Tread Perilously
Tread Perilously is a weekly “worst of TV” podcast. Watching the worst episodes of popular shows, hosts Erik Amaya and Justin Robinson attempt to determine if they would continue to watch the series based on its most off-key moments. TV shows regularly tread upon include Doctor Who, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, and 7th Heaven. From family dramas to well-loved but brief sci-fi series, Tread Perilously examines how a show sustains itself even in its worst moments.
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Tread Perilously -- The Dresden Files: Walls
05/14/2026
Tread Perilously -- The Dresden Files: Walls
Tread Perilously's fantasy month continues with an episode of The Dresden Files called "Walls." When Harry Dresden witnesses the death of a potential client, he uncovers a trio of frat brothers who have learned a way to do short-range teleportation via a magic relic. They immediately use it to commit crimes. But considering the killer Harry glimpsed may in fact be the spirit contained in the object, are the three bros as much victims as perpetrators? Will Harry stop them in time to save their lives or will a long-dead thief steal it all away? Finally, it has happened: Erik and Justin discuss The Dresden Files. The pair mention the pedigree of the show and their admiration for episode writers Robert Hewitt Wolfe and Hans Beimler. They also geek about co-star Terrance Mann. Justin reveals a shocking fact about his connection to the series. A surprising amount of books are recommended. The Chicago part of Toronto never leads to a Geography Corner, but it does mean pizza. Erik gives high marks to Valerie Cruz's amazing hair in the episode. Star Paul Blackthorne also proves to be a great lead. A surprise casting idea for Darkseid emerges. The invention of urban fantasy becomes a key topic and the cast of The Fantastic Four: First Steps gets appraised.
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Tead Perilously -- Beastmaster: Slayer's Return
05/07/2026
Tead Perilously -- Beastmaster: Slayer's Return
Tread Perilously dedicates itself to a month of fantasy shows starting with an episode of Beastmaster called "Slayer's Return." After years of wandering, Zuraya seems to have it all worked out. Rolan, the king of a prosperous city state, has lifted her curse of loneliness and they will be married in a few short days. Nevertheless, her wolf, Slayer, seems to hate Rolan. Does he understand something Zuraya is missing? Meanwhile, Dar the Beastmaster continues the search for his long-lost family, all of whom his father turned into animals for their protection. Will these two stories collide when Slayer gets shot with a crossbow bolt? Well, they have to -- it's Beastmaster! Erik recalls the days when HBO stood for "Hey, Beastmaster's On!" Justin calls sword-and-sorcery his favorite subgenre. The lack of male gaze in the show proves welcome even as a surprise guest star appears. The pair try to determine the premise of the show based on their recollections of the original Beastmaster film. Werner Herzog appears with a surprising Disney recommendation. Erik compares star Daniel Goddard to a surprising number of actors, though Goddard proves capable in the role. Opinions about the upcoming Masters of the Universe film are shared. Late 1900s/early 2000s fashions make their way into the Hyborean-esque world of Beastmaster and Slayer proves to be the goodest of boys.
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Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: Asylum Of The Daleks
04/30/2026
Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: Asylum Of The Daleks
Tread Perilously's annual Doctor Who month concludes with "Asylum of the Daleks". The Ponds' break-up is interrupted when the Daleks abduct them to aid The Doctor in entering an asylum where the most hateful and insane Daleks are kept. The mission: shut down the defense field and determine the nature of the woman holding her own against the maddest of the mad. Once in the asylum, the lone human survivor of a crashed starliner makes contact with The Doctor while baking souffles. Is she the one making the Daleks anxious? And why does she seem so familiar? Is the beginning of an impossible (and long) story? Justin immediately gets lost in the plot, but Erik suggests that's a fault of the episode. The Ponds' divorce, for example, is such a new idea that it needed to be set up in webisdoes instead of the previous season. A Cyclops discussion breaks out which leads to Justin recommending a J. Michael Straczynski Amazing Spider-Man story. Erik admits he really likes Oswin -- something that matters if you know who she really turns out to be. It naturally leads to a discussion of writer Steven Moffatt and his storytelling preoccupations. Justin once again supports Topher Grace as Peter Parker and Erik tries to recall how much Rory remembers about his 2,000 years as an Auton.
