Bob begins to feel the need for some assistance.

Deciding to hire a maid, Bob welcomes Ms. Nancy Osgood (guest star Florence Halop) to the inn, hoping that she can alleviate some of the burdens that have been piling up. However, it quickly becomes apparent that Ms. Osgood is not your average maid. Eccentric and full of quirks, she soon takes over the inn with her unique way of doing things.

As the chaos unfolds, the inn's other employees, including the witty, sarcastic front desk clerk Michael Harris (played by Peter Scolari), the sweet but slightly ditzy maid Stephanie Vanderkellen (Julia Duffy), and the handyman George Utley (Tom Poston), find themselves caught up in the whirlwind of Ms. Osgood's unconventional approach to cleanliness.

Meanwhile, Bob's wife, Emily Hartley (Suzanne Pleshette), the calm and collected inn chef, is torn between her loyalty to her husband and her skepticism about hiring Ms. Osgood. Emily's apprehension grows as she witnesses the increasingly chaotic state of the inn.

In the midst of the madness, the hilarious interactions and witty banter ensue. From George's dry humor to Stephanie's endearing innocence, the episode provides laughs at every turn. The talented ensemble cast expertly delivers the trademark Newhart humor, drawing viewers into the chaos while keeping them entertained with sharp dialogue and impeccable comedic timing.

As the episode progresses, Bob finds himself torn between his desire for order and his reluctant fondness for Ms. Osgood. With the inn hanging in the balance, Bob must decide whether to embrace the unconventional or reel in the chaos and restore some semblance of normalcy. With each passing scene, the audience is left wondering if Ms. Osgood is the missing piece to the puzzle or if her unique approach is doing more harm than good.

"Everybody Ought to Have a Maid" exemplifies the distinctive charm of Newhart, where the idyllic Vermont setting is the perfect backdrop for the hilarious misadventures and offbeat characters that populate the Stratford Inn. Through its clever writing and endearing cast, the show brilliantly manages to balance comedy, warmth, and relatability, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting each new twist and turn.

Filled with heartwarming moments and outrageous situations, this episode of Newhart is a testament to the enduring appeal and comedic genius of Bob Newhart. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, "Everybody Ought to Have a Maid" will undoubtedly leave you chuckling and craving more of the delightful chaos that unfolds within the walls of the Stratford Inn.

So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be entertained by another unforgettable installment of Newhart as the Stratford Inn receives an unexpected dose of quirkiness and laughter in "Everybody Ought to Have a Maid."