Lou Grant Season 3 Episode 18
Lou Grant
Season 3

Ep 18. Censored

  • TVPG
  • February 4, 1980
  • 2940 min

Censored is the eighteenth episode of the third season of the critically acclaimed drama series, Lou Grant. Set in Los Angeles, the show follows the challenging and often controversial world of journalism through the lens of the fictional Los Angeles Tribune newspaper.

In this episode, the talented and determined newsroom staff of the Los Angeles Tribune is faced with a contentious situation when they encounter an important story that brings the issue of censorship to the forefront. As they dig deeper into the topic, they discover a web of secrecy and suppression that threatens the freedom of the press - a cornerstone of democracy.

The episode begins as Lou Grant (portrayed by Ed Asner), the no-nonsense editor of the newspaper, is alerted to a potential story by Billie Newman (portrayed by Linda Kelsey), an investigative journalist. Billie comes across evidence of a local government agency that is withholding information from the public, despite their legal obligation to disclose it. Intrigued by the potential implications, Lou assigns Billie and her partner, Rossi (portrayed by Robert Walden), to pursue the story and expose the truth.

As they delve into their investigation, Billie and Rossi find themselves facing numerous obstacles. Government officials are uncooperative, denying requests for information and providing only vague statements. With each roadblock, the duo becomes more determined to discover the hidden truth and shed light on the issue of censorship.

Meanwhile, the rest of the newsroom at the Los Angeles Tribune is buzzing with their own assignments and stories. Animal rights activist Neal Frazier (portrayed by Daryl Anderson) is working on an exposé about a local zoo that mistreats its animals, while journalist Joe Rossi uncovers corruption within the city's education system. Their personal struggles to report the truth parallel the overarching theme of the episode, adding depth to the portrayal of the ethical challenges journalists face when confronting censorship.

Throughout Censored, the tension builds as Lou and his team encounter resistance from various institutions involved in the cover-up. They risk their careers and face personal danger to uncover the truth and preserve the integrity of the press. Along the way, they wrestle with their own moral dilemmas, questioning the boundaries of their roles as journalists and their responsibility to the public.

As the story unfolds, Censored skillfully explores the underlying issues surrounding censorship and the impact it has on democracy and the freedom of the press. Viewers are taken on a thought-provoking journey, witnessing the struggles and triumphs of those who fight to bring hidden truths to light.

Filled with compelling performances, Censored showcases the talented ensemble cast of Lou Grant. Ed Asner delivers a powerful portrayal of Lou, the gruff yet compassionate editor who remains steadfast in his commitment to journalistic integrity. Linda Kelsey's performance as the tenacious Billie Newman highlights her determination to seek justice and expose the truth, while Robert Walden's portrayal of Rossi brilliantly captures the frustrations and triumphs of investigative journalism.

Created by the legendary TV producer, Allan Burns, Lou Grant tackles important social and political issues through captivating storytelling and strong character development. Censored is no exception, offering a gripping narrative that sheds light on the challenges faced by journalists who navigate the complex world of censorship.

In conclusion, Censored is a thought-provoking and compelling episode that highlights the fight for freedom of the press in the face of censorship. Lou Grant, with its stellar cast and powerful storytelling, continues to captivate audiences by delving into relevant themes and presenting them in a thought-provoking manner.

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Description
  • First Aired
    February 4, 1980
  • Content Rating
    TVPG
  • Runtime
    2940 min
  • Language
    English