Diff'rent Strokes - Episode 2

This is a second episode that could just as easily be a pilot. It's so simple! Rich comedically. Explores all the themes of the show. Obviously this is an out dated concept that would be really bizarre to do now, but the comedy, pacing and structure were great. 

Written by Budd Grossman

ACT ONE OUT: They decide to leave.
ACT TWO OUT: They decide to stay.
 
ACT ONE

• Drummond tells the kids a social worker is coming
  • Drummond and kids comedically brainstorm true but nice things they could say about him
• LATER: social worker arrives. Kids act all fancy and happy. GREAT GAME IN THIS SCENE. Then they hop off and she questions Drummond. Then she leaves. BUT there is a misunderstanding…
  • Arnold hears Drummond say “Black children belong with black families.” But actually Drummond is saying how that’s not true.
• Arnold and Willis decide Drummond is a fake and they should leave.

 
ACT TWO

• Drummond gets home to find the kids are out eating alone. Gets a call from social worker: she’s bringing a black couple for the kids tomorrow morning.
• Drummond confronts the kids. They’re confused cuz it seems like he wants them to stay.
• Garrett tries to convince Drummond the boys won’t leave him. He’s not so sure.
• THE BLACK FAMILY ARRIVES: The misunderstanding is cleared up. The boys decide to stay.