The Mary Tyler Moore Show is an American television series that originally aired from September 19, 1970, to March 19, 1977. Each season consisted of 24 half-hour episodes.
Mary Richards moves to Minneapolis. She had been dating a doctor, Bill (Angus Duncan), for two years during his internship and residency. Bill had promised they would marry when he began his practice, but after two years, he continued to stall. Mary moved to Minneapolis and into an apartment in the same building as her old friend Phyllis Lindstrom (Cloris Leachman). Brassy Rhoda Morgenstern (Valerie Harper) lives in an apartment upstairs and claims to have a prior claim on Mary's apartment. Mary applies for a secretarial job at WJM-TV, but the position has been filled. Lou Grant (Ed Asner) concludes that Mary has "spunk" and hires her as an associate producer. Bill surprises Mary with a visit to Minneapolis. An inebriated Lou shows up at Mary's apartment before Bill arrives, noting that his wife is away for a whole month and praising Mary's "great caboose." Lou decides to write a letter to his wife telling her how much he misses her. When Bill arrives, Mary notices how he chokes over his words when he says he loves her. Mary says a final "goodbye" to Bill. Lou comforts Mary, saying that she didn't miss out on much, and Mary notes that Bill has.
The ratings for WJM's 6 o'clock news have dropped among the "young" audience. Mary is disappointed because she is outside the 15–29 age group designated as young. Adding to Mary's concern, a mailroom messenger (David Hayward) calls her "Ma'am". Mary and Rhoda try to come up with ideas for men for Mary to date. Phyllis reminds Mary of an old boyfriend, Howard Arnell (Richard Schaal), who was crazy about Mary. Mary agrees to call Howard, and Rhoda calls Armond (Jack De Mave), a man who she hit with her car. They set up a double date at Mary's apartment. Armand misunderstands Rhoda's invitation and attends with Nancy (Sheilah Wells), his beautiful wife of three weeks. Howard is still crazy about Mary and praises her effusively. Howard incorrectly presumes that Mary wants marriage and tells her he just can't be tied down. Mary does not want a relationship with Howard and happily says goodbye to him. Guest star: Richard Schaal
Ted mixes up the wording ("vegetarian" instead of "veterinarian") on a "lost dog" story written by Murray, and Ted takes offense that Murray and Lou call his cue cards "idiot cards." Phyllis's husband Lars is diagnosed with chicken pox, and Phyllis asks Mary to take care of her daughter Bess (Lisa Gerritsen) for a few days. After a rocky start, Mary and Bess enjoy a shopping day. Phyllis announces that the chicken pox diagnosis was in error and she is taking Bess home. Bess says she wants to stay with Mary, and Phyllis agrees to respect Bess's choice. Lou is angry when Bess visits the news room because he can't cuss in the presence of a child. Bess overhears Phyllis crying over the fact that Bess wants Mary to be her mother. Phyllis's emotional response persuades Bess that her mother needs her, and Bess returns home.
Murray wants to write a story about an organization for divorced people called the "Better Luck Next Time Club". Rhoda suggests that she and Mary join the club to become eligible for the club's discounted airfare to Paris. They attend a meeting and meet several odd characters, including Hal (David Ketchum), Sparkie (Patte Finley), Roy (Gino Conforti), Karen Norris (Jane Connell), and Richie (Vernon Weddle). Mary is elected as the club's vice president after being nominated by Dr. Walter Udall (Shelley Berman), a dentist who admires Mary's teeth. Mary makes a dental appointment with Dr. Udall and admits she is not divorced. Dr. Udall insists that Mary continue pretending to be divorced and then resign after claiming to have reconciled with her fictional ex-husband. Mary instead confesses that she lied about being divorced, and other members confess they also lied about being divorced. Guest star: Shelley Berman
5
5
"Keep Your Guard Up"
Alan Rafkin
Steve Pritzker
TBA
October 17, 1970 (1970-10-17)
7008
A luckless former second-string football offensive guard and life insurance salesman, Frank Carelli (John Schuck), seeks Mary's help in securing a job as WJM's sportscaster. Frank's audition goes badly, and WJM instead chooses former halfback Timothy Brown (as himself). Frank decides to move back to his home state, Florida, where he gets a job as a playground director at a park.
6
6
"Support Your Local Mother"
Alan Rafkin
Allan Burns and James L. Brooks
August 28, 1970
October 24, 1970 (1970-10-24)
7002
Rhoda's mother, Ida Morgenstern (Nancy Walker), visits from New York City. Rhoda does not want to see her mother, and Mary invites Ida to stay with her. Mary's job performance suffers as she finds herself subjected to the guilt-inducing behavior that Rhoda sought to avoid. Rhoda reconciles with her mother before she returns to New York. First appearance of Nancy Walker as Rhoda's mother.
Ted calls in sick and is unable to interview author Eric Matthews (Hamid Hamilton Camp). Mary is assigned to conduct the interview. At the end of the interview, Matthews invites Mary to dinner. Matthews is much shorter than Mary, and their conversation repeatedly turns to height, including Mary's noting that Toulous-Lautrec is one of her favorite artists. Afterward, Mary worries that, despite Eric's intelligence and wit, she is a "height bigot". In Ted's absence, Murray hosts the 6 o'clock news while wearing a toupee. Mary agrees to a second date with Eric and struggles to overlook his short stature. Eric asks Mary to read his new book which he has dedicated to Mary and titled, "Toulouse-Lautrec is One of My Favorite Artists". The book is about Eric's life experiences being short. Eric hits it off with Rhoda who was fat as a school girl. Mary was head cheerleader and voted most popular.
