"Ralph's Family Problem"





We know that this episode definitely aired out of production order, because, one, it's set in 1961, and two, the old Arnold's still exists.  While I think it's interesting to get insights into Ralph's character, and his relationship with his parents, particularly his father, it does feel unbalanced that we never would see or hear his mother (not counting the version who played bridge with the Cunninghams in the early days).  Also, the view of divorce is a bit simplistic and optimistic, but then this was essentially a kids' show by then.  Anyway, B-.

Jack Dodson makes his final appearance as Dr. Mickey Malph, one of my favorite minor characters.  I have no idea if the divorce went through.

In its seventh season, Happy Days ranged from D+ (three of them) to B (one), averaging out to C+ again, although I was worried at times.  The cast and crew and writing staff are still able to bring it at times, and for a final R & R season, it's not bad.

However, divorcing the two Milwaukee shows was a moronic move and it hurt not only Laverne & Shirley (which shockingly dropped out of the Top Thirty), but knocked Happy Days down to #17.  Three's Company survived and actually tied for Number Two, with That's Incredible.  (60 Minutes ruled over all, because it was a different era.)  As for what happened in the 1980-81 season, stay tuned, if you dare....

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