| # |
Episode Title |
Director |
Writer(s) |
Overview |
Original airdate |
| 1 |
Pilot |
Thomas Schlamme |
Gary David Goldberg & Bill Lawrence |
Michael Flaherty (Michael J. Fox) and his City Hall team grapple with a garbage strike and a political gaffe by the Mayor who accidentally insults gay people. Mike's girlfriend Ashley questions Mike's commitment to their relationship when he is nervous about moving in together.
(First appearance: Janelle (Victoria Dillard)) |
September 17, 1996 |
|
| 2 |
The Great Pretender |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Sarah Dunn |
Mike is named Sexiest Man in New York by Manhattan magazine and the staff must deal with Mayor Winston's problematic wife during an important dinner. |
September 24, 1996 |
|
| 3 |
The Apartment |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Bill Lawrence |
The continuing dilemma of the garbage strike keeps Mike and Ashley too busy to spend time together at their new apartment. Stuart makes a blunder when left in charge of the office. |
October 1, 1996 |
|
| 4 |
Pride and Prejudice |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Brian Buckner, Sebastian Jones |
During a television interview, Mike makes an insensitive comment about his working relationship with Ashley. Carter goes over Mike's head and encourages the Mayor to support a controversial policy on AIDS. A reporter (Gretchen Mol) is attracted to James. |
October 8, 1996 |
|
| 5 |
The Rivals |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Amy Cohen, Michelle Nader |
The Mayor feels responsible for the death of his predecessor. Mike and Ashley try to avoid their new neighbors. |
October 15, 1996 |
|
| 6 |
A Star is Born |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Kirk J. Rudell |
The Mayor's low approval ratings sink even lower when the Winston Administration supports a nominee with a checkered past. |
October 22, 1996 |
|
| 7 |
Grand Illusion |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Amy Cohen, Michelle Nader |
Carter stages a mock wedding in protest of the Mayor's stance against same-sex marriage. Ashley is unhappy with the quality of her assignments at her new job. |
October 29, 1996 |
|
| 8 |
The High and the Mighty |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Kirk J. Rudell |
Mike asks a powerful land developer (George Wendt) for a favor. As the Winston Administration celebrates a reduction in crime rates, Paul gets mugged. |
November 12, 1996 |
|
| 9 |
Meet Tommy Dugan |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Tim Hobert |
A janitor at a local public school (Woody Harrelson) surprises the staff by winning the "New York City Mayor for a Day" contest. The Mayor tries to conform his image to the guidelines of a focus group. |
November 19, 1996 |
|
| 10 |
The Competition |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Sarah Dunn |
The Mayor's staff compete with the City Council as to who can serve the most homeless on Thanksgiving. James tries to break up with his high school sweatheart (Jennifer Garner) who is visiting from Wisconsin. (Guest Stars: Stephen Colbert as Frank, and former mayor Ed Koch as a city councilman.) |
November 26, 1996 |
|
| 11 |
Dog Day Afternoon |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Jeff Lowell |
Paul and Carter lose the body of a beloved police dog on its way to burial. Mike buys an air hockey table to help the staff relax. |
December 10, 1996 |
|
| 12 |
Criss Cross |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Brian Buckner, Sebastian Jones |
When the Mayor comes down with a cold, Mike must debate Ashley on a political talk show (last appearance of Ashley). |
December 17, 1996 |
|
| 13 |
Bye Bye Love |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Kirk J. Rudell, Bill Lawrence |
Mike breaks up with Ashley. Paul sets a New Year's resolution to be less gullible. |
January 7, 1997 |
|
| 14 |
Starting Over |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Jeff Lowell |
Michael is uncomfortable with his newly single status. Paul meets the president of his fan club, Claudia Sacks, who has arranged the "group's" first meeting. Carter and Stuart have a little too much to drink and end up in an uneasy situation.