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Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: The Aztecs
04/23/2026
Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: The Aztecs
Tread Perilously's Doctor Who month continues with a First Doctor adventure called "The Aztecs." When the TARDIS lands in an Aztec temple circa 1450, Barbara is immediately mistaken for the reincarnation of a priest called Yetaxa. The Doctor, Susan, and Ian become known to the locals as Barbara's followers. But the high priest of sacrifice, Tlotoxl, sees through the time traveler's ruse and vows to destroy them. To do this, he pits Ian against Ixta -- the chosen warrior to lead their armies -- and continually tests Barbara's seeming divinity. And once Susan speaks out against human sacrifice and refuses to marry "the perfect victim," he has all the ammo he needs. The Doctor, meanwhile, gets engaged to a local woman named Cameca. No, really! Erik and Justin put on their anthropology hats to discuss the depiction of the Aztec culture, Cortez being the ultimate spanner in Barbara's plan, and the right way to do tourism in Mesoamerican ruins. Apocalypto becomes unavoidable. Erik discovers a connection between Cortez and hot sauce. Guest actors Keith Pyott and John Ringham get high marks as Autloc and Tlotoxl, respectively. Ian Cullen's Ixta also proves to be more layered than one might expect. Justin presents a pronunciation note on Aztec names. The nature of obsidian blades is explored and Justin doubts the existence of The Rose Detective.
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Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: Lux
04/16/2026
Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: Lux
Tread Perilously's Doctor Who month continues with a recent episode: "Lux." When The Doctor and Belinda end up in Miami, 1952, they encounter racist policies and a seemingly haunted movie theater with a reclusive caretaker. Once inside, though, it becomes clear what is actually haunting the venue -- a living cartoon called Lux. Sure, he might resemble Mr. Ring-a-Ding, but he has his own aims. Will The Doctor suss out the truth or will he be stuck in an animated Doctor Who forever. And will he ever be able to get Belinda home? For various reasons, Belinda is renamed "Belinder" and Justin is happy to see his favorite revolutionary playing the part. Erik forgets if this is the first or second proper Fifteenth Doctor adventure for Justin. The persistent rumors of on-set troubles during the making of recent Who are outlined. Ncuti Gatwa's dedication to the part on camera is a plus, though. Guest star Alan Cumming also gets his flowers, as does Linus Roache in a surprising role. Accents become an important part of the conversation with contributions from Charlie Cox. Erik continues to think of Paul McCrane as "prominent forehead guy." Justin disagrees with The Doctor's belief that he is Velma and a gaggle of fans agree "Blink" is still the best adventure.
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Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: Fugitive Of The Judoon
04/09/2026
Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: Fugitive Of The Judoon
Tread Perilously's annual Doctor Who month continues with "Fugitive of the Judoon." Gloucester resident Ruth Clayton is well-liked by locals, but her attempts to sell visitors on a guided tour is often met with shrugs. She's okay with it, though, as she's happily married and celebrating her 44th birthday. But when a troop of Judoon put Gloucester in a suspension field, The Doctor arrives to learn why they are so interested in Ruth and her husband. Is it possible she is more than just another tour guide? Meanwhile, Yaz, Graham and Ryan meet Captain Jack Harkness. It goes as well as you think. Justin finally meets the Fugitive Doctor! He also finds more reasons to like Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor. Tosin Cole finally makes an impression as Ryan, while Mandip Gill remains solid as Yaz and Bradley Walsh excels as Graham. The local baker, though, proves to have too much character and John Barrowman's return as Captain Jack leads down a valley of disclaimers. Any photo of someone on a phone proves to be immediately suspicious. Erik finds legitimate reason to praise co-writer Chris Chibnall. Justin recognizes a guest actor from The Umbrella Academy. The pair continue to make suggestions for the Sixteenth Doctor and Justin, at long last, understands what it means to be a Doctor Who fan.
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Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: The Visitation
04/02/2026
Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: The Visitation
Tread Perilously begins its annual Doctor Who month with a Fifth Doctor tale called "The Visitation." The Doctor manages to get Tegan to Heathrow Airport, but 300 years too early. Taking a look around, they find the nearby village is caught in the grips of a plague outbreak. But does the mysterious illness have anything to do with a meteor storm actor/highwayman Richard Mace saw a few days previously? Complicating matters is a seemingly abandoned manor house, an android disguised as Death, and a trio of aliens looking both to escape Earth and subdue it with advanced biological weapons. Erik and Justin continue their backwards journey through season 19 of classic Doctor Who. They enjoy the story's unusual cold open, going into detail about the sequence. Richard Mace (played by Michael Robbins) easily becomes the MVP. Nyssa also acquits herself well for once. Adric, meanwhile, seems to sense how little anyone wants him there. Mrs. J continues to be awesome. The Great Fire of London becomes a key topic. Flintlocks are also examined. Erik relates some tales from the episode's commentary track with Davison, the main cast, and director Peter Moffatt. Justin understands the director's bafflement about the story. The pair try to determine why boy genius characters rarely work and Tegan's hairdo becomes a point of conversation.
