recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Stocks & Options

"**Stocks & Options**" is the tenth episode of the third season, and fifty-sixth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson.*

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on January 22nd, 1982.

## Synopsis

Pete persuades Benson to accept a share of stock from Orbo Flight as a return for $100 he borrowed. Trouble ensues however, when Clayton and Kraus overhear, and misunderstand, the potential wealth of the shares.

Meanwhile, Benson isn't too keen on Senator Chapman's new costly proposal, but opposing it could create a potential threat to an important bill from the Governor, so he decides to take matters into his own hands; despite Gatling's orders.

## Cultural References

* Benson states that Sen. Chapman should be in Doonesbury, a weekly satirical political comic strip.
* Denise mentions the novel, *The Catcher in the Rye*.

## Quotes

* **Pete:** Benson, we're talking *Orbo Flight University Products*. We're talking high technology. We're talking innovation, ingenuity, the future!
* **Benson:** What do these people make?
* **Pete:** Rubber balls.

* **Clayton:** Benson, I'm sure that you realize that because of my background and vast experience, I could be of considerable value to you in the market.
* **Benson:** Great. Next time you're out pick up a loaf of bread, a quart of milk, and a couple of nice lamb chops.
* **Clayton:** I understand completely, sometimes it is infinitely wiser that certain conversations never take place.
* **Benson:** This is one of them.
Big Buddy

**"Big Buddy"** is the eleventh episode of the second season, and thirty-fifth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on February 6th, 1981.

## Synopsis

Pete and The Governor start a 'Charity Begins at Home', involving the staff members in charity work, and Benson ends up in a "Big Buddy" program; becoming a guardian of a troubled nine year old boy, Mike Hopkins (played by Shavar Ross).

## Trivia

* Mike's father was played by Wendell Wright, who, not only appeared in the episode, "The President's Double", but also made an appearance in the parent show, *Soap.*
* The chauffer, Dominic, was played by Paul Regina, who would later star in the groundbreaking Showtime sitcom, *Brothers* and made a recurring appearance on *L.A Law.* Regina would also make appearances on fellow *Witt/Thomas* sitcoms, *Empty Nest* and *Herman's Head.*

## Cultural References

* Benson refers to Mike as 'Mighty Mouth', a play on words of the iconic 50's cartoon character, *Mighty Mouse.*
* Kraus states that the old men at the retiring home didn't like the swiss literature novel, *Heidi*.
* The record Mike steals is titled '*Disco Chicken*'. This is a parody of the 1976 number one novelty hit, '*Disco Duck'* by Radio Personality and Comedian, Rick Dees. The Governor would also sing the tune of *'Disco Duck'* with duck replaced with chicken.

## Quotes

* **Benson:** Now let's see I had those tickets when I was on the phone, now where could they be?
* **Mike:** Maybe you left them with your brains. If you did, you better look in a small place.
* **Benson:** How would you like to be slam dunked into the sink?

* **Clayton:** Personally, I always hated being dragged to the zoo when I was a child. I particularly dreaded the monkey house. The stench would make a spy talk.

* **Mike:** Who you trying to con, Benson? You don't want to go.
* **Benson:** Yes I do, Mike. I especially want you to see the bears.
* **Mike:** Why
* **Benson:** Because you'll get a kick out of the way the cubs crawl all over the father bear. They bite him and scratch him and he just lies there and takes it until he's had enough, and then he takes that big paw and swats one of them into the parking lot.
* **Katie:** I think there's a message in there somewhere.
Katie's Cousin

**"Katie's Cousin"** is the twenty-second episode of the sixth season, and one hundred and thirty-fourth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on March 22nd, 1985.

## Synopsis

Katie's scheming cousin, Laura (played by Tracey Gold), takes Katie to a bar without her father's permission, but things become complicated when Benson and Clayton spot the two out.

## Trivia

* Laura was played by Tracey Gold, Missy Gold's (Katie) real life sister, who's best known for portraying Carol Seaver on the sitcom, *Growing Pains,* 6 months following the airing of this episode.
	+ Additionally, Tracey Gold originally auditioned for the part of Katie Gatling for the series, but lost the part over her sister.
* Kraus makes a callback to the Season 4 episode, "Pen Pal", when she states that she once was a pen pal with a prisoner.
* The name of the bar the girls go to is called "Brandy's". Brandy is the name of the real-life younger sister of Missy and Tracey Gold.

## Cultural References

* Benson refers to Clayton as the Looney Tunes character, Daffy Duck.
* Benson says that Laura has a severe case of "chicken-itis" when she's afraid to confront the Governor. Benson follows up by stating that you won't see "chicken-itis" on *St. Elsewhere*, the medical drama series.
* Benson states "You and Cyndi Lauper?", when Laura states that she was just trying to have fun after getting caught. This is in reference to one of the pop singer's signature hits, *"Girls Just Wanna Have Fun",* which reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 a year prior to the episode's airing.

## Quotes

* **Benson:** We are seeking a reasonable solution to this problem.
* **Kraus:** I am being reasonable, Benson. My mind is open.
* **Benson:** Yeah, and your brain fell out.

* **Clayton:** Give me one good reason you and I can't be buddies.
* **Benson:** I don't care much for you.

* **Benson:** Is there another way out of here?
* **Clayton:** How would I know? I didn't design the building.

* **Governor:** Why didn't you tell me, Benson?
* **Benson:** Well, I felt it was a family matter, sir, and I wanted to stay out of it.
* **Governor:** I thought you were my friend.
* **Benson:** I am your friend, sir, but I am not a member of your family. Friends remain friends by staying out of family matters.

