Ep 23. The Pilot (1)

Jerry Seinfeld and George Costanza have been working on a pilot for a new sitcom called "Jerry," and they finally meet with NBC executives to pitch their idea. However, things quickly go awry when they discover that the network is also interested in bringing back Jerry's ex-girlfriend, Elaine Benes, as a regular character. Jerry is hesitant about the idea, but George convinces him that adding Elaine to the show will only make it better.

Meanwhile, Kramer persuades his friend, an eccentric writer named Russell Dalrymple, to come see Jerry's pilot. Russell's input on the script ends up causing major changes to the show, including the addition of a new character named Keri, who is based on his real-life girlfriend, and the re-casting of the female lead.

As the day of the pilot screening approaches, tensions rise between Jerry and George over the changes to their show. George begins to question whether or not he still wants to be involved, but ultimately decides to stick it out for the chance at success.

The screening of the pilot becomes a disaster when the new female lead is injured on set and cannot perform. In a last-ditch effort, Jerry, George, and Elaine convince Jerry's neighbor, actress Marla Penny, to fill in as the lead. The pilot is a hit, but Jerry is left wondering if it was all worth it in the end.

"The Pilot (1)" is a hilarious and memorable episode of Seinfeld that showcases the show's signature blend of absurdity and insight into the struggles of everyday life. The episode features standout performances from the entire cast, particularly Jason Alexander as George. With its sharp writing, topical humor, and iconic moments (such as the re-casting of the female lead), "The Pilot (1)" is a must-watch for any fan of Seinfeld or sitcoms in general.