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Tread Perilously -- V The Series: War Of Illusions
03/26/2026
Tread Perilously -- V The Series: War Of Illusions
Tread Perilously rounds out '80s flashback month with the lowest rated episode of V: The Series -- "War of Illusions." Just as Diana nears completion on her battlesphere -- a device certain to end the Resistance -- Mike Donovan gets word of an impending Visitor invasion and must find a former CalTech professor to crack the code of the alien technology. The professor, meanwhile, has a son who is much better at hacking into the Visitors' network. Will they team up with Donovan? Will Diana's new boy toy round up all the Resistance fighters in Highland Park? And will Dr. Julie Parrish make any sort of appearance at all? Erik immediately declares Diana -- and actor Jane Badler -- a murder brunette. The Ashmore Alert fires a false alarm. Justin missed the battlesphere prop and is amused to discover a Spencer's Gift classic is used to represent the tech. The pair praise guest actor Conrad Janis, a mainstay of '80s TV even if you don't know his name. They also discuss their history with V. The shaky metaphor of the series leads to some mixed messages. More Highlander remake discussion occurs. A wild Robert Englund appears! Justin envisions actor Judson Scott as the evil Automan and Kevin Mitnick seemingly enters the chat.
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Tread Perilously -- Matt Houston: Marlyn
03/19/2026
Tread Perilously -- Matt Houston: Marlyn
Tread Perilously continues its examination of 1980s TV with an episode of Matt Houston called "Marilyn." When Matt gets a panicked phone call from one of his employees, he soon discovers the man has been shot and hears his dying request: "Save Marilyn." This piques the private investigator/oil man's interest and he seeks out the missing woman. Just one problem: the employee did not have a Marilyn in his life. Nonetheless, the case leads Matt to some seemingly Irish gangsters and a woman made up to look like Marilyn Monroe. Is it all connected? And will "Too Mean" Malone get to cook a steak to his liking? Erik and Justin immediately praise "Too Mean". Their summation of Matt -- and star Lee Horsley -- is a different matter altogether. Erik reveals whether or not he watched Matt Houston as a child. The series' premise is discussed with comparisons to both Iron Man and Moon Knight. The pair finally see a real "angry lieutenant" scene. Geography Corner manages to cross the Southland with stops in Downtown LA and Redondo Beach. It leads to memories of San Diego's Horton Plaza. Hired goons become surprisingly important. Erik struggles not to call a character "Jim Kirk" and Buick becomes the key vehicle manufacturer for the series.
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Tread Perilously -- Falcon Crest: The Price Of Freedom
03/12/2026
Tread Perilously -- Falcon Crest: The Price Of Freedom
Tread Perilously's '80s flashback month continues with, at long last, an episode of Falcon Crest called "The Price of Freedom." It takes Richard Channing just a few days in prison to realize he needs out -- and he's prepared to sell out business rival Michael Sharpe to do it. Meanwhile at the winery, Angela Channing continues to plan for her Italian getaway, but still aims to break up her grandson Lance's marriage to Pilar. Will either person fall for the bait? And while Maggie tries to get on with her life, a surprise gift from Richard may change her destiny forever. After several thwarted attempts, Justin finally sees an episode of Falcon Crest. Although, Erik suggests the episode is an example of the Prime Time Soap in decline. Justin makes an immediate connection between Angela Channing and Lucille Bluth. Lorenzo Lamas proves he has TV lead chops. Guest stars also abound with Tony Plana, John Diehl, and someone very dear to Erik and Justin's hearts. Also, Trapper John M.D.'s Gregory Harrison returns! Justin tries to figure out why Erik was watching Falcon Crest when it aired. A sauna scene leads to a very specific '80s flashback. The show's various theme songs are discussed -- yes, it matters -- and the streets of Pismo Beach lead to an explanation of Killer BOB.
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Tread Perilously -- Scarecrow And Mrs. King: Wrong Number
03/05/2026
Tread Perilously -- Scarecrow And Mrs. King: Wrong Number
Tread Perilously returns to the 1980s for a month of TV shows Erik and Justin have never covered before. First up: the Scarecrow and Mrs. King episode called "Wrong Number." When Mrs. King's first assignment re-checking security clearances becomes part of Scarecrow's latest mission, the two argue over the loyalties of one Dr. William Towne. Is he really a Soviet spy or just a hapless mathematician? Meanwhile, old foe Gregory returns and aims to get revenge on both Scarecrow and Mrs. King -- and now he has the resources of the KGB to do it. Is Towne also part of his plan? Justin more or less discerns the show's premise from just one episode -- he even catches the Season 3 pivot. Erik finally has a good excuse to employ his Bruce Boxleitner impression (not that needing one has ever stopped him before). Big hair proves to be very important. Guest star Peter Jurasik leads to a lot of Babylon 5 talk. A wild "Jamie" Cromwell appears. The pair recall that strange time when MSG was the devil. A character known as the "Number 5" man leads to the SPECTRE org chart. But is the scheme really a SMERSH operation? '80s spycraft proves nostalgic and Erik asks, once again, "Who's Melissa George?"
