Bel-Air (2022) s03e02 Episode Script
Pivot
Previously on "Bel-Air"
I want to apologize
for the past.
- We were young.
- Yes.
But while I could excuse
it in college, as an adult,
I can own it.
I'm sorry, Viv.
Oh.
Uh, I'm I'm sorry.
- That cannot happen.
- No, I agree.
It seems like everybody
made up except for us.
I just wish things could have
started a little differently.
We still got time for a do-over.
Mom, Dad, I would love for
you to meet my friend Amira.
Prioritize yourself right now.
Let Carlton do the same.
Me and LaMarcus have a
very special announcement.
I got down on my knee
and asked the love of
my life to marry me.
[cheers and applause]
I'm sorry that I hurt you, Jazz.
Every time something in
life gets hard, you run.
It's only a matter of time
before you run away
from that nigga, too.
If you'll consider
teaming up, final spot
in "Young, Gifted,
and Black" is yours.
We are really about to
start a business together.
You, uh, got any ideas?
A million.
[hip-hop music]
♪
- Think about our hobbies.
- OK, what do we like to do?
Master class for Black athletes.
A bread pudding dessert ball.
- Chest toupees.
- Uncle Phil could use that.
Think about it.
The freedom to drive around
in peace without worrying
about getting pulled over.
The app would hack into
local police scanners
so you would know exactly
where the speed traps are.
Dope. Not a bad idea.
No. Just an illegal one.
- How illegal are we talking?
- Right.
Picture this.
A shopping cart you
don't have to push.
They just follow you
around the store, Aunt Viv.
It feels unnecessary.
OK, I think you guys are
going to love this one.
An online trading post
for designer clothes.
- I mean, that's fire.
- Right?
Like, it's it's brilliant.
You you would totally use it.
Absolutely.
In fact, I already do.
It's a very popular
app called Depop.
Damn it!
[footsteps approaching]
- Good morning, Will.
- Good morning.
You're up and at
'em early, nephew.
Just catching up on
Quentin's reading list.
You know he reads a book a week?
[scoffs] I just love
the way this guy thinks.
Check this out.
"You got to shift into
that hustle mentality.
"Learn you can create your
life instead of letting
life happen to you."
Yeah, I read Quentin's memoir
he's a smart young man.
Yeah, and he's always
thinking about what's next.
[scoffs] Imagine
one of the biggest fighters
in the world at 22,
millions in endorsement
deals, at the top of his game.
And what does he
do? He pivots.
He starts investing
into startups, you know.
He got into crypto
before anybody
even knew what that was.
And look at him now.
See, that's the hustle
I'm trying to have.
I love where your
head's at, Will.
Mm-hmm.
But now that you're not
playing basketball this summer,
it seems like you got
a lot of free time.
And we've been thinking that you
might want to pick up some
hours at the country club.
Hours?
Well, Quentin held
down a full-time job
while he was training
for his first fight.
I mean, you spend your
days at the club anyway.
I made a few calls.
They're still hiring.
What are y'all talking about?
Will getting a job at the club.
Why?
Carlton, your father and I think
you could use a job, too.
- Wait, what?
You could stand to learn the
value of a little hard work.
Yo, literally,
what is happening?
Your therapist said that
structure is important.
You know, a routine
would be good for you.
I have a routine.
Wha you we have to
turn in our business plan
this week, right?
Look, man, we been racking our
brains, and we got nothing.
I think if we want
to have an idea,
we should be out there
networking, you know.
The country club is
full of power players.
It's full of kids we
go to school with.
The stares, the sad
eyes, the "how are yous?"
You can't hide from life, son.
All right, sooner or
later, the day will come.
Great. I vote later.
- Carlton, I believe in you.
- And I appreciate that.
This is nonnegotiable.
Keep us posted.
High-res vision
High tops fitting
just right ♪
Rich almost like that,
I don't drop right style ♪
Drop top whipping all
night, V12 high screen ♪
Breaking necks when
you see me on sight ♪
Break brand-new respect
Ain't slept, next
check just right ♪
It's always good to
see you, Mr. Briggs.
Well, I was pleasantly
surprised you wanted a job.
You've been a regular on
our pickleball courts.
Yeah, man, I'm still trying
to figure out my sweet spot
on that ground stroke.
[laughs] It's all
about lining up
the hand-eye coordination.
- Yeah.
Yeah.
