American Dreams (2002) | Couchpile

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American Dreams (2002) | Couchpile

Season 1 poster

Season 1

25 Episodes

2002

Pilot

E01

Pilot

9/29/2002

It's November 1963 and Meg Pryors dream is to appear on the Philly Based American Bandstand.Thanks to her best friend Roxanne, Meg finally gets the chance to appear, but her hopes are dashed when at dinner that night, Jack refuses to let her go on. While at the same time J.J. drops a bombshell on his dad and announces he doesn't wanna play football anymore, so he quit the team. Jack blames his girlfriend Beth and she storms out. Defying her father, Meg goes and does the show, in place of seeing Patty's spelling bee. Jack sees her on TV and when she's asked back as a regular, he refuses to let her appear. Meanwhile Helen struggles with her decision to stop having kids, of which Jack doesn't wanna hear,but finally accepts it.J.J. tells his coach he doesn't wanna play fottball, because he's being forced too and that took the fun out of it, but his coach says he should play anyway.Helen tries to talk Jack into letting Meg appear on the show,but he's made his decision. Which surprises and d

The End of the Innocence

E02

The End of the Innocence

10/6/2002

Advance Preview It's Thanksgiving week in 1963, but, in the wake of the JFK assassination, no one feels thankful. Even Meg's selection as a Bandstand regular seems hollow to her---especially since best friend Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies) wasn't chosen. And the resentful Roxanne isn't going easy on Meg (Brittany Snow). Meanwhile, East Catholic's football team has a hole at running back without J.J. (Will Estes); and Helen (Gail O'Grady) gets together with the worldly Rebecca Sandstrom (Virginia Madsen) at Temple University.

New Frontier

E03

New Frontier

10/13/2002

To Meg's utter amazement she is asked to dance by Bandstand regular Jimmy Riley,before he is whisked away by another regular Teresa. J.J. quietly rejoins the football team. While Henry's son Sam earns a track scholarship to almost-all-white East Catholic. Jack invites Sam to dinner to meet J.J., being that their both now on the track team. Meg is informed by Teresa to be wary of Jimmy Riley. J.J. gets upset when he finds out Beth applied to Stanford. Helen tries to find a class that will fit her busy schedule at Temple. A Rumor starts circulating about Meg and Jimmy Riley "doing it", which Roxanne thinks is great, because it means Meg's important now. J.J. hears Beth's father call him a "Catholic kid from West Philly" to his country-club friends. Meg is asked out on her first date by Jimmy Riley and she readily accepts. While J.J. dominates the competition in his return to the gridiron.

Pryor Knowledge

E04

Pryor Knowledge

10/20/2002

Jack surprises Meg with the announcement that Jimmy stopped by the shop and asked to take her out and he is allowing her to go.Patty takes a liking to a new boy who is also a finalist in the spelling bee competetion.She listens in as Roxanne gives Meg some dating tips and takes one to heart,a little to much. Rebecca invites Helen and Jack on a double date with her and her economics-professor husband Leo. Meanwhile J.J. won't take Beth to a mixer, because he can't dance, that is until Meg teaches him. Jack can't stand Rebecca's out spoken boyfriend and wants to end the night early.Meg and Jimmy's first date goes from bad to worse, as she first talks on and on about cars and later accidently bloodies his nose. Beth tells J.J. she would rather go alone to the mixer.Not being able to reach her parents, Meg accepts an offer from Sam to walk her home, only to be stopped by the police. With the family looking on, Patty loses the spelling bee,only to be outed by Roxanne who knows she blew it o

The Fighting Irish

E05

The Fighting Irish

10/27/2002

Jimmy (still sporting a shiner from their first date) asks Meg to be his partner on Bandstand. A Notre Dame recruiter is interested in JJ, but when J.J. doesn't show Jack will have to carry the ball for his son. Patty wants a new water heater and goes around timing everyone's showers to show they need one. Beth tries her best to get through to J.J., but he brushes her off and while Jack is meeting with the recruiter, he gets drunk with Tommy. Helen's walks out on the doctor,when she firsts goes about birth control.Megs thinks her and Jimmy are destined to be a real couple,but he says he only wants to be friends. Jack gives J.J. the cold shoulder over his blowing off the Recruiting meeting. Helen returns to the doctor a second time and it goes much smoother. Things change at the big game,when the team needs a big play, J.J. fakes an injury, before scoring the game winning touchdown on the play Jack taught him.