* **Katie:** Does life get easier when you get older?
* **Benson:** No. More expensive.
Beverly Todd

**Beverly Todd** (born July 11, 1946) is an American actress, producer and writer. She is known for her roles in films *Brother John* (1971), *Moving* (1988), *Lean on Me* (1989) and *The Bucket List* (2007)

She guest starred on the ABC sitcom, *Benson* as Senator Wade on the Season 1 episode , "Benson In Love" and as Casey Turner on the Season 2 episode, "Benson's Groupie".

## Life and career

Todd was born in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Virena Todd. She began her acting career in the Off-Broadway production of *Deep Are the Roots*, and later performed in the London productions of *No Strings* and *Blues for Mr. Charlie*.[3]

Todd played main role in the Broadway comedy play *Carry Me Back to Morningside Heights* directed by Sidney Poitier.[3] She later appeared opposite Poitier, who was her mentor early in her career, in films such as *The Lost Man* (1969), *They Call Me Mister Tibbs!* (1970), *Brother John* (1971). and *A Piece of the Action* (1977). On television, she was regular cast member on the daytime soap opera, *Love of Life*, from 1968 to 1970, and in 1977 the educational show *The Write Channel* on PBS. Todd was nominated an NAACP Image Award for her performance in the critically acclaimed PBS production of *Six Characters in Search of an Author* (1976).[3] She received her second NAACP Image Award nomination for her role in the ABC miniseries, *Roots*.[3]

Todd had the female leading roles in films *Moving* (1988) opposite Richard Pryor, and *Lean on Me* (1989) with Morgan Freeman. She was married to film producer-director Kris Keiser. Their son, Malik Smith, died on March 20, 1989 at age 18 after being severely beaten at a teen youth center (no alcohol served or allowed) while on spring break.[4][5] She did not appear regularly on the screen during the 1990s, and returned to acting in 2002, with a recurring role in the HBO series, *Six Feet Under*. In 2004, she appeared as Don Cheadle's character's mother in the critically acclaimed film, *Crash*.[6] In 2007, she reunited with Morgan Freeman (who co-starred with her in *Lean On Me*), in the comedy-drama film, *The Bucket List*.[6] Todd also had supporting roles in the independent films *The Lena Baker Story* (2008) and *I Will Follow* (2011). On television, in earlier years Todd appeared in Barnaby Jones; episode titled, “The Bounty Hunter”(12/16/1976). Todd also guest starred on *House*, *The Closer* and *Grey's Anatomy*, and, in 2012, had the recurring role in the NBC daytime soap opera, *Days of Our Lives* as Celeste Perrault, the mother of Lexie Carver (Renée Jones).

## External links

* Beverly Todd at IMDb
* Beverly Todd at Wikipedia
We Spy

**"We Spy"** is the fifth episode of the seventh season, and one hundred and forty-first episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on November 8th, 1985.

## Synopsis

Benson and Kraus get accused being spies while away in East Berlin on official business.

## Trivia

* The episode writer, Jurgen Wolff, was actually born in Berlin, Germany, and wrote for various other sitcoms in the 80's. He also was a script supervisor on an episode of *Bob the Builder* in 2001.
* The tag scene is removed from syndication edits.

## Cultural References

* The episode itself is based around the Berlin Wall, which in itself, would famously come down on November 9th, 1989, ironically 4 years and a day following the airing of this episode.
* It is frequently mentioned that the slide projector is from the electronics store, *RadioShack*.
* Benson refers to Kraus as the Sesame Street character, Big Bird.
* Checkpoint Charlie is mentioned.

## Quotes

* **Kraus:** Well, I hope you don't walk in your sleep. I don't wanna wake up in the middle of the night with a man in my bed.
* **Benson:** You lie, Kraus.

* **Max:** As a punishment, I once spent two and a half years in the Canine Corps. You ever sleep with a Doberman?
* **Benson:** Not me. Kraus?

* **Benson:** While Max is in clown school, I found him a job where he can harass and insult people 'til his heart's content.
* **Kraus:** What job?
* **Benson:** He's a clerk at the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Love and Politics

**"Love and Politics"** is the second episode of the seventh season, and one hundred and thirty-eighth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on October 11th, 1985.

## Synopsis

Benson and state senator, Hartford, revisit a previous romance, but Clayton's new *Endicott Commercial Act* bill mixes feelings; complicating matters.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the first appearance of Donna LaBrie as Senator Hartford
* It's revealed that Katie had become a page at the state capitol.
* The tag scene with Benson talking to Senator Hartford on the phone is oddly left in syndication edits, unlike most episode's of the series, specifically the seventh season; marking the only episode of Season 7, besides the two part "Flight of the Dodo", to feature a syndicated tag scene.

## Cultural References

* Benson refers to Clayton as American Baseball fielder and manager, Casey Stengel when he states that he's "up at bat."
* Clayton sarcastically states that his bill won't "burn Bambi out of the forest".
* When Benson and Sen. Hartford are waiting in line, a "very famous rock group" takes their spot in line. The group itself, is a direct reference to popular rock group attire at the time period, baring a striking resemblance to *Prince and the Revolution*.
* The Governor states "Jiminy Crickets" as an expression; a character from *Pinocchio.*

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** Benson, do you have my copy of the *Endicott Commercial Development Act*?
* **Benson:** I don't know. Kraus, do I have that?
* **Kraus:** Ja.
* **Clayton:** Ja? Well, where is it?
* **Kraus:** So, now you are talking to me, eh? Find it yourself, Bird Beak.