And, uh, how are you, Carlton?
I mean, really, are you
taking care of yourself?
I am. Thanks.
Your parents have been
members for years,
and I will do anything to help.
Well, that's amazing to hear
because, uh, me and Carlton
are actually a part
of a very prestigious
entrepreneurship program.
- Oh.
Yeah, we would love
the opportunity
to grow our business skills.
Uh, account management,
maybe maybe sales.
Well, I'm afraid
at this juncture,
the options are
a little limited.
Oh, darn. Maybe next summer.
No, we're not picky.
Yeah, we'd be happy
to learn the business
from the ground up.
- Good.
I have something
perfect for you two.
Cha-ching.
[hip-hop music]
Don't tell me we're
gonna be pit pigs.
Pit what?
It's what we call
the cart cleaners.
Will, you're one of us now.
Welcome to the pit.
You, my friend, you're
a little overdressed.
♪
[Easy McCoy's "Deja Vu"]
I should be in bed right now.
♪
Sister!
I have treats for you.
So we have fresh crepes
with lemon sauce,
a twist of jasmine
ganache, and whipped cream.
Yum! What's the occasion?
Girl, this cookware
company gave me,
like, a dozen crepe makers.
You want one?
Give one to your
friends or something.
[chuckles] I mean, how does
it feel to be so in demand?
It's wild.
I just signed with
this big agency,
and I'm excited to
see what's next.
Your sis is kind of blowing up.
- [chuckles]
Here.
I mean, too bad all
social media cares about
is your engagement.
- I know, right?
That video damn near
broke the Internet.
Mm.
Ash
what do you have
against LaMarcus?
I mean, he's fine
enough, but he's no Jazz.
OK?
Anyway
OK, so what are the plans
for sister-sister day?
Whatever you want to do.
OK, so I'm thinking mani-pedis,
lunch at Nobu, vintage shopping,
and a quick stop
at Charlie's Vinyl.
That's it.
I saw you sneak that in there.
You're not slick.
- What?
Jazz set aside a few albums
for my new record player.
And you said whatever I want.
[hip-hop music]
[indistinct chatter]
♪
My body was not
made for hard work.
Yeah, but at least
we're almost finished.
Wait, Carlton?
What, you're back?
And you're working as a pit pig?
Wait, what is this, like,
rehab-mandated or
Nope, parent mandated.
And Carlton doesn't need his
resident dope dealer anymore,
so, uh, take your cart
and hit the green.
OK, we are loaded,
and we are up next.
Oh, hey, Carlton.
Look at you. Back
on your feet.
Mr. Sinclair, thanks.
Please, stop.
It's Paul. [chuckles]
Smith, right?
I've been cheering you on at
every Bel-Air Academy game.
You're one hell of a
player, aren't you?
I'm all right. [both chuckle]
Sorry, sorry.
I'm Connor's dad.
- Uh, stepdad.
Well, listen, I appreciate that.
Always nice to meet a fan, Paul.
You're staying fit?
We're going to need
you in top shape
to take us through
the final next season!
[both chuckle]
- You know, actually, I quit
basketball for the summer.
Me and Carlton are
starting a business.
Why the hell would you do that?
Oh, we got into this young
entrepreneurship program
run by Quentin Harrison.
It's actually a pretty big deal.
Oh, yeah.
Trying to build some
generational wealth,
like y'all, you feel me?
Ah, good for you,
son. Do you know what?
I work for Google, so if
you ever need anything,
you know, like an introduction
or a connect, you let me know,
OK?
- Yeah.
Let's go. [chuckles]
- Welcome back.
- See you, dude.
See, man? You hear that?
Look, that's the type of
time I'm trying to be on
out there caddying or some shit,
connecting with those guys,
instead of hanging
here scraping bumpers.
Hey, yo, fraternizing with
the members is against policy.
OK, well, some of those members
are actually our
friends, so chill out.
I'm not trying to
hear none of that shit
you talking about, OK?
When you're on the
clock, you're one of us.
Simple. Just do your job.
What?
[scoffs] He ain't
talking to me like that.
- [grunts]
- Good.
- [grunts]
- Focus.
[grunts]
If your gut's telling you
something's off, listen to it.
Go again. Harder!
Harder! Keep that left up.
I got it, old man. Yeah?
All right. Show
me what you got.
[grunting]
Oh! You trying to clock me?
