Ep 9. Seems Like Old Times

Jamie Foxx plays a fictionalized version of himself in this sitcom, a struggling standup comic who lands a gig as a hotel employee in Los Angeles. Season 1 episode 9, "Seems Like Old Times," finds Jamie reminiscing about his past and contemplating his future.

The episode opens with Jamie and his coworker Braxton (Christopher B. Duncan) discussing their high school reunion. Jamie is reluctant to attend, feeling embarrassed about his lack of success compared to his former classmates. Braxton encourages him to go, insisting that his former classmates will be impressed with his job at the hotel.

Meanwhile, Jamie's sister Fancy (Garcelle Beauvais) is having a crisis of her own. She has just been dumped by her boyfriend and is feeling down about her romantic life. Jamie tries to console her but is interrupted by the arrival of their mother (played by Patti LaBelle), who is in town for the reunion. She takes one look at Fancy and declares that she needs a man.

At the reunion, Jamie is surprised to find that many of his former classmates are in similarly unfulfilling jobs. He bumps into his old crush, Sheila (played by guest star Vivica A. Fox), who is now a successful lawyer. Sheila is glad to see Jamie and the two reminisce about their high school days. However, when Sheila invites Jamie to her hotel room to catch up, he becomes nervous and backs out.

Back at the hotel, Jamie confides in Fancy about his feelings for Sheila. Fancy encourages him to pursue her, but Jamie is convinced that she is out of his league. He decides to write her a letter confessing his love, only to be interrupted by his mother, who has found a man for Fancy to date.

In the end, Jamie decides to take a chance and go after Sheila. He heads to her hotel room and delivers his letter, only to find out that Sheila is engaged. Disappointed but not defeated, Jamie returns to the reunion and joins his former classmates in a dance party.

"Seems Like Old Times" is a classic sitcom episode, full of heart and humor. Jamie Foxx shines in the role of Jamie King, playing both the comedic moments and the romantic scenes with equal skill. The supporting cast is also excellent, particularly Garcelle Beauvais as Fancy and Patti LaBelle as the meddling mother. The guest star appearance by Vivica A. Fox adds a touch of glamour to the episode.

Fans of classic sitcoms like Friends and Seinfeld will enjoy The Jamie Foxx Show, which follows a similar format of a group of friends navigating their personal and professional lives in the big city. Although the show is now over 20 years old, it still holds up as a beloved example of the genre. "Seems Like Old Times" is a highlight of the first season, showcasing the show's strengths as a funny and heartwarming comedy.