Ep 8. Hope Springs Paternal

Frank Gallagher (William H. Macy) is at his lowest point yet. After a reckless night of gambling, he owes a large sum of money to some dangerous loan sharks. With no other options, Frank turns to his estranged father, Clayton (guest star Richard Schiff), for help.

Meanwhile, Fiona (Emmy Rossum) is struggling to keep the family afloat while juggling her job as a waitress and her responsibilities as a guardian for her siblings. Lip (Jeremy Allen White) starts to feel the pressure of college and his relationship with Amanda (guest star Nichole Bloom) strains with the added stress.

Debbie (Emma Kenney) begins to question her identity and seeks out a father figure, while Ian (Cameron Monaghan) continues to struggle with his bipolar disorder and is faced with a difficult decision. Carl (Ethan Cutkosky) tries to impress his crush, Bonnie (guest star Morgan Lily), by taking on a dangerous challenge.

As the Gallagher family navigates through their individual struggles, they come together to support Frank in his time of need and find hope in unexpected places.