Ep 7. The Older Woman

The episode of Diff'rent Strokes season 5 episode 7, titled "The Older Woman," tells the story of Arnold Jackson and his encounter with an older woman. Arnold, the character played by Gary Coleman, is known for his precocious behavior and is often getting into trouble. In this episode, Arnold meets Mrs. Harrison, a wealthy and glamorous older woman who offers him a chance of a lifetime - a part in her upcoming play.

Arnold jumps at the opportunity, excited about the prospect of becoming a famous actor. However, his aunt and uncle, the Drummonds, are worried about his safety and caution him against getting too involved with someone much older than him. But Arnold is determined and sets out to impress Mrs. Harrison with his acting skills.

As he spends more time with Mrs. Harrison, Arnold begins to realize that she is not just a talented actress but also a lonely woman who is looking for companionship. They bond over their shared love of theater and Arnold even starts to look up to her as a mentor. However, when Mrs. Harrison crosses a line, Arnold is left feeling confused and unsure of how to handle the situation.

Meanwhile, the Drummonds are dealing with their own issues. Phillip, the wealthy businessman played by Conrad Bain, is feeling overwhelmed at work and is considering quitting his job. Meanwhile, his wife, Maggie, played by Dixie Carter, is struggling with her own identity and is learning to assert herself in their marriage.

The episode tackles the issue of age differences in relationships and the complexities that come with them. It deals with the theme of loneliness and companionship and the importance of having strong support systems in our lives. It also highlights the challenges of navigating a father-son relationship in the absence of a biological father.

Overall, "The Older Woman" is a touching episode that explores important themes and delivers a powerful message about the importance of love, acceptance, and understanding. It features excellent performances from the cast, including Gary Coleman, who shines as the lovable Arnold Jackson. The episode is a reminder of why Diff'rent Strokes was such a beloved show and why it remains a classic to this day.