Who’s the Boss? Season 5 Episode 22, “Take My Wife, Please,” centers on Angela Bauer’s tumultuous romantic life, specifically the surprising return of Michael Bower, her ex-husband, throwing her current relationship with Tony Micelli into disarray. The episode explores themes of lingering affection, unresolved issues, and the challenges of navigating a rekindled past while trying to build a future.
A Blast from the Past: Michael Bower’s Unexpected Return
The catalyst for the episode’s drama is Michael Bower’s sudden reappearance. After years of separation, he arrives seemingly ready to reconcile with Angela, triggering a wave of complicated emotions for her. This return forces Angela to confront her past and re-evaluate her present relationship with Tony. The episode masterfully utilizes comedic situations to highlight the awkwardness and tension arising from this love triangle. Tony, ever supportive (though often clueless), finds himself navigating the unfamiliar territory of competing for Angela’s affections, facing not only Michael but also his own insecurities.
The narrative revolves around Angela’s internal struggle. She grapples with the comfortable familiarity of her past with Michael against the passionate and evolving love she shares with Tony. This internal conflict is exacerbated by Michael’s apparent charm and promises of change, contrasting with Tony’s more grounded and pragmatic approach to life.
Angela’s Dilemma: Past vs. Present
The heart of the episode lies in Angela’s decision-making process. She is presented with two vastly different romantic options: the rekindled flame of her marriage to Michael and the blossoming relationship with Tony. The episode expertly portrays the allure of both choices.
The Pull of the Past
Michael represents the stability and history of her marriage. He knows her deeply, shares a past, and understands aspects of her life that Tony is still learning about. This familiarity creates a sense of comfort that can be incredibly appealing, particularly when considering the uncertainties of a new relationship. Furthermore, Michael’s stated desire for reconciliation appeals to Angela’s inherent hopefulness and her desire for a complete and loving family.
The Promise of the Future
Conversely, Tony represents a fresh start, a passion she hadn’t experienced before, and a chance for a different kind of love. He is supportive of her career, admires her independence, and challenges her in ways Michael never did. This newfound passion and mutual respect are powerful forces pulling her towards a future with Tony.
The Climax and Resolution
The episode culminates in a series of heartfelt confrontations and ultimately, a clarifying moment of truth for Angela. After weighing her options and spending time with both men, she realizes that while she cherishes the history she shares with Michael, her heart truly belongs to Tony. She recognizes that Michael’s promises of change may be fleeting and that the foundation of their relationship was ultimately flawed. The episode ends with Angela firmly choosing Tony, reaffirming their commitment to each other and solidifying their relationship as the central romantic narrative of the series. While Michael leaves accepting Angela’s decision, the episode leaves a lingering question of how this near-miss will affect Tony and Angela’s trust and communication moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Who’s the Boss? Season 5 Episode 22
Here are some frequently asked questions about the episode, “Take My Wife, Please,” to further enhance your understanding:
Understanding the Characters and Relationships
FAQ 1: Why did Angela and Michael divorce in the first place?
While the series doesn’t delve deeply into the specifics of their divorce, it’s implied that their ambitions and lifestyles clashed. Angela’s focus on her career as a successful businesswoman and Michael’s more laid-back approach likely contributed to a growing distance and ultimately, the breakdown of their marriage.
FAQ 2: How long have Angela and Tony been dating at this point in the series?
By Season 5, Angela and Tony have developed a deep bond and have been dating seriously for a considerable amount of time, roughly a couple of seasons. Their relationship has evolved from a professional arrangement to a strong, loving partnership.
FAQ 3: How does Jonathan feel about Michael’s return?
Jonathan, Angela’s son, has a generally positive but somewhat cynical view of Michael’s reappearance. He is skeptical of Michael’s motives and protective of his mother, ultimately supporting her decision to choose Tony.
Plot Details and Significance
FAQ 4: What specific actions does Michael take to try and win Angela back?
Michael attempts to win Angela back through grand gestures, such as taking her on dates reminiscent of their early relationship, showering her with compliments, and emphasizing how much he’s supposedly changed. He aims to rekindle their shared history and convince her that they can have a second chance.
FAQ 5: Does this episode impact the overall arc of Tony and Angela’s relationship?
Yes, this episode serves as a significant test for Tony and Angela’s relationship. It forces them to confront their insecurities and communicate openly about their feelings. Successfully navigating this challenge strengthens their bond and reaffirms their commitment to each other.
FAQ 6: What comedic moments stand out in this episode?
The episode features several comedic moments, often stemming from Tony’s attempts to compete with Michael for Angela’s attention. His awkwardness and naiveté in romantic matters, contrasted with Michael’s smooth charm, provide plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. The dynamic between Mona and the men also contributes to the humor.
Deeper Analysis and Themes
FAQ 7: What does this episode say about second chances in relationships?
The episode explores the complexities of second chances. While it acknowledges the allure of rekindling past relationships, it ultimately suggests that true growth and happiness often lie in embracing new beginnings and building relationships based on mutual respect and shared values.
FAQ 8: How does this episode reflect the social dynamics of the late 1980s?
The episode reflects the shifting gender roles and societal expectations of the late 1980s. Angela’s successful career and independence challenge traditional notions of femininity, while Tony’s role as a supportive househusband provides a glimpse into evolving family dynamics. The themes of career ambition and personal fulfillment were highly relevant to the societal landscape of the time.
FAQ 9: Does Michael’s character appear in any other episodes of Who’s the Boss?
No, Michael’s character only appears in this particular episode. He serves as a catalyst for the storyline, highlighting the complexities of Angela’s past and present.
Production and Behind-the-Scenes Information
FAQ 10: Who directed “Take My Wife, Please?”
The episode was directed by Tony Singletary, a prolific director who helmed numerous episodes of Who’s the Boss?
FAQ 11: Who wrote “Take My Wife, Please?”
The episode was written by Blake Hunter, a key figure in the writing team for the show, known for crafting compelling and character-driven stories.
FAQ 12: Were there any notable guest stars in this episode besides Michael Bower’s actor?
While the actor portraying Michael Bower, Michael Callan, was a notable figure in his own right, no other particularly well-known guest stars featured prominently in this episode. The focus remained firmly on the main cast and their interpersonal dynamics.