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Tread Perilously -- The Night Stalker
02/26/2026
Tread Perilously -- The Night Stalker
Tread Perilously concludes its month of TV movies with The Night Stalker. When his editor cancels his vacation, Karl Kolchak finds a seemingly standard Las Vegas murder is just the beginning of a killing spree. But odd details -- like certain puncture wounds on the victims' necks and the complete loss of blood -- lead the intrepid reporter to suggest law enforcement is dealing with a man who thinks himself a vampire. Kolchak's current girlfriend, who works at a saloon, goes one step further: maybe the killer is a vampire. Can it be true? Will Kolchak accept that possibility? Will it change the course of his life forever? Erik and Justin return to one of their favorite TV characters in his first appearance. The early '70s Las Vegas setting gives them a lot to chew on, as does star Darren McGavin's irresistible charm. They also clarify the connection between the title and certain real-life killers. Erik finds an unlikely new role for David Duchovny. Claude Akins makes his triumphant Tread Perilously return. Nuances about vampires are explored. Alternate casting choices for Blade Runner emerge. The pair try to figure out why Kolchak had to leave New York and a wild Bob Whiteman appears.
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Tread Perilously -- Poison Ivy (1985)
02/19/2026
Tread Perilously -- Poison Ivy (1985)
Tread Perilously's TV Movie month continues with Michael J. Fox, Nancy McKeon, and Robert Klein in Poison Ivy. When Dennis Baxter takes a job at Camp Pinewood in Maine, he expects his summer will be filled by taking care of his charges and maybe romancing some of the counselors at the girls' camp across the lake. This changes when assistant nurse Rhonda Malone arrives on the scene. Will he find true love while the kids in his cabin learn the true meaning of friendship? Or will everything fall apart when the camp director declares a color war and splits the camp in two? Paul Pakler joins Erik and Justin in another gab session focused on Fox and McKeon. They also try to figure out if Klein is actually funny. Jason Bateman, despite not appearing in the film, haunts the proceedings. Director Larry Elikan's ABC AfterSchool Specials connection leads to a very particular aside. Paul coins "lead poisoning movies" to explain Poison Ivy and second-screen viewing. With a copy sourced from Chicago's NBC station, the trio also enjoy the 1985 commercials. A certain person's case of cancer, meanwhile, dominates the newsbreaks. Paul has a hard time holding onto the plot while Erik finds it difficult to recall the character names. The group can't help but rewrite aspects of the plot and #campgate is revealed.
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Tread Perilously -- Deadly Intentions ... Again?
02/12/2026
Tread Perilously -- Deadly Intentions ... Again?
Tread Perilously's TV Movie month continues with Deadly Intentions ... Again? After serving time for the attempted murder of his first wife, Dr. Charles Raynor returns to the loving embrace of his second wife, Sally. She has a plan to get him back into the workforce and see his medical license restored. Raynor has other plans -- finishing off his first wife and the federal prosecutor who put him behind bars. Will he be able to do so without the second Mrs. Raynor finding out? Also, what of his own adoptive mother, who hates Sally for baffling class reasons? Will Sally come to her senses and see Raynor has deadly intentions ... again? Erik and Justin try to figure out what happened to Fairuza Balk's character. They also try to glean the plot of the original Deadly Intentions. The cast -- which includes Harry Hamlin, Joanna Kerns, Conchata Ferrell, and Balk -- prove to be great even if the script lets them down. Erik tries to determine how much of the film is truly based on actual events. A current year appraisal makes a certain subplot far more troubling than the film intends. Erik suggests first-time filmmakers should make thrillers instead of horror movies and Justin reveals an important truth about The Traitors.
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Tread Perilously -- Mysterious Two
02/05/2026
Tread Perilously -- Mysterious Two
Tread Perilously returns to the land of made-for-TV movies with 1982's Mysterious Two. When two people known as He and She convince their followers to invade a town in the Southwest because "it is time," a local sheriff, a magazine reporter, and a young man looking for his missing girlfriend converge on the site. There, He and She promise to uplift "the People of Tomorrow" if they sell all their earthly possessions and buy enough sustenance for the journey to come. The young man, a flautist, is not convinced, but will the other become converts to this suspiciously familiar pair of cult leaders? Erik and Justin get lost in the Heaven's Gate of it all as the movie is based on the early activities of Marshall Applewhite and his partner at the time. The evidence of the film's 1979 production is also very apparent. Erik defies Justin's expectation about his knowledge of the movie's existence. An X-Files discussion breaks out. Erik appreciates the presence of Dynasty star John Forsythe, Alice's Vic Tayback, and a few other notable faces. Desk chili becomes surprisingly important. Rules, of course, do not apply to Michael B. Jordan. The ambiguity about the Mysterious Two proves to be the film's greatest flaw. But will the film's overall beige-ness prove a barrier, too?
