This Is Us - Season 5

[KyleEl]

Toby is on the cover of my Charlotte Observer TV section this week. Not sure why they chose him.

Also, the people who print that section messed up and said it's on ABC.

I'm not ready. It looks like all these terrible things are going to happen. Even the season one episodes I'm watching online aren't making me happy.

[KyleEl]

decoy.tvpassport.com/news/big-three-are-back-season-5-us-premieres-nbc?subid=national-00001

The first few minutes were the very definition of the word anti said I shouldn't use. Is this what it's going to be like?

Then enough time passed and it was clear they weren't going to just focus on the pandemic. How convenient that it had already started when Kevin and Madison were talking about their twins last season. Then we have George Floyd on top of everything else. The good news was that led to an interesting conversation between Randall and Malik.

At long last, some flashbacks. Jack promises if he shaves the beard he won't have a mustache. We all know he will.

And we're going to learn about William and his girlfriend. Maybe. I know I'm going to enjoy that.

We already went through this with Rebecca. And now they should explain why no one was wearing masks. I don't think she should have walked that far alone in her situation anyway.

This does get Randall to the cabin and he saves the day. I have read a lot about this problem with allergy medicines. There's one I don't take as often as I once did and knowing this, I'm glad I don't.

But will Randall and Kevin make up? It looks like things are better between them. Kate seems to be the voice of reason these days and she's determined to make things right.

So Jack and William could have met.

Randall is leaving his white therapist. Maybe that's for the best. There are things going on that only another Black person could truly understand.

Wait ... she's alive?

[AntiArbitrator]

Changes

SEASON 5, EPISODE 3 • NEW
11/10/2020, 9:00 PM ON WBALDT 11 • TV-14 • STEREO • CC • DVS

Kevin and Madison navigate their engagement as Kate and Toby take a big step in their adoption journey; Jack and Rebecca brace for puberty.

[AntiArbitrator]

Randall is optimistic about his new therapist and is writing a story from his childhood to give to the man. It seemed like he was writing about the time Tonya wanted to kiss him and said "I always wanted to know what it would be like to kiss someone like you." It seemed awkward for Randall, but I am not sure that he was offended. I think he was not ready.

I like the way Randall handled the situation with Tess although six weeks was a long time. Maybe she will get time off for good behavior. Discrimination on the basis of hair is an issue that is currently being addressed and I like the way they handled it without being preachy.

I enjoyed watching Kevin and his lady be honest about their personal issues. That should help both of them. Kevin has matured and become sensitive, and he needs to mend the relationship with Randall.

I cannot be optimistic about the adoption Kate and Toby are pursuing because the mother can change her mind or the father might make a claim. Also, the mother does seem to have researched Kate's likes and capitalized on that.

[AntiArbitrator]

I do not know how Linh, the Asian child, fits into the story.

[KyleEl]

I didn't know the Asian child had a name, and I don't know either.

I liked Randall's search for a new therapist.

I wondered how Tess could still be on her phone. She wouldn't be for long! I thought Randall was too hard on her and he was pleased she expressed her feelings but not about how.

I don't like Kevin's relationship now. And his signing autographs is getting old.

I actually liked a storyline about Kate and Toby for a change. It doesn't matter whether it works out as long as I enjoy it now.

Weren't we promised more about Randall's mother? That was in the "previously".

I enjoyed everything with the kids.

[AntiArbitrator]

Nov 13, 2020 18:28:55 GMT -5 KyleEl said:

I didn't know the Asian child had a name, and I don't know either.

I liked Randall's search for a new therapist.

I wondered how Tess could still be on her phone. She wouldn't be for long! I thought Randall was too hard on her and he was pleased she expressed her feelings but not about how.

I don't like Kevin's relationship now. And his signing autographs is getting old.

I actually liked a storyline about Kate and Toby for a change. It doesn't matter whether it works out as long as I enjoy it now.

Weren't we promised more about Randall's mother? That was in the "previously".

I enjoyed everything with the kids.

Randall’s mother was in the photograph with the Vietnamese man.

[KyleEl]

Nov 14, 2020 13:46:03 GMT -5 AntiArbitrator said:

Randall’s mother was in the photograph with the Vietnamese man.

I couldn't see her because my TV isn't big enough, but that was my guess.