Lou puts Mary in charge of WJM's election-night coverage. A blizzard knocks out the teletype and phone lines, preventing the station from accessing the election returns. As they await the results, Ted awkwardly stalls with Humphrey Bogart impersonations, recipes, and silently staring at the camera. Mary recruits Father Flint (Ivor Francis), the host of Sermonette, to join the on-air coverage. During a break, Ted learns that Channel 3 called the mayoral election for Turner and insists on doing the same. Mary refuses to report unofficial results, and Ted backs down when Mary threatens to fire him. After being on the air all night, Chuckles the Clown (Richard Schaal) arrives for his children's show, carrying the newspaper announcing that Mitchell (and not Turner) has won the election. Chuckles announces the result on the air and gives the new mayor his "Chuckle-uck" cheer.
Ted, Mary, Lou, and Murray are all nominated for Teddy Awards. Rhoda's new boyfriend, Bob Peterson (Greg Mullavey) begins including Mary in "group" dating as the Three Musketeers. Bob tells Rhoda he is actually interested in Mary. Rhoda attends the Teddy Awards and incorrectly tells Mary they called her name, prompting Mary to walk to the stage to accept an award she didn't win. Lou purchases a trophy he calls the "Tinker" to improve morale in the newsroom. Dick Patterson appears as the master of ceremonies at the awards and Henry Corden as Mr. Hartunian, a wedding guest who arrives early and is seated at the WJM table.
10
10
"Assistant Wanted, Female"
Peter Baldwin
Treva Silverman
September 11, 1970
November 21, 1970 (1970-11-21)
7016
Lou announces that the 6 o'clock news is being expanded from half an hour to an hour. An overworked Mary gets permission from Lou to hire an assistant. Phyllis persuades a reluctant Mary to hire her. Phyllis avoids performing the menial, "boring" work assigned by Mary and instead spends her time with Ted. Phyllis goads Ted to threaten to quit unless he gets a raise and the hiring of new writers like Norman Mailer and Truman Capote. Lou calls Ted's bluff and begins callin candidates to replace Ted. Ted backs down and, Lou directs Mary to fire Phyllis.
Mary's income tax returns are audited by a quirky IRS agent, Robert C. Brand (Paul Sand). Brand becomes enamored of Mary, taking her to dinner, sending her flowers and presents, and kissing her – all as they continue with the audit. Brand prolongs the audit and, when it ends, he's worried that Mary won't want to see him further, but Mary agrees to continue seeing him.
12
12
"Anchorman Overboard"
Jay Sandrich
Lorenzo Music
TBA
December 5, 1970 (1970-12-05)
7018
Mary reluctantly arranges for Ted to speak at Phyllis's women's club. Ted's appearance is a disaster, as he is unable to answer any questions. Ted fears he has lost his charisma and his on-air performance also suffers. The ratings go up as people tune in to laugh at Ted's bloopers. A publicity man, Ted Curson (Bill Fiore) seeking to book the yo-yo association on WJM is persuaded by Mary to give their "Yo-Yo Man of the Year" award to Ted, thus restoring Ted's confidence.
13
13
"He's All Yours"
Jay Sandrich
Bob Rodgers
TBA
December 12, 1970 (1970-12-12)
7014
WJM's new, young cameraman, Allen Stevens (Wes Stern), is chewed out by Lou after returning from the scene of fire with footage of ants living near the scene. Mary invites Allen to dinner to cheer him up. Mary rejects Allen's advances and tells him to go home. The next morning, Allen brags to Murray and Ted that Mary came on to him. Lou reveals that Allen is his nephew and asks Mary to be sympathetic and understanding. Phyllis pretends to be interested in Allen, believing it will scare him away, but Allen reciprocates Phyllis's advances. Allen confesses to Mary that he's a virgin and that he's been waiting for someone kind, gentle and compassionate to help him find himself. He grabs Mary, but Lou arrives, tells Allen that he thinks of Mary like his own daughter, and reassigns Allen as third apprentice in the photo lab. Having heard Allen's reports, Ted asks Mary if maybe they can have dinner, and Mary responds, "Of course not."
14
14
"Christmas and the Hard-Luck Kid II"
Jay Sandrich
James L. Brooks and Allan Burns
TBA
December 19, 1970 (1970-12-19)
7023
Lou assigns Mary to work on Christmas Day, requiring her to cancel a trip to visit her family. A co-worker, Fred (Ned Wertimer), then guilts Mary to work for him on Christmas Eve so he can be with his family. Mary is alone at the studio on Christmas Eve when Lou, Ted, and Murray make a surprise visit. Henry Corden is the voice of Charlie who radios in from the transmitter. TV Guide ranked this as the best Christmas television episode.[5]
15
15
"Howard's Girl"
Jay Sandrich
Treva Silverman
TBA
January 2, 1971 (1971-01-02)
7017
Mary makes a date with speech writer Paul Arnell (Richard Schaal), the brother of Howard Arnell who she dated in Episode No. 2. Paul and Mary visit his parents (Mary Jackson and Henry Jones), who are under the impression that Mary is in a steady relationship with Howard, their favorite son. Paul informs his parents that Mary is his date and is not Howard's girl.
Mary is offered a job by Bob Freelander (Richard Clair), the general manager of a competing station, as the producer of a women's talk show. Mary doesn't want to take the job, but she needs the extra money. Lou is unable to get a raise for Mary, and Mary accepts the new job. Lou and Murray hold a going-away party on Mary's last day. Mary breaks down in tears at leaving WJM. Ted gets intoxicated and admits he's a terrible news man and should have been a male fashion model. Lou tells Mary that he got the general manager to match Freelander's offer by threatening to quit himself, and Mary agrees to stay at WJM.
Network war correspondent John Corcoran (Monte Markham) returns from Vietnam and visits WJM. An attraction develops between Mary and Corcoran. Corcoran is married, though he claims to be separated. Mary decides not to see Corcoran, but he continues to pursue her. Includes Joyce Bulifant's first appearance as Murray's wife, Marie.
18
18
"Second Story Story"
Jay Sandrich
Steve Pritzker
TBA
January 23, 1971 (1971-01-23)
7024
Mary's apartment is burglarized twice in a few days. Officer Larry Tully (Bob Dishy) takes an interest in Mary and, with his partner Officer Jackson (Vic Tayback), catches the burglar and recovers Mary's property. Burt Mustin appears as an old man at the police station who has been mugged 13 times.
