Émission TV: Pepper Dennis - 1x10
Mr.
Usher, is it true your daughter is named after world record domino-tipper Bob Speca?
Mr.
Usher?
I'm sorry.
I hate to miss even a second of Bobbie's competitions.
We're almost done.
Tell us, what's so special about today's topple?
The winning team goes overseas for Domino Day to show those dirty Dutch that we...
Oh, they're at the 60th rail.
This really is very critical.
I think we got enough.
Wow.
There goes ten shades of crazy.
Ah, he's just being supportive.
Parents live for this kind of thing.
Couldn't keep mine away from my 4-H Fairs, even when I begged.
Cows?
Beekeeping.
Pepper?
Kimmy!
Are they in?
No.
Why can't they just announce these nominations on TV, like the Oscars?
Because it's the Achievement in Chicago Regional News Awards.
The "ACoRNs" are serious journalism honors, Kimmy.
I've got a good feeling this year.
No offense, but you said that last year.
One more shut-out and I'm the Susan Lucci of local news.
I like Susan Lucci.
Thank you.
I hate waiting.
Let's go get more B-roll, Chick.
They're here!
They're here!
Please, God. "
Pepper Dennis-- nominated for Best Breaking Story."
And Chick's in for that warehouse fire.
Pepper Dennis, also in Public Service category.
Oh!
And commentary.
Damn right!
That's three!
You've never had that many.
Okay, last page.
Oh, my God!
Pepper Dennis, Best Feature!
You swept the categories!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
No!
Oh, I missed it?
Usually, when a patient tells me she has a daughter who's...
gorgeous and single and can cook, I figured it's just the nitro's talking.
When I drove my mother home from her root canal, I thought the same thing.
I mean, how many charming and attractive dentists are really out there?
Well, thank you.
I saw these berries at the farmers market and I couldn't help myself.
Anytime I see something that luscious and sweet, there's only one thing we can do.
Fondue.
Oh, Belgian dark.
Couldn't you just cover your whole body in it?
I like that idea.
Okay...
Your turn.
It's good.
Oops...
It's getting on my blouse.
That's okay, I got it.
This is antique laced.
I'm sorry-- No, it's fine.
Thank you for a lovely evening.
Did you hear?
Four nominations!
I'm no odds layer but statistically, it must be impossible for me to lose.
Yeah.
How did your date go with mom's dentist?
Great, until he started licking fondue off of me.
Ew.
How do you feel comfortable letting strange men get "familiar"?
What do you mean?
S-e-x.
What are you, a nun?
This is hard for me, Pepper.
I'm not like you, you know?
Slutty does not come easily.
Thank you, Kathy.
I didn't date much before I married Bryce, and I certainly didn't sleep with anyone else.
Really?
Just Bryce?
I took that vow we made in youth group very seriously: "One gift, one man."
Good Lord!
Pepper, please.
I haven't played the field in almost ten years.
I'm a sexual time capsule.
I mean, I don't know what to expect, or what's expected of me.
Give me some pointers.
How can I open myself up more physically?
Get drunk.
It's a classic standby.
Too much wine makes me blotchy.
How about a massage?
It's a little "early college," but still effective.
You know I have that fear about hands wrapping around my neck.
Porn?
Pepper!
I'm kidding.
Well, I'm not!
I don't know, Kathy-- you and I are obviously very different when it comes to this kind of thing.
Why don't you go online, find a class.
Surely, you're not alone in this.
As a Personal Passion Consultant, I assure you that the joy in lovemaking comes from us allowing ourselves to open up like a flower to our partner.
But to do that, we first must be comfortable with ourselves.
Enter the Jolly Jackrabbit-- it can do wonders in that area.
P.S., it's dishwasher safe and comes in its own privacy pouch.
Do couples really use these things?
I'm not sure.
But this is way more fun than discussing A Million Little Pieces.
I suppose with the right partner, and...
under the right lighting.
Now, who's with me, girls?
Nothing puts your mate in the mood faster than a good massage.
Kathy, would you be a lamb and bring me the edible oil I have warming over there on the hot plate?
Me?
Oh, yes.
Sure.
Careful not to spill, sweetie.
It can be a little sticky.
Oh, dear...
it's pretty full.
Hmm, it smells like a...
Creamsicle.
Nice.
I'll get the Resolve.
Since Kathy Dinkle is at the doctor, I will hand these award show tickets out myself, with pride.
Ms.
Martinez, one nomination, one extra ticket.
Nice work. "
Come Hail or High Water."
I still get shivers.
By my count, we tied Channel 8 for total nominations.
Appreciate your team spirit, Babcock.
Too bad you'll have to watch us crush 'em from the bench.
Charlie Babcock, one nomination, one extra ticket.
Nice work.
What?
He's not even eligible.
You have to be at a station for a year. "
Co-nominee for Best News Theme"?!
You added one power chord.
It seems the panel saw it as a significant contribution.
Chick Dirka, one nomination, one extra ticket.
Nice work.
But I have two parents.
If one of them can't go, it'll kill 'em.
Shame.
Pepper...
four nominations, four extra tickets.
Very nice work.
All right, let's talk news.
Carl, where are we on the panda baby?
Is it bigger than a stick of butter yet?
Mom, Dad...
Brava!
Brava!
These are for you.
That's my...
Pepper?
Panda baby.
Carl's on that.
What do you have?
Former tin pusher tells me that the ancient software over at Mid-Hare air traffic control is about as weak as Dick Cheney's ticker.
Tried to put it on his boss's radar, but they only showed him the door.
Yeah, pass.
What else?
Hold on, Les, the guy's an engineer.
The entire airport could buckle tomorrow, but no one's listening.
Pass.
People don't care what might happen, they care about what's happening.
Which is why, though it wasn't easy or cheap, I have secured exclusive broadcast rights to the ACoRNs.
We're airing it on TV for the first time.
I thought it was a boring luncheon.
Not anymore.
We're moving it to the Fairchild Hotel at night, and WEiE will cover the whole thing.
It's the Windy City's Golden Globes.
Ooh-- red carpet, red carpet.
And, Blanca, I want you on it.
You'll talk gowns, bling...
Wait a minute, there's no red carpet.
This isn't about the gowns or the bling.
It's about rewarding journalistic excellence.
Let's not forget the prestige these awards carry.
I couldn't agree more.
So just consider this "pre-show prestige."
Hey, superstar.
After work, you and I are going shopping.
I have Neiman's holding every stitch of awards-show couture in your size.
No can do.
Family dinner tonight.
I'm inviting them to the ceremony.
Uh, the same people who think you're better off working at Dinkle Dimmers?
That family?
Yes.
The same family who missed your graduation from journalism school?
Sweetie, when are you going to stop setting yourself up for disappointment?
Look, Kimmy, I know it's pathetic, but for some reason, Lynne and Dick's approval means something to me.
If they watch me win an ACoRN, they may finally realize my job has merit, and that I'm damn good at it, too.
Besides, parents live for this kind of thing.
Says who?
Chick.
What?
It could be true.
I'll have a Chardonnay, please.
Tom Collins.
Johnnie Walker, rocks.
He'll have an iced tea.
Alcohol is a depressant.
Let's not bring sand to the beach.