[AntiArbitrator]

Honestly

SEASON 5, EPISODE 4 • NEW
11/17/2020, 9:00 PM ON WBALDT 11 • TV-14 • STEREO • CC • DVS

Malik shadows Randall at work; Kevin struggles to connect with his new movie director; Jack and Rebecca struggle to sleep train their babies.

[AntiArbitrator]

A lot of attention is given to coordinating similarities in the characters’ stories and I enjoy that.

Jack and Rebecca were losing sleep because baby Kevin kept crying through the night. Jack finally insisted that they let him cry so he would get used to the schedule. Rebecca resisted and wanted to go to Kevin when he cried. They also had a difference of opinion when teenage Kevin wanted to quit football. Jack would not let him be a quitter. Jack’s influence helped Kevin later in life when the director told him he could do better. Instead of quitting, Kevin studied harder. I smiled when the director sent Kevin an atta boy and signed the card “Foster”, which was a clever way to let Kevin know what to call him.

It was nice to see teenage Randall agree to help Kevin even though Kevin had been a jerk about his study method. Adult Randall was in a jovial mood and took Malik to work with him. The mistake Malik made turned out to be very funny. I hoped Randall would not pull down his pants on camera. The video generated much more attention than normal and the memes were humorous. Malik demonstrated maturity in the way he explained the situation with his daughter and Randall graciously accepted it. I like Malik and I am happy we will see more of him.

Well, I am shocked Kate had a major secret that she kept from everyone.

Randall’s viral video mentioned the name William Hill and the Vietnamese man obviously recognized the name.

[KyleEl]

I'm hoping Kate's secret is not what I think it is.

I always appreciate funny moments on this show. Randall gave us a great one thanks to Malik's mistake. Malik was being responsible at the same time he was being irresponsible, so that's fine. I was pleased Randall reacted the way he did.

Chloe was an unfortunate choice for a name. Of course, many of us around here would like that name.

I'm pleased Kevin was able to push himself harder, both in the past and in the present, but I sort of doubt his eventual goal is going to happen.

I'm surprised the Vietnamese man would watch the entire video. But he seemed too serious to even bother with something funny.

[KyleEl]

I was afraid of this. Kate had an abortion. I'll just have to put that out of my mind. I am pro-choice because I want it to be safe, but that doesn't mean I have to like it. But putting Kate through a nine-month pregnancy might have been too much.

Confronting the baby's father was something I guess Kate had to do, but I find it curious she didn't even mention the baby. But then what purpose would it have served? And I'm glad Toby didn't act on his feelings.

I am not rooting for Kevin and Madison to stay together. Why couldn't Madison just late Kate have the babies? But she seems to want them.

I am looking forward to next week. I want to know the whole story of why Randall's mother disappeared and why she never contacted him.

[AntiArbitrator]

Kate's visit to her ex went better than I thought it would. He made unkind remarks about her eating habits when they were young and I was concerned he would make a cruel remark about her weight. Kate felt good about the encounter and thanked Toby for being patient. Toby has always been the most understanding one in their relationship.

I never thought about Kate raising Kevin's babies, but I would like for that to happen. Kevin is trying hard to be understanding while his wife is being unreasonable. He never said he would quit acting. Finally, the brothers have taken a step to clear the air about the harsh things they said to each other.

I am also interested in Randall's mother. I am glad he learned in the current episode that his father did not knowingly lie to him about his mother's death. The only disappointment for me is I wanted Randall's mother to still be alive.

It was very funny when Randall's staff greeted him by imitating his viral video moves.

[KyleEl]

Jan 8, 2021 20:34:01 GMT -5 AntiArbitrator said:

I never thought about Kate raising Kevin's babies, but I would like for that to happen.

From the start I just assumed they wouldn't want the babies and it was the perfect solution.

[AntiArbitrator]

This Is Us
Birth Mother

SEASON 5, EPISODE 6 • NEW
1/12/2021, 9:00 PM ON WBALDT 11 • TV-14 • STEREO • CC • DVS

Randall uncovers new truths about his past

[AntiArbitrator]

Randall *reading script*: So, basically, all I need to do is look sad, forlorn, and weepy for most of the episode?
Producer: Yep! But you smile at the end.
Randall: Alrighty then!
***
I enjoyed seeing the story of the life of Randall’s mother. It was gratifying to see she and Hai loved and spent time together when they were young. Their “how did you meet my mother” story was the best one I have heard. It was funny.

She was courageous when she left home rather than be forced into a marriage. Hai had to support his parents and could not go with her to Chicago. He said she did not make it to Chicago at that time, but did he say why? I am confused about the timeline for the locations.