(First appearance: Claudia (Faith Prince)) |
January 14, 1997 |
|
| 15 |
Gabby's Song |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Jeff Lowell, Tim Hobert |
Mike's attempts to woo a new member of the City Council (Constance Marie) is thwarted when she decides to play dirty. Claudia tries to convince Paul to have sex. |
January 28, 1997 |
|
| 16 |
Kiss Me, Stupid |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Sarah Dunn |
Carter is reunited with his ex Spence (Luke Perry), who is engaged to a woman. Mike goes on a disastrous first date with Nikki's friend. |
February 11, 1997 |
|
| 17 |
An Affair to Remember |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Michelle Nader, Amy Cohen |
As the Mayor's 50th birthday approaches, the media react to rumors he is having an affair. James edits the Mayor's birthday video which features cameos by Rosie O'Donnell, Patrick Ewing, David Letterman, Larry King, the cast of Rent, and George Stephanopoulos; whom nobody believes that Paul is good friends with. |
February 18, 1997 |
|
| 18 |
Snowbound |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Brian Buckner, Sebastian Jones |
A massive blizzard hits New York, when Mike is approached by a high school crush for a one-night stand. Carter and Stuart become trapped in the boiler room. Paul makes a remark about the Mayor while on the radio that lands him in hot water. Amanda Peet guest stars. |
February 25, 1997 |
|
| 19 |
Striptease |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Jeff Lowell, Tim Hobert |
Mike dates a law student who happens to work part-time as a stripper. Nikki uses the advice of a guy she is dating to freak out Stuart. |
March 4, 1997 |
|
| 20 |
Deaf Becomes Her |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Kirk J. Rudell, Sarah Dunn |
When an office temp's attempt at sign language ends up offending the deaf community, a leading advocate (Marlee Matlin) for deaf rights threatens to demonstrate on City Hall. Claudia moves in with Paul after he suffers a leg injury. |
March 18, 1997 |
|
| 21 |
Hot in the City |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Jay Scherick, David Ronn |
Mike's ex-girlfriend Carrie (Daphne Zuniga) desperately wants to bear his child, so she steals his sperm. Another gaffe by the Mayor threatens to break up the reunion of a popular rock band. |
April 1, 1997 |
|
| 22 |
Bone Free |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Michelle Nader, Amy Cohen |
Rumors about the Mayor's health abound, when he refuses to stand during a press conference. The guys don't approve of Nikki's freeloading screenwriter boyfriend. |
April 29, 1997 |
|
| 23 |
The Mayor Who Came to Dinner |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Tim Hobert, Kirk J. Rudell |
Mike must deal with a new roommate: The Mayor. Isaac Mizrahi helps the Mayor with a charity fashion show, and gives Nikki the chance of a lifetime. |
May 6, 1997 |
|
| 24 |
Mayor Over Miami |
Lee Shallat-Chemel |
Brian Buckner, Sebastian Jones |
The Mayor deals with his recent separation by taking Paul on a trip to Miami, leaving Mike to cover for him at City Hall. |
May 13, 1997 |
|
| # |
Episode Title |
Director |
Writer(s) |
Overview |
Original airdate |
| 1 |
Paul Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest |
Andy Cadiff |
Bill Lawrence |
Mike is attracted to his opponent, Mayor's wife's divorce lawyer, Laurie Parres (Paula Marshall). The press thinks that Paul has suffered a nervous breakdown, so Michael hires a psychiatrist to pronounce Paul sane, but Dr. Benjamin unexpectedly commits Paul to an institution. |
September 24, 1997 |
|
| 2 |
Porn in the U.S.A. |
Andy Cadiff |
Jeff Lowell |
After announcing a crackdown on public access pornography, the Mayor is caught on tape, entering an x-rated video store. |
October 1, 1997 |
|
| 3 |
Wonder Woman |
Andy Cadiff |
Jay Scherick, David Ronn |
Mike and Nikki fight over who can spend time with Laurie. Stuart and James lust after Paul's mom (Raquel Welch). |
October 8, 1997 |
|
| 4 |
The Goodbye Girl |
Andy Cadiff |
Gayle Abrams |
Mike has to make a decision about his relationship with Laurie, after he discovers that she doesn't want a serious commitment. The Mayor falls for a younger woman (Marla Maples). (First Appearance: Stacy (Jennifer Esposito)) |
October 15, 1997 |
|
| 5 |
In the Heat of the Day |
Andy Cadiff |
Stephen Godchaux |
While jogging, Carter is mistaken for a mugger and arrested in Central Park. Paul is afraid he's a racist. |
October 22, 1997 |
|
| 6 |
Radio Daze |
Andy Cadiff |
Kirk J. Rudell |
