Grace Under Fire Season 1 Episode 1 Pilot

Grace Under Fire is a sitcom that follows a single mother named Grace Kelly who is trying to rebuild her life after a divorce. The show tackles issues such as addiction, parenting, dating, and financial struggles with humor and heart. The first episode of the series, titled Pilot, introduces the main characters and sets up the premise of the show.

The episode opens with Grace, played by Brett Butler, sitting in her car after dropping her kids off at school. She is trying to get herself together after drinking too much the night before. Her neighbor, Russell (Dave Thomas), sees her and tries to cheer her up by offering her some sage advice and a cup of coffee.

Grace meets with her divorce attorney, who tells her that she is entitled to $5,000 a month in alimony and child support from her ex-husband Jimmy (Geoffrey Pierson). However, he is not complying with the court order, and Grace is struggling to make ends meet. She decides to ask Jimmy for the money, but he refuses to give her more than $200.

Meanwhile, Grace's oldest son Quentin (Jon Paul Steuer) is causing trouble at school. He gets into a fight with a boy and is suspended. Grace tries to discipline him but struggles to get him to take responsibility for his actions.

Grace's job as a waitress is not enough to pay the bills, so she starts looking for a second job. She applies for a position as an assistant at an oil company but is turned down because of her lack of qualifications. However, the interviewer offers her a job as a welder instead, which Grace accepts.

Back at home, Grace's mother-in-law Jean (Diane Ladd) pays her a visit. Jean is cold and critical of Grace, and the two women argue. Grace is hurt by Jean's comments about her parenting, and the tension between them is palpable.

The episode concludes with Grace at a bar with Russell. She tells him that the job at the oil company did not work out and that she is not sure how she will make ends meet. Russell reminds her that she is strong and resilient and that she has made it through tough times before. The two friends clink their glasses together and toast to the future.

Overall, the Pilot episode of Grace Under Fire sets up the series' themes and introduces the characters in a relatable and entertaining way. The show's blend of humor and heart makes it a must-watch for anyone who enjoys witty and heartfelt sitcoms.