Iced tea.
Patty, I tell you, you have got to see this new Dinkle Dimmers line.
You'd sell the Dickens out of it.
Thanks, Dad, but I have a job.
In fact, I have some good news.
Patty, will you please explain to your brother why he must submit his play for the Schwimmer Grant?
Although, a clown version...
Zombie.
...zombie version of The CherryOrchard...
Seagull.
...Seagull is a long shot, awards like that can open doors.
Funny you should mention awards...
God in heaven.
What happened?
Sorry I'm late.
I fell over a box of paper in the copy room.
File a workman's comp tomorrow.
I certainly hope you weren't wearing that contraption on your date with Dr.
Herman.
I smell orange sherbet.
So how about Pepper's nominations?
Wonderful.
What for?
The ACoRNs-- Achievement in Chicago Regional News.
And here's the best part.
Thanks to my multiple nods, I have enough tickets for everyone.
So pull out your pearls and your penguin suits, and I'll see you tomorrow night at 8:00.
Oh, darling.
Tomorrow night is Mitchell's premiere performance.
It means so much to him.
I don't care.
We wouldn't dare miss it.
But it's my big night, too.
My heart's empty.
I'm gonna go fill it at the bar.
What are you doing?
You know howself-destructive he gets when he's in these moods.
What is wrong with him, anyway?
I don't know, but the boy is two credits shy of graduation.
Nobody is going to upset that apple cart.
Your daddy's right, girls.
If we're going to get your brother out of my future scrapbooking room, he will need the full support of this family.
Can't do your walnuts, kiddo.
ACoRNs.
I'll be there.
We can tape it and all watch it together after.
Done deal.
So who's having the rib eye?
Dennis.
How do you feel about Les's ACoRN thing?
It's a mockery of journalism.
I can't help but feel it's part of a trend.
Panda babies...
Dominoes.
We used to do hard news.
We're on a runaway train, Dennis.
Someone doesn't hit the brakes soon...
We're gonna smash right into the E!
Channel.
If I wanted to work there, I would've.
I had the offer.
So what's the plan?
Sabotage?
Back-alley beating?
We go to his office, and we strongly remind him what WEiE stands for.
Pretty soft, but okay, I'm in.
Gaye, we came to express concern on this ACoRN broadcast.
It may be a misstep.
Corporate disagrees.
In fact, my stepfather, Wes Brinkman, is cutting his vacation short and flying in for it.
He is?
Mm-hmm.
I'm glad you invoked that name, Les.
Mr.
Brinkman has built a world-respected media empire.
He's a great man.
Then why would you tarnish his legacy?
These awards are the pinnacle of local journalism, but you're turning them into a silly circus.
Maybe you're right.
As is, the event lacks a certain legitimacy.
But...
what if a respected, multi-nominated reporter gave her endorsement?
Would that up our credibility?
It might.
Yes.
Loving it!
Our two knockout ladies giving it a face, a voice.
To what?
What just happened?
You just agreed to work the red carpet with Blanca.
What the hell was that?
You pulled me into fighting Leslie and dumming down WEiE.
It was nice beeing on same page for once, wasn't it?
And now I delivering drivel on his red carpet.
Dennis, I'm not pissing off Wes Brinkman before I meet him.
Okay?
The best thing to do now is find dates and hire a limo.
You're such an anchor.
What are you looking at?
30MinuteEscort.com?
At your door in under 30 minutes, or you get something for free.
I'm thinking about pitching it to Les.
What?
This place has gotten ridiculous.
Mid-Hare's air traffic control equipment could crash at any minute, and I'm gonna report just that.
I wouldn't do that, Dennis.
Of course you wouldn't, Babcock.
No corporate toady would.
Chick?
Saddle up.
There's an out-of-work airport engineer with a story to tell.
Here, here, here, let me.
Gosh, are you okay?
Yeah, I...
I slipped at the grocery store.
Went down like a ton of bricks at the bagel bin.
I know a great, shady lawyer.
Ooh, what are you doing?
Digging out the puff paints for a "Good Luck and Get Happy" basket for Mitch.
The Dinkles are circling the wagons.
Why?
What happened?
He won't say.
He's depressed, he's withdrawn...
That's Mitch.
I mean...
you know, just what I know of Mitch.
My mother is convinced it's artistic melancholia.
But I think there's a girl involved.
Oh...!
Good afternoon, WEiE.
How may I direct your call?
The increase in traffic as a result of the new terminal will overload the system.
Without upgrading the control tower software, Mid-Hare's mainframe will freeze up.
It must be frustrating, Mr.
Ruberry, to issue warnings that no one will heed.
Mid-Hare is an international airport.
If it falls off-schedule, there's a domino effect everywhere else.
And the first domino is about to get kicked over.
I'm all too familiar with that.
Um, Pepper?
We got to roll.
The station's calling us on another job-- something huge.
What do we got?
Shooting?
Car bombing?
Dress fitting.
I said red.
It's my power color.
What is she doing here?
She's cohosting the carpet with you.
Hmm.
Perfect.
Give the meringue to the giant.
Les, it's fine for a weather girl to do this, but I'm a real reporter.
I need you to be a team player here, Pep.
Try to see this as an opportunity.
If WEiE is successful in turning the ACoRNs into a major event, it would really impress my stepfather.
He should be more impressed by good, solid stories, the kind that win us the awards you're so eager to promote.
Those are the kind of stories I want to report on, Les, and if I have to go someplace else to do it...
Where?
My stepfather owns a stake in 40% of the world's media.
He lunches with the other 60.
You know who else he breaks bread with?
Mr.
Bulgari.
They'll look perfect with the white.
Make sure you say "Bulgari" six times during the broadcast, and don't lose them.
It's Mitch.
You said don't call, but there's a Romero retrospective at the Tivoli...
I miss you.
I know you miss me.
You're killing me.
Don't call him.
Don't call him.
Call who?
No one.
Elizabeth Taylor!
Are those real diamonds?
No.
They're shackles-- big, gorgeous, Bulgari shackles.
So Les convinced you to do the red carpet.
He's a shallow nitwit, and how is he rewarded?
His daddy gives him a station to run into the ground.
My own can't even remember the name of the awards, let alone go.
What are you doing here, Benedict Anchor?
Killing time until my date arrives.
Date?
Who are you bringing?
No one you know.
How about you?
Blanca.
Right.
Charlie Babcock, you have a guest at reception.
She's early.
Kimmy, mints.
Good luck tonight, Dennis.
You, too.
Oh, who are we kidding?
Can you see her?
Is she famous?
I bet you're way prettier.
Bambi.
Oh, my God.
30minuteEscort.com.
He hired a hooker.
In a gorgious Dolce & Gabbana gown, spin for the viewers at home.
Yes, it's a glamorous and glitzy evening here at the ACoRNs.
Let's send it over to Pepper.
Loved your piece on the Armenian orphans.
Tell me, when you flew in from Yerevan today, did the airspace above Mid-Hare seem a bit clogged to you?
See anything that might have qualified as a near miss?
Well...!
Our very own anchor, Charlie Babcock.
And friend.
So, how'd you two meet?
Charlie gave me the greatest gift a man could give-- a piece of himself.
That was fast.
