Bel-Air (2022) s02e04 Episode Script
Don't Kill My Vibe
1
Previously on "Bel-Air"
Just get the ball out to Curt.
End of discussion.
Getting that W's the
only thing that matters.
We straight on that now? Here's my card.
Let me know when you want
to discuss his future.
- Geoffrey.
- Phil.
James Lewis, there's something
not right with him at the firm.
Get into it for me, will you?
I'm on it.
We should take our
relationship up a notch.
Jazz, your boyfriend?
- I love Jazz.
- And Dad?
I am not gonna be the
messenger between you two.
Carlton started weaning
off the medication,
and we just wanted you
to keep an eye on him.
If C needs my help, I got his back.
I just keep thinking
that Ms. Hughes got fired because of me.
Rallying to save Ms. Hughes' job
- is a cause worthy of our BSU.
- I agree.
I think we should protest.
Shut this protest down.
Whoa. They trying to put us on mute?
They took away the banner,
but you can still do the speech.
You better not fucking tell Mom and Dad.
Okay. I got you.
Black teachers matter!
Black teachers matter!
Black teachers matter!
Fuck!
I can't believe I'm getting
suspended for this shit.
No one asked you to go up on the roof.
Hey, look, you got to tell
your folks what happened.
No.
No, and you can't say anything either.
- You promised me.
- Look.
Carlton, I'm not doing that, a'ight?
I told Uncle Phil that
I would look out for you.
- Well, good job.
- What's that supposed to mean?
You pushed me.
I didn't want to do the Blackout.
It was your idea, and you
just wouldn't let it go.
Uh, yeah because I believed
in what we were doing.
Oh, yeah, so much passion for
a teacher you didn't even know.
Will, you can say that you did it for me
or or you did it for
Ashley or Ms. Hughes,
but at the end of the day,
the protest wasn't
about any of that, Will.
You went up on that roof for you.
That's not true, bro.
I was genuinely looking out for you.
You were so focused on
fucking with authority,
you lost track of the one
thing my dad asked you to do.
Look out for me.
I'm afraid we don't have great news.
We, uh
we couldn't appeal the suspension.
Being on the roof was a
a huge school safety violation.
How long?
One week, but that's not all of it.
Coach Johnson's pulling you
from the basketball team.
- Indefinitely.
- What?
No, he can't do this. This is my future.
I'm so sorry, Will. We tried everything.
Look, we been bumping heads all season.
He's just using this as
an excuse to get rid of me.
Well, you sure made it easy for him.
Will, how long you gonna keep
blaming other people for your actions?
Look, you stood up for what was right,
but there are consequences.
Is there something else
you want to tell me, Will?
I guess I'll just do my time.
Fuck this school.
Maybe Coach Johnson
just needs some time.
I don't know.
I just feel like nobody gets me here.
We got you, Will.
No, we cannot up the RSVP count by 50.
What? The venue we selected
cannot accommodate that.
And yes, it is too late
to find another one.
Uh, yeah, you do that.
I swear, this art show is getting
more complicated by the hour.
I don't mind having you here.
I really like having your company,
but headphones would be great.
My bad, Aunt Viv.
Yo, playoffs is where I was gonna have
all the right eyes on me.
And next year is my senior year.
It just feels like my plan is jacked.
Will, my sister raised
you to handle anything
and everything the world throws at you.
Your basketball career is not over.
Sure feels like it.
Well, what about that AAU thing
- you were telling me about?
- Zenith Hype?
I mean, every time I bring it up,
Uncle Phil just shuts it down
or makes another excuse.
You know, when I came back home,
Uncle Phil said he
would support my dreams,
so when is that gonna happen?
Ah.
Been looking for you.
Gave the housekeeper the day off,
so I have a list of things I need you
- to do around the house.
- Things?
You think you just gonna lay
around in your underwear all day?
It's a figure of speech.
He could use a day to decompress.
Well, he can decompress on his own time.
Let's go, nephew.
Carlton,
faculty nominations for the
Founder's Award are coming out,
and you know they can
only pick one student.
Wait, me?
Yes.
Your actions the day of the
protest didn't go unnoticed.
I told you this would be good for you.
- Here you go.
- Thank you.
Need anything else?
Oh, ten more hours in the day?
- That boss life, huh?
- Yes.
If I can just close
the Simply Spiked deal,
it would be a game
changer for the House.
Then H2Ivy is over with.
- H2Ivy?
- Mm-hmm.
Does Ivy know about this?
She's on a need-to-know basis.
If she can make moves
without telling me,
then I can do the same.
Now, that sounds like
a healthy partnership.
Shut up.
And I'm sorry that I
can't make lunch today,
but I just need to finish this pitch.
- We could do dinner, though.
- Ah, can't.
Moms and Pops coming over later.
- Got to clean up.
- Okay.
Well, then I could
just meet your parents.
Or not.
I mean, like
do you think you ready for that?
Ready for what, Jazz?
Why wouldn't I be ready?
I mean, I just I just don't want
to push you into rushing anything.
But you already know my parents.
So why can't I meet
yours? What's the big deal?
Right.
No, right. It's no big deal.
- I'm trippin'.
- Are you sure?
Yeah, I'm sure. I'd love to.
Okay, great. Then it's a date.
I can't wait to see
what makes Jazz, Jazz.
- Bye.
- Bye.
What the fuck?
Shit.
- Hello?
- Mr. West Philly himself.
Been a minute since we last spoke.
Thought you was ghosting me.
No. No, no, no.
I was, uh, just busy
with school and shit.
Hmm. Heard you was suspended
and kicked off the team.
I guess word travels fast.
Yeah, when you tapped in,
information just has
a way of finding you.
So you still trying to
rock with me or what?
Yeah. Yeah, of course.
I mean, if that's still an
option, I-I would love that.
Tell you what, since
you got some free time,
why don't you swing by
later with your uncle,
and we'll figure it out?
Uh, my uncle. Um
- That a problem?
- No.
No, it's not. Um, we'll be there.
Look, Doc, I-I really
appreciate this opportunity.
I'll see you later.
Bet.
Looks like he's coming in.
Thank you, Mr. Hightower.
This means a lot.
Hey, Geoffrey.
Heading out?
Yeah.
Yeah? Where to?
Personal errands.
Was there something you needed?
Uh, no.
No. Enjoy the day.
Thanks.
Yazmin.
It all makes sense now.
All what makes sense?
You said you were gonna
give a speech at the protest,
but then you just stood there.
Bassin got to you,
and now your name's on
the Founder's Award list.
Oh, no.
No, look, I-I
it's actually a lot more
complicated than that.
It seems pretty simple to me, Carlton.
I thought we were working
on the same agenda, but
I guess you had one of your own.
Thanks for letting
me hide out here, Mom.
I can never work at
the Influencer House.
Of course. Any time.
You know I love seeing you in boss mode.
Are you still enjoying it?
I mean, yeah.
I don't get to do my
cooking videos as much,
but I'm kind of liking
the business side.
Yeah? Ugh, all I want
to do is close the door,
turn on some music, and paint all day,
but with this art show coming,
there's a million people
with a million opinions.
Well, Mom, it's gonna be great.
And listen, if you need any help,
I'll make some time.
Well, what about you?
Are you managing to have some fun?
I mean, how's it going
with you and Jazz?
We're good.
