Ep 6. Mixed Doubles

Frasier season 4 episode 6, titled "Mixed Doubles," is a hilarious installment of the beloved sitcom that sees Frasier's love life take some confusing twists and turns. In this episode, Frasier (played by Kelsey Grammer) is dating two women at once: the glamorous, sophisticated Faye Moskowitz (Amy Brenneman) and his old flame Cassandra Stone (Virginia Madsen), who has recently returned to Seattle. As Frasier tries to balance his time and affections between the two women, he finds himself torn between his feelings and his desire to do the right thing.

Meanwhile, Niles (David Hyde Pierce), Frasier's brother, is dealing with his own romantic turmoil. He is smitten with a woman named Mel (Jane Adams), but after they share a passionate kiss, she reveals that she is married and cannot pursue a relationship with him. Niles is devastated by the news and struggles to move on, even as he tries to maintain a cordial relationship with Mel as a colleague.

As the episode unfolds, Frasier and Niles both find themselves grappling with the complexities of love and relationships. Frasier wrestles with the question of whether he can truly commit to one woman, while Niles struggles to come to terms with his unrequited feelings for Mel. Along the way, there are plenty of laughs to be had, as the show's witty writing and impeccable comedic timing create one hilarious moment after another.

One of the standout scenes in the episode is a dinner party hosted by Frasier, where tensions run high as Faye and Cassandra both attend. The awkwardness of the situation is palpable, as Frasier tries to keep the two women from clashing and his family members offer their own amusing observations on the situation. Despite the tension, the dinner party ultimately proves to be a catalyst for Frasier to make an important decision about his love life.

Another memorable moment in the episode is a scene between Niles and Martin (John Mahoney), Frasier's father. As Niles laments his romantic troubles to Martin, the older man offers some sage advice that speaks to the heart of the show's themes about love and family. In this way, "Mixed Doubles" is not just a funny episode of television, but also a poignant exploration of the complexities of human relationships.

Overall, "Mixed Doubles" is a classic example of what made Frasier such a beloved show during its original run. With its sharp writing, stellar performances, and relatable themes, the episode is a delightful romp through the ups and downs of love and dating. Whether you're a longtime fan of the show or just discovering it for the first time, "Mixed Doubles" is an episode that is sure to leave you laughing and feeling warm and fuzzy inside.