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Tread Perilously -- Baywatch: Baja Run
01/29/2026
Tread Perilously -- Baywatch: Baja Run
Tread Perilously returns to the Ballad of John D. Cort for its antepenultimate stanza: an episode of Baywatch called "Baja Run." When Cort -- still suffering from a degenerative eye condition -- makes his way back to Baywatch HQ, it's to convince Mitch to join him on the Baja Run. The Mexican dune buggy race is something both men have always wanted to win. While Mitch begrudgingly agrees, C.J. realizes it might finally be time to cut Cort loose. And with Matt's relationship with Caroline disintegrating, C.J. may even have a rebound in mind. Will Cort care or do his concerns center on something he buried in Mexico? Erik and Justin can't get over the fact Cort lives in a cave! Justin immediately notes how much the show finally feels like the Baywatch of the popular imagination. The presence of Yasmine Bleeth has a lot to do with it. Pamela Anderson, meanwhile, seems poised for her exit. Erik spots Baywatch's hatred of Australians as new character Logan proves to be the scummiest Aussie in '90s syndicated TV. Cort and Mitch finally share a storyline! C.C. DeVille ends up the hair metal MVP even if Erik can't recall which band he was in. Justin notes the missing cast members and learns why he recognizes a certain guest actor.
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Tread Perilously -- Merlin: Beauty And The Beast
01/22/2026
Tread Perilously -- Merlin: Beauty And The Beast
Tread Perilously's winter request month concludes with an episode of Merlin called "Beauty and the Beast." When a troll sets her sights on the riches of Camelot, she takes a potion to assume the identity of a conventionally beautiful noble in the hopes of securing Uther Pendragon's heart. Gaius suspects her immediately as he treated the aristocrat before for an incurable bone disease. Uther, however, is almost immediately smitten. But his devotion to the long-passed Igraine gives him some pause the troll must counter with more magic. Can Merlin summon up enough of his own to reveal the troll before she and Uther marry? Troll 2 almost immediately makes its way into the conversation. Erik and Justin attempt to separate their own familiarity with Arthurian legend from the one depicted in Merlin. Although barely appearing in this episode, they also highlight Katie McGrath. A Tolkien discussion breaks out, naturally enough. Erik has a difficult time accepting an Uther who genuinely loved Igraine. Justin questions the presence of modern romantic love in medieval stories. The pair try to determine where they have seen guest star Sarah Parish before. Erik suggests a certain Welshman to play Merlin. The Legend of Brave Sir Tristan is retold. The Acolyte gets examined again and the Taster's Choice Saga becomes surprisingly important.
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Tread Perilously -- Twisted Metal: T3STDRV
01/15/2026
Tread Perilously -- Twisted Metal: T3STDRV
Tread Perilously listener request month continues with an episode of Twisted Metal called "T3STDRV." Still on their way to the tournament, John ends up riding shotgun in his sister Dollface's car. Unable to conjure up memories for her amnesiac brother, she takes a detour to an abandoned drive-in theater. Instead of sparking any recollections, the pair encounter the character known as Axel. Quiet, meanwhile, discovers Mayhem hid in the trunk of her car hoping to enter the tournament herself. Will Quiet be able to teach her to drive? And what of the seeming reaper known as Mr. Grimm? Is he the ghost rider or is he not in his right mind? Justin tries to recall his own dim memories of playing a Twisted Metal video game. He and Erik also consider the problem of genre TV shows in comparison to Twisted Metal's episode runtimes -- 30 minutes be praised! Erik learns the truth about Marvel's Cyclops. Anthony Mackie's star power is discussed. Erik is reminded of "Surf Dracula." Patsy and Edina become the new gods of the post-apocalypse. More Stranger Things talk occurs. Erik invokes The Human Centipede's Dieter Laser. He also explores the problems of Italian Mad Max ripoffs. "The Lou" gets explained again and Axel becomes an easy MVP.
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Tread Perilously -- Growing Pains: Home Malone
01/08/2026
Tread Perilously -- Growing Pains: Home Malone
Tread Perilously's Winter Patreon Request Month continues with a Growing Pains episode called "Home Malone". When Maggie and the rest of the Seavers make their way to Boston to clean up her parents' home, the ghost of her father appears, but cannot communicate with the living. He's also confused why he's been sent back to Earth. Meanwhile, Maggie and her mother deal with some unresolved issues, Jason gets progressively more injured, Mike's scheme to get out of work backfires, and the rest of the family makes too many jokes at Carol's expense. We promise, though, this is a sitcom. Justin and Erik discuss the reasons why it took a listener request to finally cover Growing Pains. Guest star Gordon Jump's history with that infamous Diff'Rent Strokes episode is, naturally, discussed. Joanna Kerns proves to be the MVP. Justin fails to remember most of the character names. The show's white-hot hatred of Carol is examined. The pair also tries to determine the character traits of the younger two Seaver kids. Erik also decides to give one member of the cast the benefit of the doubt due to being 15 at the time the episode was made. Justin reveals that Erik is not a film snob and mustard becomes an important analogy.
