Ep 9. The Legend of Bonnie and Carl

In season 4 episode 9 of Shameless, titled "The Legend of Bonnie and Carl," the Gallaghers are dealing with a variety of issues as they try to keep their heads above water in their troubled Chicago neighborhood. As usual, some members of the family are having more luck than others.

The episode begins with Frank (William H. Macy) arriving home from the hospital, where he has been treated for cirrhosis of the liver. Despite his deteriorating health, Frank is already back to his old ways, drinking and smoking and plotting his next scheme.

Meanwhile, Carl (Ethan Cutkosky) is feeling like a kingpin after stealing a gun from a local gang member. He starts to get a reputation around the neighborhood, and even attracts the attention of a young girl named Bonnie (Morgan Lily). Bonnie is impressed by Carl's tough guy persona, and the two begin spending time together, much to the dismay of Carl's siblings.

Elsewhere in the Gallagher household, Fiona (Emmy Rossum) is still struggling with the aftermath of her breakup with Jimmy/Steve. She tries to distract herself by throwing herself into work at Patsy's Pies, but she can't shake the feeling that something is missing from her life.

Debbie (Emma Kenney), on the other hand, is feeling more optimistic than ever about her future. She starts attending night school to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian, and even manages to make a new friend in the process.

Lip (Jeremy Allen White) and Ian (Cameron Monaghan), however, are both struggling with their own demons. Lip is still embroiled in a complicated relationship with his professor, while Ian is struggling to come to terms with his bipolar disorder and the effect it's having on his relationships.

As always, the Gallaghers are faced with a variety of challenges, both external and internal. But through it all, the family remains as strong and resilient as ever, determined to keep their heads above water no matter what life throws their way.