- You know I told you.
- You told me what?
[laughter]
You ready for a break now, yeah?
I think I am. [laughs]
I used to train at a boxing
club in Angel Estates.
I guess I still got a
lot to learn about you.
Same here.
Like exactly what you're
keeping me safe from.
Look, you just have to
trust me for now, yeah?
Mysterious and that.
- [scoffs]
- I got it.
Anything to do with the
Hill Boys Syndicate?
That who you ran
with back in the day?
Ahh. Where did you hear that?
Oh, I heard a lot of
things growing up.
Well, like I said before,
you can't believe
everything you hear.
You get me?
- So you didn't kill a man?
[suspenseful music]
[clicks tongue, scoffs]
What kind of house
manager do you think I am?
♪
[both chuckling]
Ready for our next round, huh?
Sparring team.
All right, you ready
for the sparring team.
Yo, yo.
When y'all start working here?
Oh. Oh, shit. What up, Q?
What's happening?
You know, we still trying
to hustle from all sides,
like you said in
your book, you know?
Getting the coin
from the bottom up.
No doubt. You know, I
respect the hustle, man,
but what's up with y'all idea?
Uh, actually, we are
You know, we're still
working out the details.
Both: Yeah. Fine tuning.
Hmm. I let you in this program
because I saw something
special, but y'all behind.
Look, um, I know
this opportunity
is once in a lifetime,
and I promise you,
we won't let you down.
A'ight.
I'm trying to put you in
front of some top investors
before the end of the summer.
Yeah, and that would be amazing.
You a baller, Will.
You know how to work
good against the clock.
Damn right I do.
You got 48 hours to pitch
me on your business plan,
or I got to move
on point blank.
All right, I'ma holla at y'all.
♪
Viv, I hate to bombard
you the second you come
out of the elevator,
but your call sheet is,
like, a mile long,
so we need to start
rolling calls, like, now.
Oh, here's your
coffee. Oh, cute top.
I also need you to approve the
layout for the LACMA exhibit
by lunch, and I set
aside 15 minutes
for us to go over your
vision for the donor dinner.
Good morning to you, too, Cruz.
Oh, sorry. Did I not say that?
Good morning.
Well, what on Earth?
[sighs] Neeman season.
How exciting.
Neeman season.
Yes, applications
are officially open.
Oh, OK.
Now you hold the
keys to the kingdom.
So, from now until you
announce the next fellow,
you're basically
the most powerful
woman in the art world.
- Ooh.
Yeah.
[phone rings]
- Oh.
[clears throat] Hey, babe.
I just got into the
office. Everything OK?
[sighs] No, um, the
dates got mixed up,
so now I'm looking
for a new caterer
for my firm opening
party tomorrow.
Um, well, did you
talk to Hilary?
I did, but she said, and
I quote, "Sorry, Daddy.
Booked and busy," end quote.
Now, I hate to ask, but I know
your contact list runs deep.
Any ideas?
[sighs] Uh
I got you.
[whispering] I got this.
Let me see what I can do.
Mm. Thank you, babe.
I love you. Mwah.
You're the best.
[smooches]
[scoffs]
OK, well
[sighs] Most powerful woman,
and yet I'm still my
husband's party planner.
Mm, they really are
helpless, aren't they?
That's why I don't have one.
But I'm not opposed if you
know any good candidates.
[chuckles] Cruz
What am I doin' in
here? What am I doin'? ♪
What am I doin'? What
am I doin' in here? ♪
Later, Jazz.
[sighs] [door bells jingle]
Yo, what the fuck?
[door closes]
Shit.
[door opens, bells jingle]
- Jazz!
- Ash-Bash! What's up?
Oh, I got those Shamir
records you wanted.
Let's make this quick, Ash.
Seriously?
Believe me, it's not my choice.
Can't stay away from a brother,
even after basking in your
post-engagement bliss.
[scoffs] Careful, Jazz.
You sound pressed.
"Pressed"?
What, over your little
arranged marriage?
Come on, now, Hilary.
- Stop it.
What me and LaMarcus
have is rock solid,
unlike you and your little
Baddie of the Month Club.
- OK.
- Uh, what's this?
Delinquent taxes?
Uh, just some store paperwork.
You know? No big deal.
It seems like a big deal, Jazz.
What's going on?
What's going on is,
I need to ring you up
and get back to
work, but thank you.