When a radio shock jock challenges the Mayor to a mock election, Mike becomes determine to win at all costs. (Guest Stars: Regis Philbin and Kathy Lee Gifford) |
October 29, 1997 |
|
| 7 |
The Thirty Year Itch |
Andy Cadiff |
Michelle Nader, Amy Cohen |
Mike goes to the Empire State Building to fulfill a promise made to his high school sweatheart (Tracy Pollan). The Mayor asks Carter to determine if his nephew is gay. |
November 5, 1997 |
|
| 8 |
My Life is a Soap Opera |
Andy Cadiff |
Tom Hertz |
Mike dates a writer for All My Children and sees his personal life being portrayed on film. Stuart uses the rumor that he is gay as a way to get closer to the women at City Hall. |
November 12, 1997 |
|
| 9 |
Family Affair (1) |
Andy Cadiff |
Brian Buckner, Sebastian Jones |
Mike's mother (Meredith Baxter) comes to visit. The Mayor is photographed giving money to a known prostitute. Paul gets sued by the security guard who shot him. |
November 19, 1997 |
|
| 10 |
Family Affair (2) |
Andy Cadiff |
Jeff Lowell, Tom Hertz |
Mike's mother could be the key to clearing the Mayor from claims that he solicited a prostitute. Paul appears on The People's Court to settle his lawsuit. (Guest Stars: Former New York City Mayor, Ed Koch and Alan Dershowitz) |
November 26, 1997 |
|
| 11 |
They Shoot Horses, Don't They? |
Andy Cadiff |
Laurie Parres |
The Mayor's daughter (Alyssa Milano) participates in an animal rights protest to get back at him. Paul arranges to meet his pen pal. |
December 10, 1997 |
|
| 12 |
Miracle Near 34th Street |
Andy Cadiff |
Stephen Godchaux, Gayle Abrams |
The Mayor accidentally tells a little boy that there is no Santa Claus. James receives a care package from his parents. |
December 17, 1997 |
|
| 13 |
Same Time Next Year |
Andy Cadiff |
Jay Scherick, David Ronn |
The staff all have trouble remembering what happened at the Mayor's New Years Eve Party. |
January 7, 1998 |
|
| 14 |
The Paul Lassiter Story |
Andy Cadiff |
Bill Lawrence |
Mike tries to put his life in perspective as he waits for the results of his physical. Paul tries to convince the Mayor to put him in his autobiography. (Guest Star: Donald Trump) |
January 21, 1998 |
|
| 15 |
Gentleman's Agreement |
Andy Cadiff |
Tim Hobert |
The Mayor comes under fire for his membership in a club that doesn't allow women. Mos Def guest stars. |
January 28, 1998 |
|
| 16 |
Deaf Man Walking |
Andy Cadiff |
Jeff Lowell |
The Mayor tries to hide the fact that he's lost his hearing. After helping Stacy move into her own apartment, Stacy's grandmother puts a curse on Mike. |
February 25, 1998 |
|
| 17 |
The Marrying Men (1) |
Andy Cadiff |
Michelle Nader, Amy Cohen |
Paul decides to propose to Claudia. Laurie returns in hopes of restarting her relationship with Mike. |
March 4, 1998 |
|
| 18 |
One Wedding and a Funeral (2) |
Andy Cadiff |
Tom Hertz |
Mike announces that he and Laurie are engaged. Paul gets cold feet about asking Claudia to marry him. |
March 11, 1998 |
|
| 19 |
A River Runs Through Me |
Andy Cadiff |
Laurie Parres |
The staff are required to take drug tests. The Mayor breaks a Native American artifact before it can be donated to a museum. |
March 18, 1998 |
|
| 20 |
The Pope of Gracie Mansion |
Andy Cadiff |
Stephen Godchaux |
After the Pope visits City Hall, the Mayor tries to be more holy and Mike fells guilty for his sinful ways in City Hall. |
April 1, 1998 |
|
| 21 |
Bye, Bye, Birdie |
Andy Cadiff |
Brian Buckner, Sebastian Jones |
The men and women play pranks against each other at Paul and Claudia's bachelor/bachelorette parties. Mike, James, and Carter get trapped in a hardware store when it is robbed. |
April 29, 1998 |
|
| 22 |
The Lady or the Tiger |
Andy Cadiff |
Gayle Abrams, Kirk J. Rudell |
Mike dates an insane magician, and then has trouble ending their relationship. Stuart and Carter open a gay bar. |
May 6, 1998 |
|
| 23 |
Single White Male |
Carl Lauten |
Michael Lisbe, Nathan Reger |
Financial troubles cause Stuart and Carter to become roommates. |
May 6, 1998 |
|
| 24 |
The Paul-Bearer |
Andy Cadiff |
Tim Hobert |
Mike accidentally mixes up the date for Paul's wedding with the date of a city function, causing the chapel to be double booked. Carter has trouble confessing his sexuality to his childhood priest. |
May 20, 1998 |
|
| # |
Episode Title |
Director |
Writer(s) |
Overview |
Original airdate |
| 1 |
Dead Dog Talking |
Andy Cadiff |
Tom Hertz |
City Hall prepares for the mayor's bid for re-election announcement. Carter adopts his family's 19-year-old dog. And, Paul teaches Stacy how to get a sick day without being sick. Conan O'Brien guest stars. |
