Ep 2. Not With My Sister You Don't

In season 1, episode 2 of the hit 80s sitcom Family Ties, titled "Not With My Sister You Don't," the Keaton family is back in action with more laughs, heartfelt moments, and quirky family dynamics.

The episode begins with the Keaton siblings, Alex and Mallory, squabbling over a typewriter. Mallory, the fashionista of the family, needs the typewriter for a school project, while Alex, the intellectual older brother, insists on using it to finish up his own work. Meanwhile, the youngest Keaton child, Jennifer, is dealing with her own problems - she's being teased at school for not having a "real" family. Eager to prove her classmates wrong, Jennifer takes matters into her own hands and decides to play matchmaker for her older brother.

Enter Grant, Mallory's handsome and charming classmate who Jennifer believes would be the perfect match for Alex. At first, Alex is hesitant to go on a date set up by his little sister, but he eventually gives in and agrees to meet Grant at the mall.

As Alex and Grant chit-chat over burgers and fries, it becomes clear that there's some tension between the two. It turns out that Grant has a reputation as a bit of a ladies' man, and Alex doesn't want him anywhere near his little sister. Despite the awkwardness, Alex agrees to let Grant take Mallory out on a date, but only under a strict set of rules that Grant must abide by.

As expected, Grant doesn't exactly play by the rules and Alex becomes increasingly protective of his sister. The tension between the Keaton siblings and Grant comes to a head in a hilarious scene at the family dinner table, where Grant's attempts to impress everyone fall flat and the family starts to see him for the sleazeball that he is.

Meanwhile, Jennifer's efforts to prove that her family is just as "real" as anyone else's lead to a heart-to-heart talk with her parents, Steven and Elise. The conversation is touching and highlights the close bond between the Keaton parents and their children.

As the episode comes to a close, Mallory realizes that Grant isn't the perfect guy she thought he was and the Keaton family learns yet another valuable lesson about the importance of family values and looking out for each other.

Overall, "Not With My Sister You Don't" is a fun and heartwarming addition to the first season of Family Ties. With its relatable family dynamics, witty writing, and top-notch performances from its talented cast, it's no wonder why this show remains a beloved classic to this day.