♪
I know this place isn't fancy,
but the food is five-star
West African-inspired tacos.
Also, the chef is
easy on the eyes.
Stay focused, Cruz.
OK, more important he's
available last minute.
- Oh, OK. Now you're talking.
- Yeah.
Shareef, this is Vivian Banks.
Hi.
Nice to meet you.
- You as well.
I, uh I hear you're
in a bit of a bind?
Yeah.
[chuckles] Chicken or goat?
Goat sounds a bit adventurous.
Uh, chicken.
- That's a good choice.
Mm.
[soft music]
♪
One chicken for the lady.
Thank you.
OK, let's see.
Oh, my God.
- Mm-hmm.
- What?
- It's good, right?
[chuckles]
- This is amazing.
- [laughs]
- I think you're hired.
Mm. Mm-hmm.
♪
[Will mumbling to himself]
[golf clubs cracking]
[sighs] Look, bruh, I
ain't trying to be a dick,
but you missed a
spot a few, actually.
First of all, I ain't your bruh,
and nobody's going to notice.
I got way better
shit to focus on.
Right. Right.
You know, I used to see you
in your little tennis shorts,
doing cannonballs in
the pool and shit.
What happened, hmm?
- [scoffs]
Mommy and Daddy
make you get a job?
[chuckles]
You don't know me,
Zaire. Now watch out.
- Oh, I don't?
- No, you don't know.
My mama worked a double
shift her whole life.
I ain't scared of no hard work.
Caught in between both worlds.
Same.
I live in Inglewood, go
to school in Brentwood.
Just got some cool
teachers looking out.
Hooked me up with
this summer gig.
- You're a private school kid?
- Hey, don't get it twisted.
You don't know my story either.
But, I mean, gig
not that bad, bro.
We all know the ins
and outs of this place.
You can either complain
about the system,
or you can make it work for you.
But can the system help me
with my entrepreneurship
program?
Look, man I'm just looking for
some inspiration for ideas,
that's all.
[sighs]
Hole nine.
See, them tech guys,
they get real chatty
after a couple beers.
One question, they'll
tell you how they
started their whole empire.
Be back in 20?
[upbeat music]
♪
Hold the cart. Golfers
are playing through.
Hey, can you believe Will
is throwing away basketball?
[scoffs]
I don't get it.
I mean, does no one tell him
he's throwing away his entire
future on a on a pipe dream?
Trust me. Will is delusional.
He wants to be a
Bel-Air kid so bad.
That's a waste.
[sighs] Just dribble the ball.
We're clear.
♪
[insects chirping]
Everything OK?
You look a little tense.
Uh, no. Yeah, no, I'm fine.
Just, uh just chilling.
Nothing to do
with whoever you just
sent a text to right now?
I know the last thing
you want to talk about
is my relationships.
I know dating is a big
part of being a teenager,
and I want all of that for you.
Yeah, well, it doesn't
look like that's
going to happen anytime soon.
I want you to be happy.
But maybe it's better if you
get your life together first
before you bring
somebody else into it.
OK.
But
since you're open, and
and I appreciate that
Amira really helped
me through rehab
like, a lot.
And I just don't
want to lose that.
She sounds really special.
She really is.
We can even talk to
Dr. Thomas about it.
All I ask is that you
keep an open mind.
I'll talk to your dad.
♪
I appreciate you taking the
time to look over my discovery.
I know you're busy
with your own cases.
It's the least I could do,
with all the businesses
your firm sent my way.
[sighs]
Nightcap?
- Yeah, maybe a finger or two.
To us
and an even more fruitful
partnership than I imagined.
- We do stay winning.
- [chuckles]
So, um, I got to ask
did you tell her
about the kiss?
There's nothing for Viv to know.
We put it behind us, remember?
- We did.
I did. I just, uh
just still feel a little guilty.
Let's keep the past in the past.
- It'll be our secret.
- Thank you.
I'll see you tomorrow, then.
[tense music]
♪
[groans softly] [phone dings]
[chuckles]
[indistinct chatter]
I just think that's
absolutely fantastic.
I would be so honored.
I mean, who else
can say they have
a recommendation from the
head of the Neeman Foundation?
[laughter]
- Oh, Will!
♪
Hey, Will.
Hey, Jackie.
Jackie just asked me to
write her recommendation
for her Juilliard application.
