Ep 13. Goodbye, Johnny (1)

In WKRP in Cincinnati season 1 episode 13 titled Goodbye, Johnny (1), the episode centers around the departure of beloved DJ Johnny Caravella (played by actor Robert Hegyes) from the station. As the episode begins, Johnny announces on air that he has been offered a job at a larger radio station in Los Angeles and will be moving away from Cincinnati. Despite Johnny's jovial attitude, the staff at WKRP is clearly devastated by the news.

Throughout the episode, various characters react to the news of Johnny's departure in different ways. Station manager Arthur Carlson (played by actor Gordon Jump) initially tries to convince Johnny to stay by offering him a salary increase and a new time slot for his show. However, Johnny ultimately decides to take the new job in LA.

As the news spreads throughout the station, each of Johnny's colleagues reflects on their relationship with him. DJ Dr. Johnny Fever (played by actor Howard Hesseman), who shares a similar on-air persona with Johnny, reminisces about their years working together and laments the loss of his friend. Sales manager Herb Tarlek (played by actor Frank Bonner) tries to come up with a way to keep Johnny at the station and even suggests that the staff pool their money to create a larger salary for him. However, Johnny ultimately decides that it is time for a change.

Meanwhile, receptionist Jennifer Marlowe (played by actress Loni Anderson) struggles to come to terms with Johnny's departure. She tries to hide her sadness from the rest of the staff, but eventually breaks down in tears while talking to Johnny. Their conversation is one of the most emotional scenes in the episode, as both actors deliver a touching performance.

At the end of the episode, the staff throws a going-away party for Johnny. They give him a cake with his picture on it and present him with a framed poster of his time at WKRP. As Johnny prepares to leave Cincinnati, he delivers a final on-air broadcast in which he thanks his colleagues and listeners for their support over the years. He also pays tribute to his hometown, saying that he will never forget the city where he got his start in radio.

Overall, WKRP in Cincinnati season 1 episode 13 is a bittersweet farewell to a beloved character. The episode showcases the talents of the ensemble cast, with each actor delivering a heartfelt performance. Despite the sadness of Johnny's departure, the episode ends on a hopeful note, with the staff coming together to celebrate their friend and colleague.