Ep 1. Town Without Pity

In the season 7 premiere of the popular sitcom Newhart, entitled "Town Without Pity," the picturesque town of Stratford is faced with a seemingly insurmountable problem that threatens the harmony and peace among its quirky residents.

The episode kicks off with innkeeper Dick Loudon, played by the comedic genius Bob Newhart, enjoying a peaceful morning at the luxurious Stratford Inn located in Vermont. The inn serves as the central hub of the town, attracting a colorful cast of characters who bring their own distinctive charm and humor to the show.

However, Dick's tranquil routine is abruptly disrupted when he receives a distressing call from town councilwoman Stephanie Vanderkellen, portrayed by Julia Duffy. Stephanie informs Dick that Stratford has been branded as a "town without pity" by a renowned travel critic who is planning to visit and assess the town's hospitality. This criticism threatens not only the town's reputation but also the livelihoods of its residents who rely heavily on tourism.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, Dick springs into action and calls for an emergency town meeting at The Minuteman Café, run by the lovable George Utley, portrayed by Tom Poston. The meeting serves as an opportunity for the townspeople to rally together and brainstorm solutions to reverse the negative review.

During the meeting, the eccentric characters reveal their individual ideas, each more amusing than the last. From organizing a parade to building an elaborate statue, the townspeople brainstorm with enthusiasm and zest. Throughout the lively discussions, viewers are treated to the trademark humor and wit that have endeared Newhart to audiences over the years.

As the meeting progresses, tensions rise, and conflicting perspectives emerge. Both longtime residents and newcomers to the town find themselves at odds over how best to address the crisis. Dick, ever the peacekeeper, attempts to mediate between the differing factions and find a compromise that everyone can rally behind.

Meanwhile, in the midst of the chaos, fibber extraordinaire and town handyman Larry, portrayed by William Sanderson, concocts a wild yet strangely plausible scheme to sway the critic's opinion. His outrageous plan is met with skepticism, but Larry's charisma and persuasive nature slowly win over the residents, who are desperate for a solution.

In a parallel storyline, Dick's wife Joanna, played by Mary Frann, takes it upon herself to reach out to the travel critic directly. Armed with her charm and genuine warmth, Joanna attempts to convince the critic that Stratford is more than meets the eye—a place filled with kind-hearted individuals who make the town a welcoming home.

As the episode progresses, the intricate web of relationships and personalities becomes increasingly entangled. The characters' individual stories converge, highlighting the residents' shared determination to prove their town's worth.

"Towns Without Pity" encapsulates everything that makes Newhart a beloved sitcom. The episode showcases the incredible comedic talents of the ensemble cast, including the brilliant comic timing of Bob Newhart. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, elevating the episode's humor to new heights.

The setting of the idyllic town and the familiar faces viewers have come to love create a warm and comforting ambiance. Through their various foibles and follies, the residents of Stratford embody relatable qualities, making the show endearing to audiences of all ages.

"Towns Without Pity" is an episode that encapsulates the heart and spirit of Newhart. It presents an entertaining and laughter-filled narrative that will leave viewers eagerly anticipating the adventures that await the lovable inhabitants of Stratford in the forthcoming episodes of this beloved sitcom.