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Tread Perilously -- Stargate SG-1: Thor's Chariot
01/01/2026
Tread Perilously -- Stargate SG-1: Thor's Chariot
Winter Total Request Live 2026 begins as Tread Perilously watches an episode of Stargate SG-1 called "Thor's Chariot." When the SG-1 team receives a distress signal from Cimmeria, they return to the planet finding a Goa'uld invasion and few Cimmerians left to fight. While O'Neil and Teal'c scout out the enemy encampment, Daniel and Sam learn the secret of Thor's might. Will it be enough to defeat the Goa'uld known as Heru'ur? Will anyone be able to pronounce their new adversary's name? And will Thor prove to be as real as Ra or his son? Erik and Justin discuss their histories with Stargate and SG-1. Erik makes a surprising proclamation about the work of director Roland Emmerich. Stan Lee proves to be more formidable than any Gou'ald. Pronunciations of Stargate names come into question, as does the choice to name the planet "Cimmeria". The SG-1 cast -- which includes Michael Shanks, Amanda Tapping, Christopher Judge, and Don S. Davis -- gets their flowers even if Erik has a small problem with Richard Dean Anderson playing Col. Jack O'Neil. Erik doubts Beth Grant's dedication to Sparkle Motion. The Ancient Astronaut Theory proves to be an obstacle in enjoying any Stargate. The pair once again advocate for cheaper-looking sci-fi television and Erik announces a change to the Patreon.
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Tread Perilously -- Beauty And The Beast: God Bless The Child
12/25/2025
Tread Perilously -- Beauty And The Beast: God Bless The Child
Tread Perilously's final 2025 episode is, oddly enough, a Tread Merrily. But that also means Special Review Unit Captain Charlie Wright is joining Erik and Justin for an episode of the 1980s Beauty and the Beast called "God Bless The Child." When Catherine volunteers at a crisis hotline, she encounters a young woman who is both pregnant and on her last rope. Catherine suggests to Father and Vincent that the woman might be a good addition to the World Below. After passing Father's test, though, she becomes fixated on Vincent and makes the Yuletide both stranger and sleepier than it should be. Erik learns Charlie has seen the show before. Justin tries to piece together its premise, forgetting that Vincent and Catherine have a bond "beyond friendship or love." Erik finally gets to use his Roy Dotrice impression and attempts one of Vincent to wavering success. Linda Hamilton and Ron Perlman prove to be MVPs. The trio discovers the New York district of Los Angeles. The World Below is a provocative enough concept to encourage another reboot of the program. Will "escaped circus people" be involved? Charlie proves immune to Vincent's many charms. George R. R. Martin's presence can be felt throughout. The episode's major guest character becomes a Tully as a consequence and the CBS pacing issue claims another series.
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Tread Perilously -- Trapper John M.D.: 'Tis The Season
12/18/2025
Tread Perilously -- Trapper John M.D.: 'Tis The Season
Tread Merrily heads to San Francisco for an episode of Trapper John M.D. called "'Tis The Season." Although Trapper is trying his best to get to Aspen for a Christmas ski holiday with his kids, the hospital is overrun with problems. Dr, Gates is taking care of a boy who needs his spleen removed, but there's not enough AB- blood in the county to make the procedure safe. Dr. Riverside is driving everyone crazy with his custom-made Santa suit. Trapper, meanwhile, is driven to distraction by an old man working as s corner Santa who won't give his name, but needs a serious life-saving procedure. Will the chance meeting between "Santa" and the boy change all their lives? Justin is struck by just how generic Trapper John turns out to be. And yet, the episode does not play by the rules of a medical drama Christmas episode. Guest star Ray Walston turns out to be the MVP while Erik tries to figure out why E/R's Lynne Moody gets the "special guest star credit." Justin reveals a subtle Stranger Things mistake. He also does an admirable job leading the entire discussion into the weeds and celebrating the talents of Madge Sinclair. Paulie from the Rocky film series makes his way into events again and more plot details of the never-made Shield holiday special emerge.
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Tread Perilously -- Spenser For Hire: The Hopes And Fears
12/11/2025
Tread Perilously -- Spenser For Hire: The Hopes And Fears
Tread Merrily continues with a return to Boston for a Spenser: For Hire episode called "The Hopes And Fears." A chance encounter with Rita near a department store leads Spenser to treat the assistant district attorney to a "Spenserian" Christmas. Matters are complicated when a gang of hockey-masked hoodlums begin a rash of break-in robberies -- they even steal from Hawk! -- a young witness to one of their crimes goes missing, and another is threatened by a member of the crew. Will Spenser be able to solve all of the mysteries and protect his community before they resort to mob justice? Also, will he pull off the perfect Christmas for Rita? Erik and Justin immediately start talking Star Trek and Avery Brooks. Additionally, Erik cannot refer to Carolyn McCormick, who plays Rita, as anything but "Minuet" -- her character from an episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Guest stars Seth Green and Nancy Travis prove to be welcome additions to the ensemble. Justin finally recognizes co-star Ron McLarty from Cop Rock. He also geeks out about the presence of Lynn Thigpen. A member of the hockey mask gang inspires the title "Dirty Kenny Loggins." The pair remember the 1980s fruit cake joke and Erik champions star Robert Urich for a surprising Star Trek role.