I hope you kept the tags.
Keep moving.
Champ, Dolores, you must be so proud of your son's nomination.
Sure are.
Haven't been prouder since his hive took first place at the 4-H Fair.
Mom.
Thanks for the extra ticket.
Is my stepfather here yet?
Haven't seen him.
Ooh!
Channel 8 incoming.
Play up the rivalry.
Pepper Dennis.
I heard they moved you to the entertainment beat.
Lance Powers.
Congratulations on your nominations.
Only two, right?
Yes.
This is my mother, Gloria.
Pleasure to meet you.
Nice sparkle, Dennis.
You got more glass there than Sammy Davis Jr.'s right eye.
It was his left eye.
And they're Bulgari.
Bulgari.
Kimmy's better.
Just a little sign of family support.
I'll put them with the others.
Saw your dean in the lobby.
Says the only way you won't graduate is if a tornado hits before curtain time.
Are you nervous?
I can't tell under all the makeup.
Well, either way, I'm sure you'll do wonderfully.
It's so exciting!
The start of your future, of everything you've always wanted.
A life before the footlights.
Oh, I can just smell the grease paint and the magic.
Right, Dick?
Dick!
Yes.
Magic.
I need a Snickers before showtime.
Good luck.
Oh, I mean, break a leg.
And remember, Mitchie, nothing worth having ever comes easily.
Why do you keep staring at her?
Pepper thinks she's a call girl.
Really?
Oh...
is it starting?
Pepper's not here yet.
Good evening.
I'm Paul Konrad.
And welcome to the 22nd annual Achievement in Chicago Regional News awards.
What'd I miss?
Bad chicken.
You ready to kick some ass?
Yep.
Let's win some trophies.
The nominees in our first category, Breaking Story, are: Lance Powers, "Kankakee Manhunt," Gerald Banks, "94 Tanker Spill," Felicio Romero, "Navy Pier Carny Scam," and Pepper Dennis, "Joliet Prison Break."
You got this.
That piece rocked.
And the winner is...
Lance Powers.
Whoo!
Lance Powers!
Great piece.
Great piece.
Good-good save.
It's only the first category.
You've got three more to go.
And win.
And the winner is...
Gerald Banks.
And the winner is...
Felicio Romero.
Well...
at least my parents aren't here to witness the massacre.
Oh, wait.
I get to go home and relive the whole night with them on tape later.
That'll be better than Christmas.
Okay, so what do you got on her?
Nothing definitive.
But she checks her pager constantly, and she took pills with dinner, and anytime you ask them how they met, Charlie changes the subject.
Hello?
Hooker.
My stories have sent men to prison on less.
Man, you think you know a guy.
Where are you going?
Restroom.
Too many martinis.
Well, hurry.
Your final category's soon.
I already told you I would.
I don't know, it could go all night.
No, Charlie's been great.
Except, I think he doesn't want anyone to know who I really am.
Uh-huh.
I know.
No, the dress worked out great.
I'm fine.
Bulgari!
And the nominees for Best Feature are Pepper Dennis, Bree Ketchum...
My category!
Gerald Banks...
Okay...
Thurston Poole...
...nice and slow.
Nice and slow.
And the winner is...
Pepper Dennis.
Hold on.
I'm coming!
Accepting for Pepper Dennis is WEiE anchor Charlie Babcock.
No!
I'm sure, if Pepper were here, she'd like to thank everyone at WEiE...
Wait!
I am here!
I am here!
I'm here!
Didn't think I'd make it, did you?
I have a little something prepared.
First, I'd like to thank my family, without whom I...
Winner, winner, chicken dinner!
You as pumped as I am?
I'm going home.
Are you kidding?
We just raked in some ACoRNs.
Let's celebrate.
Celebrate what, Babcock?
This isn't a win.
It's a punctuation mark on a day of utter failure.
I don't understand.
Let me break it down for you: my family snubbed me for the umpteenth time, Les turned me into Awards Show Barbie, I put my hand down a toilet, lost a million-dollar earring, ruined my dress, and to put the cherry on top of the sundae, you bring a hooker.
Bambi?
Sweet Bambi?
She may be named after an innocent woodland creature, but we all know that a romp through her enchanted glade isn't free.
Nice investigative work, Dennis.
Yep, ya got me.
Pepper Dennis.
Mr.
Ruberry?
Wait, slow down.
Right now?
What are you two doing?
I'm trying to create a television event, and my news team is logging less air time than the seat fillers...
who are not an attractive bunch.
Airport computers had a melted down.
Mid-Hare is in chaos.
It's the story of the year, and I've got the scoop.
Good for you, Pepper!
I'm thrilled your stupid Mid-Hare air traffic control software crashed.
You can run with it after the ceremony's over.
Now get back to our table before the "In Memoriam" montage starts.
Gosh, you don't think they're in there telling everyone...
No!
Stop!
We still have categories to get through.
I blame you for this.
Stop them, Charlie.
We don't have a show if we don't have an audience.
So, here's the deal, Les.
I'll take Mid-Hare.
My limo is waiting to take me back to the station.
Nobody's there.
The budget for tonight was too big.
I sent everyone home but the interns.
You mean anyone from WEiE who's qualified to do a news broadcast is in this building?
Are you missing an earring?
Where's the Bulgari?!
It fell down the toilet.
In the toilet.
Here.
Now pull yourself together and give us our assignments.
My stepdad's gonna kill me.
Well, Les just went bye-bye.
We can still get the exclusive.
Garrett Ruberry, the guy who predicted this whole thing, is on my speed dial.
And if everyone who's qualified to do a news broadcast is in this building, we just do the newscast from here.
Lance Powers will still be in hair and makeup when we hit the air.
Chick, we're going to shoot right there.
Got it.
Come on, Mom.
How're we doing on Operation Bulgari Recovery?
I found a plunger.
And I've got anti-bacterial wipes in my clutch; we're good to go.
Might need a little help getting camera ready.
Got my field kit in the car.
Hey, Champ, there should be some cables out there by the red carpet.
Would you grab them for me?
Thanks.
All right, we go live in ten.
Let's move people!
It's not that I don't want men to touch me, it's...
I can't believe I'm saying this to a stranger.
I just figured with your...
experience...
It's okay.
People tell me a lot of things.
I guess I've got one of those faces.
I've just been out of the game for so long.
When someone new gets close, I start worrying if he can tell.
And if something like that's important to him.
And then I just go, "Oh, he's losing interest."
And I freeze up. "
Can't hold on to a pair of earrings, Leslie?
This is just like that Beemer I gave you."
Sweetie, you're hot.
Even with the neck brace.
Okay, no man would ever lose interest.
That's not your problem.
It isn't?
Your problem is fear.
And fear can be strong, but it's only as strong as we let it be.
I should know.
I can imagine.
Diseases, strange men, dark alleys.
Or is it motels?
It's hospitals, but the point is before Charlie came along, I was eyeball-deep in fear.
And now look at me.
Better yet, look at him.
That's what living in fear leads to. "
You always focus on the wrong thing, Leslie.
Why can't you play soccer like your brothers?"
I don't want to live in fear.
Thank you, Bambi.
So, you knew Charlie before tonight?
Yeah, of course.
From Boston.