After prior rejections, Murray's play about a newsroom is accepted by the Twin Cities Playhouse. Ted is cast as the anchorman and Mary as a cute, perky, and dumb woman named "Mary" who works in the newsroom. Mary takes offense at being portrayed as dumb. Lou takes offense at the portrayal of the angry newsroom director named "Lou". Ted wants Murray to give his character better lines. A newspaper review titled, "Bomb Hits Minneapolis", pans the production with the exception of Mary's performance which is called "adequate". Joyce Bulifant appears as Murray's pregnant wife, Marie.
20
20
"Hi!"
Jay Sandrich
Treva Silverman
December 18, 1970
February 6, 1971 (1971-02-06)
7019
In the hospital for a tonsillectomy, Mary shares a room with Loretta Kuhne (Pat Carroll). a grumpy patient suffering from a broken leg, a stomach ulcer, and a troubled marriage. Bruce Kirby appears as Loretta's friend, Bert. Robert Casper appears as Mary's anaesthesiologist.
21
21
"The Boss Isn't Coming to Dinner"
Jay Sandrich
David Davis and Lorenzo Music
TBA
February 13, 1971 (1971-02-13)
7021
Following the wedding of Lou's daughter, Lou and his wife are alone in the house together. Lou makes excuses to reject Mary's invitations to have Lou and his wife over for dinner. Mary calls Lou's wife and learns that she and Lou are separated. Weatherman Gordy (John Amos) plays a more prominent role in the episode's newsroom banter.
22
22
"A Friend in Deed"
Jay Sandrich
Susan Silver
January 15, 1971
February 20, 1971 (1971-02-20)
7025
Mary's bubbly forgotten pal from summer camp, "Twinks" McFarland (Patte Finley), turns up as WJM's new receptionist and wants to be Mary's best friend again. Mary tires of "Twinks" but is asked to be the maid of honor at her wedding. At the last minute, Twinks' best friend from out of town agrees to attend the wedding, and Twinks withdraws Mary's role as maid of honor. Finley had previously appeared as "Sparkie" in episode 4.
23
23
"Smokey the Bear Wants You"
Jay Sandrich
Steve Pritzker
TBA
February 27, 1971 (1971-02-27)
7015
Rhoda's new boyfriend, Chuck Pelligrini (Michael Callan), takes her to the best restaurants and offers to give her his car. His job is a mystery, and Mary and Rhoda suspect Chuck may be involved in organized crime. He finally discloses that he was the vice president of a snowblower and lawnmower company, but he quit two months ago and plans to go back to college to become a forest ranger. He invites Mary and Rhoda on a camping trip. After the trip, Rhoda concludes that forest life is not for her; she wants a "wild life, not wildlife." Despite their differences, Rhoda and Chuck decide to continue seeing each other.
Ted and the new station manager, Barry Phelps (Richard Roat), repeatedly mistake Gordy the weatherman for the sports guy. Phelps fires "Big Chicken" (Richard Libertini), the host of a children's show. The newsroom staff (except for Lou) is called into a meeting with Phelps and the advertising manager (Sid Clute). They are told that Lou is being fired. Mary shares the news with Lou. To save Lou's job, Mary visits the eccentric station owner, Wild Jack Monroe (Slim Pickens), a former western movie star who lives on a ranch outside Minneapolis. While riding a stuffed horse and waving a rifle, Wild Bill agrees to look into it. Ed is packing his desk when Wild Bill walks into the newsroom, mistakes Gordy for the sports guy, and overrules the firing of Lou (and of Big Chicken as well).
When Mary produces a documentary called, "What's Your Sexual I.Q.?," the station gets swamped with calls, and Phyllis asks her to teach Bess about the "facts of life."
Lou breaks his rule about fixing people up and sets up a blind date with Mary and one of his old friends, Mike Cooper, then has second thoughts and decides he better go along as a chaperone. Unfortunately, there is no chemistry between Mary and Mike. Lou is impressed that Mike has a phone in his car. Michael Constantine guest stars.
The success of Mary and Rhoda's vacation to Mexico depends on whether they are willing to deliver a mysterious package across the border for the owner of a Mexican restaurant.
Frustrated with her lack of progress at WJM, Mary decides to sharpen her skills with a class in television journalism. Naturally, she catches the teacher's eye.
29
5
"A Girl's Best Mother Is Not Her Friend"
Jay Sandrich
David Davis and Lorenzo Music
July 2, 1971
October 16, 1971 (1971-10-16)
7110
Rhoda's visiting mother decides to become Mary's "friend."
30
6
"Cover Boy"
Jay Sandrich
Treva Silverman
June 18, 1971
October 23, 1971 (1971-10-23)
7102
Ted receives a visit from his super-competitive brother, a male model. Jack Cassidy guest stars.
31
7
"Didn't You Used to Be... Wait... Don't Tell Me"
Jay Sandrich
Allan Burns
TBA
October 30, 1971 (1971-10-30)
7111
Assuming that the relentless Howard Arnell will not be going, Mary decides to attend a high school reunion, and Rhoda comes along.
Murray has been moonlighting to earn extra money for a special anniversary gift, but his lack of sleep is starting to affect his performance in the newsroom.
42
18
"Baby Sit-Com"
Jay Sandrich
Treva Silverman
TBA
January 22, 1972 (1972-01-22)
7123
Mary is committed to watching Bess over the weekend, so when an old flame unexpectedly comes to town, she turns to an unlikely babysitter — Lou.
43
19
"More Than Neighbors"
Jay Sandrich
Steve Pritzker
TBA
January 29, 1972 (1972-01-29)
7101
There is a vacant apartment in Mary's building, and Ted wants to move into it.