Soldier Boy

E06

Soldier Boy

11/3/2002

Roxanne is positive Meg is the ""Blurry Girl"" in a teen Magazine dancing with Jimmy Riley. Jack and Helen are in New York for a reunion of Jack's World War II unit. Beth tries in vain to reach J.J. but he cuts her off again. Later Meg meets Jay of Jay and The American's as he performs their hit ""Come a Little Bit Closer"" at a Bandstand rehearsal. He and Meg hit it off as does Roxanne and Carl the drummer. They plan a party for that night at the Pryor's house. Meanwhile in New York, Helen is approached by a man who claims Jack saved his life during the war. Patty finds out about the Party and wants to impress her spelling-bee foe Kevin by inviting him to party with Jay Black. J.J. and Will find Jack's 'Medal of Honor' while moving the last of the stuff from Meg's new room to the garage. Jay suggests to Meg and Roxanne they go some place else instead for the party. Beth and Kevin both show up, while J.J. and Beth have a fight, Patty and Kevin wait awkwardly for Meg to get home, which she

Cold Snap

E07

Cold Snap

11/10/2002

Meg is angered to hear Luke, the new record shop employee, talking bad about the music she's about to buy. Elsewhere, a sudden cancellation of his deal to supply a hotel with all there new TV's, forces Jack to examine his family's financial outlook and question his own business philosophy. Sam, who is still adapting to life at East Catholic high school deals with a prank gone too far by the football team, while JJ looks on, unable or unwilling to intervene. While Roxanne uses her Bandstand connections to start her own business of selling autographed 45's, starting with Marvin Gaye. Discovering Luke slipped her a Bob Dylan record instead, Meg rushes back to the store to conmfront him. The Prank gets Tommy suspended and he threatens Sam until J.J. intervenes, which draws a nasty response from Sam. Michael shuts down Roxanne's new business, while Jack tries in vain to still make the big Hotel sell, but it's all for not as Mr. Healey refuses to buy them. Lastly, the bitter cold of the nigh

Black and White

E08

Black and White

11/17/2002

While preparing for the city championships, JJ (Will Estes) discovers some of Philadelphia's police officers have offered his teammates money to throw the game (although Tommy denies it at first), forcing him to question their integrity, as well as that of his police officer uncle Pete who stops by the house for a sudden strategy session. Meanwhile, Meg (Brittany Snow) who shows signs of affection for Luke, a record store clerk at the Vinyl Crocodile and Patty's new piano teacher, is upset with Roxanne's sudden interest in him.Turns out Roxanne was only pretending to like him, long enough so Meg would get jealous and admit she liked him. Elsewhere, Helen leaves the family for a rare girls night out with new age classmate Rebecca. Meanwhile Jack (still saddled with the TV's from the busted hotel deal),prompted by Henry's suggestion, expands his customer base to include a few black customers and Sam deals with backlash from his former friends over the impending game.

The Home Front

E09

The Home Front

12/1/2002

As the Christmas season takes hold, Meg decides to spend more time with Luke, venturing to the rough streets of North Philly (with Roxanne) to hear him play with a local Church choir. Meanwhile, JJ catches the eye of a slightly older and more experienced country club employee and sneaks out of the house, just as Meg is sneaking in. Catching on to both of his older children's escapades, Jack implores a slightly uneven standard of discipline, by grounding Meg, but saying virtually nothing to J.J. Angering the family's growing feminist Helen. Patty finds out that Will broke the Virgin Mary, and replaces it with a slightly larger version. Elsewhere, Henry enjoys the recent success his advertising ideas have brought the store, but a few choice words from an over-eager friend leaves Jack concerned he might leave.

Silent Night

E10

Silent Night

12/15/2002

Advance Preview With Christmas a day away, Meg (Brittany Snow) and dance partner Jimmy Riley (guest star Jesse Hutch) are voted one of ""Bandstand's"" favorite couples landing them a date under the mistletoe for their first kiss, which hurts her budding relationship with Luke (guest star Jamie Elman). Meanwhile, JJ (Will Estes) receives an early Christmas present with his acceptance into the University of Notre Dame, which prompts him to reconsider his break-up with longtime girlfriend, Beth (Rachel Boston). Elsewhere, Jack's (Tom Verica) military expertise is called upon when a local boy serving in Vietnam goes missing and Henry (Jonathan Adams) looks for a raise during the store's holiday rush. R&B singing star Ashanti (""Foolish"") guest stars as 1960s pop sensation Dionne Warwick singing ""Walk on By"" on ""American Bandstand."" Gail O'Grady, Arlen Escarpeta, Ethan Dampf and Sarah Ramos also star.

I Wanna Hold Your Hand

E11

I Wanna Hold Your Hand

1/5/2003

The Beatles' arrival in America sends the country and the Pryor household into a frenzy, except for a concerned JJ, who receives word that Notre Dame has denied him a full scholarship. Determined to afford his son's college education, Jack seeks financial help from his successful and slightly distant older brother Ted despite Pete and Helen's concerns. Ted offers to pay for J.J. first year in South Bend in exchange for 50% ownership in the shop. Meanwhile, a confused Meg attempts to classify her relationship with Luke, employing Roxanne's ""perfect plan"", which is to simply have Luke introduce himself as Meg's boyfriend, to determine if the record store clerk is in fact her boyfriend. Patty's put in a tough position when she has to teach Will, the twleve apostles or not get to watch the Beattles on Ed Sullivan that night.

