In the final episode of Becker, entitled “The Coming Out Party,” Becker confronts his fear of commitment and the potential stagnation of his life, ultimately choosing to embrace change and pursue a relationship with Chris. This culminating episode wraps up the series by showcasing Becker’s personal growth, his unwavering, albeit grumpy, dedication to his community, and hints at a hopeful future.
A Grumpy Goodbye: Deconstructing “The Coming Out Party”
Becker, the CBS sitcom starring Ted Danson as the titular Dr. John Becker, a perpetually cynical and misanthropic Bronx doctor, ran for six seasons, delivering a consistent stream of dry wit and relatable observations about the human condition. The series finale, “The Coming Out Party,” aired on January 28, 2004, and served as a fitting, if somewhat understated, conclusion to the show’s run. The episode revolves around two primary storylines that converge to create a sense of resolution and potential future happiness for Becker.
First, Chris Connor (Nancy Travis), Becker’s friend and owner of the diner across the street, receives a marriage proposal from her boyfriend, Ben. This event triggers a wave of introspection within Becker, forcing him to confront his own romantic stagnation. He recognizes, through his characteristic grumbling, that he’s been avoiding commitment and the possibility of something more with Chris.
Simultaneously, Jake, the wheelchair-bound newsstand proprietor and one of Becker’s closest friends, has an experimental medical procedure that temporarily allows him to walk. This monumental event serves as a catalyst for the entire neighborhood to celebrate and for Becker to reassess his outlook on life and the potential for positive change. He witnesses firsthand the joy and liberation that comes with overcoming adversity and embracing new possibilities.
Ultimately, Becker realizes he cares deeply for Chris and decides to take a leap of faith. He tells her that he doesn’t want her to marry Ben, subtly indicating his own feelings for her. The episode ends with Chris, visibly surprised and considering his words, leaving the audience with a sense of optimism and the possibility of a romantic relationship between the two. While the resolution isn’t explicit, the implication is clear: Becker is finally willing to open himself up to love and a brighter future. The show concludes not with a bang, but with a hopeful whisper, leaving the characters’ stories open to the viewers’ imaginations.
Unpacking the Themes: Growth, Change, and the Reluctant Optimist
“The Coming Out Party” delves into several core themes that resonate throughout the entirety of Becker. The most prominent is undoubtedly the theme of personal growth. Throughout the series, Becker remains largely stagnant, resistant to change and entrenched in his cynicism. However, the finale subtly suggests a shift in his perspective. Witnessing Jake’s newfound mobility and Chris’s potential marriage forces him to confront his own fears and limitations. While he remains inherently grumpy, he acknowledges his feelings for Chris, demonstrating a willingness to step outside his comfort zone and embrace the possibility of a deeper connection.
Another significant theme is the power of community. Despite Becker’s misanthropic tendencies, he cares deeply about the people around him. He’s always there to help, even if he does it with a barrage of sarcastic remarks. The celebration of Jake’s ability to walk showcases the strength and support found within the community, highlighting the importance of human connection and shared joy.
Finally, the episode explores the complexities of love and commitment. Becker’s reluctance to commit to a relationship stems from his fear of vulnerability and potential heartbreak. He has witnessed enough pain and disappointment in his life to become guarded and cynical. However, Chris’s proposal forces him to re-evaluate his beliefs and consider the possibility that love can bring happiness and fulfillment, even for a grumpy doctor from the Bronx.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Becker‘s Final Chapter
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Becker series finale, providing further insight and context:
Did Becker and Chris actually get together?
The final episode doesn’t explicitly show Becker and Chris becoming a couple. The ending is intentionally ambiguous. However, the implication is strong that Chris will reconsider her engagement to Ben and pursue a relationship with Becker. The ambiguity allows viewers to imagine their own resolution for the characters.
Why was Becker cancelled?
While Becker maintained a decent viewership throughout its run, ratings began to decline in the later seasons. CBS ultimately decided to cancel the show due to a combination of factors, including declining ratings and the rising cost of production.
Was there a plan for a seventh season?
There were no concrete plans for a seventh season of Becker. The writers crafted the series finale as a potential ending, leaving the characters’ futures open to interpretation.
How did other characters’ storylines wrap up?
The finale primarily focuses on Becker, Chris, and Jake. Other characters like Margaret and Bob remain in their established roles, contributing to the sense of continuity and stability within the core cast. Their stories are not explicitly concluded, but their presence reinforces the enduring community within the show.
What was Ted Danson’s opinion on the show’s ending?
Ted Danson has spoken positively about his experience on Becker and the series’ ending. While he didn’t specify his exact opinion on the final episode’s ambiguity, he appreciated the opportunity to explore a complex and flawed character like Dr. Becker. He has often emphasized the show’s ability to find humor in everyday struggles.
Was there any fan backlash to the ending?
Some fans expressed disappointment with the ambiguity of the ending, preferring a more definitive resolution to the Becker-Chris relationship. However, others appreciated the realistic and open-ended nature of the conclusion. The lack of a definitive outcome aligns with the show’s overall tone, avoiding a saccharine or overly sentimental ending.
What are the best episodes to watch before the finale?
To fully appreciate the significance of the finale, it’s beneficial to watch episodes that showcase Becker’s relationship with Chris, such as those that highlight their shared struggles and unspoken feelings. Consider episodes from season 4 and 5, which often focus on their interactions. These episodes provide crucial context for understanding the weight of Becker’s confession in the finale.
How did the show’s humor evolve over the six seasons?
While the show’s core comedic style remained consistent, the humor evolved to become more nuanced and character-driven. The earlier seasons relied more on situational comedy, while the later seasons delved deeper into the characters’ personalities and relationships, exploring the humor in their flaws and vulnerabilities.
Did Becker win any major awards?
Becker received several award nominations, including Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards. While the show itself didn’t win any major awards, Ted Danson received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Dr. Becker. Danson’s performance was consistently praised for its comedic timing and depth.
How does Becker compare to other sitcoms of the era?
Becker stood out from other sitcoms of the era due to its cynical and realistic portrayal of everyday life. Unlike many sitcoms that focused on idealized families and situations, Becker embraced the messiness and frustrations of urban living. It offered a more grounded and relatable perspective compared to some of its more lighthearted counterparts.
What is the enduring appeal of Becker?
The enduring appeal of Becker lies in its relatable characters, sharp writing, and honest portrayal of human nature. Despite Becker’s cynicism, he is ultimately a good person who cares about his community. The show’s ability to find humor in everyday struggles and its exploration of complex themes resonates with audiences even today. The show’s realism, combined with Danson’s stellar performance, cemented its place in sitcom history.
Where can I watch Becker now?
The availability of Becker for streaming varies depending on region and platform. It is often available for purchase or rental on digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video and iTunes. Checking with major streaming services is the best way to determine current availability. The series continues to find new audiences through streaming and syndication.
The Grumpy Doctor’s Legacy
“The Coming Out Party” served as a fitting, if somewhat understated, conclusion to Becker. While it didn’t provide a definitive resolution, it offered a sense of hope and possibility, leaving the audience to imagine the characters’ futures. The episode encapsulated the core themes of the series – personal growth, the power of community, and the complexities of love – while showcasing the enduring appeal of Dr. John Becker, the grumpy doctor from the Bronx who, despite his cynicism, ultimately cared about the world around him. The show’s legacy continues to live on through reruns and streaming platforms, reminding us that even the most cynical among us can find moments of joy and connection in the most unexpected places.