Oh, OK, that's
that's dope. Congrats.
- I figured I'd shoot my shot.
- I'll be rooting for you.
Please tell your
uncle I said hi.
And if you need anything
else, just let me know.
Thank you again,
Mrs. Banks. [laughs]
[Will chuckles]
- You look good.
- It's been a minute.
[chuckles awkwardly]
So country club boy these days?
Uh, yeah.
Yeah, you know [scoffs]
Becoming more and more
like Carlton every day.
I was low-key bummed when
I heard you left the team.
I thought I'd be
seeing you this summer.
Doc says something went
down with your pops?
That was nothing.
You don't have to
do that with me.
[sighs]
He told me that basketball was
the only thing I was good at.
[scoffs] As if
he even knows me.
My mom used to
throw little shots
about not having
a dancer's body.
But every recital
whose face was I looking
for in the audience?
Right. It's like we
shouldn't give a fuck, but
We do. [both scoff]
But, hey, look at you now
Miss Juilliard.
- [laughs]
Maybe we're both
bigger than the boxes
they try to put us in.
♪
Well, anyway, I should
- Yeah.
No, thanks for, uh, stopping by.
Mm-hmm, yeah.
♪
Don't be a stranger.
♪
[scoffs]
[indistinct chatter]
What it do, buddy?
Girl, those pants are
fire. I'm stealing them.
Hey, baby boo. You look new.
I'm Spencer, group moderator.
Carlton.
Newcomer.
[chuckles]
All righty, then. [sighs]
Sit anywhere your
little heart desires,
preferably in the
first two rows.
Everyone's always trying
to hide in the back.
Hurts my feelings.
Amira.
Hey.
Carlton?
What are you doing here?
Well, you know, I'm just
trying to stay sober,
like everyone else.
I mean at this meeting, the
one I told you I come to?
OK, I-I've been texting you.
All right? I Snapped you.
You're totally ghosting.
Is everything OK?
Just trying to set a boundary.
Is this because of my mom?
Because she's totally
coming around.
I am an all-or-nothing
kind of girl.
So
with you, I think it'd be
best we just go cold turkey.
OK?
I-I totally respect you
wanting to put a pause
on whatever this is, but
I don't have anyone else I
can talk to about this stuff.
All right, look, I need you.
This is nothing.
It has to be.
You stalking me isn't going to
make this shit any better, OK?
- Whoa, stalking. I
- You know what?
[chuckles]
You stay, and I will
find another meeting.
[tense music]
♪
You don't have to sit in the
front row if you don't want to.
♪
[car horn honks]
[elevator bell dings]
And how is it possible
that we can't come up
with one viable business idea?
Maybe this whole pivot
was a stupid move.
Maybe we chuck it,
lean into this pit-pigs
thing as our natural calling.
Look, I hate to be that nigga,
but y'all are bitching
over some real bougie-ass
shit right now, man no cap.
I mean, look, y'all
get to give up,
try new things, start over,
find yourself, drop out, quit.
It don't work like
that for everybody.
Some of us, when we
go down, we stay down.
[elevator bell dings]
[jazzy music playing,
indistinct chatter]
♪
Wait, I'm sorry.
Who invited you?
Like, does my dad fuck
with you like that?
Hey, I invited him.
Jazz's been going through
it with his record shop.
Tax collector has
been on his ass.
Ah. Shit, I'm sorry, man.
Oh, man, I appreciate it.
It just seems like everybody
want a piece of South LA
right now.
There's a lot of new
businesses coming in.
I might even lose my
fucking record shop.
Like [sighs]
Where's the bar at?
Catch y'all.
Boys, you made it.
What up, G?
I'd like to introduce
you to my son, Frederick.
- Oh.
- This is Carlton.
Yo, great to finally meet you.
- You too.
- And this is
- Will, the legend.
- What's up?
I heard we got a lot in
common outsiders and all.
Oh, yeah.
Not so much an outsider anymore.
- Yeah, it's nice to meet you.
- You too.
So what brings you to Bel-Air
this summer, Frederick?
Seemed as good a time as any,
before classes start back up
some long-overdue bonding time.
[both chuckle softly]
- You hungry?
- I'm starving.
- Come on.
- Come on.
Well, that seems
to be going well.
Mm. I don't know, you know?
Boy's got a lot of
questions I can't answer.
I think he's wearing thin.
Maybe you should
tell him the truth.
