Community brought in pop star Katharine McPhee for an episode as Pierce's ex-stepdaughter, Amber. Shows usually go out of their to include a notable guest star (Jack Black earlier in the season), but the way she was integrated was troubling. To allow Amber to get with Jeff, the writers had Michelle, the statistics professor, break up with Jeff. Granted, they didn't have the greatest relationship, but the way the show was progressing would indicated that they would be together for a while longer.
Anyways, that probably isn't the last we'll see of Lauren Stamile, so I shouldn't be complaining too much. As Jeff prepares to do the dirty with Amber, out drops a check for $25,000. It's from Pierce who doesn't know how to connect with Amber, and uses money as substitute. Amber takes advantage of him, and plans on using the money for other purposes. Pierce is deflated but not surprised. Jeff, meanwhile, does the deed--but only once. He has higher standards, and supports Pierce. Jeff and Pierce end up in a prolonged hug, despairing over their fortunes. Jeff is sad that Michelle broke up with him, and Pierce is sad he can't connect with Amber.
Katherine McPhee was given a substantial role, and did quite well. In comparison to Carrie Underwood's bland performance on HIMYM a few weeks ago, she did great. Amber was charming and a little too naughty at the same time.
Troy expresses his dislike of his grandmother, and Britta tells him to respect his elders. Little does she know who Troy's grandmother is. Britta acts weird around her, and granny asks for a switch. Being respectful, Britta finds a nice long branch for her, and in the funniest scene of the episode, gets her ass whooped as Troy cries along with her.
There is a clash of cultures between Shirley and Abed's families. Abed's cousin wears a burqa while Shirley's kids are unruly. Abed's father argues with Shirley over values, but Abed's cousin was to be free and go bounce around. Shirley's children help her without Abed's father noticing., and everyone wins. Hopefully Dan Harmon won't have a fatwa issued for his head.
Jeff and Pierce take a shot at Glee before the end of the episode. I'm fine with it once, but if it becomes habitual like Psych constantly referencing The Mentalist, I'll be less receptive.
Score: 9.0/10