It was sad to see she was locked up for five years for drug possession, but I knew the reason Randall’s father ran away was he would have been arrested also. (It was recently decided that if a person remains to help someone who OD’d, the person would not be arrested.)  When she called home, she probably hoped to talk to anyone except her father, but he answered and she did not ask for help.

I am glad she was with someone who made her happy near the end of her life. Hai and her Aunt Mae were understanding and supportive.

I enjoyed Beth’s avid interest and reaction when Hai told the story.

I also enjoyed Randall’s emotional journey and the way it made him willing to let go of the negative feelings he had for so long. Whenever people are driving and talking on the phone, I expect something terrible to happen. But tragedy struck after the call ended.
***
When Mahalia Jackson was singing at the beginning, it made me think of the criticism she endured because some people felt she sang hymns in the style of the Blues. I was appalled when I learned that years ago, but now I have been exposed to so many thoughtless and selfish comments in general, I am no longer surprised.

When Hai thanked Randall and Beth for getting tested, I thought that was realistic because they had to do that so they could film the episode.

[KyleEl]

I enjoyed learning the full story myself. I should be careful what I ask for because I might get it. It's over now.

The relationship between Laurel and Hai was fun. But Laurel's father had such high expectations for her.

At least she had Aunt Mae. We never did hear what happened to her and how Hai ended up with the house.

There was something about a bus not being able to go to Chicago at the right time, or maybe she didn't have the money for the right bus, so she took the bus she could take and ended up in Pittsburgh.

I hadn't thought of the possibility William would be arrested for killing Laurel. But the very idea she would do time is ridiculous. She could have gotten help and gotten off. But she wouldn't go to her father.

Marvin Gaye! I'm shocked!

So now Randall has a vacation home In New Orleans. And a new responsibility.

I don't guess he would try to find out if he has an inheritance.

Now we've seen all of Randall and all of Jack from the back. When do we get to see Rebecca?

I just had to stay around to see the credits and now I know we have something new to worry about in the present, and this time I haven't seen how it ends.

[AntiArbitrator]

It was reported that the delay in airing episodes is because of COVID related issues. The report was vague and did not give a clue about the exact issue.

[KyleEl]

It's back!

I was pretty sure it wasn't really Kevin who wrecked but they sure did scare us.

The people making the movie sure don't seem fair. What exactly has to happen for you to get excused from a production?

Also, how can Kevin possibly get on a flight as quickly as he thought he would under normal circumstances? But now we don't know how he'll solve his problem with not having a license.

It's always nice to see Jack and Kevin together, even if Kevin is nervous. I was pleased Jack confronted the coach.

And Jack and his father wasn't exactly nice, but it ended up being that way.

It looks like it's Kate's turn next week. Last time it was a Randall episode, and then a Kevin episode.

Even if he was driving, it sure was nice that Randall showed such concern to Madison.

[AntiArbitrator]

S5E7 "There" - When we saw the previews, I did think Kevin was involved in a collision. Every time his car swerved, I was waiting for him to crash. That is similar to how I thought angry Jack was going to die from a car crash. They got me again, but I am not mad.

In spite of detesting all childbirth drama, I enjoyed the episode. Randall and Beth were very considerate and helpful.

I also enjoy Jack and Kevin scenes. I remembered how willing to fight Jack was and thought he might hit the coach. I am glad he did not go that route, only because Kevin would have been kicked off the team. My boys played organized sports starting as pre-teens. The coaches cursed the boys out on a regular basis during practice. They were able to do that because parents were not permitted to attend closed practices.

Jack's father remained a jerk his entire life. One compliment does not make up for it.

[KyleEl]

Rick on "Kenan" bet that Rebecca would have schizophrenia and Randall would adopt Kevin's babies. He doesn't seem the type to enjoy that show but if he has money on it, I guess that helps.

That was quite an episode and it didn't even leave us with a cliffhanger or any new tragedies.

We don't know how Kevin got there but he got there. Seattle's TSA head gets on the Christmas card list. No word on whether this is because he was The Manny.

Randall reminded me once again why after seeing him and William in the awards show clips I wanted to watch this show. That was amazing and he told the funniest story about Kevin.

So we saw Kevin get hurt and everything changed for him. But Jack was right about his having other talents.

It was nice seeing the family do the hand prints. I knew Rebecca was looking at those but had no idea what they were. Miguel once again feels inadequate because he's not Jack.