Um, I'm actually meeting
his parents tonight.
Wow. Wow.
Well, that's that's a big step.
And?
- What?
- Mom, come on.
You obviously want
to say something else.
What? No, I like Jazz.
He is independent, mannerable,
uh, he treats you wonderful,
and he's a great role
model for Will, so
But?
But he he's just not
the type of guy that
you traditionally dated.
Mm, like immature and
emotionally unavailable.
The flashy hotshots with
the big cars and the clout.
- Bel-Air boys.
- Exactly.
Yeah, Jazz is different.
But I don't know, I think
that's why I like him.
And maybe it's time I try something new.
Well, different is good.
And you know what? His
parents are gonna love you.
- Excuse me, Uncle Phil?
- Hey, Will.
- How's it going out there?
- Good.
I, um, cleaned the
fridge, washed your car,
even gave your rims a
little extra elbow grease.
Nice. Well done, nephew.
- Thank you.
- Mm-hmm.
Is there something else
I could help you with?
Oh, yeah, now that you bring it up
Um, look, I know I'm in the doghouse,
but you always say closed
mouths don't get fed, right?
So, uh, I was wondering
if you could do me a favor.
Okay.
What is it?
Um
do you remember Doc?
Our program is designed for players
who are dedicated and
committed to being great.
Yeah, that's me all day, Doc.
You'll get strength, movement,
and endurance training,
as well as access to
our top exposure camps
where our players showcase their skills
in front of hundreds of college coaches.
See, we don't get none of
that in Bel-Air, Uncle Phil.
So the price for new players is 10,000
with a monthly fee of 500?
Seems awfully steep
for high school kids.
Well, we do have scholarships
for families who qualify.
Would you like a financial aid form?
Look, I usually like to finish the tour
before we talk numbers, but we can chat
about the particulars now if you'd like.
- Yes, very much.
- Yeah, let's do it.
Uh, just me and Mr.
Hightower for now, Will.
Yeah, Will, why don't you go upstairs
and get your fade tightened up?
Fade tightened up?
I don't think it can get
much tighter than this now.
Mr. Banks.
It's crazy what they
brought down on Will.
And half the school is ready
to Million Man March for him.
Yes, I get it. He's our beloved hero.
So you want to talk about the protest?
I know people are saying that
I tanked the speech on purpose,
but that's not true, all right?
I had a-a panic attack.
And I know it sounds like an excuse
You don't have to
explain yourself to me.
I saw you.
And I know what it looks like, remember?
Hey, Lisa.
You coming to the BSU hang tonight?
I think we could all
stand to have some fun.
Of course.
Damn, if looks could kill
Whatever, okay?
I wasn't really feeling
her all that much anyway.
Boy, please.
I know you like her.
Let her in.
Talk about what you're dealing with.
There's this thing girls love.
What's it called? Oh,
right, communication.
No, okay?
Look, I don't need another
girl feeling sorry for me.
All I'm saying is,
it's okay to be honest
and show people the real Carlton.
Otherwise, everyone is just going
to think the worst of you.
Sheesh!
This shit is super crispy, dog.
Enjoying the amenities?
Yo, hey. What's up?
Hey, wait. What are you doing here?
Part-time gig.
I answer the phones,
wipe down the machines,
earn some extra cash.
- I kind of know the boss.
- Oh, right.
- Doc is your uncle.
- Mm-hmm. Yeah.
That was crazy.
So, um, suspended, huh?
Damn. Does everybody know
my business around here?
- What'd you do?
- I kind of went a little too hard
for a Black teacher who got fired.
What? You shouldn't get punished
for rockin' out for the culture.
That's what I said.
Appreciate it.
Different rules in Bel-Air, I guess.
Seems that way.
So Doc tells me you're from Philly.
- Oh, he does?
- Yeah.
- You been asking about me?
- No.
- You sure?
- Yeah.
So when you gonna give me a
bigger glimpse into your world?
I don't really let a lot
of people in too fast.
Hmm.
Well, uh, maybe we could change that.
We'll see.
Well, I got to ask.
What's in it for you?
The satisfaction of helping young
athletes reach their full potential.
Why don't you try giving me an answer
that's not in the brochure?
I got kids making upwards of 80 grand
before they even graduate high school.
I don't make a penny off no one
who ain't making a whole lot more.
Well, my nephew's been through a lot,
and I'm just trying to support
what he wants to do with his life.
I also want to make sure
that he's being exposed
to an experience that's gonna
change him for the better.
Hmm.
What, you disagree?
Man, the world is always
trying to tell our boys
to change who they are to be great,
but I think it's what they been
through that makes them great.
Hmm.
I don't want to quiet
what's inside Will.
- I want to bring it out.
- Right.
You also want him to give you
a percentage of his earnings
from any NIL deals and all contracts
in perpetuity?
Look, if these questions
are too difficult for you
It's not, man.
I'm just not used to people pressing me
when they seeking my help.
They understand the value that I bring.
It's something that your
wife clearly understood.
My wife?
Wait, wait, wait.
Hey, Uncle Phil. Come on, man.
Why we rushin' out of
here like we rob this jawn?
- We'll discuss it when we get home.
- Wait. Please, please.
Come on, man. What's the problem?
- Maybe I can fix it.
- We should just keep looking.
All right? Look, we'll find you a team
that's the right fit,
but this isn't it, okay?
Just like that?
You make a decision, and
I just got to live with it?
Uncle Phil, this is my
life we're talking about.
- Look, Will
- Look, Doc may not be
Bel-Air enough for you, but
that's exactly why I like him.
And maybe that's exactly why you don't.
Will.
Hey.
Ash, why you tossing that stuff?
I don't need it.
What? Come on.
This is everything you believe in.
I just don't know anymore.
Ms. Hughes got fired,
and you got suspended.
You can't even be on the
basketball team because of me.
Ashley
look, it's not your fault.
Okay?
I made my own decision.
What's the point in
trying to change things
if they just end up like this?
And then you went down
there behind my back?
Why didn't you talk to me first?
I didn't realize I had
to get your permission.
Oh, it is always about what you want.
And laying down the law
isn't always the answer.
Will is hurting.
Look, I-I know you have
a soft spot for him,
and and I love him too,
but he is still an impulsive teenager
who's clearly been making
the wrong decisions.
But we also have to
listen to what he needs.
I mean, what is so
wrong with this AAU team?
It's not the team
that I'm worried about.
Then what is it with you and Doc?
This man clearly has a
strong influence over Will,
and I'm not sure it's one that he needs
when he's at a crossroads
looking for direction.
We cannot control who should
or shouldn't be in Will's life.
We have learned that the hard way.
Look, this is different than Lou.
Oh, it feels the same.
And the last thing Will needs
is to feel like we are
playing puppet master
with his future again.
All I'm saying is that
you and I need to be
on the same page when it comes to Will.
And what you did today
undermines everything
I thought we were trying to do.
What up, C?
Hey.
How'd school go?
Awful.
Yazmin won't even look in my direction.
How was day one of being suspended?
Horrible.
Been washing your nasty-ass
Gucci drawers all day.
Those are supposed to be dry-cleaned.
Thanks, by the way,
for, uh, not throwing me
under the bus with Mom and Dad.
They would've just freaked out
and put me on stronger meds.
Look, man, why do they always think
they know what's best for us?
Uncle Phil basically
put an end to Zenith.
