‘The Conners’ Season 2, Episode 3 ‘The Preemie Monologues’ Review: Baby Issues

The Conners begins its second season by welcoming yet another new member to the family. As we await the return of the baby’s father, life goes on in Lanford. When it is finally time for the baby to come home, the bills start coming. Meanwhile, an affair comes to light, and the one who finds out is having none of it.

On Tuesday’s episode of The Conners, Harris Conner-Healy (Emma Kenney) confronts Darlene Conner (Sara Gilbert) about her affair with Ben (Jay R. Ferguson) and David Healy (Johnny Galecki). Meanwhile, Becky Conner (Lecy Goranson) struggles with making ends meet for her baby, Beverly Rose. As Jackie Harris (Laurie Metcalf) snoops around other people’s business, Dan Conner (John Goodman) confronts his feelings for Louise (Katey Sagal).

Toilet Paper

Eric McCandless/ABC

Darlene could tell that Harris’ fit is not just about their lack of supplies (specifically toilet paper). When it was her turn to watch over Beverly, Darlene reflects on why Harris is more sarcastic than usual. Once she gets home, however, everything clears up. Harris knows about Darlene’s affair with Ben and David, and she did not wish to watch Darlene hurt her father. After taking Becky home from work, Darlene and Harris agree on keeping things a secret for now. Indeed, it is a difficult time. Darlene herself wished that things were simpler, back to when Harris was still a baby. Keeping the secret between them, for now, does not sound like a good idea, so hopefully, Darlene sorts things out and makes a decision before things go south.

Charts

Eric McCandless/ABC

Jackie’s life fell apart after the loss of her sister, coupled with her boyfriend cheating on her. Instead of dealing with her problems, Jackie decides to preoccupy herself with things she does not necessarily need to do. Becky’s birth of Beverly became Jackie’s opportunity to put her thoughts aside. Unfortunately, Becky did not like the way Jackie operated. Jackie goes as far as policing nurses for being late and attempting to teach Beverly Mandarin. When Dan steps in, Jackie agrees to stop the exaggerated care for her granddaughter. Becky and Jackie eventually make up, deciding to try to work on their problems together. As the episode ends, Becky soon finds out that the Jackie problem extends to Emilio (Rene Rosado), her boyfriend, also Beverly’s father, too. One can tell that sooner or later, Jackie’s moving in becomes inevitable. All she wants is companionship, and the Conner Family gives her that and more.

Hangout and Have Dinner

Eric McCandless/ABC

Dan is still relatively new to the dating scene. After staying in a marriage for so long, Dan struggles to express and be comfortable with his emotions. Thankfully, Louise’s interest did not cave to Dan’s adjustment period. Sure, Dan initially turned down her offer to accompany him during his shift at watching Beverly, but all of this changes when Dan rethinks his actions. Eventually, the pair takes the turn together and have an in-depth conversation about each other. Finally, Dan asks Louise to go on dates with him. It is nice to see Dan move forward and pursue his happiness. The tired, aging man deserves that much and more given the things he deals with daily.

Beverly Comes Home

Eric McCandless/ABC

After spending much time in an incubator, it was finally time for Beverly to come home. The Conners eagerly awaited her arrival and welcomed Beverly warmly. To Becky’s surprise, the family refurnished the home’s basement to become her and Beverly’s room. It was touching to watch as Becky forgets all about her problems as she held Beverly in her arms. Now, the show continues to welcome a new generation of Conners as the family continues to live their lives.

‘The Conners’ Season 2, Episode 3 ‘The Preemie Monologue’ Final Verdict

The Conners has not lost its touch on its brand of humor. The family members are sarcastic and witty as ever as they deal with whatever is going on. What was unexpected, however, was the evolution of the kinds of drama implored in the plot. Times change fast, and the show adapts to such changes quite well. Their takes on financial, social, and personal problems mirror that of modern-day society. Their well-established characters fit in with the complexities that the show portrays realistically.

The Conners continues Tuesday, October 15th with ‘Lanford… Lanford’ at 8/7c on ABC.