Ep 3. Who's in Charge Here?

In season 3 episode 3 of The Mary Tyler Moore Show titled "Who's in Charge Here?", viewers are introduced to a new character, Sue Ann Nivens, played by Betty White. Sue Ann is the host of a talk show called "The Happy Homemaker" and is invited onto Mary's show as a guest. However, things take a turn when Sue Ann begins to take control of Mary's segment, leaving Mary feeling frustrated and powerless.

As the episode begins, Mary is thrilled to have Sue Ann on as a guest. She looks up to her as a successful and accomplished woman and is excited to hear her share her tips on cooking and homemaking. However, things quickly take a turn as Sue Ann begins to take over Mary's segment. She insists on cooking a dish on air and refuses to let Mary participate in the segment. Mary tries to speak up and regain control, but Sue Ann steamrolls over her, leaving Mary feeling helpless and frustrated.

The situation only gets worse when Sue Ann takes it upon herself to fix a technical issue with the show's audio. She kicks everyone else out of the control room and takes charge, barking orders and making decisions without consulting anyone else. This only adds to Mary's growing sense of frustration and powerlessness.

Throughout the episode, Mary grapples with her feelings of inadequacy and lack of control. She confides in her boss, Lou, who tries to reassure her that she is in fact the one in charge. However, Mary remains unconvinced, feeling that she has been overshadowed by Sue Ann's strong personality and take-charge attitude.

As the episode draws to a close, Mary confronts Sue Ann about her behavior. She tells her that she needs to show her some respect and stop taking over her segments. Sue Ann initially laughs it off, but eventually realizes that she has been overstepping her bounds and apologizes. Mary accepts her apology and the two women patch things up.

Overall, "Who's in Charge Here?" is a classic episode of The Mary Tyler Moore Show that deals with themes of power, control, and respect. It introduces a memorable new character in Sue Ann Nivens, played brilliantly by Betty White, and takes viewers on a journey as Mary struggles to assert herself in the face of a strong personality. Ultimately, the episode delivers a satisfying conclusion as Mary and Sue Ann reach a new understanding and respect for one another.