Look, that sucks.
Yeah.
All right, enough of the pity party.
Yo, you should come to
this BSU thing with me.
It'll be good to clear our heads.
Yeah, they're probably gonna fly
the Blue Angels across the sky for you,
but my Black card has
been revoked, remember?
Really? You gonna give up that easy?
Come on, C.
You deserve to be there
as much as anybody else.
And you could talk it out with Yazmin.
- Who knows?
- No, thank you.
I have a fun Friday night planned.
Gonna be watching a rerun of
the '94 Australian Grand Prix.
Okay. I mean, it's probably
just gonna be some lame-ass
bowling party anyway,
so you not missing much, you know.
Bowling?
This place is actually fire, though.
What's up, G?
- Good to see you, man.
- Hey.
See? I told you it's gonna be fine, man.
It's not too late to
leave that bag in the car.
House balls and rented shoes?
Those are for rookies, Will.
Carlton, are those flames?
Maybe.
I'm sorry for coming in so hot earlier.
Yeah, screaming at each other.
That's not us.
I know, and, uh,
it wasn't all about you.
You okay?
No.
You know, my head's
all messed up right now,
not knowing what's happening
with James at the firm.
And this Doc dude.
And now Geoffrey.
What's going on with Geoffrey?
I don't know.
He's just a little distant, secretive.
Have you talked to him?
- Mm-hmm.
- Hmm.
Things were finally good
between me and Geoffrey.
I just don't want to
question his every move.
Mm.
But I know him.
Something's not right.
Look, I know that you're
going through a lot at the firm
trying to figure out who you
can trust and who you can't,
but not everybody is against you.
All right, look, she is amazing, okay?
Just don't go too
hard on her, all right?
Especially you, Mom.
Uh, why especially me?
She's just just a little different
than what you're used to, but just
Just be cool.
Everybody just be cool.
You seem to be the only one
that's one not cool, son.
Who, me?
Pop, I'm fine. I'm fine.
Just everybody, relax, all right?
Everybody, relax.
Everything all right?
Uh
Mom, Dad,
this is, uh this is Hilary.
As-salamu-alaykum, Sister Ahmad.
Wa-alakum-as-salaam, Hilary.
You're beautiful.
Shukran.
As-salamu-alaykum, Brother Ahmad.
Wa-alakum-salaam.
I hope you brought your appetite.
Please.
Okay.
- She's perfect.
- Thank you.
Thanks, Pop.
It's all about speed,
strength, and angles.
Make sure you don't bend or
flex your wrist once you release.
Finish in the handshake position.
- Oh, like this?
- Yeah.
- Ah.
- Is it my turn or yours?
Just trying to help.
Uh, also, it's all in the hip
work, and your command of the lane.
Carlton!
I'm a athlete, man. Back up, a'ight?
I'ma hit 'em.
A'ight, now I see what I did wrong.
Because of the the torque,
the way that the jacket was
It was really good.
A'ight, you just show me what's up,
and I'll
- Boom.
- Good. That was pretty good.
Whoo-hoo-hoo.
Lisa.
What's up? I didn't see you come in.
- I just got here.
- Oh, yeah?
You missed my quality bowling skills.
Oh, yeah, I see you bowled a quality 60.
Hilarious.
Yo, your boy, Drew, is
muggin' me over there.
- What?
- Yeah.
No. We just drove here together.
I don't know what you see in him.
That's what a lot of
people said about you.
Me? Who? I want names.
- How many?
- Like, 15.
Hey, Lisa. I got you a drink.
- Thanks.
- Yeah.
What's up, king?
Uh, I'ma catch you later, Lisa.
- A'ight?
- Mm-hmm.
- Doug?
- Drew.
Yo, Carlton,
Yo, I'ma go link up with Jackie.
- You straight?
- Oh, you're leaving?
I mean, if that's okay with you.
Oh, yeah, yeah. I
don't need a babysitter.
- You sure?
- Yeah.
- Positive?
- Yes.
A'ight.
Yo, Yazmin looks good tonight.
You should go see what's up.
You got this, a'ight?
- Working late again, I see.
- Yeah.
Still getting up to speed
on everything at the firm.
Care to join me for a drink?
Everything okay, Geoffrey?
Yeah.
Why do you ask?
Just making sure you're
happy here, that's all.
I'm just here to do my job, Phil.
Speaking of which, it
seems your partner, James,
has been having after-hour
meetings at a firm.
I'm not aware of any meetings.
Exactly.
Hey, Yaz, I was wondering
if we could talk alone,
if you have a sec.
Yeah. Um, maybe later.
I'm just trying to vibe tonight.
Yeah. Nah, me too.
Um
I'm up.
- Yas.
- Get it, girl.
Go get that strike.
I think you should just
take the L and move on, bro.
I don't really see how this
is any of your business.
Oh, no, no, no, no, but it is,
'cause it seem like you
can't stop running your mouth.
But you didn't have nothing to say
when the shit really counted, right?
Everyone's having a good time, Drew.
- Just let it be.
- Yeah, yeah.
No, I'm not trying to stop a good time.
I just I just think
everybody should know the truth.
Full transparency. Right, Carlton?
Don't act like you know me, Drew.
Mm. Well, I know you came into the BSU
acting like you wanted to help us.
Really, you just
wanted to help yourself.
But nobody wanted to
listen to me, right?
- Drew, that's enough.
- No, no, no. Matter of fact,
we should be giving this
man a round of applause.
Hmm? 'Cause all that compromise
on making it a silent protest,
and now, he's the faculty's nomination
for the Founder's Award.
I-I mean, it could be a coincidence.
Maybe you had to suck Mrs.
Bassin's dick to get it.
Stop!
Carlton!
- Guys!
- Hey!
- Come on! Come on! Come on!
- Come on, man!
- Get off him!
- Get the fuck off of me!
Get the fuck off of me!
You motherfuckers
wanna know why I froze?
- Carlton, you don't
- No.
I had a panic attack.
I have anxiety and a panic disorder,
and I'm on fucking meds,
so I'm drugged out all the time,
trying to fit into this
goddamn Bel-Air bubble
without losing my fucking mind.
There.
I said it. You happy?
Fuck!
Carlton.
So much for creating a
safe space just for us.
We're supposed to
be the BS-fucking-U,
and this is how we treat each other?
You shouldn't have had to do that.
I'm so sorry.
Lisa to the rescue.
Just like the good old days.
You beat his ass, though.
Want a ride?
Definitely.
How long? ♪
How long? ♪
I've been waiting here for some time ♪
How strong ♪
Are ♪
Are these emotions
that entrap my brain? ♪
My love ain't plastic, it's elastic ♪
It's turned into a force of habit ♪
It feels like magic,
the way you have me ♪
Sticking to you like I'm a magnet ♪
I'd rather sing 'bout wedding rings ♪
And forget about everything ♪
But you and me ♪
But you and me ♪
You and me, yeah ♪
Whoo!
How long you been standing there?
Not long enough.
Wow. I didn't, uh
I didn't know you were a dancer.
Still got a long way
to get to Juilliard.
Well, from where I'm standing,
you were perfect.
Thanks.
So, uh, you work at Zenith
part-time during the day,
and then you come here
and dance at night?
And I get 15 hours of dance every week.
- Mm.
- While maintaining a 3.8 GPA
- and taking three APs.
- Got you.