September 22, 1998 |
|
| 2 |
There's Something About Heidi |
Andy Cadiff |
Amy Cohen, Michelle Nader |
After Mike's picture with model Heidi Klum is in the tabloids, people assume he's dating her. Nikki reveals to Carter that she has a secret crush on Mike. The Mayor can't stop laughing at inappropriate times. |
September 29, 1998 |
|
| 3 |
Gone with the Wind |
Andy Cadiff |
Stephen Godchaux |
Mike must keep his relationship with Heidi Klum a secret. Paul creates an incident involving a fan and ashes. |
October 6, 1998 |
|
| 4 |
The Deer Hunter |
Andy Cadiff |
Brian Buckner, Sebastian Jones |
Mike is handling a political donor in the hope of receiving a donation. Stuart has been named as Stacy's boss for the day. |
October 13, 1998 |
|
| 5 |
It Happened One Night |
Andy Cadiff |
Gayle Abrams |
Mike considers adopting an abandoned baby. |
October 20, 1998 |
|
| 6 |
Three Men and a Little Lady |
Andy Cadiff |
Tim Hobert |
Mike tries to improve the Mayor's macho image. Stuart's girlfriend takes over Carter's apartment. (First appearance: Deidre (Beth Littleford)) |
October 27, 1998 |
|
| 7 |
An Officer and a Gentleman |
Andy Cadiff |
David S. Rosenthal |
Mike's childhood friend returns from a stint in the Navy to reveal he's gay and Mike is jealous when Carter starts dating him. Guest star: Lou Diamond Phillips |
November 3, 1998 |
|
| 8 |
Quest for Fire |
Andy Cadiff |
Jay Scherick, David Ronn |
Mike suggests a dinner date with Nikki's fictitious boyfriend named Arthur. Mike tries to take a vacation, but the Olympic torch-carrier gets lost in New York; and Paul tries to fit in when he moves into Janelle's Harlem neighborhood. |
November 10, 1998 |
|
| 9 |
The Kidney's All Right |
Andy Cadiff |
Bill Callahan, Philip Wen |
The mayor makes a promise to give a child Frankie Muniz his kidney. Guest stars: Jeff Gordon and Jayson Williams. |
November 17, 1998 |
|
| 10 |
Gobble the Wonder Turkey Saves the Day |
Andy Cadiff |
Tom Hertz |
The mayor hosts a televised Thanksgiving dinner. Stacy has a startling moment with Stuart. |
November 24, 1998 |
|
| 11 |
Local Hero |
Andy Cadiff |
Kirk J. Rudell |
Stuart tries to fake an affair with Nikki in order to break up with Deidre. |
December 8, 1998 |
|
| 12 |
Monkey Business |
Andy Cadiff |
Stephen Godchaux |
Mike is challenged by the intelligence of the city zoo's new Chimpanzee |
December 15, 1998 |
|
| 13 |
Taxi Driver |
Andy Cadiff |
Tim Hobert |
Faced with a taxi driver's strike, Mike impersonates a cabbie in order to make a play on Nikki, by driving her boyfriend to the airport |
January 5, 1999 |
|
| 14 |
The Nutty Deputy Mayor |
Andy Cadiff |
Brian Buckner, Sebastian Jones |
Mike agrees to use a fat suit for a day to appease the overweight community. |
January 12, 1999 |
|
| 15 |
Not in the Line of Fire |
Carl Lauten |
Michelle Nader, Amy Cohen |
The mayor doubts his Deputy Mayor's loyalty, when news footage shows Mike fleeing during an assassination attempt. |
January 26, 1999 |
|
| 16 |
Internal Affairs |
Andy Cadiff |
Gayle Abrams |
Nikki is arrested for prostitution during a tryst with Mike. |
February 9, 1999 |
|
| 17 |
Dick Clark's Rockin' Make-Out Party '99 |
Andy Cadiff |
Tom Hertz |
Stuart breaks up with Deidre, who sues him for sexual harassment in revenge. Stacy's aunt (Priscilla Presley) takes a liking to James. |
February 16, 1999 |
|
| 18 |
Back to the Future IV: Judgment Day |
Andy Cadiff |
David S. Rosenthal |
Christopher Lloyd guest-stars as Mike Flaherty's political mentor from years past. Lloyd and Fox make several joking references to the Back to the Future films they starred in. |
February 23, 1999 |
|
| 19 |
Politically Incorrect |
Andy Cadiff |
David Ronn, Jay Scherick |
The Mayor appears on Politically Incorrect and reveals that he is dating his secretary. Carter dates a boxer afraid to come out of the closet. Guest star: Bill Maher |
March 2, 1999 |
|
| 20 |
That's Entertainment |
Andy Cadiff |
Tim Hobert, Gayle Abrams |
Forced to work on Oscar Sunday, the staff have movie themed flashbacks. |
March 16, 1999 |
|
| 21 |
The Last Temptation of Mike |
Andy Cadiff |
J.O.S. Hartung, Clayton Hamilton |
Mike agrees to be Paul and Claudia's sperm donor. The Mayor keeps bothering James while he writes an article for Sassy Magazine. |
April 6, 1999 |
|
| 22 |
Carter & Stuart & Bennett & Deirdre |
Andy Cadiff |
Mike Royce |
Carter and Stuart become friends with each others ex's in order to get back at each other. A temp at City Hall thinks Mike is in love with her. |
April 13, 1999 |
|
| 23 |
The Mayor With Two Brains |