44
20
"The Care and Feeding of Parents"
Jay Sandrich
Dick Clair and Jenna McMahon
TBA
February 5, 1972 (1972-02-05)
7114
Pressured by Phyllis, Mary reluctantly agrees to ask the publishing company in her office building to consider Bess's school composition for "Teen Topics' magazine.
45
21
"Where There's Smoke, There's Rhoda"
Peter Baldwin
Martin Cohan
December 10, 1971
February 12, 1972 (1972-02-12)
7124
A friendship is put to the test when Rhoda temporarily moves in with Mary.
46
22
"You Certainly Are a Big Boy"
Jay Sandrich
Martin Cohan
TBA
February 19, 1972 (1972-02-19)
7113
Mary knew the architect she is interested in had a son, but she did not know the son is all grown up. Bradford Dillman guest stars.
47
23
"Some of My Best Friends Are Rhoda"
Peter Baldwin
Steve Pritzker
November 26, 1971
February 26, 1972 (1972-02-26)
7121
Mary's new friend, Joanne, is attractive, successful, and polished, but she does not seem to take to Rhoda. Mary Frann guest stars.
A local newspaper columnist, whom Lou is convinced loves to destroy people's reputations, interviews Mary about being the only woman in the newsroom at WJM.
Lou's promotion to program manager leaves Murray in charge of the newsroom, a task for which he is totally unqualified.
52
4
"Enter Rhoda's Parents"
Jay Sandrich
Martin Cohan
TBA
October 7, 1972 (1972-10-07)
7209
Rhoda is shocked when her parents arrive for a visit and her mother reveals that she is convinced her husband is seeing another woman. First appearance of Harold Gould as Rhoda's father, Martin Morgenstern.
Note: This is the last episode that Ted Knight does not appear in.
When Lou is kept from joining his poker pals in Las Vegas, he insists Mary set up a poker game at work, which becomes a problem for Murray, former compulsive gambler.
Even though she has lost 20 pounds, Rhoda still feels fat and hopeless, but she gets a boost of confidence when she enters Hempel's Department Store's beauty contest.
55
7
"Just Around the Corner"
Jay Sandrich
Steve Pritzker
June 16, 1972
October 28, 1972 (1972-10-28)
7204
When Mary's parents move into a new house just around the corner from her apartment and then start planning her social schedule, Mary turns to Rhoda for advice. Guest stars: Nanette Fabray and Bill Quinn.
Mary tries to help out when her new boyfriend, the station's "Chuckles the Clown" writer, quits his job in order to fulfill his lifelong ambition of performing as a stand-up comedian. Guest star: Jerry Van Dyke.
57
9
"Farmer Ted and the News"
Jay Sandrich
Martin Donovan
August 18, 1972
November 11, 1972 (1972-11-11)
7203
Lou realizes he has made a big mistake after he signs a new contract that allows Ted to earn extra money appearing in TV commercials on several local stations.
If Mary is crushed when she learns the marriage of her longtime friends (guest stars Bert Convy and Beth Howland) is coming to an end, she is stunned when she realizes the husband wants to start dating her.
59
11
"You've Got a Friend"
Jerry Belson
Steve Pritzker
TBA
November 25, 1972 (1972-11-25)
7210
Mary's father is having trouble adjusting to his new life in the city because he misses his old buddies, so Mary invites him to lunch with her and Lou. Nanette Fabray and Bill Quinn again appear as Mary's parents, with this episode being Nanette Fabray's final appearance as "Dottie Richards".
60
12
"It Was Fascination, I Know"
Jay Sandrich
Ed. Weinberger
TBA
December 2, 1972 (1972-12-02)
7211
Bess's 15-year-old boyfriend develops a crush on Mary.
61
13
"Operation: Lou"
Jay Sandrich
Elias Davis and David Pollock
TBA
December 9, 1972 (1972-12-09)
7216
Lou goes to the hospital to have some shrapnel from World War II removed and leaves Mary in charge. Unfortunately, Mary and Murray clash, but, at the same time, Lou bonds with Ted in the hospital.
62
14
"Rhoda Morgenstern: Minneapolis to New York"
Jay Sandrich
Treva Silverman
September 15, 1972
December 16, 1972 (1972-12-16)
7213
Mary is devastated when Rhoda returns from a vacation in New York and announces she has accepted a job and will be leaving Minneapolis for the Big Apple. First appearance of Georgia Engel as Georgette.
63
15
"The Courtship of Mary's Father's Daughter"
Jay Sandrich
David Pollock and Elias Davis
October 13, 1972
December 23, 1972 (1972-12-23)
7218
Mary once again finds herself cast as "the other woman" when an ex-boyfriend invites her to his engagement party, much to the dismay of his new fiancee. Bill Quinn's final appearance as "Walter Richards".
64
16
"Lou's Place"
Jay Sandrich
Ed. Weinberger
TBA
January 6, 1973 (1973-01-06)
7219
Lou achieves a lifelong dream when he becomes the owner of his favorite bar but quickly realizes he is not lovable enough to keep the customers coming back for more.
Phyllis schemes to have her brother fall in love with Mary, but her plans go awry when her brother and Rhoda click. Guest star: Robert Moore.
66
18
"The Georgette Story"
Peter Baldwin
Ed. Weinberger
November 3, 1972
January 20, 1973 (1973-01-20)
7223
Mary and Rhoda decide it is time they have a heart-to-heart talk with Georgette, since it appears Ted is taking his new girlfriend way too much for granted.
Rhoda's boyfriend finds the perfect guy for Mary. Unfortunately, the guy is overzealous in his intent to marry Mary and will not take no for an answer. Guest star: Stuart Margolin.
68
20
"What Do You Say When the Boss Says 'I Love You'?"
Jay Sandrich
David Pollock and Elias Davis
TBA
February 3, 1973 (1973-02-03)
7222
Lou realizes he is in over his head when the new boss at the station is a woman who promptly falls for him. Guest star: Lois Nettleton.