I'm confused.
How long have you two been... "
dating"?
If I tell you the truth about us, do you promise not to say anything?
'Cause Charlie gets a little embarrassed.
The shutdown has affected airports in 12 major cities.
Here's more background on air traffic control.
Dennis, you have the handwriting of a serial killer.
Can't you read anything other than a TelePrompTer?
Just skip that word.
Babcock.
I'm sorry if I was harsh a little earlier.
Bambi may be a little rough around the edges, but she seems like a very nice girl.
She's a special person.
That's why I gave her my kidney.
Kidney?
Oh, you heard.
My station did a story on her back in Boston.
She's a preschool teacher.
She didn't have insurance or a donor.
She was dying, so I gave her mine.
You always have to win, don't you?
Pepper Dennis.
What?
Unbelievable.
Thanks.
A Lear jet, out of fuel, has to make an emergency landing on the I-90.
And get this: it's Wes Brinkman's plane.
We've got to get someone on the scene to cover our CEO touching down on the freeway.
Dennis, we're out of bodies.
Madre de Dios.
Blanca, we need you to cover a Lear jet landing on the Dan Ryan.
You've got to go now.
You can boss everyone around and still find time for a yuk-yuk.
Good for you.
This isn't a joke.
Don't think I don't hear the comments you make about me, Dennis.
That I'm just a stupid, worthless weather girl.
Does it help that it's Wes Brinkman's plane?
Reporting live from the Dan Ryan, I'm Blanca Martinez.
Kimmy!
Mitch, what the hell are you doing here?
What about your play?
Understudy.
Kimmy...
I love you.
Oh, Mitch, um...
We went over this.
I...
We're not right for each other.
I need someone who's not as lost as I am.
And-and I found him.
There you are.
I love you!
Perfect timing.
Let's get Mr.
Ruberry miked.
It's all happening, just like I said it would.
That's right, Mr.
Ruberry.
Only this time, everyone's going to listen.
You're on in five, four, three...
Good evening.
This is Charlie Babcock with breaking news of the unexpected shutdown of Mid-Hare air traffic control.
We have Blanca Martinez live from the Dan Ryan for a terrifying emergency landing.
But first, WEiE has secured an exclusive interview with Garrett Ruberry, the man who saw all this coming.
Mr.
Ruberry, what were the first indications there was a problem at Mid-Hare?
The increase in traffic as a result of the new terminal...
Hey, where you guys been?
It's almost midnight.
We were covering the Mid-Hare story.
What happened at Mid-Hare?
What happened at...?!
Air traffic control shut down.
Goodness!
Dick, turn on Channel 8.
Let's see what's going on.
How'd the play go?
It was his best performance yet.
And he looked so tall on stage.
We grabbed an extra program for you.
Oh, and Kathy, I'm sending over my OSHA guy tomorrow morning to investigate your fall.
Let's start your little award show tape, dear.
Good idea.
I have an early staff meeting tomorrow.
We're skipping the tape.
Isn't that why you made us all come here?
I didn't make you come here.
Look, see?
I won.
The end.
Now we can all get some sleep.
Didn't you have four nominations?
Why don't you want us to see your awards?
It was one catastrophe after the next, which you'd know, if you'd been there.
Don't be so dramatic.
Take the edge off, have some rum cake.
Please don't roll over the things I say like they're not important.
Word.
Kids, that's enough.
Now, you're all just tired.
You're right.
I am tired.
Tired of watching us all be miserable.
I'm not miserable.
No?
You think they're not part of the reason you can't let a man get near you?
Mom constantly lining up your next husband.
Dad never letting you fix your own problems.
And how about Mitch?
You think he's not sick of living under your microscope?
He can't even be in a bad mood without it being a national emergency.
And me.
I needed you at those awards tonight.
I wanted you to see me succeed in something that I love.
You have so much energy to scrutinize every second of their lives, but you never seem to have the attention span to see who I am.
Pepper's right.
That hooker that Charlie gave his kidney to told me I can't live in fear.
And I have been for too long.
I didn't fall at work.
I tripped on a Jolly Jackrabbit vibrator at a Passion Party I attended in the hopes of opening myself up sexually.
Oh, my God.
That actor you saw tonight was my understudy.
This only has meaning to you now.
The only thing that had meaning to me is gone forever.
I'm dropping out of college.
Oh, my God.
Oh!
Oh my God!
Oh!
Do something, Dick.
I'm going to bed.
I was a truthoholic on a bender.
Sorry I took you down with me.
Don't be.
I'm just sorry that mom and dad disappointed you.
You know, Les never once thanked us for saving his hide last night.
I wonder how his stepfather is gonna reward him this time.
A private island, keys to the city?
Six minutes of dead airtime?
What is this, amateur hour?!
Who is that?
Daddy dearest.
Well, step.
Wes Brinkman is here?
And why the hell were you the only one without a man at the airport?
I mean, thank God for Blanca Martinez.
At least she found us on the Interstate!
I need to call my agent.
And I should have killed your stupid awards show idea the moment you pitched it to me.
And why the hell is that Bulgari lawyer keep calling me?
One more chance, Leslie, one.
Don't you make me regret marrying your mother.
Hey, good to see everybody.
Appreciate all the hard work.
Keep it up.
Pepper Dennis, heard you secured that exclusive interview.
Way to stay ahead of the competition.
Just doing my job, Mr.
Brinkman.
Charlie Babcock, nice to meet you.
Excellent teeth.
Crest Whitestrips, sir.
He likes my teeth.
Well, uh...
I'm sure you all heard at least some of Mr.
Brinkman's ideas on last night's performance.
Let us all endeavor to match his passion toward making this station great, because it's that intensity that made him the great man he is.
So let's...
get to work.
Thank you.
Hey, Kathy, I need your signature.
What happened?
You okay?
I fell.
Damn shame to cover up that gorgeous neck of yours.
It's the best part of my day.
Wouldn't mind seeing more some time.
Here's your signature.
Kyle, wait!
Um...
Something to, uh, tide you over for the weekend.
See you Monday?
I can hardly wait.
Dad?
Hey, Patty.
Be done in a jiff.
Hey, Kathy said you saved the station's keester last night with that story.
It was a group effort.
There.
Thought it'd be nice for your award.
Part of that new line I've been telling you about.
It's really bright.
Strongest, brightest light we carry.
Call it the Power Patty.
After me?
Of course.
You're the strongest, brightest light in my life.
I'm sorry we missed your awards.
You've always been a headstrong, independent kid.
Your mother and I figured you stopped needing us years ago.
Why would you think that?
You told us when you were 12.
Oh.
Well, I may have changed my mind.
I'm sorry.
It's ridiculous for someone my age to want her parents' approval.
No, it's not.
Just because you don't need our support anymore doesn't mean it's not a nice thing to have.
Patty, uh, if you want to keep a house lit up, you need to change the bulbs that flicker all the time.
You understand?
We focus on your brother and sister so much because their lights are always flickering.
We never worry about you.
You shine on your own just fine.
I say this to myself all the time when I should be saying it to you.
I'm proud of you, kiddo.
Thanks, Daddy.
What do you say I come by this week-end, see the rest of the line?
I'd like that.
