What happened with this episode? Did the writers get lazy and just throw something together?

This is my least favorite episode of the entire series, not just because of the whole flashback aspect of it, but it's completely ridiculous! I'm supposed to believe Sophia started a fire in Shady Pines? Sophia is a smart lady, but arcanist?

Not to mention the illogical ending...I'm no detective but an old hot plate is going to get her off the hook?

The episode is just a mess, and I would prefer watching "Empty Nest" again then this.

TGG usually ended the season (season 4, 5, and 6) with a "flashback" episode. I've read that this was to be the final episode of the series and was taped after "Henny Penny..." but Bea Arthur agreed to do one more season so it was not aired last. I feel a quick re-write might have happened with the notice that this would not be the final show of the series. Just a hunch.

I think my least favorite episode is the 2 parter where Sophia gets remarried again.:eek:

I never really cared for the "flashback" style episodes myself, but I still think the worst episode of GG was "Empty Nest". That one literally put me to sleep!! :eek:

^ I agree with Catlover, I was watching the Spin Off episode with Empty Nest on Youtube and I really thought it was boring. If they never had that spin off episode then I think that episode would've been better if they just had a regular season ender.

I like flashback episodes on shows but on Sitcoms they have to be good. Some flashbacks are good and some or not good. But I do like them most of the time. And I liked the two parter epi was Sophia gets married.

^ Well, I did like the flashbacks of Sophia, Sal and a young Dorothy. I liked seeing Estelle without her old lady wig and makeup, plus the lady who played young Dorothy did bear a resemblance to Bea Arthur. :cool: