Ep 12. Scrooge Gets an Oscar

Tony Randall and Jack Klugman star in this classic comedy about two mismatched roommates. In season 1, episode 12, entitled Scrooge Gets an Oscar, the Christmas spirit is in full swing. However, two unlikely friends – Oscar Madison (Klugman) and Felix Unger (Randall) – are feeling far from festive.

Oscar is his usual grumpy, scrooge-like self, complaining about Christmas and everything that comes with it while Felix is doing his best to get into the holiday spirit. The two friends are at odds when Oscar’s ex-wife, Blanche, invites him to spend the holidays with her and their children. Felix, who is always eager to help, tries to cheer Oscar up, but his attempts only annoy the already grumpy Oscar.

Meanwhile, Felix enters a writing competition for a Christmas message to be read on national television. He’s convinced his heartfelt message will be the winner, but Oscar is skeptical. He tells Felix that the contest is rigged and dismisses his friend’s enthusiasm.

As the episode progresses, Oscar and Felix find themselves in a disagreement over their Christmas plans. Felix, as usual, wants to do something grand and memorable while Oscar wants to sit at home and watch TV. Felix suggests they go to Rockefeller Center and see the tree. But Oscar tells him he hates the crowds and would never go willingly.

Despite the tension, Felix continues to work on his Christmas message. When Oscar hears him rehearsing, he realizes that Felix's message is actually quite good. He decides to support Felix and help him perfect his delivery. Together they revise the message and practice delivering it, with Oscar playing the role of the cameraman.

On Christmas Eve, the two friends are surprised to find themselves alone in Oscar's apartment. Blanche's plans had fallen through, and Oscar’s children could not make it. Feeling dejected, Oscar asks Felix to perform his Christmas message on the balcony. The message is beautiful, heartfelt and has a profound impact on Oscar and his outlook on life.

The episode is a classic reminder that sometimes, all it takes to get into the holiday spirit is a little bit of kindness and companionship. Oscar and Felix may have their differences, but in the end, their friendship shines through. Scrooge Gets an Oscar is a funny, heartwarming and nostalgic holiday episode that captures the essence of The Odd Couple and celebrates the true meaning of Christmas.