Ep 15. Herb's Dad
- January 14, 1980
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7.3 (133)
Herb's Dad is the 15th episode of the second season of WKRP in Cincinnati. The episode revolves around Herb Tarlek, one of the salespeople at the radio station, who receives a surprise visit from his estranged father.
Herb's father, Walter Tarlek Sr., shows up unannounced at the WKRP office, much to Herb's surprise. Herb doesn't have a good relationship with his father, who he hasn't seen in several years. Walter, who has recently been laid off from his factory job, has come to ask Herb for a loan to help him start a new business selling truck parts.
Herb is reluctant to help his father but is eventually convinced by Les Nesman, WKRP's news director, to give him a loan. Les believes that it's important for Herb to reconcile with his father, and that the loan could be a way to do that.
As Herb and his father work together to start the business, they begin to bond and Herb learns more about his father's life and struggles. It becomes clear that Walter is not just looking for money, but also a connection with his son.
Meanwhile, the rest of the WKRP staff is dealing with their own issues. Andy Travis, the station's program director, is struggling to find a replacement for a popular DJ who has left the station. Jennifer Marlowe, the receptionist, is trying to find a way to deal with her overbearing mother.
As the episode progresses, Herb and his father's relationship continues to improve, thanks in part to the support and guidance of Les. However, when Walter's new business idea hits a roadblock, Herb must decide whether to continue supporting his father or cut ties once and for all.
Herb's Dad is a touching and heartfelt episode that explores the complicated relationships between fathers and sons. The episode is well-paced and features strong performances from all of the actors. The resolution is satisfying, with the audience left feeling hopeful about the future of Herb and Walter's relationship. Overall, it's a standout episode of WKRP in Cincinnati that will leave viewers reflecting on their own family connections.
