Ep 8. The Coma and the Oxford Comma

Murphy Brown season 11 episode 8, "The Coma and the Oxford Comma," follows the titular character Murphy Brown, a seasoned journalist and news anchor, as she navigates the aftermath of a tragic event. She discovers that a former intern who had been in a coma for over a decade has woken up, prompting an emotional journey for Murphy and her colleagues.

The episode begins with Murphy and her team at the fictional cable news show "Murphy in the Morning" discussing the recent surge in popularity of the Oxford comma. The debate becomes heated, with each member expressing his or her own strong opinions on the subject. However, their conversation is interrupted by a phone call from a hospital where one of Murphy's former interns, named Peter, has just awoken from a coma.

Murphy is shocked by the news, as she had known Peter when he was an ambitious and driven young journalist. However, she soon discovers that Peter's life has been turned upside down since he went into the coma. He has lost everything, including his career and his relationships. Murphy decides to pay Peter a visit in the hospital, hoping to reconnect with him and help him in any way she can.

As Murphy navigates her emotional journey with Peter and tries to rekindle their friendship, she also has to deal with the conflicting emotions of her colleagues. They are all worried for Peter, but they are also concerned that his return could threaten their jobs, as he could potentially take over Murphy's coveted spot on the show. Murphy must balance her humanitarian instincts with her professional ambitions, leading to some intense and emotional moments.

The episode deals with some heavy subject matter, exploring themes of loss, trauma, and the complexity of human relationships. However, it also retains the show's trademark humor and wit, with plenty of snappy one-liners and quips from the characters. The Oxford comma debate, in particular, adds a meta layer of satire to the proceedings, poking fun at the minutiae that journalists often obsess over.

Overall, "The Coma and the Oxford Comma" is a standout episode of Murphy Brown season 11, showcasing the series' unique blend of hard-hitting journalism, witty comedy, and poignant drama. It is a must-watch for fans of the show, as well as anyone who appreciates quality television that tackles weighty issues with grace and intelligence.