Ep 8. The Alan Brady Show Goes to Jail

Rob Petrie, head writer of "The Alan Brady Show," is quite pleased with himself as he brings home a contract for his and Sally Rogers' comedy team to do their own television series. The problem is, they've not told their boss yet. But before they can break the news to Alan, Rob gets served with a subpoena to produce his files for a lawsuit. Alan is being sued for defamation of character by a convict he featured in a comedy sketch.

As they frantically work to build a defense, Rob and Sally appear before the prison parole board, hoping that their "celebrity" will get the convict an early release and dump the lawsuit. But all to no avail – the parole board decides to make an example of the convict, and he goes back to his cell with a chip on his shoulder, threatening legal retaliation.

Less than 24 hours later, Rob and Sally arrive at work to find that Alan is doing a whole new show, complete with a new sponsor and a new opening – sans Rob and Sally. They are understandably frustrated and angry, but their situation goes from bad to worse when they discover that the convicted prisoner is being released and is on his way to the studio – with a pistol.

While Alan is taping his show, the disgruntled ex-con forces his way into the studio, holding Alan, Rob, Sally and Buddy hostage. Alan is able to pass a note to one of his staff and a hilariously clever rescue plan ensues. In the end, the con is caught, the lawsuit is settled, and the show goes on.

This episode, entitled "The Alan Brady Show Goes to Jail," is both an exciting and comedic journey through the perils of live television and the frustrations of talented but under-appreciated writers in the 1960s. Fans of the show will appreciate the witty banter, sharp humor, and impeccable comedic timing that made The Dick Van Dyke Show a classic.