* **Senator Hartford:** Is that you that smells so good?
* **Benson:** No, they shampooed the rug.

* **Kraus:** Let's just say, politics makes strange bed fellows.
* **Governor:** Ha-ha. Oh! Benson! Well, I'm really surprised! I didn't expect you to go this far for the administration!
The Stranger

**"The Stranger"** is the fourth episode of the seventh season, and one hundred and fortieth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on October 25th, 1985.

## Synopsis

A stranger, Mr. G. Reaper (played by William Marshall), causes havoc and mystery at the Governor's Mansion on a stormy Halloween night.

## Trivia

* This the only Halloween based episode of the series.
* G. Reaper was played by William Marshall, who was best known for portraying Blacula in the 1970's blaxploitation film series, *Blacula*.
* The episode marks the first appearance of Tom Biener as Sergeant Leary.
* Kraus mentions the guard dogs for the first time since the first Season of the series.

## Cultural References

* The episode takes place on the Holiday of Halloween.
* Benson mentions the Houston Astrodome.
* Katie trivias G. Reaper on Jerry Garcia and the rock band, The Grateful Dead.
* During the G. Reaper's and Benson's game of trivia they mention the following; Death Valley, Little Richard's "Tutti Frutti", The Dead Sea, Muhammad Ali Vs. Sonny Liston, Charles Bronson and the *Death Wish* film series, and Arnold Ziffel the pig from *Green Acres*.
	+ Benson, when trying to remember the pig's name, eliminates the choices of *Mr. Ed*, *Flipper,* and *"The Fonz" Fonzie* from *Happy Days*.

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** Sir, I don't think it's wise to let that weirdo in your office. The man dresses like the proprietor of a torture chamber.

* **Clayton:** Superstitions and myth. Why do people make up all these conjectures about death?
* **Benson:** Because we don't know the whole story. So far no one's sent us a post card from the other side.
Connie Merriweather

**Connie Merriweather** is the host of the talk show *Coffee With Connie* on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## About Connie

Connie is the host of her own morning talk show, *Coffee With Connie,* and is the wife to hockey player, Jacques Merriweather.

She notably had state budget director, Benson DuBois, as a guest on the show when he won the state lottery. DuBois would make a tongue in cheek statement, stating that he would give the money away if he won.

## Quotes

* "I can't help it. My life's an open book!"
* "Get a pencil girls, this is important information!"
Hi, Society

**"Hi, Society"** is the nineteenth episode of the seventh season, and one hundred and fifty-fifth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Gary Brown, the episode originally aired on March 22nd, 1986.

## Synopsis

A conservation expert agrees to help Benson and the Governor pass an important bill, but when Kraus hears of the strategy, she leaks it to a friend, who turns out to be a gossip columnist.

## Trivia

* Kraus' Pin Blaster's Bowling Team is mentioned.
	+ It also marks the final mention in the series.

## Cultural References

* Kraus states that she feels like Cinderella due to her social climbing.
* Mrs. Cassidy sarcastically states that her reward wasn't a Ferrari when she picks up the small box.
* The Governor states that one of the staff members is a Judas after the information leaks. Judas was one of the Twelve Apostles who's notorious for betraying Jesus by disclosing Jesus' whereabouts for 30 pieces of silver.
* Kraus states that she is the Benedict Arnold when she realizes she was the leak.

## Quotes

* **Governor:** Mrs. Cassidy, what were you doing in the bathroom?
* **Mrs. Cassidy:** Putting those little blue crystals in the water. You don't think an elf does it do you?
* **Governor:** Mrs. Cassidy, I hope you understand that what you over heard was strictly confidential.
* **Mrs. Cassidy:** Don't sweat it, chief. I don't tell tales out of school.
* **Governor:** Oh, well, she won't tell anybody.
* **Benson:** You have on flowered underwear.
* **Governor:** How do you know that?
* **Benson:** I rest my case.

* **Mrs. Cassidy:** 35 years and 8 administrations has all been worth it to look at this--What the hell is this thing anyway?
* **Benson:** Why, it's a stick pin, Rose.
* **Mrs. Cassidy:** A stick pin? 35 years of cleaning up after a bunch of sloppy politicians and that's what I get?

* **Governor:** I know it's Clayton. That man has no self-control, he's such a blabbermouth. He is a self-serving, sneaky little twerp.

* **Clayton:** If heads are gonna roll, they aren't gonna be my heads. I mean head.
* **Benson:** Your head can't roll. It's too flat.
* **Clayton:** Oh, yeah?
* **Benson:** No, trust me on this. Your head can't roll. Your nose alone would be enough stop it.

* **Mrs. Cassidy:** One day that prune face is gonna go too far. Then I'm gonna punch out his pit!

* **Kraus:** I thought I was your most trusted employee.
* **Benson:** You didn't hear that from me.

* **Kraus:** I got taken. I got suckered. I went to the tree of friendship and picked a lemon.
Season 2 (1980 - 1981)

**Season 2** of the ABC sitcom, *Benson,* serves as an introduction to the main characters Clayton Endicott, and Pete Downey, and the recurring characters, Captain McDermott, Mike Hopkins, and Frankie.

The season premiered on October 31st, 1980, on ABC and was directed by John Rich.

## About Season 2

Season 2 revolves around the continuation of Benson's term as head of household affairs at the Governor's Mansion. The season takes place during the continuation of Governor Gatling's first term in office and brings an introduction to the new chief of staff, Clayton Endicott, and the executive press secretary, Pete Downey. Previously established characters, Marcy Hill and Gretchen Kraus, would both return, with the former getting married, and the latter earning her U.S citizenship.