Great Expectations

E12

Great Expectations

1/12/2003

Meg gets two Cs on her report card and Helen, more concerned about it than Jack is, thinks it would be a good idea for Meg to accompany her to her Temple class. Meg dislikes the idea, but not as much as she dislikes the fact that Luke agrees with her mother. Roxanne is also at odds with her mother, so she stays with the Pryors. Meanwhile, Beth notices JJ talking to Colleen; Jack hires Henry's nephew, Nathan; and it seems that there's a bullying problem in Will's third-grade class.

The Pursuit of Happiness

E13

The Pursuit of Happiness

2/2/2003

In the aftermath of his confession to Beth, JJ struggles to put their relationship back together again, but quickly realizes that it might be too little too late. Elsewhere, Meg strikes up a musical friendship with Sam as they decide to save money by sharing records - causing problems with JJ who quickly reminds his sister about the trouble she faced after her previous interactions with Sam. Meanwhile, Jack entrusts his new employee -- Nathan, the nephew of Henry with delivery duty, but later questions his decision when Nathan fails to return. Helen volunteers to baby-sit for her professor and gets to know him better while Roxanne fights for a coveted position writing the ""Backstage on Bandstand"" column for Teenzine magazine.

Heartache

E14

Heartache

2/9/2003

Preparing for the East Catholic Valentine's Day dance, Meg tries to convince boyfriend Luke of the importance of the holiday, while Roxanne waits for a brave boy to ask her to the dance. Meanwhile, Jack, prompted by his doctor, seeks a second opinion regarding his lingering sickness, while JJ searches for forgiveness from Beth. Elsewhere, Patty braces for her own Valentine's Day festivities as she makes arrangements for her first coed party.

False Start

E15

False Start

2/16/2003

In the first track meet of the season, JJ and Sam square off to determine who will race one of the fastest runners in the city, creating a new-found relationship between this unlikely pair. Meanwhile, after their break-up, Meg and Luke try to figure out exactly what to call their relationship with the help of confidents Roxanne and record storeowner Mr. Greenwood. Elsewhere, Helen's classmates lead her to believe that their professor, Mr. Witt, has a crush on her. Musical guest star India.Arie portrays Nina Simone performing at the Vinyl Crocodile record store.

Act of Contrition

E16

Act of Contrition

3/2/2003

In the first track meet of the season, JJ (Will Estes) and Sam (Arlen Escarpeta) square off to determine who will race one of the fastest runners in the city, creating a new-found relationship between this unlikely pair. Meanwhile, after their break-up, Meg (Brittany Snow) and Luke (Jamie Elman) try to figure out exactly what to call their relationship with the help of confidents Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies) and record storeowner Mr. Greenwood (guest star Art Garfunkel). Elsewhere, Helen's (Gail O'Grady) classmates lead her to believe that their professor, Mr. Witt (guest star Robby Benson), has a crush on her. Musical guest star India.Arie portrays Nina Simone performing at the Vinyl Crocodile record store. Tom Verica, Sarah Ramos and Ethan Dampf also star.

Past Imperfect

E17

Past Imperfect

3/9/2003

Celebrating a Pryor family tradition, Jack and Uncle Pete make their annual trip to the cemetery to tend to their father's grave only to be joined by an unexpected visitor - their brother Ted. After impressing him with her musical knowledge, Bandstand producer Michael Brooks asks Meg to help him put together an upcoming special. However, when she is drafted as part of the cemetery expedition, Meg asks Roxanne to fill in, offering her best friend a chance to spend time with her latest crush. Elsewhere, JJ receives some disturbing news from the doctor regarding his broken leg. Helen volunteers to help register voters for the upcoming election, working closely with Professor Witt, while Sam decides to join his cousin Nathan at a local rally.

The One

E18

The One

3/16/2003

MEG STRUGGLES WITH HER FEELINGS FOR BOTH HER EX-BOYFRIEND AND FAKE ONE ; WAYNE BRADY GUEST STARS AS JACKIE WILSON -- Making an appearance to sign autographs at the Vinyl Crocodile, Meg (Brittany Snow) struggles with her lingering feelings for ex-boyfriend Luke (guest star Jamie Elman) and rekindled interest in ""Bandstand"" partner Jimmy Riley (guest star Jesse Hutch). Meanwhile, Jack (Tom Verica) moves forward with Henry's (Jonathan Adams) suggestion as he investigates the possibility of opening a second store. Prompted by interest from his brother Ted (guest star Christopher Cousins), he decides to make this a family venture enlisting the help of younger brother Pete (guest star Matthew John Armstrong), thus leaving Henry out of the deal. Elsewhere, JJ (Will Estes) pushes Sam (Arlen Escarpeta) to forget about the former teammate's accident and run his best for the rest of the year. Jackie Wilson (Wayne Brady) performs ""Baby Work Out"" on ""American Bandstand."" Vanessa Lengies, Gail O'Gra

