This is one of the more mushy episodes of this great series, as the entire show revolves around Rockford and Megan's supposedly ending relationship, as she informs Jim she's about to be married. James Garner's acting skills are obvious during this scene, which takes place in the Firebird, as he perfectly displays his emotions and is almost reduced to tears after hearing the news. Kathryn Harrold also starred earlier in the 5th season as the same character, Dr. Megan K. Doughety, a blind psychologist who enlisted the help of Rockford then also. On another note, I know she's blind and can't physically see him, but Jim is about 20 years her senior, so I was a little surprised of their odd relationship; that doesn't detract from the story though. I thought they had very good chemistry together, and that may've been a reason she was brought back for this episode, which has a sad tone throughout. I have to wonder if Garner was also saddened to know this series was almost over as well, as only a few episodes remain. There's a small situation/problem in which Megan needs Jim to help her with, although it got slightly confusing with some of the names; there's a Jeffrey, Kenny, Penny, Randy, and even a guest appearance from singer Barbara Mandrell to round out the cast. Someone decided to throw in Rocky for a 10 second scene at the wedding, but it wasn't needed, as he added nothing at all; maybe he needed an actor's credit? This is a tamer version of the usual script I'm used to, as Megan is with Rockford for just about every single scene, and it's more of a sadder tone with 2 people parting ways, even though there's still strong feelings on both sides. I would say to watch this episode strictly for Garner's solid acting, as he can portray both tough and sympathetic characters, as he does so effectively here.
Review of Love Is the Word