This season would be the last season where Marcy appears in most of the episodes and also serves as the first season without John Taylor. The season would also mark the start of Bob Fraser and Rob Dames as showrunners of the series.

Season 2 would be the final time *Benson* would run alongside its parent series, *Soap,* as the latter would be canceled in 1981.

## Accolades

Missy Gold would be nominated for a Young Artist Award for this season.

## Home Media

The second season was released on DVD by Sony on April 3, 2012 through online delivery. The DVD features the first two episodes of Season 3 as two bonus episodes.

This was also the last season to be released on DVD.

The season is available on multiple streaming services such as Crackle, Youtube, Roku, and others.
Stress

Rob Dames

**"Stress"** is the sixth episode of the third season, and fifty-second episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on December 18th, 1981.

## Synopsis

After a day where the staff is on edge, quicker tempered than usual, The Governor holds an encounter session to help everyone talk their problems out.

## Trivia

* Clips from this episode are notably featured in VH1's special, *ILovethe80's Strikes Back: 1981.*
* This episode features the first major writing credit for Michael J. Weithorn. Michael would go on to co-create the long running CBS sitcom, *King of Queens* in 1998.

## Quotes

* **Governor:** Everyone here is equal.
* **Benson:** I don't wanna be equal, I wanna be free.

* **Denise:** We'd always talk about boys. Well, the other girls did, I'd mostly listen. I heard a lot of things I still haven't figured out.
* **Pete:** Like what, maybe I can explain it.
* **Clayton:** Oh this should be fascinating! Minnie goes to Goofy for advice.
Parade Rest

**"Parade Rest"** is the thirteenth episode of the seventh season, and one hundred and forty-ninth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom. *Benson*.

Directed by Rob Dames, the episode originally aired on February 1st, 1986.

## Synopsis

When a hired veteran, Randy McGee (played by Lionel Mark Smith), disappears from the job, Benson attempts to find the roots of his desolation.

## Trivia

* Randy McGee was played by Lionel Smith, who was actually a veteran in real life.
* Kraus mentions her manicurist, Rowena Gorne, for the first time since the Season 5 episode, "Katie's Cookies".
* Bo was played by Ernie Sabella, who's likely best known for his voice acting role as Pumbaa the Warthog, Timon's best friend from The Lion King. Robert Guillaume himself also took on a role in the Lion King universe as Rafiki.
* The tag scene, which appears to be half removed on official streaming edits, is completely removed on syndication edits.

## Cultural References

* The veterans at the West Side Veteran's Support Group state that Randy never opened up much and would often sit quietly while drinking Kool-Aid.
* Clayton mentions the, then, current President, Ronald Reagan.

## Quotes

* **Randy:** Gretchen, did anyone ever tell you that you should be in a beauty contest?
* **Kraus:** \*laughs\* Oh, you silly Randy, you!
* **Randy:** Oh, Benson agrees.
* **Benson:** No I don't, either.
* **Randy:** Oh, come on. She could be Miss Capital City.
* **Benson:** Miss Capital Punishment.

* **Clayton:** That is not the way to handle these people. Let me do this. You've got to be more aggressive with these people. You've got to remember they're public servants, and treat them like servants. \*on phone\* Hello. Yes I'd like to speak to someone about discontinued benefits. Yes, tell them Ronald Reagan is calling.
* **Governor:** Clayton, you can't impersonate the President!
* **Clayton:** \*off phone\* I didn't say, "President Ronald Reagan."
* **Governor:** Well, you implied it.
* **Clayton:** Well, if that's what they heard, and we get snappier service because of it, no one is going to be upset.
* **Governor:** They think it's the President.
* **Clayton:** Well, then they're stupid.

* **Mr. Miller:** Well, Mr. DuBois, it's just one mistake.
* **Benson:** Well, perhaps that's because we only looked into one case.

* **Randy:** Don't you think I've tried to let go of the past?
* **Benson:** No, I don't. Look at this place. You've made a monument out of your own misery.
The Little Hotel That Could

**"The Little Hotel That Could"** is the twenty-first episode of the fifth season, and one hundred and eleventh episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Katherine Helmond, the episode originally aired on March 9th, 1984.

## Synopsis

Kraus talks Benson into saving a historic hotel, the Fenley Residence, from destruction.

Meanwhile, Benson has to deal with a budget crisis.

## Trivia

* Eddie was played by Robert Symonds, who previously played Mountain Man in the Season 3 episode, "The Lumber Mill".
* Buchanan was played by William Bogert, who previously played the minister in the Season 2 episode, "Marcy's Wedding".
* The bulldozer driver was played by Ken Foree. His best known role was likely as Roger Rockmore, Kenan's father on the 90's Nickelodeon sitcom, *Kenan & Kel*.

## Cultural References

* Eddie mentions that Teddy Roosevelt cut the ribbons to the Fenley Hotel.
* Clayton refers to Katie as activist, Ralph Nader.
* Pete states 18% of his surveyors cussed him out because he called in the middle of *Dynasty,* the fellow ABC primetime soap opera.

## Quotes

* **Pete:** Uh, not to put any pressure on you, but uh..it's really going to break little Petey's heart when he finds out Uncle Benson can't get daddy a paycheck.
* **Benson:** Pete, the kid is only six months old. He'll get over it.

* **Benson:** Kraus, give me the jacket! I want it, and I want it now. Give it to me.
* **Kraus:** Can't you just wait for a minute?
* **Benson:** No! Now! Now, Kraus!
* **Eddie:** Do you two want a room for the night?

