Writers: Gary David Goldberg & Bill Lawrence
Producer: Linda Nieber
Director: Thomas Schalmme
Episode Length: 23:00
Guest Stars:
Rating:#6 25.88 million viewers 17.9 rating 25 share
First Broadcast: September 17,1996
Opening sound: n/a
Storyline #1: Drunken Fools
While giving a mini-press conference on the impending garbage strike, TheMayor lets loose
a soundbite that haunts Mike & the staff. Challenged by the Mayor's slighting of the
gay community, Mike must find a gay member of the staff. Originally, Mike wants James to
"play gay." However, AIDS Activist Carter Heywood catches Mike's eye while
giving a press conference. Mike then procedes to hire Carter in order to put out the
publicity fires.
Storyline #2: Living Arrangements
While spending a quiet night at home, Ashley informs Mike that she hasgiven up her
apartment and more or less moved in. Mike had no idea. He resonds, "So, ... We live
together?" Obviously, he is distraught over this new-found commitment which leaves
him speechless. Through the course of the show, Mike goes on to give up his apartment as
well and the couple decide to start over in a new place.
Review: Pilot
Overall, a fine beginning. I would have enjoyed a better introduction to the staff than
simple names and jobs, but considering the circumstances, I understand. Great technichal
production of the show. The constant trips through the "halls" symbolized the
constant, hurried pace of politics. Another nice feature was only sparse views of the
Mayor. This gave Mike more control, both in time and possibly substance. Only time will
tell. Another possible story to watch. The Mayor referrenced that he
"bird-dogged" a little in his day. A future sex-scandal? I'm sure if it is,
we'll see it during sweeps week. Another question: Who are all the people in Mike's office
at the beginning? I hope all of those people don't become characters.
Rating [5 pt. scale]: 4.5
Did you notice ...
the janitor was named Skippy? (old character on Family Ties)
Top 10 Lines
10. The Mayor: (the infamous soundbyte) "What are you drunk?"
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