So what you're saying is
you're an underachiever?
- Kind of.
- That's what I heard.
My uncle always says,
"No grind, no grit,
no greatness."
I like that.
You know, I always say,
work hard, play hard.
- What'd you have in mind?
- You'll see.
Hey, um, you know Saweetie?
Yeah.
You know, me and her are like this.
Yeah, I doubt that.
You wanna finish that dance?
No.
Whoo!
What's up?
You ain't know I had
that in me, did you?
Ah. Ah.
This is what you had in mind?
What's up? What you got? What you got?
I ride around town till I leave ♪
Okay. Classic.
Back to the streets ♪
So clean when I pull up to the scene ♪
- Ooh.
- Ha. Ha.
Go Jackie.
Yeah, you know I leveled up ♪
- I can't be stuck ♪
- A little loose. Loose arms.
- Yeah, no.
- No?
I'm gonna have to
teach you a few things.
Well, I'm a great student.
- Are you now?
- I am.
Thanks for giving me a glimpse.
Any time.
Like la-da-dee-da-dee-da ♪
Yeah, I spit him back to the streets ♪
Like la-da-dee-da-dee-da ♪
Back to the streets ♪
So, Mr. Ahmad,
I couldn't help but notice
that your name is Bilal,
which is also the name
of the first Muslim
to recite the call to prayer.
That's right.
- Bilal ibn Rabah.
- Mm-hmm.
Yes, he was the son of an enslaved woman
in the city of Medina in
the seventh century, right?
Uh, that's also right.
- Very impressive.
- Thank you.
Honestly, I am so
fascinated by your religion,
including the observance of Ramadan,
which is the ninth month in the
Islamic calendar from 29 to 30 days.
That is correct.
Oh, and I love the
observance of the fast
from sunrise to sunset,
the way that Muslims connect with God
Actually, can we just,
uh, change the subject?
- Good idea.
- Absolutely.
So, Mom, this chicken is fire.
What'd you use?
Ah, James.
Thanks for coming
over at this late hour.
Well, I didn't seem to have much choice.
Hmm.
You've been busy,
meeting with a lot of
other firms, clients.
You want to tell me what's going on?
Yeah, I've been having some
confidential strategy meetings,
and, uh, I didn't want to
say anything till I knew more,
but we got some meaningful offers now.
A merger?
Acquisition.
No.
Absolutely not. No, you
We did not build this firm
together all these years
to be gobbled up by a big firm
that doesn't care
about us or our people.
Hold on. You were the rainmaker, Phil.
Right? You brought in
million-dollar clients.
You're the one everybody wanted to see.
I'm just the day-to-day guy who
made sure the lights stayed on.
I'm the finder, you're the grinder.
There it is.
And when you left, we took a hit.
We lost clients. We
lost our best attorneys.
We didn't have another you.
So look, and and I get it, okay?
You had bigger ambitions
for your future.
You did what you needed to do.
Don't blame me when I'm doing the same.
Our partners will never go for this.
They already have.
I mean, unless you can
pull off a miracle, Phil,
the firm needs this to survive.
Wait, Will, are you making breakfast?
Are you trying to make me look bad?
Yo, C, I heard you was wylin'
in these streets last night.
Why you wait till I leave
the party to Hulk out?
Look, it wasn't my proudest moment.
Yo, the BSU chat is on fire right now.
Said that boy, Drew, caught a fade.
Said you lumped him up real good.
Yeah, well, I don't know,
he deserved that shit.
Oh, and you started a conversation
about Black kids and mental health.
- Wait, what?
- Yeah, man.
Check this out.
Everybody's dialoguing
about their own shit
and about how you, uh,
put the paws on Drew.
Yo, wait, de depression, anxiety,
ADD, ADHD, the fight.
Wait, and look, the BSU's talking
about starting mental health workshops.
All because of you, bro? That's crazy.
A'ight, now beat it.
I'm working on a plot.
Well, what do we have here?
Phil, look at this.
What? Will, did you cook us breakfast?
Yes, ma'am, I did.
Carlton's never made breakfast.
On that note, uh, gonna go study.
Come on. Let me get you seated.
- Okay.
- Mm-hmm.
- Mm.
- Come on, sit down.
Cooked some bacon and eggs
for my favorite aunt and uncle.
Got some toast and
some fresh coffee too.
I feel like we're being buttered up
right along with this toast.
What's on your mind, Will?
Um
Uncle Phil, I know
you're not feeling Zenith,
but I just feel like it's
the right place for me.
And I promise I'll do the work.
Not only in class, but I'll get a job,
maybe even two,
just so you don't
have to cover the cost.
I'm impressed.
You know, no grind, no
grit, no greatness, right?
So all you have to say is one word.
All right.
- A'ight?
- All right.
- Yeah?
- Yes.
Yes!
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, my man.
All right, let's eat.
- I'm hungry.
- Hey, hey, wait, wait, wait.
You you cooked this, right?
- Yeah.
- All right, well, let's pray.
- Oh, amen.
- Yo, he got jokes.
Lord God, please bless this food.
So you wanna talk about it, or
No.
You can't keep avoiding it.
Fine.
I just wanted your
parents to like me, okay?
My mom got in my head.
And I acted a little crazy.
A little crazy?
Hilary, you sounded like a
damn Muslim Wikipedia page.
I know, okay?
It was terrible.
So what, your parents hate me now?
No, they don't hate you.
They just wanted to
meet the real Hilary.
You could've just been yourself.
Really?
Because when I asked
to meet your parents,
you were acting nervous.
Don't act like I didn't clock you.
Okay.
Okay, you got me.
I mean, since we talking about it,
I was a little nervous too,
but that's only because
We're so different?
Do you ever feel like
we're too different?
No. No, never.
Look, as long as we down for each other,
I'ma ride for you,
you gonna ride for me.
Doesn't matter what anybody else think.
All right.
Doesn't matter.
Ash-Ash.
So, um, I've been thinking,
and I've decided
you can't give up.
And now I know putting
yourself out there isn't easy,
but the way I see it,
you don't have a choice.
What?
Yeah, 'cause you're the one in
the house that gives us hope,
me especially.
So take your emotional lap.
Get your head right.
Then get back in the game,
'cause we need you, all right?
Yeah, no, I really like
that kid. Let's go get him.
All right.
This is a surprise.
I got the distinct impression
from our last conversation
that you don't trust me.
Well, I wouldn't say you're wrong,
but, uh, this is
Will's decision to make.
Here's the contract and the fee.
I see you took some liberties.
You'll find you'll still receive
what I consider a generous cut.
He talk you into
trying to strong-arm me?
Nah.
I just asked him to get
the best deal for me.
I figured you respect the hustle.
Look, Will deserves
a shot at his dreams.
He'll play for your
team and help you win,
but you don't get to own him.
Looks like we got a deal.
All right.
- Coach!
- Yes, sir.
- My man.
- Let's get it.
A'ight. Hope you ready for me, man.
- Let's do this.
- Let's do it.
- I been ready.
- Hey. Yeah.
I been working.
- Get outta here.
- A'ight.
- I'ma talk to you later.
- All right, I'll talk to you.
Big Willy's back.
How'd that go?
He's in.
Job well done.
I mean, I didn't really do anything.
Well, he needed to show
his uncle that he's willing
to work hard for what he wants.
Thanks to you, he got there.
