Ep 5. Nothing to Fear But Fear Itself

As the third season of The Golden Girls began to unfold, fans of the show were once again treated to the impeccable wit and humor that have made this series a cultural touchstone. This episode, titled "Nothing to Fear But Fear Itself," is a prime example of the sharp writing and impeccable acting that have made The Golden Girls such a beloved classic.

The episode opens with the girls gathered around the kitchen table, discussing their latest predicament. Dorothy (Bea Arthur) is worried about an upcoming exam she will be taking for a new job, while Rose (Betty White) has a crippling fear of public speaking. Sophia (Estelle Getty) is also afraid, but not of anything in particular - rather, she is simply convinced that something bad is about to happen.

As the group tries to reassure each other, they are interrupted by a knock on the door. To their surprise, they are greeted by a young man named Lionel (Ted McGinley), who is a childhood friend of Dorothy's. Though they haven't seen each other in years, Lionel has clearly never forgotten his old crush on Dorothy - and he's hoping he can win her over once again.

As Lionel tries to charm Dorothy, the girls continue to deal with their respective fears. Rose, in particular, is struggling - she has been asked to give a speech at a local charity event, and her anxiety is causing her sleepless nights and panic attacks. Eventually, the group decides to work together to help Rose overcome her fear, with each member of the quartet contributing their own unique skills and perspectives.

As the day of the charity event approaches, the girls' nerves are running high. But when they arrive at the venue, something amazing happens - Rose suddenly discovers that she is no longer afraid. With the girls' help, she has found the courage to face her fears and deliver a moving and inspiring speech.

Overall, "Nothing to Fear But Fear Itself" is a standout episode of The Golden Girls, showcasing the strengths of the series in terms of both writing and acting. Through its deft handling of issues like anxiety, fear, and the power of friendship, this episode epitomizes the unique blend of heart and humor that makes The Golden Girls such a timeless classic.