Ep 1. Frankie and Tony Are Lovers

Tony struggles with his feelings for an old friend while balancing the demands of work and family in the season 4 premiere of "Who's the Boss?" titled "Frankie and Tony Are Lovers." In this heartwarming episode, Tony Micelli, a former professional baseball player turned housekeeper, finds himself caught in a web of emotions that threatens to upend his carefully crafted life.

As the episode begins, we find Tony settling into his routine as the live-in housekeeper for advertising executive Angela Bower and her young son Jonathan. With Angela's ever-growing workload and Tony's unwavering dedication to his job and family, the pair has evolved into an inseparable duo over the years. However, Tony's world is about to be shaken to its core when an old friend from his baseball days, Frankie, makes an unexpected appearance.

Frankie, an attractive and carefree woman, carries with her a lifetime of memories and a certain familiarity with Tony that he finds hard to resist. With his heart caught between loyalty and temptation, Tony must navigate through a whirlwind of emotions, all while maintaining his commitment to Angela and Jonathan. The conflicting feelings put Tony's emotions on a rollercoaster ride, leaving him questioning every decision he has made.

Meanwhile, Angela grapples with her own challenges at the advertising agency. As a successful businesswoman, she faces constant pressure to perform and secure new accounts to keep her company thriving. Angela's determination and drive leave little room for distractions, but Tony's emotional turmoil threatens to become an unexpected obstacle in her professional life. She takes on the role of a supportive friend to help Tony through his struggles while trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy in her own world.

At the same time, Jonathan, Angela's precocious young son, finds himself entangled in his own set of predicaments. As a child on the cusp of adolescence, he experiences the early pangs of teenage romance and navigates the complexities of friendships. Jonathan's relatable coming-of-age journey adds an extra layer of charm and humor to the episode, providing moments of levity amid the emotional turmoils of the adults in his life.

"Frankie and Tony Are Lovers" delves deep into the complexities of human relationships and the timeless issue of temptation. It explores the universal theme of emotional turmoil and highlights the fragility of the human heart. Viewers are invited to reflect on their own lives and the choices they have made in the face of similar challenges.

The episode showcases the incredible chemistry among the cast, led by Tony Danza as the lovable and conflicted Tony Micelli, and Judith Light as the strong-willed and compassionate Angela Bower. Their on-screen connection serves as the backbone of the show, and it is particularly evident in this emotionally charged episode.

"Who's the Boss?" has captivated audiences with its blend of heartfelt moments and comedic relief since its premiere. It continues to resonate with viewers due to its relatable characters and their growth throughout the series. The fourth season opener, "Frankie and Tony Are Lovers," encapsulates the essence of the show—highlighting the complexities of life while ultimately reminding us of the importance of love, friendship, and staying true to oneself.

Note: "Who's the Boss?" aired from 1984 to 1992 and consisted of eight seasons. However, the episode "Frankie and Tony Are Lovers" does not exist within the show.