Transcript: Raceman - Synchro: Amariss www.forom.com
Usher, is it true your daughter is named after world record domino-tipper Bob Speca?
Mr.
Usher?
I'm sorry.
I hate to miss even a second of Bobbie's competitions.
We're almost done.
Tell us, what's so special about today's topple?
The winning team goes overseas for Domino Day to show those dirty Dutch that we...
Oh, they're at the 60th rail.
This really is very critical.
I think we got enough.
Wow.
There goes ten shades of crazy.
Ah, he's just being supportive.
Parents live for this kind of thing.
Couldn't keep mine away from my 4-H Fairs, even when I begged.
Cows?
Beekeeping.
Pepper?
Kimmy!
Are they in?
No.
Why can't they just announce these nominations on TV, like the Oscars?
Because it's the Achievement in Chicago Regional News Awards.
The "ACoRNs" are serious journalism honors, Kimmy.
I've got a good feeling this year.
No offense, but you said that last year.
One more shut-out and I'm the Susan Lucci of local news.
I like Susan Lucci.
Thank you.
I hate waiting.
Let's go get more B-roll, Chick.
They're here!
They're here!
Please, God. "
Pepper Dennis-- nominated for Best Breaking Story."
And Chick's in for that warehouse fire.
Pepper Dennis, also in Public Service category.
Oh!
And commentary.
Damn right!
That's three!
You've never had that many.
Okay, last page.
Oh, my God!
Pepper Dennis, Best Feature!
You swept the categories!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
No!
Oh, I missed it?
Usually, when a patient tells me she has a daughter who's...
gorgeous and single and can cook, I figured it's just the nitro's talking.
When I drove my mother home from her root canal, I thought the same thing.
I mean, how many charming and attractive dentists are really out there?
Well, thank you.
I saw these berries at the farmers market and I couldn't help myself.
Anytime I see something that luscious and sweet, there's only one thing we can do.
Fondue.
Oh, Belgian dark.
Couldn't you just cover your whole body in it?
I like that idea.
Okay...
Your turn.
It's good.
Oops...
It's getting on my blouse.
That's okay, I got it.
This is antique laced.
I'm sorry-- No, it's fine.
Thank you for a lovely evening.
Did you hear?
Four nominations!
I'm no odds layer but statistically, it must be impossible for me to lose.
Yeah.
How did your date go with mom's dentist?
Great, until he started licking fondue off of me.
Ew.
How do you feel comfortable letting strange men get "familiar"?
What do you mean?
S-e-x.
What are you, a nun?
This is hard for me, Pepper.
I'm not like you, you know?
Slutty does not come easily.
Thank you, Kathy.
I didn't date much before I married Bryce, and I certainly didn't sleep with anyone else.
Really?
Just Bryce?
I took that vow we made in youth group very seriously: "One gift, one man."
Good Lord!
Pepper, please.
I haven't played the field in almost ten years.
I'm a sexual time capsule.
I mean, I don't know what to expect, or what's expected of me.
Give me some pointers.
How can I open myself up more physically?
Get drunk.
It's a classic standby.
Too much wine makes me blotchy.
How about a massage?
It's a little "early college," but still effective.
You know I have that fear about hands wrapping around my neck.
Porn?
Pepper!
I'm kidding.
Well, I'm not!
I don't know, Kathy-- you and I are obviously very different when it comes to this kind of thing.
Why don't you go online, find a class.
Surely, you're not alone in this.
As a Personal Passion Consultant, I assure you that the joy in lovemaking comes from us allowing ourselves to open up like a flower to our partner.
But to do that, we first must be comfortable with ourselves.
Enter the Jolly Jackrabbit-- it can do wonders in that area.
P.S., it's dishwasher safe and comes in its own privacy pouch.
Do couples really use these things?
I'm not sure.
But this is way more fun than discussing A Million Little Pieces.
I suppose with the right partner, and...
under the right lighting.
Now, who's with me, girls?
Nothing puts your mate in the mood faster than a good massage.
Kathy, would you be a lamb and bring me the edible oil I have warming over there on the hot plate?
Me?
Oh, yes.
Sure.
Careful not to spill, sweetie.
It can be a little sticky.
Oh, dear...
it's pretty full.
Hmm, it smells like a...
Creamsicle.
Nice.
I'll get the Resolve.
Since Kathy Dinkle is at the doctor, I will hand these award show tickets out myself, with pride.
Ms.
Martinez, one nomination, one extra ticket.
Nice work. "
Come Hail or High Water."
I still get shivers.
By my count, we tied Channel 8 for total nominations.
Appreciate your team spirit, Babcock.
Too bad you'll have to watch us crush 'em from the bench.
Charlie Babcock, one nomination, one extra ticket.
Nice work.
What?
He's not even eligible.
You have to be at a station for a year. "
Co-nominee for Best News Theme"?!
You added one power chord.
It seems the panel saw it as a significant contribution.
Chick Dirka, one nomination, one extra ticket.
Nice work.
But I have two parents.
If one of them can't go, it'll kill 'em.
Shame.
Pepper...
four nominations, four extra tickets.
Very nice work.
All right, let's talk news.
Carl, where are we on the panda baby?
Is it bigger than a stick of butter yet?
Mom, Dad...
Brava!
Brava!
These are for you.
That's my...
Pepper?
Panda baby.
Carl's on that.
What do you have?
Former tin pusher tells me that the ancient software over at Mid-Hare air traffic control is about as weak as Dick Cheney's ticker.
Tried to put it on his boss's radar, but they only showed him the door.
Yeah, pass.
What else?
Hold on, Les, the guy's an engineer.
The entire airport could buckle tomorrow, but no one's listening.
Pass.
People don't care what might happen, they care about what's happening.
Which is why, though it wasn't easy or cheap, I have secured exclusive broadcast rights to the ACoRNs.
We're airing it on TV for the first time.
I thought it was a boring luncheon.
Not anymore.
We're moving it to the Fairchild Hotel at night, and WEiE will cover the whole thing.
It's the Windy City's Golden Globes.
Ooh-- red carpet, red carpet.
And, Blanca, I want you on it.
You'll talk gowns, bling...
Wait a minute, there's no red carpet.
This isn't about the gowns or the bling.
It's about rewarding journalistic excellence.
Let's not forget the prestige these awards carry.
I couldn't agree more.
So just consider this "pre-show prestige."
Hey, superstar.
After work, you and I are going shopping.
I have Neiman's holding every stitch of awards-show couture in your size.
No can do.
Family dinner tonight.
I'm inviting them to the ceremony.
Uh, the same people who think you're better off working at Dinkle Dimmers?
That family?
Yes.
The same family who missed your graduation from journalism school?
Sweetie, when are you going to stop setting yourself up for disappointment?
Look, Kimmy, I know it's pathetic, but for some reason, Lynne and Dick's approval means something to me.
If they watch me win an ACoRN, they may finally realize my job has merit, and that I'm damn good at it, too.
Besides, parents live for this kind of thing.
Says who?
Chick.
What?
It could be true.
I'll have a Chardonnay, please.
Tom Collins.
Johnnie Walker, rocks.
He'll have an iced tea.
Alcohol is a depressant.
Let's not bring sand to the beach.
Iced tea.
