Ep 5. Phyllis & Fred & Brenda & Marc

In the fifth episode of Mrs. America season 1, titled "Phyllis & Fred & Brenda & Marc," tensions rise within both the feminist and conservative movements as the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) continues to gain momentum. Phyllis Schlafly (played by Cate Blanchett) grapples with the consequences of her recent actions as she attempts to maintain control over her organization and her marriage.

Meanwhile, Brenda (played by Ari Graynor), a young feminist activist, faces opposition from her own party as she works to build a coalition to fight for the ERA. With the support of her husband Marc (played by Adam Brody), Brenda fights tirelessly to make her voice heard and advocate for women's rights.

As the episode unfolds, the personal relationships between these characters come to the forefront. Phyllis struggles with her husband Fred's (played by John Slattery) increasing resentment towards her career, while Brenda and Marc navigate the challenges of balancing their personal and professional lives.

Throughout all of this, the broader political landscape continues to shift. Shirley Chisholm (played by Uzo Aduba) emerges as a key ally in the fight for the ERA, while conservative activists become increasingly organized under Phyllis's leadership.

As the episode concludes, tensions come to a head as Phyllis and her allies attempt to block the ERA from being ratified, while Brenda and her fellow feminists fight back against their opposition. With so much on the line, both sides are forced to confront the reality of what it will take to achieve true progress for women's rights.