* **Governor:** Oh, hi, honey. Are we interrupting a meeting?
* **Katie:** Oh, I was just trying to get Benson to sign this petition.
* **Governor:** Oh, well I'm glad you're taking an interest in social issues.
* **Clayton:** \*chuckles\* Is that cute! We've got our own little Ralph Nader.
* **Katie:** Clayton, if I were Ralph Nader, I'd have you recalled.

* **Pete:** Well, I got the latest poll. We're not too popular with John Q. Public.
* **Governor:** Yeah, let's not panic. It's only one person.

* **Denise:** Benson, could you hide this for me? I don't want Pete to find it.
* **Benson:** Are things getting that bad at home you have to hide food?
* **Denise:** Oh, no, no. It's a fake lettuce. You see, it's where I hide the household money so Pete can't get his hands on it.
* **Benson:** You're hiding money from Pete in food?
* **Denise:** Well, it's safe. He usually doesn't eat lettuce, but he's starting to get desperate.
* **Benson:** Sure I'll hide it for you.
* **Denise:** Thanks, Benson. \*walks out\*
* **Benson:** Imagine that. Fake lettuce to hide money in. Lord have mercy. What are white folks going to think of next?

* **Benson:** Let me tell you about the hotel. It's got quite a history.
* **Buchanan:** I don't care. I'm not in the museum business.
* **Kraus:** That's because being in the dummkopf business takes up all your time.

* **Benson:** Wait a minute, Kraus, I have one question. How come you own a pair of handcuffs?
* **Kraus:** You wouldn't want to know. \*walks out\*
* **Benson:** She's right.
Sergeant Leary

**Sergeant Leary** (played by Tom Biener) is a security officer at the Governor's Mansion on Season 7 of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## About Leary

Leary is a security officer at the Governor's Mansion. He is a married man to an unnamed woman.

## Quotes

* "I told the wife this morning, I said "Honey, just watch, today's the day I'm gonna need that gun."
Cerebrum

Female (left) and Male (right)

> When doom came upon them, they took it and twisted it into something else. Their fate became their faith, embracing what was to doom them, instead making it a strength. You almost can't blame them for their ambitions.
>
> Ghost

**Voidhani**, or as they are known by humans, Voidwalkers, Brains or Cerebrum, were the leadership of the Conglomerate. They were the most powerful of all the known species in using their psionics, outmatching even the Elders. They were manipulated into starting a war with The Interplanetary Coalition by the Elders, in a bid to see if either faction would prove worthy to fight He Who Hungers.
Benson's Appointment

**"Benson's Appointment"** is the first episode of the third season, and forty-seventh episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by John Rich, the episode originally aired on November 6th, 1981.

## Synopsis

When the state budget director unexpectedly dies, The Governor sticks his neck out to appoint Benson DuBois to the job, but a State Senator, Senator Chapman (played by Dana Elcar), is determined to block the confirmation.

Meanwhile, Marcy is determined to become Benson's secretary if he wins the nomination, but is abruptly faced with a sudden change in plans.

## Trivia

* This episode marks the revealing of Benson's last name, DuBois.
* The episode marks the first, and only, appearance of Senator Chapman; though Chapman is mentioned numerous times throughout the series.

## Cultural References

* Benson mentions the Detroit automotive division, Buick.
* Governor Gatling mentions that an astronaut and a basketball player are serving in the U.S. Senate. He's referring to John Glenn and Bill Bradley. Glenn was the third American in space and the first American to orbit the Earth. He served in the Senate from 1974 to 1999, representing the state of Ohio. Bradley played for the New York Knicks from 1967 to 1977. He served in the Senate from 1979 to 1997, representing the state of New Jersey.

## Quotes

* **Kraus:** Why would Clayton want to go to a job where everybody's gonna hate him?
* **Benson:** Beats me. He's got that right here.

* **Katie:** I got a D in History. What should I do?
* **Benson:** Leave town.

* **Benson:** What is this?
* **Pete:** What is what?
* **Benson:** I never attended Harvard University.
* **Pete:** Sure you did! Remember when they honored The Governor? You were there.
* **Benson:** I was also in Detroit, that doesn't make me a Buick.

* **Governor:** But you've studied business management. You're taking courses towards a degree in Economics.
* **Benson:** Yeah, but suppose I didn't do a good job, and it'd make you look bad. And frankly sir, you don't always look that good to begin with.

* **Senator Chapman:** I wanna know why you rejected my candidate for the job?
* **Governor:** Representative Harris?
* **Chapman:** The perfect choice! Since he's been in the House of Representatives, he has made hundreds of decisions; none of which I've disagreed with.
* **Governor:** Well, Benson has made hundreds of decisions; some of which I have disagreed with, but then Benson has a mind of his own.
* **Chapman:** Are you implying that Representative Harris is my yes man?
* **Governor:** No, I'm not implying anything Senator, I'm stating it loud and clear.

* **Benson:** Senator, I know why you brought up my arrest. So in the public mind there will always be some connection between me and armed robbery. Well the damage has been done and you're not in the least bit sorry. But I am. I'm sorry that all the voters that put you in office weren't in this hearing room today, because if they were you would be out on your duff tomorrow!

## External Links

* https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0521511/?ref\_=ttep\_ep1
Family Tree

**"Family Tree"** is the seventeenth episode of the fourth season, and eighty-fifth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

Directed by Bill Foster, the episode originally aired on February 18th, 1983.

## Synopsis

When Benson finds out he may be eligible for an inheritance, he discovers that he shares a common ancestry with his co-worker, Clayton Endicott; reigniting a centuries-old feud between the DuBois's and Endicotts over the endowment's rightful ownership.