No grind, no grit, no greatness.
Previously on "Bel-Air"
Just get the ball out to Curt.
End of discussion.
Getting that W's the
only thing that matters.
We straight on that now? Here's my card.
Let me know when you want
to discuss his future.
- Geoffrey.
- Phil.
James Lewis, there's something
not right with him at the firm.
Get into it for me, will you?
I'm on it.
We should take our
relationship up a notch.
Jazz, your boyfriend?
- I love Jazz.
- And Dad?
I am not gonna be the
messenger between you two.
Carlton started weaning
off the medication,
and we just wanted you
to keep an eye on him.
If C needs my help, I got his back.
I just keep thinking
that Ms. Hughes got fired because of me.
Rallying to save Ms. Hughes' job
- is a cause worthy of our BSU.
- I agree.
I think we should protest.
Shut this protest down.
Whoa. They trying to put us on mute?
They took away the banner,
but you can still do the speech.
You better not fucking tell Mom and Dad.
Okay. I got you.
Black teachers matter!
Black teachers matter!
Black teachers matter!
Fuck!
I can't believe I'm getting
suspended for this shit.
No one asked you to go up on the roof.
Hey, look, you got to tell
your folks what happened.
No.
No, and you can't say anything either.
- You promised me.
- Look.
Carlton, I'm not doing that, a'ight?
I told Uncle Phil that
I would look out for you.
- Well, good job.
- What's that supposed to mean?
You pushed me.
I didn't want to do the Blackout.
It was your idea, and you
just wouldn't let it go.
Uh, yeah because I believed
in what we were doing.
Oh, yeah, so much passion for
a teacher you didn't even know.
Will, you can say that you did it for me
or or you did it for
Ashley or Ms. Hughes,
but at the end of the day,
the protest wasn't
about any of that, Will.
You went up on that roof for you.
That's not true, bro.
I was genuinely looking out for you.
You were so focused on
fucking with authority,
you lost track of the one
thing my dad asked you to do.
Look out for me.
I'm afraid we don't have great news.
We, uh
we couldn't appeal the suspension.
Being on the roof was a
a huge school safety violation.
How long?
One week, but that's not all of it.
Coach Johnson's pulling you
from the basketball team.
- Indefinitely.
- What?
No, he can't do this. This is my future.
I'm so sorry, Will. We tried everything.
Look, we been bumping heads all season.
He's just using this as
an excuse to get rid of me.
Well, you sure made it easy for him.
Will, how long you gonna keep
blaming other people for your actions?
Look, you stood up for what was right,
but there are consequences.
Is there something else
you want to tell me, Will?
I guess I'll just do my time.
Fuck this school.
Maybe Coach Johnson
just needs some time.
I don't know.
I just feel like nobody gets me here.
We got you, Will.
No, we cannot up the RSVP count by 50.
What? The venue we selected
cannot accommodate that.
And yes, it is too late
to find another one.
Uh, yeah, you do that.
I swear, this art show is getting
more complicated by the hour.
I don't mind having you here.
I really like having your company,
but headphones would be great.
My bad, Aunt Viv.
Yo, playoffs is where I was gonna have
all the right eyes on me.
And next year is my senior year.
It just feels like my plan is jacked.
Will, my sister raised
you to handle anything
and everything the world throws at you.
Your basketball career is not over.
Sure feels like it.
Well, what about that AAU thing
- you were telling me about?
- Zenith Hype?
I mean, every time I bring it up,
Uncle Phil just shuts it down
or makes another excuse.
You know, when I came back home,
Uncle Phil said he
would support my dreams,
so when is that gonna happen?
Ah.
Been looking for you.
Gave the housekeeper the day off,
so I have a list of things I need you
- to do around the house.
- Things?
You think you just gonna lay
around in your underwear all day?
It's a figure of speech.
He could use a day to decompress.
Well, he can decompress on his own time.
Let's go, nephew.
Carlton,
faculty nominations for the
Founder's Award are coming out,
and you know they can
only pick one student.
Wait, me?
Yes.
Your actions the day of the
protest didn't go unnoticed.
I told you this would be good for you.
- Here you go.
- Thank you.
Need anything else?
Oh, ten more hours in the day?
- That boss life, huh?
- Yes.
If I can just close
the Simply Spiked deal,
it would be a game
changer for the House.
Then H2Ivy is over with.
- H2Ivy?
- Mm-hmm.
Does Ivy know about this?
She's on a need-to-know basis.
If she can make moves
without telling me,
then I can do the same.
Now, that sounds like
a healthy partnership.
Shut up.
And I'm sorry that I
can't make lunch today,
but I just need to finish this pitch.
- We could do dinner, though.
- Ah, can't.
Moms and Pops coming over later.
- Got to clean up.
- Okay.
Well, then I could
just meet your parents.
Or not.
I mean, like
do you think you ready for that?
Ready for what, Jazz?
Why wouldn't I be ready?
I mean, I just I just don't want
to push you into rushing anything.
But you already know my parents.
So why can't I meet
yours? What's the big deal?
Right.
No, right. It's no big deal.
- I'm trippin'.
- Are you sure?
Yeah, I'm sure. I'd love to.
Okay, great. Then it's a date.
I can't wait to see
what makes Jazz, Jazz.
- Bye.
- Bye.
What the fuck?
Shit.
- Hello?
- Mr. West Philly himself.
Been a minute since we last spoke.
Thought you was ghosting me.
No. No, no, no.
I was, uh, just busy
with school and shit.
Hmm. Heard you was suspended
and kicked off the team.
I guess word travels fast.
Yeah, when you tapped in,
information just has
a way of finding you.
So you still trying to
rock with me or what?
Yeah. Yeah, of course.
I mean, if that's still an
option, I-I would love that.
Tell you what, since
you got some free time,
why don't you swing by
later with your uncle,
and we'll figure it out?
Uh, my uncle. Um
- That a problem?
- No.
No, it's not. Um, we'll be there.
Look, Doc, I-I really
appreciate this opportunity.
I'll see you later.
Bet.
Looks like he's coming in.
Thank you, Mr. Hightower.
This means a lot.
Hey, Geoffrey.
Heading out?
Yeah.
Yeah? Where to?
Personal errands.
Was there something you needed?
Uh, no.
No. Enjoy the day.
Thanks.
Yazmin.
It all makes sense now.
All what makes sense?
You said you were gonna
give a speech at the protest,
but then you just stood there.
Bassin got to you,
and now your name's on
the Founder's Award list.
Oh, no.
No, look, I-I
it's actually a lot more
complicated than that.
It seems pretty simple to me, Carlton.
I thought we were working
on the same agenda, but
I guess you had one of your own.
Thanks for letting
me hide out here, Mom.
I can never work at
the Influencer House.
Of course. Any time.
You know I love seeing you in boss mode.
Are you still enjoying it?
I mean, yeah.
I don't get to do my
cooking videos as much,
but I'm kind of liking
the business side.
Yeah? Ugh, all I want
to do is close the door,
turn on some music, and paint all day,
but with this art show coming,
there's a million people
with a million opinions.
Well, Mom, it's gonna be great.
And listen, if you need any help,
I'll make some time.
Well, what about you?
Are you managing to have some fun?
I mean, how's it going
with you and Jazz?
We're good.
Um, I'm actually meeting
his parents tonight.
Wow. Wow.