Patty, I tell you, you have got to see this new Dinkle Dimmers line.
You'd sell the Dickens out of it.
Thanks, Dad, but I have a job.
In fact, I have some good news.
Patty, will you please explain to your brother why he must submit his play for the Schwimmer Grant?
Although, a clown version...
Zombie.
...zombie version of The CherryOrchard...
Seagull.
...Seagull is a long shot, awards like that can open doors.
Funny you should mention awards...
God in heaven.
What happened?
Sorry I'm late.
I fell over a box of paper in the copy room.
File a workman's comp tomorrow.
I certainly hope you weren't wearing that contraption on your date with Dr.
Herman.
I smell orange sherbet.
So how about Pepper's nominations?
Wonderful.
What for?
The ACoRNs-- Achievement in Chicago Regional News.
And here's the best part.
Thanks to my multiple nods, I have enough tickets for everyone.
So pull out your pearls and your penguin suits, and I'll see you tomorrow night at 8:00.
Oh, darling.
Tomorrow night is Mitchell's premiere performance.
It means so much to him.
I don't care.
We wouldn't dare miss it.
But it's my big night, too.
My heart's empty.
I'm gonna go fill it at the bar.
What are you doing?
You know howself-destructive he gets when he's in these moods.
What is wrong with him, anyway?
I don't know, but the boy is two credits shy of graduation.
Nobody is going to upset that apple cart.
Your daddy's right, girls.
If we're going to get your brother out of my future scrapbooking room, he will need the full support of this family.
Can't do your walnuts, kiddo.
ACoRNs.
I'll be there.
We can tape it and all watch it together after.
Done deal.
So who's having the rib eye?
Dennis.
How do you feel about Les's ACoRN thing?
It's a mockery of journalism.
I can't help but feel it's part of a trend.
Panda babies...
Dominoes.
We used to do hard news.
We're on a runaway train, Dennis.
Someone doesn't hit the brakes soon...
We're gonna smash right into the E!
Channel.
If I wanted to work there, I would've.
I had the offer.
So what's the plan?
Sabotage?
Back-alley beating?
We go to his office, and we strongly remind him what WEiE stands for.
Pretty soft, but okay, I'm in.
Gaye, we came to express concern on this ACoRN broadcast.
It may be a misstep.
Corporate disagrees.
In fact, my stepfather, Wes Brinkman, is cutting his vacation short and flying in for it.
He is?
Mm-hmm.
I'm glad you invoked that name, Les.
Mr.
Brinkman has built a world-respected media empire.
He's a great man.
Then why would you tarnish his legacy?
These awards are the pinnacle of local journalism, but you're turning them into a silly circus.
Maybe you're right.
As is, the event lacks a certain legitimacy.
But...
what if a respected, multi-nominated reporter gave her endorsement?
Would that up our credibility?
It might.
Yes.
Loving it!
Our two knockout ladies giving it a face, a voice.
To what?
What just happened?
You just agreed to work the red carpet with Blanca.
What the hell was that?
You pulled me into fighting Leslie and dumming down WEiE.
It was nice beeing on same page for once, wasn't it?
And now I delivering drivel on his red carpet.
Dennis, I'm not pissing off Wes Brinkman before I meet him.
Okay?
The best thing to do now is find dates and hire a limo.
You're such an anchor.
What are you looking at?
30MinuteEscort.com?
At your door in under 30 minutes, or you get something for free.
I'm thinking about pitching it to Les.
What?
This place has gotten ridiculous.
Mid-Hare's air traffic control equipment could crash at any minute, and I'm gonna report just that.
I wouldn't do that, Dennis.
Of course you wouldn't, Babcock.
No corporate toady would.
Chick?
Saddle up.
There's an out-of-work airport engineer with a story to tell.
Here, here, here, let me.
Gosh, are you okay?
Yeah, I...
I slipped at the grocery store.
Went down like a ton of bricks at the bagel bin.
I know a great, shady lawyer.
Ooh, what are you doing?
Digging out the puff paints for a "Good Luck and Get Happy" basket for Mitch.
The Dinkles are circling the wagons.
Why?
What happened?
He won't say.
He's depressed, he's withdrawn...
That's Mitch.
I mean...
you know, just what I know of Mitch.
My mother is convinced it's artistic melancholia.
But I think there's a girl involved.
Oh...!
Good afternoon, WEiE.
How may I direct your call?
The increase in traffic as a result of the new terminal will overload the system.
Without upgrading the control tower software, Mid-Hare's mainframe will freeze up.
It must be frustrating, Mr.
Ruberry, to issue warnings that no one will heed.
Mid-Hare is an international airport.
If it falls off-schedule, there's a domino effect everywhere else.
And the first domino is about to get kicked over.
I'm all too familiar with that.
Um, Pepper?
We got to roll.
The station's calling us on another job-- something huge.
What do we got?
Shooting?
Car bombing?
Dress fitting.
I said red.
It's my power color.
What is she doing here?
She's cohosting the carpet with you.
Hmm.
Perfect.
Give the meringue to the giant.
Les, it's fine for a weather girl to do this, but I'm a real reporter.
I need you to be a team player here, Pep.
Try to see this as an opportunity.
If WEiE is successful in turning the ACoRNs into a major event, it would really impress my stepfather.
He should be more impressed by good, solid stories, the kind that win us the awards you're so eager to promote.
Those are the kind of stories I want to report on, Les, and if I have to go someplace else to do it...
Where?
My stepfather owns a stake in 40% of the world's media.
He lunches with the other 60.
You know who else he breaks bread with?
Mr.
Bulgari.
They'll look perfect with the white.
Make sure you say "Bulgari" six times during the broadcast, and don't lose them.
It's Mitch.
You said don't call, but there's a Romero retrospective at the Tivoli...
I miss you.
I know you miss me.
You're killing me.
Don't call him.
Don't call him.
Call who?
No one.
Elizabeth Taylor!
Are those real diamonds?
No.
They're shackles-- big, gorgeous, Bulgari shackles.
So Les convinced you to do the red carpet.
He's a shallow nitwit, and how is he rewarded?
His daddy gives him a station to run into the ground.
My own can't even remember the name of the awards, let alone go.
What are you doing here, Benedict Anchor?
Killing time until my date arrives.
Date?
Who are you bringing?
No one you know.
How about you?
Blanca.
Right.
Charlie Babcock, you have a guest at reception.
She's early.
Kimmy, mints.
Good luck tonight, Dennis.
You, too.
Oh, who are we kidding?
Can you see her?
Is she famous?
I bet you're way prettier.
Bambi.
Oh, my God.
30minuteEscort.com.
He hired a hooker.
In a gorgious Dolce & Gabbana gown, spin for the viewers at home.
Yes, it's a glamorous and glitzy evening here at the ACoRNs.
Let's send it over to Pepper.
Loved your piece on the Armenian orphans.
Tell me, when you flew in from Yerevan today, did the airspace above Mid-Hare seem a bit clogged to you?
See anything that might have qualified as a near miss?
Well...!
Our very own anchor, Charlie Babcock.
And friend.
So, how'd you two meet?
Charlie gave me the greatest gift a man could give-- a piece of himself.
That was fast.
I hope you kept the tags.
Keep moving.