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Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: The Time Of The Doctor
12/04/2025
Tread Perilously -- Doctor Who: The Time Of The Doctor
Tread Merrily 2025 begins with the annual tradition -- a Festive episode of Doctor Who. This one is called "The Time of The Doctor." When a signal broadcasts across all of time and space, The Doctor soon finds himself in orbit around a mysterious planet. But he is not alone with Daleks, Sontarans, Cyberman, and more also investigating the signal. Meanwhile, it's Christmas dinner at Clara's and she needs him to be her boyfriend. Are these two threads connected? Is the planet really Gallifrey? It's almost time for the clock to strike 12 and The Doctor is out of regenerations. Is this the final end? Justin determines Steven Moffat's third worst trait as a writer. The discussion centers on Moffat using his greatest hits throughout this story, leading to Tread Perilously's own greatest hits -- including Erik's belief about the real end of A Song of Ice and Fire, Twilight hot takes, and a determination about who has seen the light of the Two Trees. Erik tries to figure out why Paul McGann was seen recently shooting something in his Eighth Doctor costume. Justin stumbles on the secret sauce of Stranger Things. The true name of The Doctor is revealed. The Lord Humongous makes a trip to the market and Justin determines what the Sontarans really resemble.
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Tread Perilously -- MacGyver: The Coltons
11/27/2025
Tread Perilously -- MacGyver: The Coltons
Tread Perilously's month of backdoor pilots concludes with an episode of MacGyver called "The Coltons." After a mission with both Frank and Jesse Colton leaves MacGyver wanting an escape to the mountains, the Coltons get a new job via the local assistant district attorney. They must find a young woman who witnessed the hit on a Chinatown Godfather. But with a rival gang also trying to find her, the Coltons may have to rely on their mama and younger brother Billy to finish the task. But is there more to the case than it seems? Erik and Justin ask "Where's James Hong?" after seeing his name in the credits. The answer leads to an IMDb error. Erik can't get past the general "sleepy-time" quality of MacGyver, even in this backdoor pilot for a different show. The cast -- which includes Cleavon Little, Richard Lawson, Della Reese, and Cuba Gooding Jr. -- turn out to be a fine ensemble. Justin comes up with an alternate take on Killer Moth. He also realizes Lawson is in a favorite film. Gooding's talents are assessed and Little is praised as the lost TV star that he is. Geography Corner tries to make sense of Vancouver playing Southern California and the pair outline a film called Chinatown Godfather.
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Tread Perilously -- Gilmore Girls: Here Comes The Son
11/20/2025
Tread Perilously -- Gilmore Girls: Here Comes The Son
Tread Perilously's backdoor pilot month continues with a visit to Stars Hollow and Venice, CA in the Gilmore Girls episode known as "Here Comes The Son." While Rory tries to tackle her final weeks in high school, Lorelei faces the reality that she may not be able to pay for Yale. Will she give in and ask her parents after finally paying them back for Rory's high school tuition? Meanwhile, Jess makes his way to Venice, CA to meet with his father. But once there, he's introduced to his dad's new girlfriend and a number of other local color characters. Is the beginning of a Gilmore Guys show? Erik and Justin are surprised to see a backdoor pilot for a Gilmore Girls spinoff is still about Rory and Lorelei. Erik has a theory as to why. The Sugarbaker Woman Scale makes another appearance. Justin thinks he understands why people enjoy Gilmore Girls. He also names the two good Orange County bands from the 1990s. Erik works out why the repetition humor doesn't work for him. The pair also determine they do not actually hate Milo Ventimiglia, but they loathe his character on Heroes. Geography Corner centers on Venice and other Southern California beach locales. Notes are offered to make the proposed spinoff better and Evil Alien Conquerors makes its way into the discussion again.