Well, that's that's a big step.
And?
- What?
- Mom, come on.
You obviously want
to say something else.
What? No, I like Jazz.
He is independent, mannerable,
uh, he treats you wonderful,
and he's a great role
model for Will, so
But?
But he he's just not
the type of guy that
you traditionally dated.
Mm, like immature and
emotionally unavailable.
The flashy hotshots with
the big cars and the clout.
- Bel-Air boys.
- Exactly.
Yeah, Jazz is different.
But I don't know, I think
that's why I like him.
And maybe it's time I try something new.
Well, different is good.
And you know what? His
parents are gonna love you.
- Excuse me, Uncle Phil?
- Hey, Will.
- How's it going out there?
- Good.
I, um, cleaned the
fridge, washed your car,
even gave your rims a
little extra elbow grease.
Nice. Well done, nephew.
- Thank you.
- Mm-hmm.
Is there something else
I could help you with?
Oh, yeah, now that you bring it up
Um, look, I know I'm in the doghouse,
but you always say closed
mouths don't get fed, right?
So, uh, I was wondering
if you could do me a favor.
Okay.
What is it?
Um
do you remember Doc?
Our program is designed for players
who are dedicated and
committed to being great.
Yeah, that's me all day, Doc.
You'll get strength, movement,
and endurance training,
as well as access to
our top exposure camps
where our players showcase their skills
in front of hundreds of college coaches.
See, we don't get none of
that in Bel-Air, Uncle Phil.
So the price for new players is 10,000
with a monthly fee of 500?
Seems awfully steep
for high school kids.
Well, we do have scholarships
for families who qualify.
Would you like a financial aid form?
Look, I usually like to finish the tour
before we talk numbers, but we can chat
about the particulars now if you'd like.
- Yes, very much.
- Yeah, let's do it.
Uh, just me and Mr.
Hightower for now, Will.
Yeah, Will, why don't you go upstairs
and get your fade tightened up?
Fade tightened up?
I don't think it can get
much tighter than this now.
Mr. Banks.
It's crazy what they
brought down on Will.
And half the school is ready
to Million Man March for him.
Yes, I get it. He's our beloved hero.
So you want to talk about the protest?
I know people are saying that
I tanked the speech on purpose,
but that's not true, all right?
I had a-a panic attack.
And I know it sounds like an excuse
You don't have to
explain yourself to me.
I saw you.
And I know what it looks like, remember?
Hey, Lisa.
You coming to the BSU hang tonight?
I think we could all
stand to have some fun.
Of course.
Damn, if looks could kill
Whatever, okay?
I wasn't really feeling
her all that much anyway.
Boy, please.
I know you like her.
Let her in.
Talk about what you're dealing with.
There's this thing girls love.
What's it called? Oh,
right, communication.
No, okay?
Look, I don't need another
girl feeling sorry for me.
All I'm saying is,
it's okay to be honest
and show people the real Carlton.
Otherwise, everyone is just going
to think the worst of you.
Sheesh!
This shit is super crispy, dog.
Enjoying the amenities?
Yo, hey. What's up?
Hey, wait. What are you doing here?
Part-time gig.
I answer the phones,
wipe down the machines,
earn some extra cash.
- I kind of know the boss.
- Oh, right.
- Doc is your uncle.
- Mm-hmm. Yeah.
That was crazy.
So, um, suspended, huh?
Damn. Does everybody know
my business around here?
- What'd you do?
- I kind of went a little too hard
for a Black teacher who got fired.
What? You shouldn't get punished
for rockin' out for the culture.
That's what I said.
Appreciate it.
Different rules in Bel-Air, I guess.
Seems that way.
So Doc tells me you're from Philly.
- Oh, he does?
- Yeah.
- You been asking about me?
- No.
- You sure?
- Yeah.
So when you gonna give me a
bigger glimpse into your world?
I don't really let a lot
of people in too fast.
Hmm.
Well, uh, maybe we could change that.
We'll see.
Well, I got to ask.
What's in it for you?
The satisfaction of helping young
athletes reach their full potential.
Why don't you try giving me an answer
that's not in the brochure?
I got kids making upwards of 80 grand
before they even graduate high school.
I don't make a penny off no one
who ain't making a whole lot more.
Well, my nephew's been through a lot,
and I'm just trying to support
what he wants to do with his life.
I also want to make sure
that he's being exposed
to an experience that's gonna
change him for the better.
Hmm.
What, you disagree?
Man, the world is always
trying to tell our boys
to change who they are to be great,
but I think it's what they been
through that makes them great.
Hmm.
I don't want to quiet
what's inside Will.
- I want to bring it out.
- Right.
You also want him to give you
a percentage of his earnings
from any NIL deals and all contracts
in perpetuity?
Look, if these questions
are too difficult for you
It's not, man.
I'm just not used to people pressing me
when they seeking my help.
They understand the value that I bring.
It's something that your
wife clearly understood.
My wife?
Wait, wait, wait.
Hey, Uncle Phil. Come on, man.
Why we rushin' out of
here like we rob this jawn?
- We'll discuss it when we get home.
- Wait. Please, please.
Come on, man. What's the problem?
- Maybe I can fix it.
- We should just keep looking.
All right? Look, we'll find you a team
that's the right fit,
but this isn't it, okay?
Just like that?
You make a decision, and
I just got to live with it?
Uncle Phil, this is my
life we're talking about.
- Look, Will
- Look, Doc may not be
Bel-Air enough for you, but
that's exactly why I like him.
And maybe that's exactly why you don't.
Will.
Hey.
Ash, why you tossing that stuff?
I don't need it.
What? Come on.
This is everything you believe in.
I just don't know anymore.
Ms. Hughes got fired,
and you got suspended.
You can't even be on the
basketball team because of me.
Ashley
look, it's not your fault.
Okay?
I made my own decision.
What's the point in
trying to change things
if they just end up like this?
And then you went down
there behind my back?
Why didn't you talk to me first?
I didn't realize I had
to get your permission.
Oh, it is always about what you want.
And laying down the law
isn't always the answer.
Will is hurting.
Look, I-I know you have
a soft spot for him,
and and I love him too,
but he is still an impulsive teenager
who's clearly been making
the wrong decisions.
But we also have to
listen to what he needs.
I mean, what is so
wrong with this AAU team?
It's not the team
that I'm worried about.
Then what is it with you and Doc?
This man clearly has a
strong influence over Will,
and I'm not sure it's one that he needs
when he's at a crossroads
looking for direction.
We cannot control who should
or shouldn't be in Will's life.
We have learned that the hard way.
Look, this is different than Lou.
Oh, it feels the same.
And the last thing Will needs
is to feel like we are
playing puppet master
with his future again.
All I'm saying is that
you and I need to be
on the same page when it comes to Will.
And what you did today
undermines everything
I thought we were trying to do.
What up, C?
Hey.
How'd school go?
Awful.
Yazmin won't even look in my direction.
How was day one of being suspended?
Horrible.
Been washing your nasty-ass
Gucci drawers all day.
Those are supposed to be dry-cleaned.
Thanks, by the way,
for, uh, not throwing me
under the bus with Mom and Dad.
They would've just freaked out
and put me on stronger meds.
Look, man, why do they always think
they know what's best for us?
Uncle Phil basically
put an end to Zenith.
Look, that sucks.
Yeah.
