Ep 15. Beware of Actors Bearing Gifts
- TV-PG
- December 22, 1966
- 25 min
-
6.3 (44)
That Girl season 1 episode 15, titled "Beware of Actors Bearing Gifts," follows the misadventures of Ann Marie, an aspiring actress trying to make it big in New York City. In this episode, Ann Marie's boyfriend, Donald, receives a gift from an actor friend, which leads to a series of misunderstandings and mishaps.
The episode begins with Ann Marie and Donald enjoying a quiet evening at home when their friend, an actor named Charlie, drops by with a gift for Donald. The gift is a large, exotic-looking plant, which Charlie says he picked up on a recent trip to South America. Donald is thrilled with the gift but Ann Marie is immediately suspicious, recalling the last time Charlie gave them a gift - a hideous painting that they ended up giving away.
Despite Ann Marie's misgivings, they decide to keep the plant and find a spot for it in their apartment. However, things quickly start to go awry. The plant begins to emit a strange odor that fills the apartment, causing Donald to sneeze uncontrollably and prompting Ann Marie to worry that the plant might be toxic.
Meanwhile, Ann Marie is preparing for an audition for a new play and is feeling nervous. She confides in her friend, Judy, who encourages her to focus on the positives and remember that she is talented and capable. However, when Ann Marie arrives at the audition, she is dismayed to find that her ex-boyfriend, a famous actor named David, is also there. Ann Marie still harbors feelings for David and is worried that his presence will distract her.
Things go from bad to worse when Ann Marie's nerves cause her to mess up her lines. As she is stumbling through her audition, David offers to help her, causing Ann Marie to become even more flustered. When the audition is over, Ann Marie feels defeated and heads home, certain that she did not get the part.
Back at home, Ann Marie discovers that the plant has grown to an enormous size, taking over their entire apartment. She and Donald try to figure out what to do with it, but the plant seems indestructible and continues to emit its foul odor.
As the episode draws to a close, Ann Marie finds out that she actually did get the part in the play. She is ecstatic but decides to keep the news to herself until she has better control over her nerves. Donald suggests they celebrate with a romantic dinner at home, but as they light the candles, the plant suddenly comes to life and attacks them, causing chaos and hilarity to ensue.
Overall, "Beware of Actors Bearing Gifts" is a classic episode of That Girl, full of witty banter, romantic hijinks, and physical comedy. It showcases Ann Marie's pluck and determination as she navigates the ups and downs of pursuing her dream while trying to maintain her sanity in a crazy city. Fans of the show are sure to love this episode, which is a perfect example of the show's charm and humor.