Written by Bernard Slade
Produced by Paul Junger Witt
Directed by Alan Rafkin
Original Air Date: January 22, 1971
Shirley gets the notion that show biz may be robbing the kids of a normal
life. Thinking that the hectic grind may be too much of a strain on them, she
takes them all for a medical checkup -- only to find they're in perfect
health. Still convinced that they're missing something, Shirley tells them
that she thinks they should quit show business for six months. All are baffled
by the announcement -- except Laurie, because she thinks that the reason for
Shirley's sudden decision is handsome, eligible Jim Lucas, Shirley's former
doctor. When Laurie tells the others, they agree not to stand in the way of
Shirley's happiness, and after consenting to the six month rest, Shirley
thinks she was right about her fears.
Several days later, the kids are bored to death without their music and,
feeling they're sacrificing in vain, Danny plays matchmaker by finding Jim and
dropping a not-so-subtle hint that Shirley is always at home. Jim drives Danny
home, sees Shirley and the kids think they've finally gotten the romance on
it's way. After five dates, Shirley tells Laurie that Jim has something to ask
her. Everyone thinks Jim will propose, but to Shirley's relief, he only asks
her to look at some songs he's written. The kids find out that Shirley wasn't
serious about Jim, Shirley learns the real reason they agreed to give up their
music and to everyone's delight -- especially Reuben's -- the group is ready
to work again.
Songs:
"I'm Here, You're Here," music and lyrics by Wes Farrell and Gerry
Goffin (On Up To Date)
"I Can Feel Your Heartbeat," music and lyrics by Wes Farrell, Mike
Appel, and Jim Cretecos (on The Partridge
Family Album)
Guest Cast:
Jim Lucas ----------------------------------- Richard Mulligan
Mabel --------------------------------------- Reva Rose
Tube Trivia:
- Richard Mulligan is best remembered for his roles on "Soap," and
"Empty Nest." He also appeared in Episode 82.
- Reva Rose was a regular on "That Girl" and "Temperatures
Rising."
- This episode was written by series creator Bernard Slade. He also wrote
Episodes 1, 3, 5,
8, 13, 25,
36, and 38. To read our
exclusive interview with Bernard Slade, visit the People and Places section of
the website!
- Wes Farrell briefly considered releasing "I Can Feel Your
Heartbeat" as the Partridge Family's second single but decided against
it, as he feared it would water down album sales.
- Wes Farrell and Gerry Goffin wrote three tunes for the Up To Date album.
They also wrote "I'll Meet You Halfway," and "There's No Doubt
In My Mind."
