Ep 5. Come as You Aren't

In season 1 episode 5 of the hit television show Taxi titled "Come as You Aren't", viewers are taken on a journey through the various personalities and quirks of the drivers and dispatchers who work at the Sunshine Cab Company.

The episode begins with driver Bobby (Jeff Conaway) attempting to change his image by wearing an outrageous new wardrobe and adopting a British accent. While his co-workers initially find this behavior amusing, they begin to worry that Bobby's new persona is a symptom of a larger issue. Through a series of conversations and incidents throughout the day, the other drivers begin to suspect that Bobby may be struggling with his identity and is masking his true self behind this new personality.

Meanwhile, dispatcher Louie (Danny DeVito) finds himself at odds with his girlfriend Zena (Rhea Perlman) when she asks him to attend a costume party with her. Louie, known for his sharp tongue and abrasive personality, is hesitant to attend such an event and is unsure of how to behave around Zena's friends. With some encouragement from his co-workers, Louie decides to attend the party, but not before seeking advice from his taxicab-driving colleagues on how to appear more cultured and refined.

As the day wears on, tensions rise between the various characters as they struggle to understand and accept each other's quirks and flaws. Ultimately, the events of the day culminate in an awkward encounter at the costume party where the various characters must confront their true selves and their discomfort with the expectations placed upon them by others.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a mix of humor, heart, and insight as the characters navigate their personal struggles and the demands of their jobs and relationships. Through their interactions, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of human behavior and the importance of acceptance and authenticity.

Overall, "Come as You Aren't" is a standout episode in the first season of Taxi and showcases the outstanding writing, performances, and direction that made the show a beloved classic. With its nuanced portrayal of identity and self-expression, the episode continues to resonate with audiences today and stands as a timeless example of the power of great television.