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 -- 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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Tread Perilously -- The Hitchhiker: The Killer
10/16/2025
Tread Perilously -- The Hitchhiker: The Killer
Tread Perilously's horror month continues with a look at the anthology series The Hitchhiker via its slasher-esque episode called "The Killer." Despite Meg's protests, her family plans to leave her behind while going on a vacation. Well, her brother, Jonathan, may also be staying to do some shooting. But when most of the clan is killed via shotgun blasts, Meg must fend for herself as the killer is somewhere in the palatial home. Is Jonathan behind the deaths? And can Meg use her wheelchair to devise clever ways to avoid him? Erik discovers The Hitchhiker is not a ripoff of The Hitcher. Justin finds room to champion Mute Witness. Guest star Jenny Seagrove's CableACE Award win for the episode leads to a discussion of cable TV quality in the 1980s. Erik reveals where Justin has seen fellow guest star Lisa Foster before. The pair also discuss the qualities of a good twist. They even invent "The Beach That Makes You Old" Scale. Justin defends Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome. Hot Dog ... The Movie suddenly becomes important. Proper day-for-night photography is discussed, as is the unfortunate brevity of The Hitchhiker, which leads to thin characters. And on an unrelated note, Michael Winner becomes a cinematic devil.
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Tread Perilously -- The Alfred Hitchock Hour: An Unlocked Window
10/09/2025
Tread Perilously -- The Alfred Hitchock Hour: An Unlocked Window
Tread Perilously's tour of slashers on television continues with an episode The Alfred Hitchcock Hour called "An Unlocked Window." When a slasher targets nurses in an unidentified town, Stella and Betty find themselves tending to a sick professor at his remote home in the countryside. Also helping out are a groundskeeper, Sam, and there's Maude, the housekeeper. But when Betty discovers the oxygen tank is low, Sam leaves for the city and the three women are terrorized by the news that the killer is within two miles of the house. Did forgetful Stella lock all the windows and all the doors? Is the killer already inside? Erik and Justin discuss Hitchcock as a problematic fave. Erik is shocked to learn the story is not inspired by Richard Speck. The pair also inspect the reliance on twists in thrillers. They also rank the Predator movies. Justin admits he watched Halloween Kills more than once. More DCU casting wishes occur. The longer runtime of 1960s television proves to be a problem once again. Justin's knowledge of medieval weaponry comes into play. Actor Louise Latham proves to be the episode MVP for Erik thanks to her performance as Maude and more horror movie discussions lead to the weeds.
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Tread Perilously -- Psych: Tuesday The 17th
10/02/2025
Tread Perilously -- Psych: Tuesday The 17th
Tread Perilously's annual horror month for 2025 centers on slashers, starting with an episode of Psych called "Tuesday the 17th." When Jason, who used to go to the same summer camp as Shawn and Gus, arrives to reveal he bought the camp, he also admits he needs their help with a missing counselor. He doesn't want to involve police because of the "incident" that closed the place down when they were all young. Soon, Shawn can't help but perceive a lot of tell-tale signs indicating a slasher in the area. Gus is a little distracted by one of Jason's employees to notice, but Juliet is willing to drive up when Shawn makes a panicky call. Meanwhile, Lassiter mistakes why his ex-wife wants to get dinner. Erik and Justin zero in on Lassiter and his curious characterization. A discussion about the recent Halloween cycle breaks out. Erik chooses his preferred Friday the 13th movies -- even if Justin is the bigger fan. Justin reveals his daughter's favorite Simpsons episodes. Peacemaker gets positive reviews. Psych star James Roday Rodriguez rev=cieves high marks as a co-writer and director of the episode. Special guest star Mackenzie Astin ends up the MVP even as Elden Hensen hangs out on the margins. Erik decides the killer looks more like The Town that Dreaded Sundown than Jason Voorhies and the film April Fool's Day becomes surprisingly important.
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Tread Perilously -- Star Trek ENT: Carbon Creek
09/25/2025
Tread Perilously -- Star Trek ENT: Carbon Creek
Tread Perilously's Star Trek month concludes with an Enterprise episode called "Carbon Creek." When Captain Archer invites T'Pol and Trip to a dinner celebrating the Vulcan's first full year aboard Enterprise, she tells the secret story of the first Vulcan contact with humans. The tale concerns her great-grandmother, T'Mir, a small Pennsylvania town in the late 1950s, and the culture shock T'Mir and the members of her team experienced. But is it all a put-on as T'Pol keeps reminding Archer and Trip that she was asked to "tell a story" or does it contain the ring of truth? J. Paul Boehmer ends up the MVP of the month for two appearances. Ann Cusack also proves to be a welcome addition. Geography Corner determines what Southern California town is playing Carbon Creek. The lack of Cold War paranoia in the 1950s scenes is examined. Erik tries to find a way to blame Bryan Fuller for everything. Vulcan fashions get appraised. Jolene Blalock proves a surprise as T'Mir -- who ends up more interesting than T'Pol. Justin envisions her as a Vulcan Wine Mom. The pronunciation of guest character Mestral becomes a point of confusion. But will this prove to be one of the more successful Enterprise episodes?