Andy Cadiff |
Stephen Godchaux, Kirk J. Rudell |
When a reporter gives Carter the limelight in an article meant to be about the Deputy Mayor, Mike becomes jealous. |
May 4, 1999 |
|
| 24 |
Wall Street |
Andy Cadiff |
Philip Wen, Bill Callahan |
Mike helps James invest his life savings. The mayor gets his own action figure. Guest star: Jon Stewart |
May 11, 1999 |
|
| 25 |
Klumageddon (1) |
Andy Cadiff |
Kirk J. Rudell |
When The Mayor appoints Heidi Klum to work on an Animal Rights project with Mike, the supermodel tries to rekindle their previous relationship. |
May 18, 1999 |
|
| 26 |
Klumageddon (2) |
Andy Cadiff |
Bill Callahan, Philip Wen |
When Nikki overhears Mike agreeing to dump the Mayor for Janelle, she thinks he's breaking up with her. Stuart gives Carter's dog to Heidi Klum. (Last appearance of Stacy) |
May 25, 1999 |
|
| # |
Episode Title |
Director |
Writer(s) |
Overview |
Original airdate |
| 1 |
Catcher in the Bronx |
Andy Cadiff |
Tom Hertz |
Mike tries to remember what happened between him and Heidi Klum the night before. Mike also has to find a Senate campaign manager for the mayor. Guest stars: James Carville, Roger Clemens (First appearance: Caitlin Moore (Heather Locklear)) |
September 21, 1999 |
|
| 2 |
James and the Giant Speech |
Andy Cadiff |
Stephen Godchaux |
Caitlin makes her presence known around City Hall by firing James as the speech writer and taking over Paul's office. The Mayor cheats at golf. Guest star: Nipsey Russell |
September 28, 1999 |
|
| 3 |
All the Mayor's Men |
Andy Cadiff |
Jon Pollack |
Mike plans a break-in of the Mayor's office in order to find out what dirt Caitlin has on him. |
October 5, 1999 |
|
| 4 |
These Shoes Were Made for Cheatin' |
Andy Cadiff |
Tad Quill |
Mike tricks Nikki into a couples therapy session. Stuart wants to join a gay gym. |
October 12, 1999 |
|
| 5 |
Rebel Without a Chair |
Andy Cadiff |
Jay Scherick, David Ronn |
After being nominated for "Activist of the Year", Carter begins to feel unworthy of the award. Mike interrupts an interview, that results in a homosexual newspaper printing that he and the Mayor are an item. |
October 19, 1999 |
|
| 6 |
The Mayor May Not |
Andy Cadiff |
Tom Hertz |
Bickering between Mike and Caitlin causes the Mayor to drop out of the Senate race. Paul and James wage a practical joke war against Stuart. Guest star: Alfonse Marcello D'Amato. |
November 2, 1999 |
|
| 7 |
The Great Debate |
Andy Cadiff |
Jill Cargerman |
After Caitlin bankrupts the Mayors Senate campaign, Mike woos a socialite (Amy Irving) to help raise funds. Nikki falls for an intern. |
November 9, 1999 |
|
| 8 |
How to Bury a Millionaire |
Andy Cadiff |
Christopher Case |
During a rescue attempt of a baby trapped in a well, the Mayor falls down a rescue shaft. Paul appears on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?. Guest star: Regis Philbin |
November 16, 1999 |
|
| 9 |
The Thanksgiving Show |
Andy Cadiff |
Richard Day |
Paul thinks Caitlin is hitting on him. To not confuse a senator, Mike and Caitlin pretend that they are a couple and must share a room. Stuart and Deidre are back together. |
November 23, 1999 |
|
| 10 |
The Doorman Always Rings Twice |
Andy Cadiff |
Tim Hobert |
With the Mayor out of town campaigning, Mike becomes the interim mayor and sets off a citywide doorman strike. Paul opens a politically themed restaurant. |
November 30, 1999 |
|
| 11 |
Mustang Mikey |
Carl Lauten |
Jay Scherick, David Ronn |
Mike and Caitlin go for a joyride in the Mayor's classic 1966 Ford Mustang and accidentally get it towed. James regains his speech writing duties and hires Deirdre to be Mike's new secretary. |
December 7, 1999 |
|
| 12 |
My Dinner with Caitlin (a.k.a. Christmas 1999) |
Andy Cadiff |
Bill Callahan, Philip Wen |
Mike throws a Christmas party and invites Caitlin, then cancels the party so he can be alone with her. When she shows up with her own date, Mike has to get some guests. |
December 21, 1999 |
|
| 13 |
A Tale of Two Sisters |
Andy Cadiff |
Jon Pollack |
Challenged to find a way to get over his crush on Caitlin, Mike makes a date with another woman: Caitlin's sister (Christine Taylor) |
January 12, 2000 |
|
| 14 |
Casino |
Andy Cadiff |
Tim Hobert |
After a raffle snafu, Mike must come up with $500,000, so he takes Paul to Atlantic City to count cards. Stuart and Carter blackmail Caitlin. |
February 2, 2000 |
|
| 15 |
The Marry Caitlin Moore Show |
John Fortenberry |
Tad Quill |
Mike needs to hire a director to film the Mayor's newest Senate commercial and ends up hiring Caitlin's ex-husband. Guest stars: Star Jones, Joy Behar, Lisa Ling, & Meredith Vieira |
