Ep 16. No Sale

In this episode of The Bob Newhart Show titled "No Sale," Bob Hartley, a mild-mannered psychologist, finds himself navigating through a series of humorous and emotionally engaging situations, providing plenty of laughs and heartfelt moments.

The episode begins as Bob's wife, Emily, encourages him to take up a new hobby to alleviate stress. Bob reluctantly agrees and decides to try his hand at painting. Despite his initial skepticism, Bob becomes engrossed in his new artistic venture, spending hours on end at his easel. However, his artistic aspirations quickly hit a roadblock when he realizes he has run out of canvases.

Determined to continue his newfound hobby, Bob heads to an art supply store to purchase more painting materials. In the store, he is greeted by the eccentric and zany saleswoman named Myrna (played by Penny Marshall). Myrna is a larger-than-life character whose unique personality and peculiarities add a comedic touch to the episode. She enjoys engaging Bob in humorous banter, and her outlandish behavior often catches him off guard.

Bob finds himself surrounded by a variety of intriguing art supplies, but every canvas he chooses seems to be significantly overpriced. As a result, Bob feels torn between his desire to indulge in his artistic endeavors and his practical nature as a psychologist who is used to being frugal. This internal conflict sets the stage for humorous moments as Bob tries to find a compromise.

While Bob grapples with his decision, his patients also make appearances throughout the episode, offering their own doses of entertainment. Jerry Robinson, a sarcastic and self-centered patient, seeks Bob's help in dealing with his dissatisfaction in a relationship he describes as "glacier-like." Bob attempts to guide Jerry through his issues, but the therapy session takes an unexpected turn when Jerry starts critiquing Bob's choice of hobbies.

Later on in the episode, Howard Borden, Bob's quirky next-door neighbor, drops by the psychology office seeking advice about his ongoing romantic entanglements. Howard's commitment issues often lead to humorous conversations and situations, providing comedic relief to the episode's overarching theme of self-discovery and personal growth.

Back at the art supply store, Bob continues to wrestle with the cost of the canvases. He strikes up a conversation with Myrna, who reveals her flamboyant approach to life and her deep-rooted passion for the arts. She encourages Bob to follow his creativity, urging him to embrace the freedom that comes with self-expression. Their interactions are characterized by witty dialogue, keeping the viewers entertained while shedding light on Bob's internal struggle.

As the episode progresses, Bob finally decides to splurge on a high-quality canvas, realizing that sometimes it's essential to invest in one's passions. The resolution of Bob's dilemma serves as a metaphor for his personal growth, highlighting his willingness to step outside his comfort zone and pursue his artistic inclinations.

In the closing scenes, Bob returns home to his apartment, eagerly unpacking his new canvas, brushes, and paints. Emily enthusiastically supports his newfound passion and appreciates the positive impact it has on his overall well-being. Their loving and humorous interactions capture the essence of their relationship, providing a heartwarming conclusion to the episode.

"No Sale" is a delightful installment of The Bob Newhart Show that combines lighthearted comedy with relatable situations. Through Bob's exploration of his artistic side, the episode explores themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and the importance of pursuing one's passions. With its well-crafted humor and engaging characters, this episode offers an enjoyable and heartwarming viewing experience.