69
21
"Murray Faces Life"
Jay Sandrich
Martin Cohan
TBA
February 10, 1973 (1973-02-10)
7217
Murray sinks into a deep depression after he learns that a former writing classmate has won a Pulitzer Prize for journalism.
70
22
"Remembrance of Things Past"
Jay Sandrich
Dick Clair and Jenna McMahon
TBA
February 17, 1973 (1973-02-17)
7224
Against her better judgment, Mary gets drawn into an affair with an ex-boyfriend who previously broke her heart. Guest star: Joseph Campanella.
Once Mary gets nominated for a Teddy Award, everything starts going disastrously wrong at work and the awards dinner.
72
24
"Mary Richards and the Incredible Plant Lady"
John C. Chulay
Martin Cohan
December 22, 1972
March 3, 1973 (1973-03-03)
7225
Mary and Rhoda's friendship is strained after Rhoda borrows money to set up her new plant store but does not pay Mary back. Guest starring Louise Lasser as Anne Adams at the bank, and Craig T. Nelson as Charlie. Last appearance of: The 1966 CBS in Color logo.[citation needed]
A heartbroken Lou announces that he and his wife Edie are having marital problems, and that a counselor has suggested a trial separation. First appearance of Priscilla Morrill.
When Mary asks Lou for more responsibility in the newsroom, he assigns her the task of hiring a new sportscaster, but first she must fire the old one. Guest stars Richard Gautier and John Gabriel.
78
6
"Father's Day"
Jay Sandrich
Ed. Weinberger
TBA
October 20, 1973 (1973-10-20)
7303
Ted is anxious and agitated as he prepares to meet his long-lost father.
79
7
"Son of "But Seriously, Folks""
Jay Sandrich
Phil Mishkin
TBA
October 27, 1973 (1973-10-27)
7305
One of Mary's ex-boyfriends gets a job in the newsroom and attempts to rekindle their old flame. Jerry Van Dyke returns as "Wes Callison".
Mary tries to find a suitable date for Lou to attend the Teddy Awards banquet. The date is less than desirable and to make matters worse, Edie also attends the banquet with a date of her own.
81
9
"Love Blooms at Hemples"
Jay Sandrich
Sybil Adelman and Barbara Gallagher
TBA
November 10, 1973 (1973-11-10)
7308
Rhoda falls madly in love with one of the Hemples' heirs, but she is clueless as to how he really feels about her.
82
10
"The Dinner Party"
Jay Sandrich
Ed. Weinberger
October 5, 1973
November 17, 1973 (1973-11-17)
7321
Mary meets a congresswoman (Irene Tedrow), who accepts a casual invitation for dinner. An unexpected guest, an ill-timed preparation of Veal Prince Orloff, and Lou's ravenous appetite cause the evening to continue Mary's string of terrible parties. Guest star: Henry Winkler.
Mary plans a surprise party for Lou's birthday, only to find out too late that he hates birthday parties. Mary states Lou was born in 1925.
88
16
"WJM Tries Harder"
Jay Sandrich
Karyl Geld
TBA
January 5, 1974 (1974-01-05)
7316
Mary starts to have doubts about WJM's relatively small-time operations when she dates the anchorman from the Twin Cities' top-rated station.
89
17
"Cottage for Sale"
Jay Sandrich
George Atkins
TBA
January 12, 1974 (1974-01-12)
7311
Phyllis gets her real estate license and targets a reluctant Lou as her first client.
90
18
"The Co-Producers"
Jay Sandrich
David Pollock and Elias Davis
TBA
January 19, 1974 (1974-01-19)
7322
Mary and Rhoda are thrilled with the opportunity to produce a new show for WJM, until they learn the show must star Sue Ann and Ted, who quickly make things difficult.
91
19
"Best of Enemies"
Jay Sandrich
Marilyn Suzanne Miller and Monica Johnson
December 7, 1973
January 26, 1974 (1974-01-26)
7317
Mary and Rhoda's friendship takes serious damage when Rhoda reveals a secret about Mary's past to the office.
92
20
"Better Late...That's a Pun...Than Never"
John C. Chulay
Treva Silverman
January 11, 1974
February 2, 1974 (1974-02-02)
7323
Mary writes a humorous obituary as a joke, but when it is mistakenly read on the air, she is suspended from the newsroom.
93
21
"Ted Baxter Meets Walter Cronkite"
Jay Sandrich
Ed. Weinberger
January 18, 1974
February 9, 1974 (1974-02-09)
7324
After winning his first Teddy Award, Ted meets his idol, Walter Cronkite, and assumes that he is on his way to a network career.
Lou and Rhoda begin dating casually, and everyone—especially Mary—wonders how serious the relationship is turning. Valerie Harper's final appearance as a regular cast member.
95
23
"Two Wrongs Don't Make a Writer"
Nancy Walker
David Lloyd
February 1, 1974
February 23, 1974 (1974-02-23)
7325
Ted joins Mary's night school class in creative writing and plagiarizes Mary's assignment.
Mary begins frequenting a singles bar to research a news special. When they air from the bar live, they encounter disastrous results. Penny Marshall guest stars.
Mary and Lou clash over his violent streaks, especially after he injures Ted for another on-air gaffe. Lou changes his ways, but when Ted takes advantage of the situation, Mary wants the old Lou back.
100
4
"Lou and That Woman"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
TBA
October 5, 1974 (1974-10-05)
4007
Lou is in heaven when he starts dating a fantastic lounge singer (Sheree North), but has second thoughts when she reveals she has been with a number of men.
The gang is displeased when Lou hires a young consultant, named Bob Larson, to raise ratings for the newscast. Just as Larson's strict methods seem to work and the staff slowly warms up to him, he reveals another surprise. Guest star: Richard Masur
Murray meets an attractive divorcee at one of Mary's parties, and the gang is rattled as Murray flirts with having an affair with her. Guest star: Barbara Barrie
103
7
"The New Sue Ann"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
September 20, 1974
October 26, 1974 (1974-10-26)
4018
Sue Ann is charmed when a hometown acquaintance of Mary's comes on as an assistant to her show. But things turn ugly when the young woman dates the station manager and aims for Sue Ann's job.