Champ, Dolores, you must be so proud of your son's nomination.
Sure are.
Haven't been prouder since his hive took first place at the 4-H Fair.
Mom.
Thanks for the extra ticket.
Is my stepfather here yet?
Haven't seen him.
Ooh!
Channel 8 incoming.
Play up the rivalry.
Pepper Dennis.
I heard they moved you to the entertainment beat.
Lance Powers.
Congratulations on your nominations.
Only two, right?
Yes.
This is my mother, Gloria.
Pleasure to meet you.
Nice sparkle, Dennis.
You got more glass there than Sammy Davis Jr.'s right eye.
It was his left eye.
And they're Bulgari.
Bulgari.
Kimmy's better.
Just a little sign of family support.
I'll put them with the others.
Saw your dean in the lobby.
Says the only way you won't graduate is if a tornado hits before curtain time.
Are you nervous?
I can't tell under all the makeup.
Well, either way, I'm sure you'll do wonderfully.
It's so exciting!
The start of your future, of everything you've always wanted.
A life before the footlights.
Oh, I can just smell the grease paint and the magic.
Right, Dick?
Dick!
Yes.
Magic.
I need a Snickers before showtime.
Good luck.
Oh, I mean, break a leg.
And remember, Mitchie, nothing worth having ever comes easily.
Why do you keep staring at her?
Pepper thinks she's a call girl.
Really?
Oh...
is it starting?
Pepper's not here yet.
Good evening.
I'm Paul Konrad.
And welcome to the 22nd annual Achievement in Chicago Regional News awards.
What'd I miss?
Bad chicken.
You ready to kick some ass?
Yep.
Let's win some trophies.
The nominees in our first category, Breaking Story, are: Lance Powers, "Kankakee Manhunt," Gerald Banks, "94 Tanker Spill," Felicio Romero, "Navy Pier Carny Scam," and Pepper Dennis, "Joliet Prison Break."
You got this.
That piece rocked.
And the winner is...
Lance Powers.
Whoo!
Lance Powers!
Great piece.
Great piece.
Good-good save.
It's only the first category.
You've got three more to go.
And win.
And the winner is...
Gerald Banks.
And the winner is...
Felicio Romero.
Well...
at least my parents aren't here to witness the massacre.
Oh, wait.
I get to go home and relive the whole night with them on tape later.
That'll be better than Christmas.
Okay, so what do you got on her?
Nothing definitive.
But she checks her pager constantly, and she took pills with dinner, and anytime you ask them how they met, Charlie changes the subject.
Hello?
Hooker.
My stories have sent men to prison on less.
Man, you think you know a guy.
Where are you going?
Restroom.
Too many martinis.
Well, hurry.
Your final category's soon.
I already told you I would.
I don't know, it could go all night.
No, Charlie's been great.
Except, I think he doesn't want anyone to know who I really am.
Uh-huh.
I know.
No, the dress worked out great.
I'm fine.
Bulgari!
And the nominees for Best Feature are Pepper Dennis, Bree Ketchum...
My category!
Gerald Banks...
Okay...
Thurston Poole...
...nice and slow.
Nice and slow.
And the winner is...
Pepper Dennis.
Hold on.
I'm coming!
Accepting for Pepper Dennis is WEiE anchor Charlie Babcock.
No!
I'm sure, if Pepper were here, she'd like to thank everyone at WEiE...
Wait!
I am here!
I am here!
I'm here!
Didn't think I'd make it, did you?
I have a little something prepared.
First, I'd like to thank my family, without whom I...
Winner, winner, chicken dinner!
You as pumped as I am?
I'm going home.
Are you kidding?
We just raked in some ACoRNs.
Let's celebrate.
Celebrate what, Babcock?
This isn't a win.
It's a punctuation mark on a day of utter failure.
I don't understand.
Let me break it down for you: my family snubbed me for the umpteenth time, Les turned me into Awards Show Barbie, I put my hand down a toilet, lost a million-dollar earring, ruined my dress, and to put the cherry on top of the sundae, you bring a hooker.
Bambi?
Sweet Bambi?
She may be named after an innocent woodland creature, but we all know that a romp through her enchanted glade isn't free.
Nice investigative work, Dennis.
Yep, ya got me.
Pepper Dennis.
Mr.
Ruberry?
Wait, slow down.
Right now?
What are you two doing?
I'm trying to create a television event, and my news team is logging less air time than the seat fillers...
who are not an attractive bunch.
Airport computers had a melted down.
Mid-Hare is in chaos.
It's the story of the year, and I've got the scoop.
Good for you, Pepper!
I'm thrilled your stupid Mid-Hare air traffic control software crashed.
You can run with it after the ceremony's over.
Now get back to our table before the "In Memoriam" montage starts.
Gosh, you don't think they're in there telling everyone...
No!
Stop!
We still have categories to get through.
I blame you for this.
Stop them, Charlie.
We don't have a show if we don't have an audience.
So, here's the deal, Les.
I'll take Mid-Hare.
My limo is waiting to take me back to the station.
Nobody's there.
The budget for tonight was too big.
I sent everyone home but the interns.
You mean anyone from WEiE who's qualified to do a news broadcast is in this building?
Are you missing an earring?
Where's the Bulgari?!
It fell down the toilet.
In the toilet.
Here.
Now pull yourself together and give us our assignments.
My stepdad's gonna kill me.
Well, Les just went bye-bye.
We can still get the exclusive.
Garrett Ruberry, the guy who predicted this whole thing, is on my speed dial.
And if everyone who's qualified to do a news broadcast is in this building, we just do the newscast from here.
Lance Powers will still be in hair and makeup when we hit the air.
Chick, we're going to shoot right there.
Got it.
Come on, Mom.
How're we doing on Operation Bulgari Recovery?
I found a plunger.
And I've got anti-bacterial wipes in my clutch; we're good to go.
Might need a little help getting camera ready.
Got my field kit in the car.
Hey, Champ, there should be some cables out there by the red carpet.
Would you grab them for me?
Thanks.
All right, we go live in ten.
Let's move people!
It's not that I don't want men to touch me, it's...
I can't believe I'm saying this to a stranger.
I just figured with your...
experience...
It's okay.
People tell me a lot of things.
I guess I've got one of those faces.
I've just been out of the game for so long.
When someone new gets close, I start worrying if he can tell.
And if something like that's important to him.
And then I just go, "Oh, he's losing interest."
And I freeze up. "
Can't hold on to a pair of earrings, Leslie?
This is just like that Beemer I gave you."
Sweetie, you're hot.
Even with the neck brace.
Okay, no man would ever lose interest.
That's not your problem.
It isn't?
Your problem is fear.
And fear can be strong, but it's only as strong as we let it be.
I should know.
I can imagine.
Diseases, strange men, dark alleys.
Or is it motels?
It's hospitals, but the point is before Charlie came along, I was eyeball-deep in fear.
And now look at me.
Better yet, look at him.
That's what living in fear leads to. "
You always focus on the wrong thing, Leslie.
Why can't you play soccer like your brothers?"
I don't want to live in fear.
Thank you, Bambi.
So, you knew Charlie before tonight?
Yeah, of course.
From Boston.
I'm confused.