Where the Boys Are

E19

Where the Boys Are

3/30/2003

In the midst of a special memory lane ""Bandstand,"" Meg (Brittany Snow) copes with a hostile Bobby Darin (guest star Duncan Sheik) while attempting to help roving columnist Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies) land an interview with the hit singer. In the midst of the chaos, Jimmy Riley (guest star Jesse Hutch ) surprises his dance partner when he shares the big news that he joined the marines. Elsewhere, Jack (Tom Verica), Henry (Jonathan Adams), Nathan (guest star Keith Robinson ) and Pete (guest star Matthew John Armstrong ) spend a rainy day playing an allegedly friendly game of poker. Helen (Gail O'Grady) receives a friendly ride home from her professor (guest star Robby Benson ) while JJ (Will Estes) spends a rainy afternoon drowning his sorrows in beer. Country music sensation LeAnn Rimes guest stars as Connie Francis singing ""Where the Boys Are"" on ""American Bandstand"" and Duncan Sheik portrays Bobby Darin singing ""Beyond the Sea."" Sarah Ramos and Ethan Dampf also star..

The Carpetbaggers

E20

The Carpetbaggers

4/6/2003

As Meg's (Brittany Snow) recently rekindled romance with Luke (guest star Jamie Elman) begins to heat up, she grows concerned over his level of ""experience"" in matters of love. Prompted by some sagely wisdom from Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies), she attempts to broaden her sex appeal with shocking results. Elsewhere, Jack (Tom Verica) decides to rethink Nathan's (guest star Keith Robinson) employment status after learning of Helen's (Gail O'Grady) brush with danger, and his involvement in her defense during the recent voter registration drive. Meanwhile, JJ (Will Estes) re-ignites his romance with Colleen (guest star Jessica Collins) as he prepares to celebrate his 18th birthday and Helen agonizes over her own secret from that fateful day with Professor Wit (guest star Robby Benson).

Fear Itself

E21

Fear Itself

4/13/2003

Meg and Roxanne are chosen for East Catholic's Prom Committee. Their assignment: get ""cool"" seniors onto the ""Bandstand"" set so they can take candid photos known as ""senior snaps."" Success, Roxanne gushes, will make them ""the coolest sophomores in history."" But they don't have permission from ""Bandstand"" to do it. Meanwhile, Will's Soap Box Derby is coming up, but he's afraid of the hills, and JJ's afraid of testing his newly healed leg; Patty has joined the Robins, and is very competitive about earning badges; and Jack hires Sam to do a job at the Girard Avenue store.

Secrets and Lies

E22

Secrets and Lies

4/27/2003

JJ's senior prom is coming up but he's not going because Colleen has made him another offer. Then he hears from Beth. In other prom-related doings, Meg's new friend Carol invites her---but not Roxanne---to a pre-prom sleep-over at her house. Meanwhile, Patty's afraid that no one likes her (there's some reason for this: she has a reputation as being a ""know-it-all""); Natha puts Henry in another delicate situation at the Girard Avenue store; and Jack runs into Professor Witt near the store and senses that there might be something between him and Helen.

Down the Shore

E23

Down the Shore

5/4/2003

June 19, 1964: Jim Bunning's on the mound for the Phils and the Pryors have just begun their annual Wildwood vacation. Roxanne isn't with them because she's still mad at a still-distressed Meg. But her rich new friend Carol has invited her to her beach club at ""the Crest."" And Meg returns the favor, getting Carol and her friends into a Bandstand beach ""hop"" featuring the Kinks (Third Eye Blind does the impersonation). Meanwhile, Helen finally tells Jack about Professor Witt's advance. Back in town, JJ's at home---with Beth while Henry's minding the North Philly store. The neighborhood is steaming and the city pool hasn't opened yet.

High Hopes

E24

High Hopes

5/11/2003

JJ, tender ankle and all, arrives at Lehigh to begin football practice. And Roxanne, who's still on the outs with Meg, meets someone she has been on the outs with for eight years: her father. Meanwhile, Meg gets her learner's permit and wants Luke to teach her to drive. And the Girard Avenue store is about to open, but the timing could be better: riots in Harlem have prompted the Philadelphia police to consider a curfew for North Philly.