February 9, 2000 |
|
| 16 |
Suffragette City |
Andy Cadiff |
Tom Hertz |
Caitlin's rekindled relationship with her ex-husband drives Mike crazy. Carter enlists Stuart to help him bust a discriminating landlord by posing as a couple. |
February 16, 2000 |
|
| 17 |
Mike's Best Friend's Boyfriend |
Andy Cadiff |
Dawn Urbont |
Mike thinks Carter's boyfriend is hitting on him. |
February 23, 2000 |
|
| 18 |
The Pig Whisperer |
Andy Cadiff |
Jay Scherick, David Ronn |
Mike enlists James' help to evict a squatting Tomato farmer, by forcing him to enter a pig contest. |
March 8, 2000 |
|
| 19 |
Uneasy Rider |
Andy Cadiff |
Tim Hobert, Jon Pollack |
The Mayor's father dies and Mike urges him to get in touch with his feelings. James thinks that Caitlin is attracted to him. Carter is upset that the office staff are using Paul's "Magic 8 Ball" instead of him for advice. |
March 22, 2000 |
|
| 20 |
About Last Night |
David S. Rosenthal |
Tad Quill |
Preparing for a visit by the President, members of the staff deemed "Non-vital personnel" drown their sorrows at the local bar. Paul schemes to get his picture taken with the President. |
April 19, 2000 |
|
| 21 |
Don't Get on the Bus |
Andy Cadiff |
Philip Wen, Bill Callahan |
Upon learning that Caitlin and her ex are getting re-married, Mike hits him with the Mayor's tour bus. Paul and James try to look like Carter in attempt to be treated smarter around the office. |
April 26, 2000 |
|
| 22 |
Airplane! |
Andy Cadiff |
Jay Scherick, David Ronn |
Mike tries to win over Caitlin during a flight to San Francisco. The Mayor tries to change a light bulb in his office. Guest star: Patrick Ewing. |
May 3, 2000 |
|
| 23 |
An American Deputy Mayor in Paris |
Andy Cadiff |
Philip Wen, Bill Callahan |
Mike flies to Paris to stop Caitlin from getting re-married. |
May 10, 2000 |
|
| 24 |
The Commitments |
Andy Cadiff |
Jill Cargerman |
To show Caitlin that their relationship is more than physical, Mike abstains from sex for a week. |
May 17, 2000 |
|
| 25 |
Goodbye (1) |
Andy Cadiff |
Sarah Dunn |
City Hall is threatened by a reporter to reveal that the Mayor has mob connections. Guest star: Michael Gross as Mike's therapist. |
May 24, 2000 |
|
| 26 |
Goodbye (2) |
Andy Cadiff |
Bill Lawrence |
Mike fires himself to save everybody else. Mike says goodbye to the mayor and the staff and walks out of City Hall for the last time until a brief return in season 6. (Last appearances of James, Nikki, and Janelle) |
May 24, 2000 |
|
| # |
Episode Title |
Director |
Writer(s) |
Overview |
Original airdate |
| 1 |
Hello Charlie |
Ted Wass |
Tom Hertz |
Charlie Crawford spends his first day in office as New York City's Deputy Mayor. The Mayor has trouble adjusting to office life without Mike. (First appearance of Charlie Crawford (Charlie Sheen)). |
October 18, 2000 |
|
| 2 |
Smile |
Ted Wass |
Chris Henchy |
The mayor's dentist dies in the middle of a procedure. Carter and Stuart deal with a bike messenger who keeps stealing their parking spot |
October 25, 2000 |
|
| 3 |
The Spanish Prisoner |
Ted Wass |
Bill Callahan, Phillip Wen |
The media finds out that Charlie is taking a Spanish course, thanks to Caitlin's meddling. Meanwhile Paul and the mayor decide that the office needs some more water cooler-talk. (First appearance of Angie) |
November 1, 2000 |
|
| 4 |
The Bone Collectors |
Ted Wass |
Jon Pollack, Tim Hobert |
Stuart and Paul are put in charge of an archaeological dig. The mayor takes a much needed vacation. |
November 8, 2000 |
|
| 5 |
Blind Faith |
Ted Wass |
Michelle Nader |
Charlie's advice prompts Claudia to become a nun. |
November 15, 2000 |
|
| 6 |
Balloons over Broadway |
Ted Wass |
Tad Quill |
Paul convinces his mother that he is dating Caitlin, so she won't be upset that Claudia left him. Charlie tries to prove to Caitlin that his girlfriend isn't dumb. A quickly made balloon for the Thanksgiving parade goes awry in New York. |
November 22, 2000 |
|
| 7 |
Lost and Found |
Ted Wass |
Bonnie Schneider, Hadley Davis |
Caitlin and Charlie fight for the attention of Caitlin's new friend. Carter, Stuart and Paul compete for a trip to New Orleans with the mayor. |
November 29, 2000 |
|
| 8 |
All the Wrong Moves |
Ted Wass |
Stacy Traub |
An overworked Charlie causes problems after beating the mayor at racquetball. Paul's annual request for a raise is approved by the mayor after his loss of self esteem. Stuart hires an actor to go out with Carter. |
December 6, 2000 |
|
| 9 |
The Burgers of Wrath |
Ted Wass |