104
8
"Menage-a-Phyllis"
Jay Sandrich
Treva Silverman
August 23, 1974
November 2, 1974 (1974-11-02)
4010
Mary meets Phyllis' hunky platonic friend Mike (John Saxon) with whom she attends cultural events instead of Lars. When Mike shows an interest in Mary, Phyllis sees green.
105
9
"Not a Christmas Story"
John C. Chulay
Ed. Weinberger and Stan Daniels
August 2, 1974
November 9, 1974 (1974-11-09)
4004
The gang is furious at each other over an office dispute. When they are all snowed in at the office, they spend a tense evening on the set of Sue Ann's Christmas dinner special.
Ted is elated when his mother announces she will be getting married. When she decides against marriage after all, Ted determines he must meet her "gentlemen friend" to learn his intentions.
108
12
"A Son for Murray"
Jay Sandrich
Ed. Weinberger and Stan Daniels
TBA
November 30, 1974 (1974-11-30)
4019
The gang is unwillingly dragged in when Murray and Marie fight over whether or not to try for another child, specifically a boy. Ultimately, they adopt a boy from Vietnam.
Frustrated that Lou is not allowing her to exercise the full authority of her recently acquired title of producer, Mary convinces him to let her produce the show solo. Although Lou is frustrated at first, he admits the show "didn't stink".
113
17
"The System"
Jay Sandrich
Ed. Weinberger and Stan Daniels
TBA
January 11, 1975 (1975-01-11)
4026
Lou has a string of bad bets in the new NFL season, while amateur Ted gets lucky. Lou tries Ted's system, but though successful, finds all the fun has gone out of betting.
114
18
"Phyllis Whips Inflation"
Jay Sandrich
Stan Daniels and Ed. Weinberger
November 8, 1974
January 18, 1975 (1975-01-18)
4023
With everyone feeling the crunch of inflation, Phyllis tries to find a job and Mary tries to coax a raise out of Mr. Grant. Final appearance of Cloris Leachman as a regular cast member. Guest star: Doris Roberts
Lou is inspired to return to investigative reporting. When he has no luck turning up any worthwhile news Mary convinces him to produce a positive documentary instead—with poor results. Final appearance of Sheree North as Charlene Maguire.
116
20
"Marriage Minneapolis Style"
Jay Sandrich
Pamela Russell
TBA
February 1, 1975 (1975-02-01)
4017
After Murray and Marie celebrate their 20th anniversary, Ted impulsively proposes to Georgette on air—and quickly regrets it.
Sherry, the hooker Mary met in jail, resurfaces to ask Mary to be a character witness. Mary then tries to help Sherry find a less risqué line of work, and ends up modeling a shocking dress of Sherry's design. Guest Star: Barbara Colby
118
22
"You Can't Lose 'em All"
Marjorie Mullen
David Lloyd
TBA
February 15, 1975 (1975-02-15)
4025
It is Teddy Awards time and Ted feels upset when he is not even nominated after last year's win, while Lou feels worse when he is selected for a career award he despises. Guest star: Fred Grandy
A scam artist disappears with the money Ted had invested to start a broadcasting school. Mary, Lou, and Murray agree to serve as the faculty to help Ted fulfill his obligations, but are not sure how to proceed when only one student shows up (Leonard Frey) and insists that classes be held regardless. A blind date Mary unwillingly agrees to go out with (Bernie Kopell) at Ida Morgenstern's behest adds to the farcical resolution.
Mary thinks the divorced man she has been dating may be the one. The only problem is, despite her efforts, she dislikes his obnoxious 12-year-old son, and the feeling seems to be mutual. Guest stars: Laurence Luckinbill, Lee Montgomery, Mabel Albertson, Carole King (credited as Carole Larkey)
Lou and the gang are taken aback when Edie announces she is remarrying. Hesitant to attend the wedding, with Mary's support, Lou makes peace with Edie and wishes her well.
Missing Rhoda and Phyllis, Mary feels she has fallen into a rut. She decides to move to a high-rise apartment, and with the help of the gang it soon starts to feel like home.
Mary works with a handsome Catholic priest on a documentary. He announces that he is considering leaving the priesthood and Mary is mortified when her intuition tells her that he may be in love with her. Guest star: Ed Flanders
124
4
"Murray in Love"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
TBA
October 4, 1975 (1975-10-04)
5006
Murray realizes he is in love with Mary, who has to let him down gently. Ted resolves to assist Mary in her problem with some overly friendly neighbors. Guest stars: Penny Marshall and Mary Kay Place
125
5
"Ted's Moment of Glory"
Jay Sandrich
Charles Lee and Gig Henry
TBA
October 11, 1975 (1975-10-11)
5007
Ted lands a new job hosting a game show in New York. The gang unexpectedly finds they will miss him after all and Lou sets out to make him stay. Guest star: Dian Parkinson
126
6
"Mary's Aunt"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
TBA
October 18, 1975 (1975-10-18)
5001
Mary's dynamic journalist Aunt Flo is in town. Mary is excited to introduce her to Lou, but they clash in a battle of egos only to find more common ground than expected. Guest star: Eileen Heckart
Chuckles the Clown is killed in an absurd accident and Mary is appalled at the reaction of her coworkers, who make a litany of corny jokes about the death. At the funeral, everyone promises Mary they will cease and desist, but during the service it is Mary who is unable to control her reactions.