City on Fire

E25

City on Fire

5/18/2003

In the season finale, racial tensions begin to flare in North Philly sparking a massive riot, while an oblivious Meg (Brittany Snow) makes final preparations for her sweet sixteen birthday party. Unaware of the violent situation building around her, Meg attempts to save her friendship with Sam (Arlen Escarpeta), visiting him at the new store, and finds herself in the middle of the urban chaos. Elsewhere, an angry Nathan (guest star Keith Robinson) who helped incite the violence, urges the enraged rioters forward, while Pete (guest star Matthew John Armstrong) and the rest of Philadelphia's finest race to quell the disturbance. Meanwhile, a defeated JJ (Will Estes) returns from Lehigh after being kicked off the football team and makes a surprising announcement to Jack (Tom Verica) and Helen (Gail O'Grady) about his future, while Michael Brooks (Joe Lawrence) reveals the possibility he might be leaving ""Bandstand"" for a new record-producing gig in California. R&B sensation Kelly Rowland

Season 2

19 Episodes

2003

And Promises to Keep

E01

And Promises to Keep

9/28/2003

In the episode, Meg find herself getitng a little too close to Sam. Causing questions after she defends Sam when he sticks up for a friend being teased for race. After defending, her dad finds out and suspends her from bandstand. Roxanne is shocked to learn the Bandstand Director is leaving. JJ questions Beth's trust, and the only way to not worry-engangment? Helen looks into surgery for Will and against her doctor's best advice calls a clinic. Kelly Clarkson performed

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

E02

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

10/5/2003

Episode 2 rolls in as Meg continues to live life without Bandstand, while Roxanne tries to keep her on before she is replaced. JJ undergoes major training at camp while Patty is promoted to academic success, to the frustration of Meg. Luke and Meg see the end of their relationship while getting further from Meg is Sam's choice. Helen searches for more opinions on Will's surgery while the couple prepares for a dinner with Beth's parents.

Another Saturday Night

E03

Another Saturday Night

10/12/2003

Saturday Night hits Philly as the Pryor women go exploring. Helen heads to New York with Uncle Pete's girlfriend to see a show and a new emerging side of womanhood, beset with temptations. Patty, starting high school, learns new lessons in social skills in trying to make friends. Meg, completely broken off from Luke, goes to her first college party, with serious consequences. Roxanne starts at the Vinyl Crocodile with Luke still in the background as JJ continues with military training. In addition, Sam finds out how his cousin Nathan really makes his money

Crossing the Line

E04

Crossing the Line

10/19/2003

Helen learns the pressuers of being a working mom when she takes a job at a travel agency. Meanwhile Beth goes to visit JJ at Camp Lejeune and is surprised at the results. Meg wants to prove that she is grown up and does her book report on a controversial book. Roxanne is excited with the prospects of her new boyfriend.

Life's Illusions

E05

Life's Illusions

10/26/2003

Meg attends a free speech rally with Drew at the college. Roxanne's new relationship with Lenny is tested after he throws a party at her house. JJ is tempted to cheat on Beth with a mysterious woman he meets at a bar. JJ also recieves some exciting news. Beth finally recieves her ring from JJ and they set a date for their wedding. The Walker family must deal with the tragic loss of the matriarch in their family.

Rescue Me

E06

Rescue Me

11/2/2003

Roxanne's relationship with Lenny begins to heat up as things are pushed to the next level. JJ's relationship with Diane, the mysterious woman from the bar takes an unexpected turn when he finds out who's wife she is. Meg must take a long hard look at her relationship with Drew after finding out that he is seeing other people. Jack wants Helen to quit her job after finding out that Will's surgery will be funded by the March of Dimes. The Walkers must put their lives back together after the death of their mother.

Ticket to Ride

E07

Ticket to Ride

11/16/2003

In a surprise turn of events Roxanne announces she is dropping out of school to be on tour with Lenny. Meg and Sam finally go on their first date but ends in disaster as Meg storms out of the restaurant. JJ tells the family where he has been stationed. As Will's surgery appropoaches Helen becomes nervous. Meanwhile Henry must decide whether or not to confront his wife's former employer about money they are still owed.

Change a Comin'

E08

Change a Comin'

11/23/2003

Hilary Duff and her sister Haylie impersonate two members of the Shangri-Las, a '60s girl group, in an episode in which the Vietnam War gets in the way of JJ and Beth, and Meg and Drew (Sam Page), when they go on a ""double date"" to Harrisburg, where Roxanne's friend Lenny is playing with his band. Meanwhile, Uncle Pete's drinking is getting in the way of his relationship with Nancy (Alicia Coppola); Helen is concerned about Will's state of mind as he recovers from his operation; Sam's getting interested in Malcolm X; and Patty makes a friend.

The Long Goodbye

E09

The Long Goodbye

11/30/2003

As JJ prepares to leave he and Beth celebrate their engagement. Beth and her mother can not seem to agree upon anything while JJ and Meg continue to fight about Drew. Will is still in the hospital. Roxanne continues to tour with Lenny. Roxanne decides that she loves Lenny but she can not continue to tour with them.

