Ep 7. Body Slam

The A-Team is a popular action-adventure television series that aired in the 1980s. The show follows a group of ex-United States Army Special Forces soldiers who, after being wrongfully accused of a crime during the Vietnam War, escape from military prison and become mercenaries-for-hire while still on the run from the military. The team consists of leader Colonel John "Hannibal" Smith, Lieutenant Templeton "Faceman" Peck, Captain H.M. "Howling Mad" Murdock, and Sergeant Bosco "B.A." (Bad Attitude) Baracus.

Season 4, Episode 7, titled "Body Slam," is a unique blend of action, camaraderie, humor, and the occasional touch of drama that fans have come to expect from The A-Team. In this episode, the worlds of professional wrestling and military-tinged mercenary work collide in a story that showcases the series' penchant for mixing genres in entertaining ways.

The episode begins with B.A., who is not only the muscle of The A-Team but also a huge wrestling fan, attending a professional wrestling match. During the event, B.A. encounters his wrestling hero, who is facing struggles of his own. The wrestler, a larger-than-life personality inside the ring, is grappling with a problem outside the squared circle that requires more than physical strength and wrestling moves to handle.

The wrestler's dilemma revolves around unscrupulous business dealings and intimidation tactics from a local mobster who is trying to take control of the wrestling promotion for which he works. The wrestler's integrity and loyalty to his boss, who has nurtured his career, are being tested as he's asked to throw matches and participate in the corruption spreading through the organization.

When the situation takes a dangerous turn and the wrestler fears for his safety and the well-being of those around him, he decides to seek help. Remembering B.A.'s enthusiasm and the distinctive A-Team van parked outside the venue, the wrestler tracks down the team and explains his predicament.

Always ready to stand up for the underdog and fight against injustice, The A-Team quickly agrees to help. Hannibal sees it as another opportunity to "put the jazz" into their lives, while Faceman looks forward to the chance to rub shoulders with some of his own favorite wrestlers and the potential for lucrative side deals in the wrestling world.

Murdock, who thrives on eccentric characters and unique situations, finds himself thoroughly intrigued by the flamboyant personalities and colorful world of professional wrestling. He throws himself into the challenge with his characteristic unpredictable style and may even find a way to integrate his own brand of "crazy" into the wrestling ring.

The team devises a plan that involves going undercover within the wrestling organization. Their mission: to expose the corruption, protect their new friend, and restore the integrity of the promotion. Hannibal, a master of disguises and elaborate plans, leads the team as they blend in as new wrestlers, promoters, and staff members to gather evidence and build a case against the mobster.

As the narrative unfolds, viewers are treated to a blend of thrilling and comical training sequences where The A-Team members learn the ropes—literally and figuratively—of professional wrestling. From high-flying maneuvers to grappling holds, they add a new set of skills to their already impressive repertoire.

While B.A. is initially starstruck by being so close to his wrestling idols, his innate sense of protection and justice overrides his fandom. His physical strength and toughness play a pivotal role as the plan progresses. Still, as always with B.A., there's room for a few moments where his fear of flying or dislike of Murdock's eccentricity surface to provide comic relief.

The episode builds to a climactic showdown where the dual worlds of professional wrestling and The A-Team's brand of vigilante justice meet head-on. Fans can anticipate an entertaining blend of choreographed wrestling bouts and the signature A-Team action, complete with makeshift weapons, strategically placed smoke grenades, and well-timed one-liners from Hannibal.

Throughout "Body Slam," the strong bond between The A-Team members is evident as they support each other and their new wrestling ally. Their unique blend of skills, their refusal to back down from bullies, and their quick wits are all on full display, combining to form yet another gripping episode in this iconic series.

As usual, "Body Slam" promises to uphold the spirit of The A-Team, delivering justice for those who feel helpless, showcasing camaraderie in the face of adversity, and providing an hour of entertainment that blends action and humor with a touch of heart.