Ep 11. Just Friends

The Mary Tyler Moore Show season 4 episode 11, entitled "Just Friends," showcases the workplace dynamics and the personal lives of the characters in WJM-TV. Mary Richards, the headstrong and career-driven producer of the news show, finds herself in a situation where she begins having feelings for a fellow colleague, Ken Baker. However, Ken, despite being very fond of Mary, only views her as a friend.

Throughout the episode, Mary grapples with the idea of being "just friends" with Ken and tries to analyze her emotions and feelings towards him. She confides in her best friend, Rhoda Morgenstern, who tries to help her come to terms with the reality of the situation. As a feminist and advocate for women's rights, Mary is conflicted because she believes that men and women can have platonic relationships without any romantic entanglements. However, she cannot help but be drawn to Ken and feels embarrassed by her inability to control her feelings.

In the meantime, Murray Slaughter, the writer of the show, is pursuing a romance with another colleague, Marie Wagner, who is a talented engineer. However, Ed Asner's character, Lou Grant, the gruff yet hilarious news director, disapproves of Murray's actions and warns him about the consequences of dating a colleague. Murray, who is happy with the relationship but is also scared of being discovered, tries to keep the romance under wraps.

As the episode progresses, both Mary and Murray are forced to confront their own beliefs about relationships and dating in the workplace. Mary decides to take the initiative and ask Ken out for dinner, hoping to take their relationship to the next level. However, Ken, who is oblivious to Mary's true intentions, declines the offer, stating that he is too busy with work.

On the other hand, Murray's relationship with Marie is tested when Lou Grant finds out about their romance and insists that they put an end to it. Murray, who is deeply in love with Marie, argues that they are consenting adults and that their professional lives would not be affected by their personal relationship. Lou, who is known for being a tough boss, relents after seeing the sincerity of Murray's feelings.

Towards the end of the episode, both Mary and Murray learn important lessons about love, friendship, and professionalism. Mary realizes that her friendship with Ken is more important than any romantic relationship and that it is possible to maintain a close bond with someone without expectations. Murray learns that love is worth fighting for, even if it means taking risks and facing opposition.

The Mary Tyler Moore Show season 4 episode 11, "Just Friends," is a poignant yet humorous exploration of the complexities of human relationships, both personal and professional. The show's remarkable cast, led by Mary Tyler Moore, showcases their acting prowess in delivering witty one-liners and heartfelt moments. Its themes of gender equality, workplace dynamics, and love are still relevant today, making it a timeless classic.