The 7-10 Split

E10

The 7-10 Split

1/4/2004

While Meg is on a date with Drew she runs in to Danny O'Conner who asks her out on date. Jack and Henry are shocked to find out that the store has been robbed. As Will prepares to leave the hospital he reminds Helen that she promised he could have a pet. Before Will's homecoming, Helen sends Patty to the pet store to get Will a pet. While there she meets Carl, a boy who works at the pet store. Sam struggles with the decision to chose between Yale and Howard University. In Vietnam, JJ runs in to Jimmy Riley, Meg's old dancing partner. Meanwhile Roxanne is crushed that Lenny hasn't called and turns to Luke for support. After Meg's date with Danny she comes to a decision about her relationship with Drew.

Beyond the Wire

E11

Beyond the Wire

1/11/2004

Helen begins to feel the pressure of being a working mom as she tries to juggle her professional and home life. When Drew comes over for dinner it is obvious that Jack doesn't like him. After watching a film in school Patty wants to buy her first bra but nobody has time to go with her. JJ experiences life on the front line as he fights in Vietnam.

Real-to-Reel

E12

Real-to-Reel

1/18/2004

JJ befriends a Vietnamese family and later in the episode, their village was destroyed. At home, his family is creating a care package for JJ along with an audio reel. Jack goes to a conference with his brother, Pete and is shocked at his actions towards the ladies. Meg continues to date Drew and is caught making out with him in a car. Later, she goes too far with him. Patty uncovers that Helen was pregnant with JJ before she married Jack and tells Meg. Meg reveals this dirty secret in an bitter arguement. Jack bans Meg from seeing Drew anymore. Roxanne and Luke finally kiss. Henry is given money from the Muslims to start his own repair shop

To Tell the Truth

E13

To Tell the Truth

2/15/2004

American Bandstand holds a father-daughter dance prompting Meg to ask her father. While there Meg realizes she can't continue to lie to her parents and ends up telling her parents the truth about her and Drew. Patty walks in on Roxanne and Luke kissing and is heartbroken. Henry comes clean about his new shop.

Old Enough to Fight

E14

Old Enough to Fight

2/22/2004

Roy Orbison (Chris Isaak) plays on ?Bandstand, while Nancy Sinatra (Jennifer Love Hewitt) has schlepped her boots to Vietnam, where JJ sees her perform. He could use some cheering up: He's been traumatized by killing a Vietcong soldier. Back in Philly, Meg runs away from home (but not far); Henry's business plans hit a snag; and Will starts delivering newspapers by himself. Also: Tyler Hilton sings the Beatles' I've Just Seen a Face and Days of Our Lives regulars have cameos: Alison Sweeney (as Miss USA), Farah Fath (a Playboy Bunny), and John Aniston and Frances Reid (customers in Pryor Electronics).

Shoot the Moon

E15

Shoot the Moon

3/7/2004

Meg is upset with Roxanne after finding out that Luke and her have been dating secretly. Uncle Pete gets cold feet as his wedding approaches and does not attend his wedding. JJ is surprised to see a friend of his from basic training in the untouchables. Later in the episode he is killed. Meg is offered the chance of a lifetime by Colin. Meg and Jimmy Reily reunite during a magazing interview. Sam and Angela don't like Henry's new lady friend.

Can't Hold On

E16

Can't Hold On

3/14/2004

Liz Phair impersonates Jackie DeShannon, singing ?Walk in the Room? on ?Bandstand.? Off the set, Beth (Rachel Boston) is off to Hawaii to meet JJ for some R&R. It won't be either restful or relaxing. Meanwhile, Meg takes a job in WFIL's newsroom, where she sees a news clip that disturbs her greatly (she's also disturbed by something Beth tells her); Lenny (Johnny Lewis) is back in Philly with a newly released single and no idea about Roxanne and Luke (Jamie Elman); Nancy's replacement at the travel agency is a bachelor (Hank Stratton) who's very forward with Helen; Patty meets creepy Carl (Wes Robinson) at a pool, where she also meets a cute lifeguard; and Henry's frustrated because his new partner, Jack, doesn't treat him enough like a partner.

Chasing the Past

E17

Chasing the Past

3/21/2004

Roxanne begins to question her relationship with Luke. Meg lets Patty drive the family car after Patty blackmails her. Meg ends up crashing the car. After Beth tells her parents about her pregnancy they give her two options. JJ and his squad rescue American POW's. JJ thinks one may be Danny O'Conners brother.

Stewart's Charge

E18

Stewart's Charge

3/28/2004

Jason Mraz (Dion) and Fefe Dobson (Tina Turner) are the guest impersonators on Bandstand, where Roxanne wants a hairstyling job. She also has boy woes: Lenny's return has clearly rattled Luke. Meanwhile, Beth makes a decision about her pregnancy; Nathan (Keith Robinson) is drafted, and Sam tries to get Meg to talk to Drew about his CO status; JJ's unit goes on a mission with a by-the-book new corporal (John Sloan); Jack considers his political options over coffee with Will's former teacher, the former Sister Grace (Robyn Lively); Will might be made to repeat fourth grade; and Patty uses hamster chips to get closer to Carl (Wes Robinson).

