Ep 5. I Never Killed for My Father

In the fifth episode of Family Ties season 1, titled "I Never Killed for My Father," the Keaton family faces a moral dilemma when Elyse's father, Grandpa Walt, comes to visit. Grandpa Walt, a former police officer, shares stories of his past with Alex and Steven, impressing them with his heroism. However, when Grandpa Walt reveals that he may have killed a man during his time on the force, the Keatons are forced to confront the idea of morality and the line between justice and murder.

The family's reactions to Grandpa Walt's confession vary, with Alex eager to uncover the truth and Steven struggling to reconcile his respect for his father-in-law with the idea that he may have committed a crime. Meanwhile, Jennifer and Mallory are excited to spend time with Grandpa Walt, unaware of the weight of his confession.

As the episode progresses, the family becomes more and more divided over what to do with the information Grandpa Walt shared. Alex conducts his own investigation, determined to uncover the truth, while Elyse struggles to reconcile her memories of her father with the possibility that he may have killed someone. Steven finds himself caught in the middle, torn between his duty as a son-in-law and his own sense of right and wrong.

The tension in the Keaton household reaches its breaking point when Grandpa Walt reveals that he may have had a reason for killing the man in question, leading the family to question whether or not his actions were justified. As they wrestle with their own moral compasses, the Keatons ultimately come together to support each other and try to make sense of the situation.

"I Never Killed for My Father" is a thought-provoking episode that explores themes of justice and morality, and challenges viewers to consider the weight of their own actions and decisions. With its strong performances and complex storyline, it remains a standout episode of the first season of Family Ties.