In 1997, TV Guide ranked this episode as the greatest episode of television of all time.[8] In 2009, it moved to No. 3.[9]
Mary becomes a "big sister" to a juvenile delinquent and is put in a compromising position when the girl steals some money from the office. Guest star: Mackenzie Phillips
129
9
"Ted's Wedding"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
September 12, 1975
November 8, 1975 (1975-11-08)
5010
When Ted makes another insincere proposal of marriage during dinner, Georgette insists that they do marry, right then and there in Mary's apartment. A grungy Murray, Sue Ann's last minute accessorizing, and a minister in tennis attire make for a very comical wedding. Guest star: John Ritter
130
10
"Lou Douses an Old Flame"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
September 19, 1975
November 15, 1975 (1975-11-15)
5014
Lou has mixed feelings of hope and revenge when contacted by an old girlfriend who sent him a "Dear John" letter 30 years previously. Mary hosts a post-wedding bachelor party for Ted. Guest star: Beverly Garland
Mary falls deeply for her latest boyfriend, Joe Warner, but he cannot say "I love you" to her. She is devastated when she learns why. Mary and Rhoda speak on the phone about their respective love interests (both named "Joe"). Guest stars: Valerie Harper, Ted Bessell, David Groh and Beth Howland.
132
12
"Ted's Tax Refund"
Marjorie Mullen
Bob Ellison
TBA
November 29, 1975 (1975-11-29)
5012
Ted gets a large tax refund and vows to change his miserly ways by giving generous gifts to the gang. When he is audited by the IRS, he tries to muster up support for false deductions.
When Prince Charles has to cancel his appearance on "Talk of the Town", Mary struggles to find a replacement guest. Mary reluctantly helps set up Sue Ann and Lou on a date, which ends with an unusual twist.
134
14
"One Boyfriend Too Many"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
TBA
December 13, 1975 (1975-12-13)
5017
While the romance between Mary and Joe Warner is going well, when Mary's old boyfriend Dan Whitfield comes back to town, Mary is not sure where her heart lies.
135
15
"What Do You Want to Do When You Produce?"
Jay Sandrich
Shelly Nelbert and Craig Alan Hafner
TBA
December 20, 1975 (1975-12-20)
5013
Murray accepts a lucrative position producing Sue Ann's "Happy Homemaker" show. It ends up being a humiliating experience for Murray that he is willing to bear until Mary reveals that his wife is distraught over the change.
136
16
"Not With My Wife, I Don't"
Jay Sandrich
Bob Ellison
TBA
January 3, 1976 (1976-01-03)
5016
When Georgette threatens to leave Ted over problems in the bedroom, he gets help from a psychiatrist. Murray researches a story on availability of guns.
Mary and Lou attend a seminar in Washington, D.C. Lou expects to take Mary on a night on the town with his old friends, but when his contacts seem to be a bust, Mary makes her own plans. Meanwhile, Ted is in charge of the news room. Guest stars: Betty Ford and Dabney Coleman
138
18
"Once I Had a Secret Love"
Jay Sandrich
Pat Nardo and Gloria Banta
December 5, 1975
January 17, 1976 (1976-01-17)
5018
Lou has a drunken one-night stand with Sue Ann and swears Mary to secrecy. When he finds out she told Murray, Lou declares his friendship with her over.
139
19
"Menage-a-Lou"
Jay Sandrich
Bob Ellison
TBA
January 24, 1976 (1976-01-24)
5020
Lou's old girlfriend Charlene is in town so Mary invites her to another disastrous party where Lou makes a scene in front of Charlene's new boyfriend. Lou asks Mary's neighbor to join him on a double date with Charlene to make her jealous. Guest stars: Penny Marshall, Janis Paige and Jeff Conaway
140
20
"Murray Takes a Stand"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
TBA
January 31, 1976 (1976-01-31)
5019
The new station owner's policies infuriate Murray so he calls the owner at home with an irate message. The next morning the owner tells Lou to fire Murray. The gang has to band together to get Murray's job back.
141
21
"Mary's Aunt Returns"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
TBA
February 7, 1976 (1976-02-07)
5021
Aunt Flo returns to Minneapolis to collaborate with Lou on a documentary. When they have different approaches on the material, they hold a competition. Ted plays both sides to be the narrator. Guest star: Eileen Heckart
Mary threatens to resign when Lou runs a damaging story on a politician with ties to organized crime, and who is also Mary's trusted personal friend.
143
23
"Sue Ann Falls in Love"
Doug Rogers
Bob Ellison
February 6, 1976
February 28, 1976 (1976-02-28)
5024
Sue Ann falls for a hunky outdoorsman. On the eve of the Teddy Awards, he makes a pass at Mary, who is forced to tell Sue Ann just before she wins the award.
144
24
"Ted and the Kid"
Marjorie Mullen
Bob Ellison
TBA
March 6, 1976 (1976-03-06)
5022
Ted confides in Mary that he and Georgette are having trouble conceiving a child. The couple adopt 12-year-old David, and subsequently Georgette announces she has become pregnant after all. Guest star: Robbie Rist
After Lou and Mary feud about his weight, he shows up to spoil Mary's dinner party. When Georgette goes into labor, Mary and Lou must cooperate to deliver the Baxters' daughter, whom they name Mary Lou.
Mary asks Lou to give an honest opinion on an article she wrote and becomes upset when Lou thinks it "stinks". She goes so far as to lie about it being accepted by Reader's Digest.
147
3
"Sue Ann's Sister"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
July 23, 1976
October 9, 1976 (1976-10-09)
6005
Sue Ann's visiting sister gets an offer to do a rival cooking show in Minneapolis. This sends Sue Ann into a depression. The gang comes to her bedside to cheer her up, and the audience is treated to a view of the happy homemaker's tawdry boudoir. Guest star: Pat Priest
148
4
"What's Wrong with Swimming?"
Marjorie Mullen
David Lloyd
TBA
October 16, 1976 (1976-10-16)
6002
Mary battles Lou to hire a female swimmer, B.J., as the station's sportscaster. When B.J. ends up only reporting on swimming and diving, ignoring important stories about local football and basketball, Mary must take responsibility for the situation.