No Way Out

E19

No Way Out

4/4/2004

As the anti-war movement gains momentum, Meg and Sam get caught in the crossfire at an anti-war rally and finds themselves taking a stand that may have severe consequences in their future. Jack also takes a stand on Beth and her marital status as he begins his campaign for city councilman. Helen makes a shocking discovery at work and Patty , disappointed with her first date, turns to Roxanne for advice. Meanwhile, JJ and his squad are surrounded by the Viet Cong and under heavy gunfire when they are told they will not be receiving backup and will be on their own

Season 3 poster

Season 3

17 Episodes

2004

E01

Long Shots and Short Skirts

9/26/2004

BRANDY GUEST-STARS AS GLADYS KNIGHT, GAVIN DEGRAW AS SINGER IN THE LAIR, AND BEN TAYLOR'S ACTING DEBUT - Meg (Brittany Snow) and Sam (Arlen Escarpeta) continue to find themselves at odds with their parents after their court date, as the uncertain future of Sam's scholarship hangs over Henry's (Jonathan Adams) head. Meg's arrest is leaked to the papers, compromising the integrity of Jack's (Tom Verica) bid to run for city council. Back at school, Meg and Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies) learn that the new headmaster is enforcing the school's dress code, so they organize a mini-skirt protest. Meanwhile, Beth (Rachel Boston) continues to work at the Lair, and has caught the eye of Cal (guest-star Ben Taylor), an aspiring singer/songwriter. When Helen (Gail O'Grady) asks Beth to join the Blue Star Women, an organization that donates necessities to the wives of soldiers at war, she expresses her concerns of not being JJ's (Will Estes) wife. In Vietnam, JJ is in a military hospital where he learns

E02

Charade

10/3/2004

NICOLE RICHIE GUEST-STARS AS LEAD SINGER OF THE EXCITERS, HAYLEY WESTERNA AS A SINGER IN THE LAIR - When the Pryors meet their new neighbors, they are surprised and shocked to discover that Shelly Pierce is a single mom, a Playboy Bunny, and that her son, Chris, is old enough to attend East Catholic. As Meg continues her anti-war campaign, she is reprimanded at school by a progressive nun who decides that a better way for Meg to get her message out is to direct Shakespeare's play ""Henry V"", with a modern day twist. As Patty becomes obsessed with winning the Campbell's Tomato Soup essay contest, she seeks Donald's help, which causes some discomfort for Helen. Meanwhile, Sam is recuited for basketball at Penn, which concerns Henry, but provides a new girlfriend for Sam - in the form of his tutor. When Jack's campaign for city council begins to affect his family and professional life, he finds himself faced with questions only he can answer. Meanwhile, JJ's excitement to be with his new s

Leaders of the Pack

E03

Leaders of the Pack

10/10/2004

Meg's having trouble getting students interested in her updated production of “Henry V", so she tries to enlist her popular new neighbor, Chris.

Surround Me

E04

Surround Me

10/17/2004

As Jack's City Council election nears, his brother Pete finds himself in the papers. In Vietnam, JJ and Anh from the café are becoming an item.

So Long, Farewell

E05

So Long, Farewell

10/24/2004

While JJ is in Vietnam he meet Gunnery Sergean Finch. Father Cassidy discovers Meg's plans to add an anti-Vietnam aspect to the play and forbids her to do the play as it is. Jack is aproached by the pastor about getting a colored person on the police commision. Luke returns to Philadelphia with shocking news for Roxanne. Melanie becomes increasingly jealous of Sam and Meg's friendship. At the last second, Meg decides to do the play as she wrote it.

E06

Clear and Present Danager

10/31/2004

Jack and Helen prepare to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary by going out of town. Roxanne decides to move out of the Pryor's house and in with Luke. Nathan begins to serve the rest of his jail time by working in a VA hospital. During his time there, he gains a respect for the veterans. JJ and his squard are captured and must figure out a way to escape. Meg considers laying your anti-war antics to rest but changes her mind at the last minute. Chris and Meg share their first kiss while painting a peace sign on the school but are caught and sentenced to 2 week suspension.

What Dreams May Come

E07

What Dreams May Come

11/7/2004

As the Pryor's await news on JJ, Jack goes to Washington D.C. to try and find more information. Chris tells Meg about an anti-war rally in Washington D.C. and Meg convinces her father to let her to go to Washington D.C. Melanie invites Sam and his family to Thanksgiving diner, however Sam does not extend the invitation to his family and goes by himself. Helen is haunted by flashbacks of JJ while Patty and Will have a hard time going on with life. As the family sit downs to Thanksgiving dinner they recieve a package that announces JJ's fate.