How long have you two been... "
dating"?
If I tell you the truth about us, do you promise not to say anything?
'Cause Charlie gets a little embarrassed.
The shutdown has affected airports in 12 major cities.
Here's more background on air traffic control.
Dennis, you have the handwriting of a serial killer.
Can't you read anything other than a TelePrompTer?
Just skip that word.
Babcock.
I'm sorry if I was harsh a little earlier.
Bambi may be a little rough around the edges, but she seems like a very nice girl.
She's a special person.
That's why I gave her my kidney.
Kidney?
Oh, you heard.
My station did a story on her back in Boston.
She's a preschool teacher.
She didn't have insurance or a donor.
She was dying, so I gave her mine.
You always have to win, don't you?
Pepper Dennis.
What?
Unbelievable.
Thanks.
A Lear jet, out of fuel, has to make an emergency landing on the I-90.
And get this: it's Wes Brinkman's plane.
We've got to get someone on the scene to cover our CEO touching down on the freeway.
Dennis, we're out of bodies.
Madre de Dios.
Blanca, we need you to cover a Lear jet landing on the Dan Ryan.
You've got to go now.
You can boss everyone around and still find time for a yuk-yuk.
Good for you.
This isn't a joke.
Don't think I don't hear the comments you make about me, Dennis.
That I'm just a stupid, worthless weather girl.
Does it help that it's Wes Brinkman's plane?
Reporting live from the Dan Ryan, I'm Blanca Martinez.
Kimmy!
Mitch, what the hell are you doing here?
What about your play?
Understudy.
Kimmy...
I love you.
Oh, Mitch, um...
We went over this.
I...
We're not right for each other.
I need someone who's not as lost as I am.
And-and I found him.
There you are.
I love you!
Perfect timing.
Let's get Mr.
Ruberry miked.
It's all happening, just like I said it would.
That's right, Mr.
Ruberry.
Only this time, everyone's going to listen.
You're on in five, four, three...
Good evening.
This is Charlie Babcock with breaking news of the unexpected shutdown of Mid-Hare air traffic control.
We have Blanca Martinez live from the Dan Ryan for a terrifying emergency landing.
But first, WEiE has secured an exclusive interview with Garrett Ruberry, the man who saw all this coming.
Mr.
Ruberry, what were the first indications there was a problem at Mid-Hare?
The increase in traffic as a result of the new terminal...
Hey, where you guys been?
It's almost midnight.
We were covering the Mid-Hare story.
What happened at Mid-Hare?
What happened at...?!
Air traffic control shut down.
Goodness!
Dick, turn on Channel 8.
Let's see what's going on.
How'd the play go?
It was his best performance yet.
And he looked so tall on stage.
We grabbed an extra program for you.
Oh, and Kathy, I'm sending over my OSHA guy tomorrow morning to investigate your fall.
Let's start your little award show tape, dear.
Good idea.
I have an early staff meeting tomorrow.
We're skipping the tape.
Isn't that why you made us all come here?
I didn't make you come here.
Look, see?
I won.
The end.
Now we can all get some sleep.
Didn't you have four nominations?
Why don't you want us to see your awards?
It was one catastrophe after the next, which you'd know, if you'd been there.
Don't be so dramatic.
Take the edge off, have some rum cake.
Please don't roll over the things I say like they're not important.
Word.
Kids, that's enough.
Now, you're all just tired.
You're right.
I am tired.
Tired of watching us all be miserable.
I'm not miserable.
No?
You think they're not part of the reason you can't let a man get near you?
Mom constantly lining up your next husband.
Dad never letting you fix your own problems.
And how about Mitch?
You think he's not sick of living under your microscope?
He can't even be in a bad mood without it being a national emergency.
And me.
I needed you at those awards tonight.
I wanted you to see me succeed in something that I love.
You have so much energy to scrutinize every second of their lives, but you never seem to have the attention span to see who I am.
Pepper's right.
That hooker that Charlie gave his kidney to told me I can't live in fear.
And I have been for too long.
I didn't fall at work.
I tripped on a Jolly Jackrabbit vibrator at a Passion Party I attended in the hopes of opening myself up sexually.
Oh, my God.
That actor you saw tonight was my understudy.
This only has meaning to you now.
The only thing that had meaning to me is gone forever.
I'm dropping out of college.
Oh, my God.
Oh!
Oh my God!
Oh!
Do something, Dick.
I'm going to bed.
I was a truthoholic on a bender.
Sorry I took you down with me.
Don't be.
I'm just sorry that mom and dad disappointed you.
You know, Les never once thanked us for saving his hide last night.
I wonder how his stepfather is gonna reward him this time.
A private island, keys to the city?
Six minutes of dead airtime?
What is this, amateur hour?!
Who is that?
Daddy dearest.
Well, step.
Wes Brinkman is here?
And why the hell were you the only one without a man at the airport?
I mean, thank God for Blanca Martinez.
At least she found us on the Interstate!
I need to call my agent.
And I should have killed your stupid awards show idea the moment you pitched it to me.
And why the hell is that Bulgari lawyer keep calling me?
One more chance, Leslie, one.
Don't you make me regret marrying your mother.
Hey, good to see everybody.
Appreciate all the hard work.
Keep it up.
Pepper Dennis, heard you secured that exclusive interview.
Way to stay ahead of the competition.
Just doing my job, Mr.
Brinkman.
Charlie Babcock, nice to meet you.
Excellent teeth.
Crest Whitestrips, sir.
He likes my teeth.
Well, uh...
I'm sure you all heard at least some of Mr.
Brinkman's ideas on last night's performance.
Let us all endeavor to match his passion toward making this station great, because it's that intensity that made him the great man he is.
So let's...
get to work.
Thank you.
Hey, Kathy, I need your signature.
What happened?
You okay?
I fell.
Damn shame to cover up that gorgeous neck of yours.
It's the best part of my day.
Wouldn't mind seeing more some time.
Here's your signature.
Kyle, wait!
Um...
Something to, uh, tide you over for the weekend.
See you Monday?
I can hardly wait.
Dad?
Hey, Patty.
Be done in a jiff.
Hey, Kathy said you saved the station's keester last night with that story.
It was a group effort.
There.
Thought it'd be nice for your award.
Part of that new line I've been telling you about.
It's really bright.
Strongest, brightest light we carry.
Call it the Power Patty.
After me?
Of course.
You're the strongest, brightest light in my life.
I'm sorry we missed your awards.
You've always been a headstrong, independent kid.
Your mother and I figured you stopped needing us years ago.
Why would you think that?
You told us when you were 12.
Oh.
Well, I may have changed my mind.
I'm sorry.
It's ridiculous for someone my age to want her parents' approval.
No, it's not.
Just because you don't need our support anymore doesn't mean it's not a nice thing to have.
Patty, uh, if you want to keep a house lit up, you need to change the bulbs that flicker all the time.
You understand?
We focus on your brother and sister so much because their lights are always flickering.
We never worry about you.
You shine on your own just fine.
I say this to myself all the time when I should be saying it to you.
I'm proud of you, kiddo.
Thanks, Daddy.
What do you say I come by this week-end, see the rest of the line?
I'd like that.
Transcript: Raceman - Synchro: Amariss www.forom.com