Ep 3. The Velvet Rope

In season 2 episode 3 of That 70's Show, titled The Velvet Rope, the gang struggles with their social status and the ever-present popularity hierarchy of high school. Eric and Donna are feeling left out of the "cool" crowd and decide to try and get into an exclusive club called the Velvet Rope by pretending to be older. Meanwhile, Jackie worries about her own social standing and convinces Kelso to take a job as a model in her fashion show.

The episode begins with Eric and Donna feeling left out as they watch the popular kids stroll into school through a special entrance. They learn that this exclusive club called the Velvet Rope is the reason for the special entrance and are determined to get in themselves. They quickly discover that the only way to gain entry is by pretending to be older, so they dress up in their parents' clothes and hope for the best.

At the fashion show, Kelso becomes increasingly uncomfortable as he realizes he is the only male model and has to wear short shorts. Jackie, on the other hand, basks in the attention she receives as the show's organizer. However, her happiness is short-lived when she learns that Donna and Eric have successfully gained entry into the Velvet Rope while she was left out.

As Eric and Donna enjoy their new status and hang out with the popular crowd, they quickly learn that being "in" isn't always what it's cracked up to be. They discover that it's not about who you are, but rather who you know, and their newfound friends only use them for their connections.

Meanwhile, back at the fashion show, Kelso gets into a fight with another model and ruins the event. Jackie is devastated and realizes that her obsession with being popular has led her down the wrong path. She apologizes to Kelso and tells him that she cares more about him than what others think.

Eric and Donna eventually realize that their attempts to fit in were futile and decide to just be themselves. They learn that true friends don't care about your social status and that being popular isn't everything.

The Velvet Rope is a classic episode of That 70's Show that explores the timeless themes of peer pressure, social status, and the importance of being true to oneself. The characters' struggles are relatable and their decisions to stay true to themselves are inspiring. It's a reminder that high school may be a popularity contest, but in the end, it's the relationships and connections we make that truly matter.