E08

One in a Million

11/14/2004

The family continues to mourn the news of JJ. Beth, worried about Helen and suggests she go and sees a psychiatrist. Jack is angry with Beth for suggesting it but Helen eventually goes. Meg is not sure what to do when she is asked to speak about JJ at an assembly. JJ is found alive by a Frenchmen but when he learns that he kills American soldiers, JJ must escape to save his life. A city wide blackout occurs during a meteora shower. Chris takes Meg to watch it. At home, Beth goes in to labor during the blackout and later delivers John Pryor III.

E09

Tidings of Comfort and Joy

11/21/2004

Helen occupies her time helping Beth care for John Pryor III. However, Beth is angry with Helen after she invites her father (Beth's) to see the baby. Meg continues with her anti-war movements but is shocked when Chris and his friends want to burn down an army recruiting center. Luke's girlfriend from San Francisco comes to visit but doesn't realize Luke wants to break up with her. Roxanne then becomes afraid that Luke will suddenly dump her one day. Nathan continues to spend time with an elderly veteran. As a result, when he dies he leaves Nathan his boat. Sam realizes that he handled things with Melanie wrong way and invites her to his house for dinner. The Pryor family must continue through the holiday season without JJ. What they don't know is JJ is still alive and fighting for his way home. After the family leaves for Christmas Eve mass, the Pryors receive a phone call and learn that JJ is on his way home. In a tearful reunion, JJ is reunited with his family and meets his son for

E10

Home Again

1/2/2005

JJ has trouble readjusting to life at home. Meanwhile, Meg is accepted into college, but the two most important men in her life aren't pleased. Nathan gets his first look at the boat he inherited.

E11

Truth Be Told

1/9/2005

Chris is questioned by police about the recruitment-center bombing, and has a special date with Meg.

For Richer, For Poorer

E12

For Richer, For Poorer

1/23/2005

JJ and Beth began searching for the perfect house, but JJ recieves a letter from Vietnam and gives away their money for a house. As their wedding day approaches, the family is busy preparing. JJ learns that Helen is involved with an anti-war movement while Patty falls for Beth's cousin. Meg continues to struggle with Chris who keeps showing up. When Meg realizes her true feelings it's too late as Chris has left town.

E13

Starting Over

1/30/2005

Prom is on the brain in this episode of American Dreams. With senior prom soon approaching, Roxanne and Meg scramble with their preperations. Patty is invited to prom which she rubs in Meg's face but is later upset when her date asks somebody else. Roxanne works to convince Luke to shave her beard off, while Meg prepares to face the prom on her own. JJ comes to her rescue after having a fight with Beth, that begins when JJ confesses his gamble that he lost. While at prom, JJ is offered a job at the high school. Meanwhile, Mr. Pryor feels the pressure from his bribers, and struggles to make a choice, which effects his family more than he knows.

The Commencement

E14

The Commencement

3/9/2005

As Meg prepares to graduate she considers taking her relationship with Sam to the next level but is chocked to find that many people are against it. Jack continues to struggle with the City Council and ultimately ends up quitting. Patty's essay wins the Campbell Soup essay contest but nobody believes her because she sent it in under another student's name. JJ takes the job coaching football but begins to wonder about his future and possibly even becoming an astronaut. Roxanne becomes worried that she may not graduate when she can't pass the presidential fitness exam.

California Dreamin'

E15

California Dreamin'

3/16/2005

Meg & Roxanne go to Hollywood for a special ""American Banstand"" episode. While the girls are there, they meet up with Barabra Eden a.k.a. ""Jeannie"". J.J. goes for an interview with an Engineering company in the hopes of following his dream of becoming an Astronaut. Meanwhile, Sam realizes the he has more in common with Nathan's date then Nathan does and Pete & Shelley decide to have an ""open relationship"" where they can see each other and other people. Jack decides to tell a reporter his reasons for leaving City Council. ~Graciem

No Satisfaction

E16

No Satisfaction

3/23/2005

With Ted, Jack's brother in the hospital he faces a tough decision to pull him of the respirator that is keeping him alive. Meg and Roxanne are excited for The Rolling Stones concert but are surprised to find where their seats are. Patty wants to become cool after being teased by some students at summer school about being a nerd. She receives a makeover from Meg and Roxanne and goes on bandstand but ultimately decides she likes who she is. Meanwhile, JJ is doing well at his job and able to use his knowledge from Vietnam to help him.

It's My Life

E17

It's My Life

3/30/2005

When Chris returns, Meg finds out that he has been drafted for the war and is going to Berkeley to avoid it. Meg must decide between being with Chris or being with her family but her decision is made even harder when Jack threatens to disown her if she leaves. Roxanne begins to cut hair at the Vinyl Crocodile much to Luke's dismay. JJ begins to feel overwhelmed at work when he volunteers to help on a project. Nathan is given a second chance by Mr. Pryor when he allows Nathan to do deliveries again. Helen decides to accompany a mother to pick up her son's coffin.