What I’m Watching: Parenthood

Parenthood: Season 6, Episode 10 “How Did We Get Here?” (B+)

This is probably one of the strongest episodes this show has produced in a while – though of course it’s been consistently good – and it’s not just because every member of the cast except for the little kids actually appeared for the first time this season. This hour used an extremely dramatic event, Zeek having a heart attack, to bring together the family in a way that allowed each of them to realize what was most important in their lives at the moment. As before with Kristina, it wasn’t done in a manipulative or sappy way, and instead actually hit home. Additionally, Zeek didn’t wake up unable to function or recognize his own family members, but he’s hit with the realization that he and Camille may not have any more grand adventures because of his new state. While I’ve heard some friends complain about Hank being featured too much on this show, I would absolutely rank him as the best part of this episode, awkwardly chatting with Drew before comforting him by explaining what it feels like to be a father, idolizing Joel, and then proposing with no ring to Sarah at a time where she was in no place to even think about it. Joel takes a close second for swooping in to be there for Julia after their reunion night led directly to her rushing to the hospital. The fact that Crosby and Adam have completely different perspectives about what to do with the insurance money from the Luncheonette is problematic, but hopefully they can figure out a way to let Crosby pursue his dreams and to not stress Adam out with that extra burden. Ending with a hospital-set baby shower for Amber was sweet, and a wonderful way to head into this show’s final three episodes.