Ep 17. If I Were N-Riched Man

The Bernie Mac Show season 1 episode 17, titled "If I Were N-Riched Man," follows the story of Bernie Mac, a comedian, and actor, who takes in his sister's three children after she goes into rehab. In this episode, Bernie is given a large sum of money as a gift from an anonymous benefactor who believed that he deserved it because of his hard work with the kids. Initially, Bernie is excited and happy with the idea of having extra money because he feels like he can provide better for the children; however, he soon realizes that the money comes with some challenges that he is not prepared for.

As Bernie tries to adjust to his new lifestyle, he begins to make changes to his home, including hiring a personal chef and a maid to help with the housework. He also enrolls the children in a private school, and they begin to experience life in a way that is vastly different from their previous experiences. While the children enjoy their new lives, Bernie starts to lose sight of who he is and what is important to him.

As the episode progresses, Bernie begins to realize that the money has changed him in ways that he didn't like, making him act differently towards people he knew. He also begins to feel guilty that he is not able to provide the same for his sister's kids if the money were to run out one day. Bernie decides that he wants to get rid of the money and go back to his old life, but he realizes that returning the money is not going to be easy.

The episode highlights various themes such as the impact of money on people, increased social status, the importance of family and relationships, and the struggle to maintain one's identity amidst materialistic changes. Through Bernie's character, viewers are given a glimpse of the effects of financial abundance on individuals and how it can influence the people around them.

Overall, The Bernie Mac Show season 1 episode 17 "If I Were N-Riched Man" is an intriguing and thought-provoking episode that underscores the importance of core values such as family, identity, and humility. It is a well-written and excellently acted episode that offers a new perspective on the impact of financial abundance on an individual.