Mark Torgove, Paul A. Kaplan |
Carter's behavior at a press conference results in the Mayor working a shift at a fast food restaurant. Stuart tries to impress the new secretary by posing as a biker. |
December 13, 2000 |
|
| 10 |
Toy Story |
Ted Wass |
Chris Henchy |
Paul struggles to find the best joke for the mayor's Christmas card. Carter convinces Caitlin to volunteer with him at a retirement community. The mayor's attempt to be more involved in the office process goes awry. |
December 20, 2000 |
|
| 11 |
The Perfect Dorm |
Ted Wass |
Tim Hobert, Jon Pollack |
Paul has to find a new place to stay after his ex-wife kicks him out, so he moves into a dorm. |
January 10, 2001 |
|
| 12 |
Hey Judith |
Ted Wass |
Paul A. Kaplan, Mark Torgove |
The Mayor's new girlfriend clashes with Charlie over who should write an upcoming speech. Stuart is selected by ESPN to win a million dollars in a hockey contest. Guest star: Barry Melrose. |
January 17, 2001 |
|
| 13 |
The Gambler |
Ted Wass |
Philip Wen, Bill Callahan |
The guys invite Charlie to play poker. Caitlin helps the Mayor become more self sufficient. |
January 24, 2001 |
|
| 14 |
In the Company of Dudes |
Ted Wass |
Michelle Nader |
When the Mayor is named in a lawsuit, Charlie hires an old college buddy (Jason Priestley) to defend him. Paul and Stuart compete to win the affections of a new worker. |
February 7, 2001 |
|
| 15 |
The Image Maker |
Ted Wass |
Bill Callahan, Philip Wen |
Caitlin hires an image consultant to make over the Mayor. A woman from Stuart's past comes back to haunt him. Guest star: Rosie O'Donnell |
February 14, 2001 |
|
| 16 |
Trainstopping |
Ted Wass |
Jon Pollack, Tim Hobert |
When the Mayor takes a ride on the NYC Subway to prove its safety and efficiency, it breaks down, making Charlie late for an important date. |
February 21, 2001 |
|
| 17 |
Rain on My Charades |
Ted Wass |
Peter Schneider |
Charlie realizes that he is ready for a committed relationship. |
February 28, 2001 |
|
| 18 |
You've Got Male |
Ted Wass |
Mark Torgove, Paul A. Kaplan |
Caitlin and Charlie compete for an important account. The Mayor is criticized for not being more sensitive to women's issues. |
April 25, 2001 |
|
| 19 |
Minor League |
Ted Wass |
Philip Wen, Bill Callahan |
Charlie tries out for a minor league team. The Mayor receives a death threat in the mail from an unlikely source. (Special guest voice: Bob Costas) |
May 2, 2001 |
|
| 20 |
Science Friction |
Ted Wass |
Reese Bryant |
The media's reaction to the Mayor's ex-wife's tell-all book leads to humiliation and a boycott of the press. Caitlin dates a philanthropist (Scott Wolf) who's really into science fiction. Guest star: Roy Firestone. |
May 9, 2001 |
|
| 21 |
Brotherly Love |
Ted Wass |
Bonnie Schneider, Hadley Davis |
Charlie attempts to interfere with Caitlin and Tim's burgeoning relationship. Meanwhile, Carter hires his sister to work at City Hall and will go to any length to avoid people discovering their connection. |
May 16, 2001 |
|
| 22 |
A Shot in the Dark (1) |
Ted Wass |
Paul A. Kaplan, Mark Torgove |
While on a police drive along, Charlie is shot. Carter and Stuart's friendship is seen in a different light. |
May 23, 2001 |
|
| 23 |
A Shot in the Dark (2) |
Ted Wass |
Tim Hobert, Jon Pollack |
Charlie dates a mentally unstable woman (Vanessa Marcil) to save face in front of Caitlin and her new boyfriend. |
May 23, 2001 |
|
| # |
Episode Title |
Director |
Writer(s) |
Overview |
Original airdate |
| 1 |
The Arrival |
Ted Wass |
Tom Hertz |
The mayor begins a relationship with a judge (Farrah Fawcett) whose divorce is not finalized. Charlie's confronts his feelings for Caitlin, but must take a backseat to an old flame who returns (Michael J. Fox). |
September 25, 2001 |
|
| 2 |
A Tree Falls in Manhattan |
Ted Wass |
Jon Pollack |
Wanting to impress his new girlfriend, the Mayor accidentally chops down a historic landmark. Charlie becomes involved with a woman (Denise Richards) who is a rival opponent's Campaign Manager. (First Appearance: Tom Amandes as Wheeler) |
September 25, 2001 |
|
| 3 |
Wife with Mikey |
Ted Wass |
Tim Hobert |
Mike (Michael J. Fox) returns to City Hall to work on the Mayor's re-election campaign and to break-up with his fianceé(Olivia D'Abo). |
October 2, 2001 |
|
| 4 |
The Apartment |
Ted Wass |
Michelle Nader |
As polls show that the public disapproves of the Mayor's relationship with a married woman, Charlie finds his apartment being used as a secret hideaway. Caitlin asks Carter to go to a baby shower with her |
October 9, 2001 |
|
| 5 |
