The Carmichael Show season 1 episode 1 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

Jerrod and Maxine navigate the challenges of living together and dealing with family dynamics. When Maxine discovers Jerrod doesn't vote, it sparks a conversation about political disillusionment. Attempting to avoid telling his parents about their cohabitation, Jerrod diverts a family dinner conversation to politics, falsely claiming he's considering registering as a Republican. The debate reveals deep-seated family beliefs and avoids the issue of living arrangements until Maxine pushes the subject, leading to a confrontation about their relationship's seriousness. Eventually, they decide to tell Jerrod's parents, facing mixed reactions and unsolicited advice, while Bobby's divorce and new relationship add to the family's surprises.

Full Episode S01E01 Recap

### The Carmichael Show Episode: Moving In and Politics - **Opening Scene: At Jerrod and Maxine's Apartment** - Jerrod criticizes Maxine's dance to Biggie, leading to a discussion about not knowing the song. - Maxine has made the apartment homier, leading to a tampon joke from Jerrod. - They receive their first joint mail, sparking a conversation about informing Jerrod's parents they're living together, which Jerrod has avoided. - **Jerrod and Maxine Discuss Voting** - Maxine discovers Jerrod doesn't vote, prompting a discussion about the importance of voting, with Jerrod expressing disillusionment with politics despite being inspired by Obama. - **At Jerrod's Parents' House** - Jerrod and Maxine visit his parents, avoiding telling them about their living situation. - Jerrod's brother Bobby reveals his discomfort with his ex-wife Nekeisha seeing other men post-divorce, introducing the concept of "sex musk". - **Dinner Discussion Turns to Politics** - The dinner conversation shifts to politics, with Jerrod using it as a distraction from revealing he and Maxine are living together. - Jerrod falsely claims he's considering registering as a Republican, sparking a heated family debate on political beliefs and voting reasons. - **Back at the Apartment** - Jerrod and Maxine argue about not telling his parents they've moved in together, with Maxine questioning the seriousness of their relationship. - Jerrod admits he's avoiding the topic to keep peace in the family and avoid his parents' judgments and advice. - **Resolution and Family Reaction** - Jerrod and Maxine decide to tell his parents about their living situation, leading to a mix of reactions and advice about marriage and children. - Bobby's divorce from Nekeisha and his new relationship with Lamont become public, adding to the family's shock. - **Closing Scene: Family Discusses Electric Cars** - The episode closes with the family debating the merits of electric cars versus traditional vehicles, showcasing their various perspectives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Jerrod criticize Maxine's dance in the beginning?

Because she was dancing to Biggie Smalls in a way he found inappropriate.

Have Jerrod and Maxine told Jerrod's parents they're living together?

No, Jerrod has avoided telling his parents about their living situation.

Why doesn't Jerrod vote?

Jerrod feels disillusioned with politics, believing his vote doesn't count after being inspired but ultimately let down by political developments.

What is the "sex musk" mentioned in the episode?

"Sex musk" refers to the lingering scent in the air after someone has had sex, as described by Bobby.

Does Jerrod consider registering as a Republican?

Jerrod claims he's considering it as a distraction during a family dinner, but it's not clear if he's serious.

How does Maxine feel about not telling Jerrod's parents they live together?

Maxine is frustrated and questions the seriousness of their relationship due to Jerrod's reluctance.

What solution do Jerrod and Maxine come up with regarding telling his parents?

They decide to finally tell Jerrod's parents that they are living together.

How do Jerrod's parents react to the news of him and Maxine living together?

They have mixed reactions, offering congratulations but also advice and judgments about their future steps.

What revelation about Bobby shocks the family?

Bobby reveals that he and Nekeisha are divorced, surprising everyone.

What topic ends the episode?

The family debates the merits of electric cars versus traditional vehicles, reflecting their diverse opinions.

The Carmichael Show season 1 episode 1

Pilot