"Say Uncle" is the fourteenth episode in the second season of the NBC family sitcom Family Ties. It originally aired on January 26, 1984, and is the thirty-sixth episode of the series overall.
Synopsis[]
Uncle Ned pays the Keatons a visit. However, it becomes quickly evident to Alex that Ned has developed a drinking problem. Alex tries to convince his reluctant family of Ned's addiction before it's too late.
Plot[]
Uncle Ned (played by Tom Hanks) shows up and Steven gets him an interview to work at WKS. It soon becomes clear, however, that he has a drinking problem (which strains his relationship with everyone and causes Ned to blow the interview). Alex tries to remind Ned of his business prowess, only to be physically assaulted by Ned. Steven angrily, but calmly, puts his foot down, telling Ned to either get help or get out of his house. A bereaved Ned is finally convinced to get help. Elyse gives him a number to call and he picks up the phone and dials the number. After making a little joke, Ned finally says he has a drinking problem.
Cast[]
Starring[]
- Meredith Baxter as Elyse Keaton
- Michael Gross as Steven Keaton
- Michael J. Fox as Alex P. Keaton
- Justine Bateman as Mallory Keaton
- Tina Yothers as Jennifer Keaton
Guest Starring[]
- Tom Hanks as Ned Donnelly
- Ben Piazza as Charles Wertz
Co-Starring[]
Quotes[]
Trivia[]
- The title is a common phrase among kids.
- Uncle Ned bemoans his ruined life because of his actions in "The Fugitive."
- The board game of the episode is Trivial Pursuit.
- Ned relates the old Miller beer commercial, "If you've got the time, we've got the beer." (YouTube) - would have been much more familiar in 1984 than now.
- Ned says he is, along with Olga Korbut and the Mouseketeers, washed up before the age of 30.
- An alternate title considered for this episode was "Tears of a Clown", after the popular Smokey Robinson tune.
- Jennifer has taken up the clarinet.
- Alex apparently used to play "Lady of Spain" on the accordion.
- Ned sings that Mallory is an "Uptown Girl".
Gallery[]
