"Love in the Ghetto" introduced Carl Franklin as Thelma's latest beau Larry Walters, who made only one return appearance in "The Break Up." JJ learns that Thelma and Larry are now engaged, and figures it won't last when Dad finds out. The grits hit the fan when her parents are told, concluding that the 20 year old Larry is too young for marriage. James gives JJ a cold stare when his son reminds him that he was the same age when he and Florida were wed. Striving to own his own gas station someday, Larry ducks out to allow further discussion, Thelma stunned to find JJ solidly in her corner, even at the cost of his father's respect. In the end James admits that he's proud to see his son stick up for his younger sister.
3 Reviews
Thank you, JJ!
gregorycanfield3 August 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This would have to be my favorite Good Times episode. Two important things happen here. First, JJ proves that he's not the clown he usually pretends to be. Most importantly, JJ and Thelma finally express their true feelings for each other. James' reasons for being against Larry were ridiculous. He wanted someone "better" for his daughter. Was there nobody "better" that Florida could have married? Florida actually gives James the answer to that question. The story is contrived, but with great results. It's nice to see JJ and Thelma express their love for each other.
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