All right, enough of the pity party.
Yo, you should come to
this BSU thing with me.
It'll be good to clear our heads.
Yeah, they're probably gonna fly
the Blue Angels across the sky for you,
but my Black card has
been revoked, remember?
Really? You gonna give up that easy?
Come on, C.
You deserve to be there
as much as anybody else.
And you could talk it out with Yazmin.
- Who knows?
- No, thank you.
I have a fun Friday night planned.
Gonna be watching a rerun of
the '94 Australian Grand Prix.
Okay. I mean, it's probably
just gonna be some lame-ass
bowling party anyway,
so you not missing much, you know.
Bowling?
This place is actually fire, though.
What's up, G?
- Good to see you, man.
- Hey.
See? I told you it's gonna be fine, man.
It's not too late to
leave that bag in the car.
House balls and rented shoes?
Those are for rookies, Will.
Carlton, are those flames?
Maybe.
I'm sorry for coming in so hot earlier.
Yeah, screaming at each other.
That's not us.
I know, and, uh,
it wasn't all about you.
You okay?
No.
You know, my head's
all messed up right now,
not knowing what's happening
with James at the firm.
And this Doc dude.
And now Geoffrey.
What's going on with Geoffrey?
I don't know.
He's just a little distant, secretive.
Have you talked to him?
- Mm-hmm.
- Hmm.
Things were finally good
between me and Geoffrey.
I just don't want to
question his every move.
Mm.
But I know him.
Something's not right.
Look, I know that you're
going through a lot at the firm
trying to figure out who you
can trust and who you can't,
but not everybody is against you.
All right, look, she is amazing, okay?
Just don't go too
hard on her, all right?
Especially you, Mom.
Uh, why especially me?
She's just just a little different
than what you're used to, but just
Just be cool.
Everybody just be cool.
You seem to be the only one
that's one not cool, son.
Who, me?
Pop, I'm fine. I'm fine.
Just everybody, relax, all right?
Everybody, relax.
Everything all right?
Uh
Mom, Dad,
this is, uh this is Hilary.
As-salamu-alaykum, Sister Ahmad.
Wa-alakum-as-salaam, Hilary.
You're beautiful.
Shukran.
As-salamu-alaykum, Brother Ahmad.
Wa-alakum-salaam.
I hope you brought your appetite.
Please.
Okay.
- She's perfect.
- Thank you.
Thanks, Pop.
It's all about speed,
strength, and angles.
Make sure you don't bend or
flex your wrist once you release.
Finish in the handshake position.
- Oh, like this?
- Yeah.
- Ah.
- Is it my turn or yours?
Just trying to help.
Uh, also, it's all in the hip
work, and your command of the lane.
Carlton!
I'm a athlete, man. Back up, a'ight?
I'ma hit 'em.
A'ight, now I see what I did wrong.
Because of the the torque,
the way that the jacket was
It was really good.
A'ight, you just show me what's up,
and I'll
- Boom.
- Good. That was pretty good.
Whoo-hoo-hoo.
Lisa.
What's up? I didn't see you come in.
- I just got here.
- Oh, yeah?
You missed my quality bowling skills.
Oh, yeah, I see you bowled a quality 60.
Hilarious.
Yo, your boy, Drew, is
muggin' me over there.
- What?
- Yeah.
No. We just drove here together.
I don't know what you see in him.
That's what a lot of
people said about you.
Me? Who? I want names.
- How many?
- Like, 15.
Hey, Lisa. I got you a drink.
- Thanks.
- Yeah.
What's up, king?
Uh, I'ma catch you later, Lisa.
- A'ight?
- Mm-hmm.
- Doug?
- Drew.
Yo, Carlton,
Yo, I'ma go link up with Jackie.
- You straight?
- Oh, you're leaving?
I mean, if that's okay with you.
Oh, yeah, yeah. I
don't need a babysitter.
- You sure?
- Yeah.
- Positive?
- Yes.
A'ight.
Yo, Yazmin looks good tonight.
You should go see what's up.
You got this, a'ight?
- Working late again, I see.
- Yeah.
Still getting up to speed
on everything at the firm.
Care to join me for a drink?
Everything okay, Geoffrey?
Yeah.
Why do you ask?
Just making sure you're
happy here, that's all.
I'm just here to do my job, Phil.
Speaking of which, it
seems your partner, James,
has been having after-hour
meetings at a firm.
I'm not aware of any meetings.
Exactly.
Hey, Yaz, I was wondering
if we could talk alone,
if you have a sec.
Yeah. Um, maybe later.
I'm just trying to vibe tonight.
Yeah. Nah, me too.
Um
I'm up.
- Yas.
- Get it, girl.
Go get that strike.
I think you should just
take the L and move on, bro.
I don't really see how this
is any of your business.
Oh, no, no, no, no, but it is,
'cause it seem like you
can't stop running your mouth.
But you didn't have nothing to say
when the shit really counted, right?
Everyone's having a good time, Drew.
- Just let it be.
- Yeah, yeah.
No, I'm not trying to stop a good time.
I just I just think
everybody should know the truth.
Full transparency. Right, Carlton?
Don't act like you know me, Drew.
Mm. Well, I know you came into the BSU
acting like you wanted to help us.
Really, you just
wanted to help yourself.
But nobody wanted to
listen to me, right?
- Drew, that's enough.
- No, no, no. Matter of fact,
we should be giving this
man a round of applause.
Hmm? 'Cause all that compromise
on making it a silent protest,
and now, he's the faculty's nomination
for the Founder's Award.
I-I mean, it could be a coincidence.
Maybe you had to suck Mrs.
Bassin's dick to get it.
Stop!
Carlton!
- Guys!
- Hey!
- Come on! Come on! Come on!
- Come on, man!
- Get off him!
- Get the fuck off of me!
Get the fuck off of me!
You motherfuckers
wanna know why I froze?
- Carlton, you don't
- No.
I had a panic attack.
I have anxiety and a panic disorder,
and I'm on fucking meds,
so I'm drugged out all the time,
trying to fit into this
goddamn Bel-Air bubble
without losing my fucking mind.
There.
I said it. You happy?
Fuck!
Carlton.
So much for creating a
safe space just for us.
We're supposed to
be the BS-fucking-U,
and this is how we treat each other?
You shouldn't have had to do that.
I'm so sorry.
Lisa to the rescue.
Just like the good old days.
You beat his ass, though.
Want a ride?
Definitely.
How long? ♪
How long? ♪
I've been waiting here for some time ♪
How strong ♪
Are ♪
Are these emotions
that entrap my brain? ♪
My love ain't plastic, it's elastic ♪
It's turned into a force of habit ♪
It feels like magic,
the way you have me ♪
Sticking to you like I'm a magnet ♪
I'd rather sing 'bout wedding rings ♪
And forget about everything ♪
But you and me ♪
But you and me ♪
You and me, yeah ♪
Whoo!
How long you been standing there?
Not long enough.
Wow. I didn't, uh
I didn't know you were a dancer.
Still got a long way
to get to Juilliard.
Well, from where I'm standing,
you were perfect.
Thanks.
So, uh, you work at Zenith
part-time during the day,
and then you come here
and dance at night?
And I get 15 hours of dance every week.
- Mm.
- While maintaining a 3.8 GPA
- and taking three APs.
- Got you.
So what you're saying is
you're an underachiever?
