Ep 1. When Doves Cry

When Doves Cry is the first episode of the second season of the Canadian teen drama series Degrassi. The episode originally aired on October 4, 2002, on CTV in Canada. The show follows the lives of a diverse group of teenagers as they navigate high school, relationships, and social issues.

The episode picks up where the first season left off, with Emma Nelson (Miriam McDonald) struggling to come to terms with the revelation that her mother, Spike (Amanda Stepto), is pregnant. Emma's father, Shane (Jonathan Torrens), is also struggling to deal with the news and has disappeared from Emma's life.

Meanwhile, Ashley Kerwin (Melissa McIntyre) is dealing with the fallout from her decision to break up with her boyfriend, Jimmy Brooks (Aubrey Graham), and pursue a relationship with Craig Manning (Jake Epstein). Craig, however, is still dealing with his own emotional baggage as he comes to terms with the fact that his father has left him and his mother.

Elsewhere in the school, Spinner Mason (Shane Kippel) and his best friend, Jimmy, are trying to win the affections of the new girl in school, Paige Michalchuk (Lauren Collins). However, Paige is more interested in getting involved in the student council and making a name for herself in the school.

As the episode progresses, Emma becomes increasingly overwhelmed by the news of her mother's pregnancy and the abandonment of her father. She begins acting out in school, skipping class and smoking marijuana with her friend, Manny Santos (Cassie Steele). When Emma's actions result in a confrontation with school principal, Mr. Raditch (Dan Woods), she realizes that she needs to face her problems head-on and begins to seek out therapy.

Meanwhile, Ashley and Craig's relationship takes a turn for the worse when Ashley discovers that Craig has been lying to her about his home life. The two break up, leaving Ashley feeling lost and alone. Spinner and Jimmy's attempts to win over Paige also prove to be unsuccessful, as she refuses to be won over by their charm.

Throughout the episode, the characters are forced to confront the realities of their lives and the challenges that they face as teenagers. Whether it be dealing with family issues, relationship drama, or trying to gain acceptance in a new school, the characters are all struggling to find their place in the world.

When Doves Cry sets the stage for the second season of Degrassi, laying the groundwork for the many complex and emotional storylines that the show is known for. It is a poignant and authentic portrayal of the difficulties that teenagers face as they navigate the ups and downs of high school life.