Ep 22. You Certainly Are a Big Boy

In this episode of The Mary Tyler Moore Show titled "You Certainly Are a Big Boy," Mary Richards, played by the vibrant Mary Tyler Moore, finds herself caught in the midst of a humorous and heartwarming dilemma. As the energetic and lovable associate producer at WJM-TV, Mary is known for her quick wit and bubbly personality, making her the perfect companion for this entertaining half-hour sitcom.

The episode begins with Mary preparing to attend a fancy awards banquet with her long-term boyfriend, Bill Davis. She has been looking forward to this event for weeks, excited at the prospect of a glamorous night out. However, her plans are suddenly thrown into disarray when she realizes that her constant role as a responsible adult has caused her to become out of touch with her inner childlike spirit.

Feeling a need for some fun and adventure, Mary decides to attend a children's carnival that arrives in town to reconnect with her youthful spirit before the gala. At the carnival, she finds herself immersed in a sea of joyful chaos, surrounded by laughing children and colorful amusement rides. As she indulges in cotton candy and relishes the thrill of the Ferris wheel, Mary discovers a sense of freedom and joy that she had temporarily forgotten.

Meanwhile, back at the WJM-TV newsroom, chaos ensues when Mary's co-workers realize that she may not make it to the awards banquet. Lou Grant, the gruff but endearing news producer, reacts with his typical tough exterior, expressing his irritation that Mary's absence might make the entire station look bad. However, deep down, he recognizes the importance of Mary reclaiming her childlike spirit, understanding the pressures of the adult world that often consume us.

As the episode progresses, Mary's playful escapades at the carnival become more extreme, leading to hilarious situations that leave audiences in stitches. From winning oversized stuffed animals and indulging in fairground treats to riding bumper cars and giggling on the merry-go-round, Mary immerses herself in the simple pleasures of childhood. Through these experiences, she rediscovers the joy of living in the moment and the importance of balancing responsibility with leisure.

Unbeknownst to Mary, her actions at the carnival have caught the attention of her fellow co-workers, who see her in a new light. Rhoda Morgenstern, her witty and vibrant neighbor, shares her amusement and delight at Mary's carefree behavior. Phyllis Lindstrom, another neighbor and Mary's loyal but often nosy friend, marvels at Mary's ability to let go of her adult responsibilities, secretly envious of her friend's uninhibited spirit.

As the end of the episode draws near, the carnival comes to an end, and Mary must face the reality of leaving her newfound carefree attitude behind. With a heartwarming combination of laughter and nostalgia, Mary returns to her adult responsibilities at the station, embracing her role as the capable and dependable Mary Richards.

"You Certainly Are a Big Boy" is a delightful episode of The Mary Tyler Moore Show that explores the timeless theme of balancing adulthood with the innocence of childhood. Through Mary's captivating adventure at the carnival, viewers are reminded of the importance of embracing joy, laughter, and spontaneity, even in the face of daily pressures and responsibilities. This beloved sitcom continues to captivate audiences, offering a timeless message of hope and laughter in every episode.