- Kind of.
- That's what I heard.
My uncle always says,
"No grind, no grit,
no greatness."
I like that.
You know, I always say,
work hard, play hard.
- What'd you have in mind?
- You'll see.
Hey, um, you know Saweetie?
Yeah.
You know, me and her are like this.
Yeah, I doubt that.
You wanna finish that dance?
No.
Whoo!
What's up?
You ain't know I had
that in me, did you?
Ah. Ah.
This is what you had in mind?
What's up? What you got? What you got?
I ride around town till I leave ♪
Okay. Classic.
Back to the streets ♪
So clean when I pull up to the scene ♪
- Ooh.
- Ha. Ha.
Go Jackie.
Yeah, you know I leveled up ♪
- I can't be stuck ♪
- A little loose. Loose arms.
- Yeah, no.
- No?
I'm gonna have to
teach you a few things.
Well, I'm a great student.
- Are you now?
- I am.
Thanks for giving me a glimpse.
Any time.
Like la-da-dee-da-dee-da ♪
Yeah, I spit him back to the streets ♪
Like la-da-dee-da-dee-da ♪
Back to the streets ♪
So, Mr. Ahmad,
I couldn't help but notice
that your name is Bilal,
which is also the name
of the first Muslim
to recite the call to prayer.
That's right.
- Bilal ibn Rabah.
- Mm-hmm.
Yes, he was the son of an enslaved woman
in the city of Medina in
the seventh century, right?
Uh, that's also right.
- Very impressive.
- Thank you.
Honestly, I am so
fascinated by your religion,
including the observance of Ramadan,
which is the ninth month in the
Islamic calendar from 29 to 30 days.
That is correct.
Oh, and I love the
observance of the fast
from sunrise to sunset,
the way that Muslims connect with God
Actually, can we just,
uh, change the subject?
- Good idea.
- Absolutely.
So, Mom, this chicken is fire.
What'd you use?
Ah, James.
Thanks for coming
over at this late hour.
Well, I didn't seem to have much choice.
Hmm.
You've been busy,
meeting with a lot of
other firms, clients.
You want to tell me what's going on?
Yeah, I've been having some
confidential strategy meetings,
and, uh, I didn't want to
say anything till I knew more,
but we got some meaningful offers now.
A merger?
Acquisition.
No.
Absolutely not. No, you
We did not build this firm
together all these years
to be gobbled up by a big firm
that doesn't care
about us or our people.
Hold on. You were the rainmaker, Phil.
Right? You brought in
million-dollar clients.
You're the one everybody wanted to see.
I'm just the day-to-day guy who
made sure the lights stayed on.
I'm the finder, you're the grinder.
There it is.
And when you left, we took a hit.
We lost clients. We
lost our best attorneys.
We didn't have another you.
So look, and and I get it, okay?
You had bigger ambitions
for your future.
You did what you needed to do.
Don't blame me when I'm doing the same.
Our partners will never go for this.
They already have.
I mean, unless you can
pull off a miracle, Phil,
the firm needs this to survive.
Wait, Will, are you making breakfast?
Are you trying to make me look bad?
Yo, C, I heard you was wylin'
in these streets last night.
Why you wait till I leave
the party to Hulk out?
Look, it wasn't my proudest moment.
Yo, the BSU chat is on fire right now.
Said that boy, Drew, caught a fade.
Said you lumped him up real good.
Yeah, well, I don't know,
he deserved that shit.
Oh, and you started a conversation
about Black kids and mental health.
- Wait, what?
- Yeah, man.
Check this out.
Everybody's dialoguing
about their own shit
and about how you, uh,
put the paws on Drew.
Yo, wait, de depression, anxiety,
ADD, ADHD, the fight.
Wait, and look, the BSU's talking
about starting mental health workshops.
All because of you, bro? That's crazy.
A'ight, now beat it.
I'm working on a plot.
Well, what do we have here?
Phil, look at this.
What? Will, did you cook us breakfast?
Yes, ma'am, I did.
Carlton's never made breakfast.
On that note, uh, gonna go study.
Come on. Let me get you seated.
- Okay.
- Mm-hmm.
- Mm.
- Come on, sit down.
Cooked some bacon and eggs
for my favorite aunt and uncle.
Got some toast and
some fresh coffee too.
I feel like we're being buttered up
right along with this toast.
What's on your mind, Will?
Um
Uncle Phil, I know
you're not feeling Zenith,
but I just feel like it's
the right place for me.
And I promise I'll do the work.
Not only in class, but I'll get a job,
maybe even two,
just so you don't
have to cover the cost.
I'm impressed.
You know, no grind, no
grit, no greatness, right?
So all you have to say is one word.
All right.
- A'ight?
- All right.
- Yeah?
- Yes.
Yes!
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, my man.
All right, let's eat.
- I'm hungry.
- Hey, hey, wait, wait, wait.
You you cooked this, right?
- Yeah.
- All right, well, let's pray.
- Oh, amen.
- Yo, he got jokes.
Lord God, please bless this food.
So you wanna talk about it, or
No.
You can't keep avoiding it.
Fine.
I just wanted your
parents to like me, okay?
My mom got in my head.
And I acted a little crazy.
A little crazy?
Hilary, you sounded like a
damn Muslim Wikipedia page.
I know, okay?
It was terrible.
So what, your parents hate me now?
No, they don't hate you.
They just wanted to
meet the real Hilary.
You could've just been yourself.
Really?
Because when I asked
to meet your parents,
you were acting nervous.
Don't act like I didn't clock you.
Okay.
Okay, you got me.
I mean, since we talking about it,
I was a little nervous too,
but that's only because
We're so different?
Do you ever feel like
we're too different?
No. No, never.
Look, as long as we down for each other,
I'ma ride for you,
you gonna ride for me.
Doesn't matter what anybody else think.
All right.
Doesn't matter.
Ash-Ash.
So, um, I've been thinking,
and I've decided
you can't give up.
And now I know putting
yourself out there isn't easy,
but the way I see it,
you don't have a choice.
What?
Yeah, 'cause you're the one in
the house that gives us hope,
me especially.
So take your emotional lap.
Get your head right.
Then get back in the game,
'cause we need you, all right?
Yeah, no, I really like
that kid. Let's go get him.
All right.
This is a surprise.
I got the distinct impression
from our last conversation
that you don't trust me.
Well, I wouldn't say you're wrong,
but, uh, this is
Will's decision to make.
Here's the contract and the fee.
I see you took some liberties.
You'll find you'll still receive
what I consider a generous cut.
He talk you into
trying to strong-arm me?
Nah.
I just asked him to get
the best deal for me.
I figured you respect the hustle.
Look, Will deserves
a shot at his dreams.
He'll play for your
team and help you win,
but you don't get to own him.
Looks like we got a deal.
All right.
- Coach!
- Yes, sir.
- My man.
- Let's get it.
A'ight. Hope you ready for me, man.
- Let's do this.
- Let's do it.
- I been ready.
- Hey. Yeah.
I been working.
- Get outta here.
- A'ight.
- I'ma talk to you later.
- All right, I'll talk to you.
Big Willy's back.
How'd that go?
He's in.
Job well done.
I mean, I didn't really do anything.
Well, he needed to show
his uncle that he's willing
to work hard for what he wants.
Thanks to you, he got there.
No grind, no grit, no greatness.