Yet Another Stakeout |
Ted Wass |
Chris Henchy |
Wheeler begins a smear campaign on the Mayor. Stuart begins a relationship with the love of his life (Lori Loughlin), but objects to her being a surrogate for Carter. |
October 16, 2001 |
|
| 6 |
Yeah Baby! |
Ted Wass |
Bill Callahan & Philip Wen |
Carter's surrogate announces that she's pregnant and that the baby might be Stuarts. The Mayor hires a psychic political advisor (Queen Latifah). |
October 23, 2001 |
|
| 7 |
Sleeping with the Enemy |
Ted Wass |
Mark Torgrove & Paul A. Kaplan |
Charlie's continued relationship with Wheeler's campaign manager results in the Mayor having to reveal a secret to the press. Paul asks Caitlin to help him woo a member of the Winston campaign. |
November 6, 2001 |
|
| 8 |
She's Gotta Habit |
Ted Wass |
Stacy Traub |
After Jennifer (Denise Richards) admits to having a lesbian affair, Charlie fears she's falling for Caitlin. Paul arranges for the Mayor's girlfriend to arbitrate his divorce settlement |
November 6, 2001 |
|
| 9 |
The Wedding Scammer |
Ted Wass |
Bonnie Schneider & Hadley Davis |
Caitlin's mother (Michelle Phillips) arrives in New York for a family wedding. Paul and Stuart go to a Victoria's Secret fashion show. (Guest Star: Rhea Durham) |
November 13, 2001 |
|
| 10 |
Fight Flub |
Ted Wass |
Mark Torgrove & Paul A. Kaplan |
After Wheeler suffers a heart attack, his wife (Elizabeth Mitchell) runs for mayor in his place. |
November 20, 2001 |
|
| 11 |
Chinatown |
Ted Wass |
Philip Wen & Bill Callahan |
On Election Day, the Mayor proposes to Claire and Charlie and Jennifer make a decision on the future of their relationship. |
November 27, 2001 |
|
| 12 |
An Office and a Gentleman |
Ted Wass |
Tim Hobert |
Charlie evaluates the staff to determine who is more worthy of a new office. Caitlin agrees to go on a date with a City Hall Santa who refuses to remove his costume. |
December 11, 2001 |
|
| 13 |
O Mother, Where Art Thou? |
Ted Wass |
Jon Pollack |
Carter sets the Mayor up with a woman (Judith Light) who has a very personal history with the Winston Family. Caitlin and Charlie date a father and his daughter and end up in a family therapy session with them.(First Appearance: Tom (Perry King)). |
January 8, 2002 |
|
| 14 |
Rags to Riches |
Ted Wass |
Mark Torgrove & Paul A. Kaplan |
Caitlin invites Charlie's father (Martin Sheen) to attend a surprise birthday dinner. Paul tries to help Carter mourn the death of Rags. |
March 5, 2002 |
|
| 15 |
Sex, Lies and Video Date |
Ted Wass |
Michelle Nader |
The Mayor warns Charlie not to pursue his niece (Amy Jo Johnson). Paul appears on Blind Date. Guest Star: Roger Lodge. |
March 12, 2002 |
|
| 16 |
Eyes Wide Open |
Ted Wass |
Chris Henchy |
Called away to an important meeting, Carter asks Charlie to watch over a sixteen year-old boy (John Francis Daley) he is mentoring. The Mayor has trouble sleeping. |
March 19, 2002 |
|
| 17 |
Age Against the Machine |
Ted Wass |
Hugh Webber |
Charlie starts to feel his age after nights of endless partying with a younger girl and her friends. Carter asks Stuart to be his wingman at a Gay fundraiser. |
March 26, 2002 |
|
| 18 |
An Affair Not to Remember |
Ted Wass |
Bill Callahan & Philip Wen |
While the Mayor acts as a Celebrity bartender, Caitlin reflects on her first love and realizes Charlie is to blame for losing him. |
April 9, 2002 |
|
| 19 |
Let's Give Them Something to Talk About |
Ted Wass |
Stacy Traub |
Charlie tries to fulfill Caitlin's fantasies. Paul appears on a controversial radio talk show. (Guest Star: Larry Elder) |
April 16, 2002 |
|
| 20 |
Look Who's Not Talking |
Ted Wass |
Hadley Davis & Bonnie Schneider |
Caitlin ends her relationship with Tom and tells Charlie she's interested in dating him. When they go out on their first date, things are awkward... until they end up in bed together, that is. But are they ready for a real relationship? Meanwhile, the Mayor hires a temp, Pete, to fill in for Stuart while he's out, but Paul and Carter see him as a threat. |
April 23, 2002 |
|
| 21 |
A Tale of Four Cities |
Ted Wass |
Reese Bryant |
Unhappy with how Charlie interacts with an old flame, Caitlin tries to make Charlie jealious by showing interest in a reporter. The Mayors of New York and Los Angeles (Robert Hays) compete to make Paris their sister city. |
April 30, 2002 |
|
| 22 |
A Friend in Need |
Ted Wass |
Tom Hertz & Bill Lawrence |
Surveillance footage shows Charlie and Caitlin having sex in the Mayor's office. Carter finally gets a foster child, that won't stop crying unless it's held by Paul. |
April 30, 2002 |
|
