Ep 12. What's With Robert?

In Everybody Loves Raymond season 4 episode 12 titled "What's With Robert?", viewers are taken on a journey into the mind of Robert, Raymond's older brother. Robert, who is usually portrayed as tough and unemotional, begins to act erratic and emotional causing Raymond and the rest of the family to become extremely concerned.

The episode is focused on Robert's behavior as he seems to be in a downward spiral. He is acting very out of character and nobody seems to understand what is going on with him. Even his girlfriend, Amy, is starting to worry about him. His family starts to think that he may be having a midlife crisis but Robert refuses to reveal what is really bothering him.

As the episode progresses, each member of the family tries to understand what is going on with Robert. Raymond tries to talk to him about what is happening but Robert shuts him down every time he tries. He even goes so far as to tell Raymond that he doesn't want to talk to him.

Debra, Raymond's wife, tries a different approach. She sits down with Robert and asks him what's really going on. At first, Robert doesn't want to talk, but eventually, he opens up and reveals that he is feeling lost and unsure about his career. He tells Debra that he doesn't feel like he is making a difference in the world and that he is not happy with the direction his life is going.

Debra listens patiently and ultimately suggests that Robert take some time off to figure out what he really wants to do. She reminds him that it's never too late to switch careers and that the most important thing is to be happy. Robert takes her advice and decides to take a leave of absence from the police force to explore his options.

Throughout the episode, the rest of the family tries to help Robert in their own ways. Their mother, Marie, tries to cook his favorite foods to lift his spirits, while his father, Frank, tries to talk to him about his unfulfilled dreams.

Towards the end of the episode, Robert decides to start pursuing his longtime passion of becoming a chef. He begins taking cooking classes and even accepts a job at an upscale restaurant. The family is hesitant at first but supports Robert in his decision after seeing how happy he is in the kitchen.

"What's With Robert?" is an insightful episode that addresses the struggles that people face during mid-life; especially, when they feel like they haven't accomplished everything they wanted to. It's a reminder that it's never too late to go after your dreams and that the support of your family can help you through even the toughest of times.