Ep 20. A Federal Case
- February 2, 1976
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(33)
Rhoda season 2 episode 20, "A Federal Case", is an episode in which Rhoda's boss, Jack, gets audited by the IRS, and Rhoda is asked to testify on his behalf. The episode deals with themes of loyalty, honesty, and what it means to do the right thing. Rhoda struggles with whether or not to lie to protect her boss, and ultimately, she must decide where her loyalties lie.
The episode begins with Rhoda at work, typing up a document for Jack. Jack comes in and tells Rhoda that he's been audited by the IRS. He's worried, because he's been taking questionable deductions on his taxes for years. He asks Rhoda to testify on his behalf, and to lie to the IRS if necessary.
Rhoda is torn. She doesn't want to lie, but she also doesn't want to betray her boss. She talks to her friend, Brenda, about the situation, and Brenda advises her to tell the truth. But when Rhoda is called to testify, she finds herself saying things she knows aren't true.
Rhoda's boyfriend, Joe, senses that something is wrong with Rhoda and confronts her about it. Rhoda admits that she lied under oath to protect her boss. Joe is disappointed in Rhoda, and tells her that she needs to come clean.
Rhoda realizes that she can't continue living with the guilt of her lie, and decides to tell the truth. She goes back to the IRS and tells them everything. Jack is furious with Rhoda, and fires her on the spot.
Rhoda is devastated, but she knows that she did the right thing. She goes home to her family, who rally around her and support her. The episode ends with Rhoda starting to rebuild her life, knowing that she did the right thing.
Overall, "A Federal Case" is a powerful episode of Rhoda that deals with some heavy themes. The show does an excellent job of exploring the conflicts that arise when loyalty clashes with honesty, and the episode is a great example of why Rhoda was such a beloved show. The writing is smart, the acting is top-notch, and the themes are timeless. Whether you're a fan of the show or not, "A Federal Case" is an episode that you won't want to miss.