## Trivia

* Its revealed that Benson and Clayton are distant cousins in this episode.

## Cultural References

* When Benson says he agrees to a 'battle of wits', he looks to Professor Petrie and says, "What we used to call 'Playing the Dozens'. This is in reference to the African American game of spoken words where participants insult one another until one gives up; similar to a roast session.

## Quotes

* **Clayton:** Benson, this is ridiculous! How could you and I possibly be related?
* **Benson:** Clayton, I'm surprised I have to explain this to you. Birds do it, Bees do it-
* **Clayton:** Yes, yes, yes, I know.
* **Benson:** And apparently, Prince Morris Claude did it.

* **Clayton:** Benson, don't you realize the problems this creates?
* **Benson:** Yeah, bro.

* **Professor Roger Petrie:** Excuse me, but uh, dueling is illegal in this country.
* **Clayton:** Yeah, so is double parking, but people still do it.

* **Katie:** I don't believe I got up early for this.
* **Denise:** Oh, I think dueling is kind of romantic.
* **Katie:** Yeah, about as romantic as a food fight.

* **Clayton:** Benson, if brains were dynamite, you wouldn't have enough to blow your nose.
* **Benson:** Clayton, your brain is so small that you could put it in a Barbie doll's navel and still have room left over for three Raisinets and a list of your important accomplishments.

* **Governor:** Third topic; noses!
* **Benson:** Uh Clayton, if you wanna forgo this round I can understand, I know how sensitive your nose is to you.
* **Clayton:** On the contrary Benson, the Endictott family is quite proud of this nose.
* **Benson:** Oh really? The whole family? What do you do, pass it around or stand under it for shade? If It were my nose I'd have it converted to a condominium.
Gatling Lumber Mill

Gene Gatling

Olivia Barnett-Gatling

Katie Gatling

**The Gatling Lumber Mill**, sometimes referred to as just 'The Lumber Mill' is an industrial lumber facility ran by the Gatling family on the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

The mill was the home of Gene Gatling and Katie Gatling prior to their temporary move into the Governor's Mansion.

## About The Lumber Mill

The lumber mill features multiple cabins. One of which, serves as home for the Gatling family. The industrial site was ran by Gibson Gatling before it was eventually passed down to his son, Gene Gatling.

While running the mill, Gene would reside at the cabin with his wife, Olivia, where the two would raise their daughter.

When Gene was elected governor, he passed down the mill to his cousin, Ralph, while he served in office away from home.

### Surrounding Neighborhood

The surrounding neighborhood features an FDR Drug store, and a number of education facilities such as Crandle High School and Breckenridge Boarding School.

## Appearances

* "The Lumber Mill"
* "Boys' Night Out"

## Trivia

* The Mill is referred to as a paper mill in early episodes of the series.
* The episode "Snowbound" takes place at the Governor's Uncle's cabin. It's unknown however, if the cabin is connected to the Lumber Mill.
Season 3 (1981 - 1982)

**Season 3** of the ABC sitcom, *Benson,* serves an introduction to the main character Denise Stevens, and the recurring characters, Ned Harper and the Hornets.

The season premiered on November 6, 1981 on ABC and was directed by John Rich.

## About Season 3

Season 3 of the series would mark the beginning of Benson's term as state budget director and took place during the continuation of Governor Gatling's first term in office. The season would revolve around the conflict between Benson and the state's budget; often following the troubles on how to manage the funds in a moral manner.

In the beginning of the season, executive secretary, Marcy Hill, would resign from her position at the Governor's Mansion; moving to New York in the third episode. Benson would hire Denise Stevens, who would become a love interest for Pete Downey, as his secretarial replacement. Gretchen Kraus, would also take on the role of head of household affairs, whilst maintaining her position as head housekeeper at the mansion.

By the end of the season, Governor Gatling's term would come to an end and he would run for re-election; winning the race after a troublesome campaign and returning to the mansion for a second term.

### Notes

* This was the first season to run after the cancellation of the parent show, *Soap* and was the last season directed by John Rich.

* The season also marks a notable tone shift in the series.

## Accolades

Robert Guillaume and Inga Swenson would both each be nominated for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series and Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy or Variety or Music Series at the 1982 Primetime Emmy Awards.

## Home Media

The two first episodes of the season were added as bonus episodes of the Season 2 DVD.

The entire third season has been made available on several streaming services in recent years.
What Are Friends For

**"What Are Friends For"** is a song by Robert Guillaume and Gladys Knight and the Pips for the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

In the episode, "Too Pooped to Pip", the song is performed by Robert, as Benson DuBois, and Gladys Knight and the Pips for the Governor's telethon.

## Background

The song was written by Robert Guillaume's son, Kevin Guillaume for the episode, "Too Pooped to Pip". The song is a slow R&B; Soul ballad featuring front vocals from Robert Guillaume and Gladys Knight with background vocals from the Pips.

The song was never officially released, but was performed by Robert Guillaume at Farm Aid in 1986.

## Lyrics

[Verse 1}

(Gladys Knight)

when you think that no one understands

and living hurts so much, you can't believe it

(Robert Guillaume)

turn around and see my smiling face, waiting to lend a hand just when you need it

[Chorus] (Robert & Gladys)

and when you need a shoulder, I'm standing at your door

in a world that's getting much colder, I'll be your friend and so much more

after all, what are friends for?

[Verse 2]

(Robert)

when you feel you've got no where to turn, and all your dreams are lost in frustration

(Gladys)

you should know that I'm someone who cares enough to pull you through all situations

[Chorus] (Robert & Gladys)

and when you need a shoulder, I'm standing at your door

in a world that's getting much colder, I'll be your friend and so much more

after all, what are friends for?