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Tread Perilously -- Diff'rent Strokes: The Girls School
11/13/2025
Tread Perilously -- Diff'rent Strokes: The Girls School
Tread Perilously's month of backdoor pilots turns the spotlight on, arguably, the most successful backdoor pilot ever made: an episode of Diff'rent Strokes called "The Girls School." When the dorm mother at Eastlake quits over an argument with the headmaster, Mrs. Garrett volunteers to help Kimberly make costumes for the upcoming play. Once at the school, Mrs. Garrett meets some of Kimberly's classmates who live at the dorm, including Blair Warner, Dorothy "Tootie" Ramsey, Nancy Olson, and Molly Parker. If this sounds like an episode of The Facts of Life, that's because it is. The first episode, to be precise, even if it's not quite right. Paul Pakler joins Erik and Justin for another Facts of Life discussion. The trio marvel at the choice to spin Mrs. Garrett off after just 20 episodes of Diff'rent Strokes. Justin and Paul also break down just how uncomfortable the premise of Diff'rent Strokes really is ... and that's before Erik reiterates that they will never talk about that one two-parter. The off-screen dramas are also discussed and the "pleasant chuckle" theory of sitcom writing is once again on display. The third Fanning sister is revealed. The absence of Natalie Green is quite noticeable. Erik points out the most labored "men can't cook" joke. Paul notices Arnold and Willis still go to public school, Justin argues the Blair in this episode is not the real Blair Warner, and Molly Ringwald's character gets re-examined through a 2025 lens. Also, the truth about Our Town is revealed.
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Tread Perilously -- "CHiPs": Force Seven
11/06/2025
Tread Perilously -- "CHiPs": Force Seven
Beginning a month of backdoor pilots, Tread Perilously finally watches an episode of "CHiPs" -- but it's really a pilot for another show called "Force Seven". When John and Ponch pull over a seemingly drunk scientist, his confidential papers suggest he may be involved with a recently stolen missile system. Enter Force Seven: a tactical unit pilot program within the LAPD to create a squad of ninjas. Yes, really. Their leader inducts a new member just as the Chief of Police puts them on the missile case. Will the new recruit's bad boy ways prove to be an asset or will his fighting technique prove to be poor? Erik is delighted to see Hunter's Fred Dryer leading a potential series. Nevertheless, the ninja aspect proves troublesome. Justin is thrilled to see "the genre of the '80s" on display. The pair also dive into the problems of Force Seven's "comic relief" puppet and its place on the hate crime spectrum. References to Samurai Cop, Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins, and Gymkata abound. The full seven forces are outlined. Erik warns older actors to stay away from social media. John Rhys-Davies joins a very strange special ops team. Arnold Schwarzenegger's '80s persona is examined and memories of Sizzler Steakhouse emerge. Also: get ready for the best-named stunt coordinator ever.
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Tread Perilously -- Supernatural: The Benders
10/30/2025
Tread Perilously -- Supernatural: The Benders
Tread Perilously's annual horror month wraps up with this year's episode of Supernatural: "The Benders." When Sam and Dean look into a rash of disappearances in a small Minnesota town, Dean begins to suspect there is nothing supernatural about the case. Sam, meanwhile, disappears. Soon, Dean must team up with a local sheriff's deputy to find Sam and figure out the true nature of the abductions. Is it just people? And will Dean's female partner for the week survive the experience unscathed? Also: will Tread Perilously ever watch an episode about Castiel? Erik and Justin face another season 1 episode of Supernatural. They also announce correct opinions about donuts in Southern California. Erik renames the episode "The Vancouver 'Most Dangerous Game' Massacre." An actor gets dubbed "Canadian Frank Grillo" and becomes surprisingly important. Dean's reference to a Godzilla remake leads to a discussion about "realistic" genre pictures and Tony Scott. Erik learns about new cryptids and urban legends. J.J. Abrams is accused of misusing the Rule of Cool. The pair appreciate the presence of guest star Jessica Steen. Erik extols the virtues of the trailer for Leatherface: Texas Chainsaw Massacre III. A plot for the next Halloween emerges and memories of the late analog era emerge.
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Tread Perilously -- Bates Motel: Underwater
10/23/2025
Tread Perilously -- Bates Motel: Underwater
Tread Perilously's month of slasher TV leads to Bates Motel for an episode called "Underwater." After dealing with dope-smoking young people staying at the motel, Norma is ready to pull up stakes and move to Hawaii. Norman, meanwhile, is getting positive reinforcement at school and is not happy about the possibility of starting life over again. Meanwhile, Dylan agrees to help Bradley recover some of her father's belongings from his office. Emma enjoys a cupcake (not a euphemism). And, elsewhere, a largely unseen Ben Abernathy menaces Norma from afar. But did he send her the roses that really set her off? Erik lays into Russell T. Davies for seemingly no reason. Carlton Cuse also gets examined. Both note his shows tend to disappear into the ether. Justin reveals Bates Motel was his first exposure to Olivia Cooke. The rest of the cast, which includes Vera Farmiga and Freddie Highmore, also get high marks. Erik appreciates the way the episode deploys Jere Burns while Justin enjoys the presence of Nestor Carbonell. The clearly foreshadowed issues with Miss Watson lead to a long discussion. Justin explains the difference between Norman and Mother. Geography Corner applauds the choice to move the story to Oregon and the Ashmore Alarm needs adjustment.
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