After having a heart attack on the air, Ted decides life is incredibly precious and takes an incredibly positive view of life. His attitude is infectious among the new staff, but how long will it last?
Lou makes Murray a co-producer after he gets an offer from another station. Mary is not happy about this situation and there seems no way for Lou to resolve the problem.
151
7
"My Son, the Genius"
Jay Sandrich
Bob Ellison
TBA
November 6, 1976 (1976-11-06)
6003
When Ted and Georgette's son David (Robbie Rist) is having trouble in school, they bring him to a psychologist and discover he is a genius with an I.Q. of 160. David suddenly becomes a brat and his parents must deal with his new behavior.
152
8
"Mary Gets a Lawyer"
Jay Sandrich
Burt Prelutsky
TBA
November 13, 1976 (1976-11-13)
6014
A grand jury sends Mary to trial for contempt of court for not revealing a news source. Mary's lawyer, a friend of Lou, is taken with her, but when he discovers she is not interested, he goes on a bender, and it seems as though Mary's defense will be ruined. Guest stars: John McMartin, Richard Kline.
153
9
"Lou Proposes"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
TBA
November 20, 1976 (1976-11-20)
6015
Mary's Aunt, Flo Meridith, is visiting town again, and after her usual altercations with Lou, he decides to ask Flo to marry him.
154
10
"Murray Can't Lose"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
October 8, 1976
November 27, 1976 (1976-11-27)
6012
A rumor is going around that Murray is a sure thing to win at this year's Teddy awards. Mary is put in charge of entertainment at the ceremony and has Georgette perform the musical number "Steam Heat".
155
11
"Mary's Insomnia"
James Burrows
David Lloyd
September 17, 1976
December 4, 1976 (1976-12-04)
6009
Mary uses sleeping pills to help her insomnia and Mr. Grant is concerned when she becomes dependent on them.
156
12
"Ted's Temptation"
Harry Mastrogeorge
Bob Ellison
TBA
December 11, 1976 (1976-12-11)
6013
Mary, Murray and Ted attend a convention in Los Angeles. An attractive young journalist tries to seduce Ted. Guest star: Trisha Noble.
157
13
"Look at Us, We're Walking"
Jay Sandrich
Bob Ellison
TBA
December 25, 1976 (1976-12-25)
6004
Mary and Lou ask the new station manager for a raise and threaten to quit otherwise. Guest star: David Ogden Stiers.
A very negative critic is hired by the station manager to do a spot on The Six O'clock News, and immediately attacks Minneapolis's population as a whole. Lou wants Mary to go out with him in a futile attempt to get him to put a more positive spin on his reviews. Guest stars: Eric Braeden, David Ogden Stiers.
159
15
"Lou's Army Reunion"
Jay Sandrich
Bob Ellison
TBA
January 15, 1977 (1977-01-15)
6016
Lou wants to return a favor to an old Army buddy, but is upset when he asks for a date with Mary. Guest star: Alex Rocco
160
16
"The Ted and Georgette Show"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
November 19, 1976
January 22, 1977 (1977-01-22)
6018
Ted and Georgette do a show on WJM that becomes a hit, but Georgette would rather stay at home taking care of her family. Guest stars: David Ogden Stiers and Alex Henteloff.
161
17
"Sue Ann Gets the Ax"
Jay Sandrich
Bob Ellison
December 3, 1976
January 29, 1977 (1977-01-29)
6019
Sue Ann Niven's Happy Homemaker show is canceled. After being given a series of demeaning jobs at WJM, she's hired to work in the newsroom.
162
18
"Hail the Conquering Gordy"
Jay Sandrich
Earl Pomerantz
TBA
February 5, 1977 (1977-02-05)
6020
Gordy, the former WJM weatherman, is now a network news star. In town for a visit, the gang throws him a party, and jealous Ted is hoping for a co-host position with Gordy in New York.
Mary agrees to go out on a date with an older man, who turns out to be Murray's father. Guest star: Lew Ayres.
164
20
"Murray Ghosts for Ted"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
TBA
February 19, 1977 (1977-02-19)
6025
Ted is unable to write an article requested by a newspaper, so hires Murray to write it for him, insisting that he not reveal the arrangement. When the article gains attention from the Governor and is to be reprinted in Reader's Digest, Mary and Lou want Ted to come clean. Guest star: Helen Hunt
165
21
"Mary's Three Husbands"
Jay Sandrich
Bob Ellison
January 14, 1977
February 26, 1977 (1977-02-26)
6023
After a long day, Lou, Murray and Ted have a drink and fantasize what it would be like for each of them to be married to Mary. Lou's fantasy takes place on their would-be golden anniversary and aged versions of all four characters are seen.
166
22
"Mary's Big Party"
Jay Sandrich
Bob Ellison
January 28, 1977
March 5, 1977 (1977-03-05)
6026
Congresswoman Geddes from Episode 82 ("The Dinner Party") asks Mary to entertain Johnny Carson, who is visiting Minneapolis. Mary thinks for once she can have a party which is not a disaster. As the gang awaits the celebrity's arrival in Mary's apartment, there is a power failure and no candles or working flashlights are to be found. The guests recall a series of Mary's bad parties through flashbacks. Guest star: Johnny Carson. Valerie Harper and Henry Winkler appear in flashback scenes. Irene Tedrow reprises her role as Congresswomen Margaret Geddes.
167
23
"Lou Dates Mary"
Jay Sandrich
David Lloyd
January 7, 1977
March 12, 1977 (1977-03-12)
6024
At the age of 37, and after another disappointing date, Mary believes she may never meet a good man. Georgette suggests that Mary date Lou. She manages to ask him out, but can the uncomfortable pair hit it off romantically?
The new station manager fires Lou, Mary, Murray, and Sue Ann, but decides to keep Ted on. Lou flies in a couple of old friends to surprise a distraught Mary. After watching their last broadcast together, Mary shares a very emotional farewell in the newsroom with her coworkers and friends and for her, the series ends on a tearful but positive note.