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Tread Perilously -- Star Trek VOY: Drone
09/18/2025
Tread Perilously -- Star Trek VOY: Drone
Tread Perilously's Star Trek month continues with an episode of Voyager called "Drone." When a close call in the transporter merges Seven of Nine's nano implants with the Doctor's 29th Century holotransmitter, a future Borg gestates in the silence lab. Despite the similarities to the Tuvix incident, Captain Janeway allows it to live and assigns Seven to be its teacher. But when the drone, who self-identifies as One, starts asking difficult questions about the Borg, he defies Seven and reaches out directly. Will she be able to teach him why the Borg are wrong before they assimilate his advanced technologies? Erik and Justin face a standard issue episode of Voyager that might actually be good. They debate the merits of the story, nonetheless, with Erik pointing out four or five Next Generation episodes it emulates. Jeri Ryan continues to be the show's MVP, with Robert Picardo and Tim Russ close behind her. Janeway's choice to allow One to live is examined in light of the reappraisal of "Tuvix." The presence of Bryan Fuller in the writing credits leads to a surprising twist. Harry Kim's future as an eternal ensign becomes text. The pair try to determine which cast members are still engaged in Season 5 and a minor character leads to a larger critique of Voyager as a whole.
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Tread Perilously -- Star Trek TNG: Imaginary Friend
09/11/2025
Tread Perilously -- Star Trek TNG: Imaginary Friend
Star Trek month continues on Tread Perilously with an episode of The Next Generation called "Imaginary Friend." When the Enterprise surveys a nebula formed around a collapsed star, an energy being makes its way inside the ship and assumes the form of little Clara Sutter's imaginary friend. But it soon becomes clear to the child that her playmate, Isabella, is more than just a figment of her imagination. Meanwhile, the ship begins to encounter a form of energy that reads like matter to the shields, but is invisible to sensors. And when Isabella begins to make threats, it becomes clear to Captain Picard that the phenomena are related. Erik and Justin face a particularly poor TNG episode. The pair activate script doctor mode to find other ways to tell this story. Justin tries to figure out whose episode this really is. While Counselor Troi seems the focus, the guest characters take point, and Picard ends up bringing it home. Alexander Rozhenko makes a special appearance. Justin gets a few Deep Space Nine references into the proceedings. Erik tries to figure out the real dynamic between Clara and her engineer father. Both also try to determine what career goals mean in the 24th Century. A Twilight discussion breaks out and the film Invisible Child ends up mattering a great deal.
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Tread Perilously -- Star Trek TOS: Catspaw
09/04/2025
Tread Perilously -- Star Trek TOS: Catspaw
Tread Perilously begins its annual Star Trek month with an episode of the original series called "Catspaw." When a landing party including Mr. Scott and Mr. Sulu is overdue, Captain Kirk meets the one person to come back in the transporter bay only for the red shirt to die moments later. Soon, Kirk, Spock, and Bones beam down to determine what's going on as the sensors claim there is no life on the surface. Soon, the trio encounter their missing crewmates, who have been hypnotized by aliens with amazing god-like powers. Will Kirk be able to use his wits and raw animal magnetism to confuse and defeat his opponents? Erik and Justin zero in on William Shatner's seeming oversight of the episode. Guest characters Korob and Sylvia are examined for their potential as Q Continuum characters. Sci-fi nomenclature gets a moment to shine. James Doohan gets his props for making Scotty's admiration of Kirk so convincing. Shatner's mother also makes another appearance thanks to the actor choosing a curious way to say a certain word. McCoy's anti-Vulcan rhetoric gets examined. Wahl's Herring Candy reappears. Checkov's hair provokes comments. Justin tries to figure out why Robert Bloch turned in such a weak script. Lot of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds talk occurs and Spock somehow joins the commentary.
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Tread Perilously -- NYPD Blue: Oh Golly Goth
08/28/2025
Tread Perilously -- NYPD Blue: Oh Golly Goth
Tread Perilously rounds out the summer Patreon request month with an episode of NYPD Blue called "Oh Golly Goth." With Sorenson on desk duty, the others -- including visiting detective Connie McDowell -- work on a stabbing at an upscale hotel. With the victim claiming to only recall the attacker being white with dark hair, the case seems to point to a naked man found in the hotel room. But when it becomes clear he could not have wielded the knife, a new suspect emerges: a young "goth" known as Dio. Meanwhile, Sipowicz takes a vacation day to clear Sorenson's name ... never mind that the junior detective brutalized a suspect. Erik and Justin are surprised to discover what the influential series really looked like half-way through its run. Jimmy Smits can't get a break even though he was long gone by this point. Denis Franz easily proves to be the MVP, although plenty of time is given to Charlotte Ross as she begins her NYPD Blue tour of duty. Creators David Milch and Steven Bochco are examined. Talk about The Shield also occurs. Justin marvels at the way the show lost its cultural footprint. David Caruso also gets a mention and the use of the term "goth" comes into question.
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