Hayate no Gotoku Season 1 Episode 1 Episode 1 - The Forbidden Freestyle Marathon

Episode 1 of Hayate no Gotoku, titled "The Forbidden Freestyle Marathon," introduces the main character Hayate Ayasaki, a 16-year-old boy who has been working part-time jobs since he was young to support his parents' irresponsible spending. One day, his parents sell him off to the yakuza to repay their debts, but Hayate manages to escape and ends up meeting Nagi Sanzenin, a wealthy 13-year-old girl who mistakes him for a kidnapper.

After a series of wacky misunderstandings, Hayate ends up becoming Nagi's butler in exchange for her help in paying off his debt to the yakuza. In this episode, Hayate accompanies Nagi to her school's annual sports festival, but he quickly learns that he is not cut out for sports and is relegated to cheering from the sidelines.

However, when the freestyle marathon begins, Hayate notices that Nagi's rival Maria has cheated by cutting part of the course, and he decides to take matters into his own hands. Despite not being a skilled runner, Hayate manages to catch up to Maria and expose her cheating, earning the admiration of Nagi and her classmates.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to the quirky and eccentric characters that populate the world of Hayate no Gotoku, including Nagi's strict maid Maria, her perverted grandfather, and Hayate's childhood friend Ayumu, who harbors a crush on him. Despite his rough start in life, Hayate remains determined to make the best of his situation and protect Nagi from anyone who might want to harm her.

"The Forbidden Freestyle Marathon" sets the tone for the rest of the series, with its blend of slapstick comedy, action, and drama. The show's humor is often over-the-top and absurd, but it is grounded by its likable cast of characters and their struggles to overcome their personal challenges. As Hayate and Nagi navigate the ups and downs of their unusual relationship, viewers are taken on a wild and entertaining ride that is sure to keep them hooked.