Ep 3. The Fighter

The Waltons season 4 episode 3 titled "The Fighter" follows the trials and tribulations of John-Boy's lifelong friend, Charley Scallop. Charley is a talented boxer who has left his hometown of Richmond to travel the country boxing for prize money. When Charley arrives in Walton's Mountain, however, he is a far cry from his former self. He is gaunt, bruised, and a shadow of his former self.

The Waltons take Charley in, and he recuperates in their home. While staying with the family, Charley regales them with tales of his travels and his experiences in the ring. But it soon becomes clear that Charley is not entirely honest with the Waltons. He is addicted to painkillers and is struggling with his career and his sense of self.

When a local promoter offers Charley a fight with the current boxing champion, Charley sees an opportunity to turn everything around. The fight is set to take place in two weeks, and Charley begins an intense training regimen with the help of John-Boy and Grandpa Walton.

As the fight approaches, tensions run high in the Walton household. Charley becomes increasingly anxious, and his addiction to painkillers spirals out of control. Meanwhile, the Waltons take on extra work to raise money to bet on Charley's fight.

On the day of the fight, the tension is palpable. Charley is desperate to win, while the Waltons are praying for his success. The fight itself is a brutal spectacle, with both fighters taking severe beatings. In the end, Charley emerges victorious, albeit battered and bruised.

"The Fighter" explores themes of addiction, self-worth, and redemption. Charley's struggle with addiction is shown in a sympathetic light, and the Waltons' unwavering support for him is a testament to the show's focus on family values. The episode also highlights the physical and emotional toll that boxing can take on athletes, as well as the corrupting influence of money in the sport.

Overall, "The Fighter" is a powerful and moving episode that showcases the best of The Waltons' storytelling and character development.