Ep 17. Calling Doctor Huxtable

Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable, played by Bill Cosby, is the head of the Huxtable household in the hit 80s sitcom, The Cosby Show. In season 3 episode 17, entitled Calling Doctor Huxtable, the doctor is called to the home of one of his patients, who is experiencing a medical emergency.

The episode opens with Cliff and his wife, Claire (played by Phylicia Rashad), preparing for a day at the beach with their children. As they are getting ready, Cliff receives an urgent phone call from a patient named Mr. Simpson. Mr. Simpson explains that he is experiencing chest pains and asks Cliff to come to his house to help him.

Despite Claire's protests and insistence that they continue with their family outing, Cliff sets off to Mr. Simpson's home. When he arrives, he finds that Mr. Simpson is indeed in poor health and needs help immediately.

The bulk of the episode focuses on Cliff's efforts to help Mr. Simpson and get him the care he needs. Along the way, Cliff encounters various obstacles, including a stubborn ambulance driver who refuses to take Mr. Simpson to the hospital. With Claire's help, Cliff is able to overcome these roadblocks and ultimately get Mr. Simpson the care he needs.

As the plot unfolds, the audience also gets a glimpse into the Huxtables' family life. We see Theo (played by Malcolm-Jamal Warner) struggling with his schoolwork and trying to find a way to prove to his teacher that he belongs in advanced classes. We also see Vanessa (played by Tempestt Bledsoe) grappling with a crush on a boy at school.

Throughout it all, Cliff remains steadfast and calm, even in the face of difficult challenges. He is a source of strength and guidance for his family and his patients alike.

Calling Doctor Huxtable is a classic episode of The Cosby Show that showcases the show's signature blend of humor and heart. With its relatable family dynamics and timely social commentary, the episode remains a favorite among fans of the series.