[Bridge]

(Robert)

and when you think you've had enough and you're crying from the strain,

(Gladys)

take a sip from my friendship cup, it'll help to ease the pain, the pain

[Chorus] (Robert & Gladys)

and when you need a shoulder, I'm standing at your door

in a world that's getting much colder, I'll be your friend and so much more

after all, what are friends for?

## External Links

* https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caR9zF3NxNI
Frank Cooper

**Frank Cooper** (played by Barney Martin) was the neighbor of Benson in Season 4 of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

## About Frank

Frank is the owner of a print shop that provides fancy engraving. He's a married, but separated, man. His wife, Erma Cooper, would leave him during breakfast after asking "is this all there is?" Frank has stated that he hadn't seen her since. Frank was also a peeping tom.

### Relationship

Frank was generally nosey towards his neighbors; being unapologetic to barging in Benson's home, much to Benson's dismay.

## Trivia

* Frank has a stamp collection that he's kept since he was 11 years old.

## Quotes

* "I'm not a doer, I'm a complainer!"
* "Six months later, we're having breakfast, and she says to me, 'Frank, is this all there is?', and then I said yes. I haven't seen her since. I thought she was talking about the toast."
* "I'm not going to stand up in front of some vicious thug and announce to the world I saw him committing a crime. If I wanted to kill myself, I'd just keep my shop open after dark."
* "You take things too seriously. You've got to look for humor in life."
KSMO-TV

**KSMO-TV** is the MyNetworkTV affiliate in Kansas City, broadcasting on RF 32, displaying on VC 62. It is the sister station of KCTV.

## Subchannels

### ATSC 3.0 subchannels

KSMO-TV hosts four ATSC 3.0 main channels for various Kansas City stations, including its own.

## About KSMO

### Callsign history

The station went on air as KEKR-TV on December 7, 1983. In January 1985, the station changed its callsign to KZKC-TV. In June 1986, due to a lawsuit from KCTV over similar sounding callsigns (KZ**KC**-**TV**), the station was forced to drop the -TV suffix and become simply KZKC. In April 1991, the station again changed its callsign, this time to KSMO-TV.

### Affiliation history

Channel 62 started as an independent station. On January 16, 1995 KSMO became the area's first UPN affiliate. In early 1998, KSMO effectively swapped network affiliations with KCWB (now KCWE), bringing The WB to channel 62 and sending UPN to channel 29. In 2006, when The WB and UPN were merged to form The CW, KSMO was left with MyNetworkTV after KCWE took the newly combined network in the area.
DO GEN

## DO\_GEN

The founder and namesake of this index. DO\_GEN (nickname DOGEN) is a fist main who is mostly preoccupied with AFK training, occasionally taking breaks for the purpose of research.

### Background

DO\_GEN, formerly known as SYRYBOY, is a long-time SPTS player. Starting to play in November of 2018, DO\_GEN continued to grind until July of 2019, reaching the Fist Strength leaderboards with about 13 Qa Fist Strength. DO\_GEN became inactive after reaching the leaderboards until November of 2021, when he decided to start training and playing again.
KCKS-LD

**KCKS-LD** and **KMJC-LD** are the two Buzzr affiliates in Kansas City. KCKS-LD broadcasts on RF 19, KMJC-LD broadcasts on RF 22. Both display on VC 25. KCKS-LD and KMJC-LD also share virtual channel space with WROB-LD (which broadcasts on RF 26) in Topeka.

### Subchannel list

#### Former subchannels

RF listings are for KCKS-LD. KMJC-LD (and WROB-LD) share the same x.1 listings.
Lucca

## Ability

 Flying Flames

*Charge Speed:* Slow
*Skill Classification:* Random Target

* Deals a total of 125% damage for 5 hits. Each hit picks a random enemy.
Level 2: Damage +15%
Level 3: Damage +15%
Level 4: Damage +15%
Level 5: Damage +15%

## Story

**I.** After Morre fell, the residents were transformed into demi-humans by an evil spell. Zach turned into a red panda, something he hated, and Lucca's father into a demi-human fox. While traveling he met Lucca's mother, an elf, but the union between a demi-human and an elf resulted in Lucca's painfully slow growth, making her look like a ten-year old girl despite being sixty.

**II.** Unlike Zach or other demi-humans, Lucca didn't want to remove the spell and become human again. From her perspective, having a long life was much more meaningful. It wasn't because she was an adorable fox, because she didn't care about her appearence very much and would have been fine even if she was a bear. However, she used her looks to her advantage to get what she wanted.

**III.** Some people thought Lucca and Alia were almost like twins in certain aspects - for example, they were equally greedy when it came to treasure. Some even suggested that they form a duo to search for treasures together. Lucca vetoed the idea because she didn't want to share and believed Alia was a same way. Precisely because of this, they often argued about splitting their spoils equally. But compared to someone who only knew how to have fun, like Roland, Alia was much more fun to talk to.

## Trivia

* Lucca is one of your starting heroes.
* Lucca is a member of the canon raiding party in Misty Ruins
* Lucca is older than Fabula

## Images

Lucca shows off an adorable Christmas outfit for the 2021 winter banner.Lucca offers a welcome code during the open beta (expired 13th Aug 2021).
Too Pooped to Pip

**"Too Pooped to Pip"** is the fourteenth episode of the fifth season, and one hundred and fourth episode overall, of the ABC sitcom, *Benson*.

