User reviews

The first episode introduces the main characters and the situation, and does it well. One of the show's key relationships is that between Mary and Lou, and this episode totally nails it. The Mary and Lou scenes are the funniest and really well done.

Rhoda gets a great introduction but is actually a bit of an antagonist. Phyllis is established as egocentric and tactless. Murray and Ted are really just cameos here.

A great first episode of a sitcom that feels as fresh and most importantly funny as it did back in 1970.

Mary Tyler Moore shines.

I thoroughly enjoyed this first episode. This will be my first go-around for the series and I'm looking forward to diving in headfirst -- this doesn't appear to have aged badly a bit (aside from that guy's eyebrows -- what was the deal with those?).

Mary Tyler Moore died today (1/25/17). This incredible actress anchored one of the best ensemble casts in television history. In this opening episode, we are introduced to Lou Grant (Ed Asner), Rhoda Morgenstern (Valerie Harper), Ted Baxter (Ted Knight), Murray Slaughter (Gavin McCloud) and a place that would be like a home to her. There was some controversy about this show in 1970. A young attractive woman who gets a job at a male dominated station, WJM in Minneapolis, being a role model for young women everywhere. I don't know if there is another actress that could have pulled off this role with so much class. The first episode is about relationships developing. It never went downhill after that.

If you re-watch classic TV comedy shows, you often notice that the first few episodes are a bit awkward. Characters are in flux and the writers and cast don't quite seem sure what to do. This is NOT a complaint about the shows...just an observation. Try watching "Cheers" for example...the first few shows are quite awkward and the show is trying to find its way. However, this is NOT the case with "The Mary Tyler Moore Show"...it manages to come out swinging...hitting all the right marks and introducing the characters very well.

The show begins with Mary Richards arriving in Minneapolis, as apparently she wants a major change in her life. After all, her long-time boyfriend is afraid of commitment and she needs to make some changes. The episode manages to introduce Rhoda, show Mary getting a job and, finally, breaking it off with her putz of a boyfriend.

All in all, a great and memorable episode...and one of the best ones of season one. A must-see.

By the way, the only big change between this episode and later ones is Lou. Based on how he acts in this premier episode, he sure appears to be an alcoholic...which was definitely toned down a lot in subsequent episodes.