“Double Date,” the eighth episode of the seventh season of Who’s the Boss?, definitively establishes that Tony Micelli is ultimately the boss of his own romantic life, even amidst the chaos of a confusing double date. While Angela Bower wields considerable influence in their household and business, and Jonathan influences Tony’s social life, the episode culminates with Tony making a crucial decision about his feelings, asserting his autonomy in matters of the heart. This episode serves as a pivotal moment in the series, subtly hinting at the evolving dynamics between Tony and Angela, moving them further away from a simple employer-employee relationship towards something far more complex.
Unpacking the Double Date Dilemma
Season 7 of Who’s the Boss? explored more mature themes as the characters grew and their relationships deepened. “Double Date” perfectly exemplifies this, placing Tony and Angela in a situation ripe with potential for awkwardness and misinterpretation. The episode hinges on Jonathan arranging a double date for Tony and himself, with Tony paired with Danielle. Angela, meanwhile, finds herself becoming increasingly jealous of the attention Tony gives Danielle, a jealousy she initially tries to dismiss as merely protective concern for Tony.
The central conflict arises from Angela’s inability to fully articulate her growing feelings for Tony. She doesn’t want Tony to be hurt, but her interference stems from something more profound – a desire to be the object of his affection herself. Jonathan, oblivious to the undercurrents, exacerbates the situation with his naive attempts at matchmaking. Danielle, though presented as a pleasant woman, serves primarily as a catalyst, exposing the underlying tensions between Tony and Angela. Ultimately, Tony realizes that while Danielle is perfectly nice, she’s not who he genuinely wants to be with, subtly turning the situation into a rejection of Jonathan’s influence and an affirmation of his own instincts.
The episode’s conclusion, while not explicitly romantic, leaves the audience with a clear sense that the dynamic between Tony and Angela has shifted. It’s a turning point, a quiet acknowledgment that the boundaries of their relationship are blurring, and that Tony, ultimately, is in charge of defining his own path forward.
The Role of Humor and Heart
“Double Date” balances the potential for high drama with the sitcom’s signature lighthearted humor. The awkwardness of the double date itself is played for laughs, with the typical misunderstandings and social faux pas that audiences have come to expect from the series. However, beneath the surface lies a genuine exploration of human emotions – jealousy, confusion, and the fear of vulnerability.
The performances of Tony Danza and Judith Light are crucial to the episode’s success. They expertly convey the subtle nuances of their characters’ evolving relationship, using facial expressions and body language to communicate what they can’t, or won’t, say aloud. The supporting cast, including Danny Pintauro as Jonathan and the actress portraying Danielle, contribute effectively to the overall comedic and emotional impact of the episode. This careful balance between humor and heart is a hallmark of Who’s the Boss? and is particularly well executed in “Double Date.”
Decoding the Subtext: What Are They Really Saying?
While the dialogue remains relatively straightforward, “Double Date” is rich in subtext. Angela’s constant criticisms of Danielle’s perceived flaws, disguised as concern for Tony, clearly reveal her jealousy. Tony’s somewhat forced attempts to connect with Danielle suggest he’s trying to please Jonathan more than pursuing genuine romantic interest. Even Jonathan’s well-intentioned matchmaking can be interpreted as a desire to maintain the status quo, perhaps unconsciously fearing the potential disruption a genuine relationship between Tony and Angela would cause.
The episode highlights the complexities of relationships where professional and personal boundaries blur. Tony’s role as Angela’s employee complicates his romantic life, as Angela’s authority and influence extend beyond the workplace and into his social sphere. This dynamic is a recurring theme throughout the series, and “Double Date” offers a particularly insightful examination of its challenges. The subtext boils down to the uncomfortable truth that Tony and Angela are circling each other, dancing around their true feelings without explicitly acknowledging them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about “Double Date”
H3 FAQ 1: What is the main plot of “Double Date”?
The main plot revolves around Jonathan arranging a double date for himself and Tony. Tony is paired with Danielle, while Angela grapples with feelings of jealousy as she observes their interaction. The episode explores the awkwardness of the double date and the underlying tension between Tony and Angela.
H3 FAQ 2: Why is Angela so concerned about Tony’s date with Danielle?
Angela’s concern goes beyond simple protectiveness. She harbors unacknowledged romantic feelings for Tony, leading to jealousy as she sees him potentially forming a connection with another woman.
H3 FAQ 3: Does Tony genuinely like Danielle?
It’s implied that Tony is more interested in appeasing Jonathan than in pursuing a genuine connection with Danielle. He seems to go through the motions of a date without any real spark.
H3 FAQ 4: How does Jonathan’s matchmaking affect the situation?
Jonathan’s oblivious matchmaking efforts inadvertently highlight the underlying tension between Tony and Angela, exacerbating Angela’s jealousy and forcing her to confront her feelings.
H3 FAQ 5: What are some of the comedic highlights of the episode?
The awkwardness of the double date itself, with its forced conversation and social missteps, provides ample comedic material. Jonathan’s oblivious behavior and Angela’s thinly veiled criticisms of Danielle also contribute to the humor.
H3 FAQ 6: What does this episode reveal about the evolving relationship between Tony and Angela?
“Double Date” marks a turning point in their relationship, subtly hinting at a growing romantic connection. Angela’s jealousy and Tony’s eventual disinterest in Danielle suggest that their dynamic is shifting from a purely professional one.
H3 FAQ 7: What specific lines or scenes best illustrate Angela’s jealousy?
Pay close attention to Angela’s comments about Danielle’s appearance, her career, and her overall suitability for Tony. These remarks, often framed as concern, betray her underlying jealousy.
H3 FAQ 8: How does “Double Date” contribute to the overall narrative arc of Who’s the Boss??
This episode further develops the slow-burn romantic tension between Tony and Angela, laying the groundwork for future developments in their relationship. It reinforces the idea that their connection is deeper than a simple employer-employee dynamic.
H3 FAQ 9: Are there any significant plot holes or inconsistencies in “Double Date”?
The episode is generally well-written and consistent with the established characters and storylines. There are no glaring plot holes or inconsistencies.
H3 FAQ 10: How does this episode compare to other episodes focusing on Tony’s romantic life?
Compared to episodes where Tony actively pursues a romantic interest, “Double Date” is more about Angela’s reaction to his potential relationship. It shifts the focus from Tony’s romantic endeavors to Angela’s internal struggle.
H3 FAQ 11: What life lessons or themes can be derived from “Double Date”?
The episode explores the complexities of relationships where personal and professional boundaries blur, the difficulty of expressing one’s true feelings, and the importance of being true to oneself in matters of the heart.
H3 FAQ 12: Is “Double Date” considered a pivotal or particularly memorable episode of Who’s the Boss??
While not as dramatic as some other episodes, “Double Date” is considered a noteworthy episode because it subtly advances the central relationship between Tony and Angela, offering viewers a glimpse into their evolving dynamic and hinting at future romantic possibilities. It subtly underlines that Tony is the boss of his own destiny.