The episode features a guest appearance from the soul group, Gladys Knight and the Pips and was directed by Gary Brown and Mark Warren, originally airing on January 6th, 1984.

## Synopsis

When The Governor's telethon needs a replacement star act, Benson tells the staff that he could get the visiting soul group, Gladys Knight and the Pips. When Benson's plan foils however, the staff is immensely disappointed.

## Trivia

* The episode makes call backs to the Season 2 episode, "Benson in the Hospital".
* The episode marks the second mention of the Myerson Children's Clinic.
* When Pete takes over the telethon when Clayton freezes, he jokes that Clayton was a very ugly baby; with a distant reply of "How ugly was he?' being shouted after. Though not on screen, the line was shouted by Katie.
* The track "What Are Friends For" was written by Robert Guillaume's son, Kevin Guillaume.
* The post-credit scene is not only absent in syndication edits, it is also absent on official streaming releases.

## Cultural References

* Benson mentions country singer, Kenny Rogers.
* The Governor mentions the 60's Italian mouse character, Topo Gigio
* Denise mentions her mother going to school with actor, Fess Parker.
* Clayton sarcastically states that Benson should get singer Frank Sinatra.
* The song first song performed by Gladys Knight and the Pips is "**Save The Overtime (For Me)**". The song reached number sixty-six on the Hot 100 and number one on the R&B charts in 1983.
* Pete states a joke from American comedian, Rodney Dangerfield.

## Quotes

* **Governor:** This is exciting! Gladys Knight and the Pips on my telethon!
* **Katie:** Yeah, I can get their autographs!
* **Governor:** I'm going to go upstairs right now, and listen to all their albums!
* **Benson:** You've got their albums?
* **Governor:** Yeah! You look surprised?
* **Benson:** Well, a little bit
* **Governor:** Hey, just because I'm governor doesn't mean that I can't get down.

* **Benson to Gladys Knight:** I'm Budget DuBois, the state Benson director.

* **Gladys Knight:** I gotta ask you one small favor in return.
* **Benson:** You name it mama, you got to get it, you caught me with it.
* **Gladys Knight:** I'd like for you to sing with me.
* **Bubba:** You got to be kidding! \*laughs\*

* **Governor:** Benson, Pete said that you had a surprise for us.
* **Benson:** I certainly do. Gladys Knight and Bubba were just her and they are going to do the telethon, and what's more, they want me to sing with them.
* **Governor:** Oh, Benson. \*walks out\*

* **Denise:** Pete, does Clayton look funny to you?
* **Pete:** He always looks that way.
Kaorthannach

## Overview

Kaorthannach is the Fallen Titan of the Water Element.

## Monster Skill

Deals 100% damage to all enemies, summoning Thunderbolt to deal 30% damage to all enemies every turn for 5 turns.

## Effects

**Special Effect #1:** Deals extra damage to non-green heroes, takes extra damage from green element.

**Special Effect #2:** Can't be frozen, charmed, or paralyzed.

## Story

Kaorthannach, the brutal siren, was sealed away in the depths of Antia between the First and the Third Age.

Morella was searching for the power to awaken Mac'Haab and came upon Kaorthannach by chance. Morella helped her with breaking the seal and returning to Antia, while Kaorthannach helped Morella with finding ice elemental stones in the ocean.

Now that Kaorthannach is back and more powerful than ever, will anyone be able to stop her?
KCTV

**KCTV** is the CBS affiliate in Kansas City, broadcasting on RF 24, displaying on VC 5. It is the sister station of KSMO-TV.

### Subchannels

#### Current subchannels

 24.4
 24.5

### ATSC 3.0 subchannels

KCTV hosts one ATSC 1.0 subchannel for ATSC 3.0 station KSMO-TV.

## About KCTV

### History

The station signed on as KCMO-TV on September 27, 1953. It was the fifth station and fourth channel (KMBC-TV shared channel space with WHB-TV) to go on air in Kansas City. On September 28, 1955 KCMO and KMBC switched network affiliations, bringing CBS to channel 5 and sending ABC to channel 9. On June 6, 1983 the station changed its callsign, becoming KCTV.

### The Tall Tower

KCTV's landmark broadcast tower is 1,042 feet (317.6 m) tall. It is located at E 31st St and Grand Ave in Kansas City, Missouri.
KTAJ-TV

**KTAJ-TV** is the TBN (Trinity Broadcasting Network) owned-and-operated station in Kansas City, broadcasting on RF 21, displaying on VC 16. KTAJ-TV is licensed to St Joseph, however the studios and transmitter are both located in Kansas City.

### Subchannel list

 21.4
 21.5
 21.6
 21.7

*Note: Positiv is spelled correctly.*

#### Former subchannels

 21.5
 21.5
 21.7
 21.7
 21.7

*Note: 16.3 JUCE/Smile shared channel space.*

*Note: 16.5 TBN SD was a different feed than the main TBN (HD) channel.*
KMBC-TV

**KMBC-TV** is the ABC affiliate in Kansas City, broadcasting on RF 29, displaying on VC 9. It is the sister station of KCWE.

### Subchannel list

 29.4
 29.7
 29.8

### ATSC 3.0 subchannels

KMBC-TV hosts two ATSC 1.0 subchannels for ATSC 3.0 station KSMO-TV.

 29.5

### Digital transition

KMBC-TV acted as the Kansas City area SAFER Act nightlight broadcaster after the digital transition. The broadcasts taught analog viewers how to upgrade their television to a digital signal. An explanation in English played for ten minutes, then a Spanish translation played for ten minutes. The broadcast repeated on a loop for one month.