Toby eventually had a nice conversation with the man in the parking lot.

I was so worried Kate wasn't going to be able to take this baby home.

Weird introducing new characters like that, but they finally got credit (or he did) for making this episode possible.

[AntiArbitrator]

When the episode started with strangers, I wondered if they were somehow related to the Pearsons. It was a nice tribute to Nasir for his contributions.

Toby is so nice and showed patience and understanding to the man who was very rude to him. Their conversation led to Toby choosing "Rose" as the middle name for the baby. The pig might have brought them luck in being able to keep the baby.

Randall was awesome when he entertained Madison while waiting for Kevin. I actually cheered when Kevin walked into Madison's room. I did not think he would make it before the delivery. Naming one of the babies "Nick" was nice.

Jack loved his children and I could tell he was unhappy with Rebecca's comments. When she realized Jack was upset, she did her best to make up for it. I was glad Rebecca acknowledged that Jack's death was also a loss for Miguel.

[AntiArbitrator]

The Ride

SEASON 5, EPISODE 9 • NEW
2/23/21, 9:00 PM ON WBALDT 11 • TV-14 • STEREO • CC • DVS

A series of car rides propels the Pearsons toward new stages of their lives.

[AntiArbitrator]

I liked seeing Rebecca and Jack struggle with being parents to three crying babies. It was stressful and they were both trying to present a calm face. I understood Jack needing a drink to calm his nerves after encountering the reckless driver. I was surprised he told Rebecca, but I enjoyed the story he told her about his father's effect on the family.

It is not Kate's fault, but I just cannot enjoy the drama she is involved with. Toby is more understanding of the birth parent's dilemma than Kate.

Kevin has become a real sweetheart. His marriage proposal was sweet and charming. Justin Hartley fans were disappointed in his character in the first season, but he is wonderful now. The scene where Kevin received advice from Jack made me feel warm and fuzzy. They did a good job with Jack's facial hair. It looked natural.

Sooooo Deja is becoming a doctor and she is pregnant.

[KyleEl]

I liked seeing Rebecca and Jack struggle with three babies too. Because we know they'll be all right.

I actually found a drama involving Kate more entertaining than you did. We were supposed to have had the fear the birth mother would change her mind. It turned out okay.

I liked seeing Jack give Kevin advice too.

And I like how Kevin and Madison are actually trying to make the relationship work.

I'm not sure how I feel about the future but there's some big mystery there.

[KyleEl]

It's always unpleasant when Beth's mother is around but things sort of got better, then worse, then better.

Toby can't accept help from Kevin. And now he really needs it. And Kevin can provide it.

[AntiArbitrator]

I really enjoyed the episode. I felt sorry for Jack when he was put in an awkward situation and had to pay the bill. That was unfair. I like Jack being truthful with his wife about embarrassing events. They are my favorite TV couple.

Kevin was so happy and wanted to make plans for the family/s to be together. Toby’s pride was too damaged to appreciate Kevin’s offer. I liked the way Kevin showed humility when he said he did not want to lose another brother.

Randall was smart to stay out of the family drama. I did not mind it so much because Beth was honest about her feelings and stood up to her mother. Poor Randall - he is stuck with the mother-in-law for awhile.

Deja’s openness with Randall was unexpected and showed maturity. That was a nice scene.

[AntiArbitrator]

One Small Step...

SEASON 5, EPISODE 11 • NEW
9:00 PM ON WBALDT 11 • TV-14 • STEREO • CC • DVS

Kevin and Madison get an unexpected guest.

[AntiArbitrator]

Always happy to see Uncle Nicky. Michael Angarano as young Nick Pearson and Griffin Dunne as Nicky Pearson.

It was nice to see he had a girl before the war changed him. I thought he was going to be drafted and that would prevent him from going to California. But he did not want to leave his parents. I do not like that because it seems to be changing the history we learned from Jack. The father was supposed to be a mean drunk and stayed that way after Jack was married.

Kevin's lady is very welcoming when Kevin's family comes to visit. The photo of Jack and Nicky was a very happy memory and I was happy Kevin saw it when he picked up the book.

[KyleEl]

This was a great episode. I never liked Nicky so much. Such a shame what happened to his presents for the babies. And I really liked seeing him talk to the babies.

I also liked seeing Nick with a girl. What a shame it didn't work out.

And I've never enjoyed a scene with Jack's parents and brother more.