Well, if there's one thing this
Carlton situation's taught me,
it's trust your kid
to meet you halfway.
Trust is a new one for me, Phil.
What do you think about
giving him a job at the firm?
Give him some freedom, but you
can still keep an eye on him.
[dramatic music]
♪
[indistinct chatter]
Oh.
Oh, sorry. I got
caught up at work.
Both: Oh.
This looks great.
Fantastic turnout.
And your caterer is a hit.
Thanks again for pulling
off a miracle, baby.
Oh, hey, Erika.
Viv. Oh, so good to see you.
- Oh.
- You look great.
[both chuckle]
Oh, some clients just walked in.
Excuse me.
Baby, I am so glad you're here.
You know I'm always better
with you by my side.
Of course.
Oh, Viv, this is Dave
and his wife, Gloria.
They sit on the Los
Angeles Urban League Board.
Oh, you all do incredible work.
And I hear you're a
brilliant fundraiser.
We always need support.
Yeah, we'd be happy to host
something at the house.
- Yes, well
- Really?
Well, we'll make
it something easy.
Say, a luncheon or
a cocktail hour?
Yeah, we'll send
over some dates.
And that fundraiser
that you threw last year
was such a success, you know.
Maybe we can do
something in that vein.
[indistinct chatter]
[glass clinking]
Ladies, and gentlemen, may I
have your attention, please?
I have a few words.
Look at Philip
Banks & Associates
ready to run this damn city!
[cheers and applause] Yeah!
We owe so much of
our launch success
to our partnership with
Carson and Lake law firm.
Thank you for the business
you've sent our way.
Now, I could not have done
it without the support
of my incredible family,
especially my stunning wife,
who makes me look good just
by standing next to me.
[laughter]
But today is also about
each and every one of you.
I mean, look at
the power players
you're rubbing elbows
with right now.
We've got media mogul
Byron Allen in the house,
ladies and gentlemen.
[cheers and applause]
Thank you.
Uncle Nearest
founder, Fawn Weaver.
[cheers and applause]
And Mielle Organics co-founders
Monique and Melvin Rodriguez
and so many more.
Thank you. Welcome,
welcome, welcome.
Now, my firm is dedicated
to letting the ladder down
so that the next
generation can climb.
So let's lift each other
and share in the
hard-fought battle scars
that won our success.
It starts right now,
right here, today.
Cheers, folks. All: Cheers!
[cheers and applause,
lively chatter]
Listen, business is
nothing more than a sport.
And the way we keep
score is with money.
Now, the good news is,
you're on the right track,
because it's about ownership,
ownership, ownership.
I've been an
entrepreneur for decades,
but when I heard the
story of Uncle Nearest,
the enslaved man who
taught Jack Daniel
how to make whiskey,
I knew that my purpose
would be manifested.
When you got your
ride-or-die partner,
you are halfway there.
The best way to
find your idea
figure out what it is that
makes you the special sauce.
How are you going to
make this succeed?
What you're trying to
say is just as important
as whatever it is
you are trying to do.
And I only need you
to remember one thing.
Greatness is a decision.
And when you decide to be
unstoppable, you will be.
Work a plan now
Can't I, can't I,
can't I, can't I? ♪
♪
[indistinct chatter]
Shareef. Shareef.
Vivian. I was hoping
you'd swing my way.
Oh, my God. Everything
is perfection.
As long as the queen is happy.
Ugh.
Oh, OK, so, Shareef, I
wanted to introduce you
to my daughter Hilary.
- Oh, pleasure.
- She's also a chef.
- Your tacos were magnifique.
- Mm, thank you.
Was that alligator
pepper I tasted?
Mm-hmm.
I didn't even know
they had that in LA.
Oh, I got all the
homeland hook-ups.
Mm.
Leimert has some good markets.
Crenshaw, West Adams
You see, I knew you two would
have a lot to talk about.
- You know I do. I love
- Yes, I know.
OK, I got to be real with
you my mind is blown.
How do you have
an adult daughter?
I mean
- [scoffs]
You guys could be
sisters. [both chuckle]
- Pardon me, ladies.
- OK.
What?
That fine-ass chef was
flirting with you, like, hard.
And apparently
Mama still got it.
- [scoffs]
- [laughs]
I'm telling Daddy.
- What?
There's nothing to talk about.
[indistinct chatter]
Jazz.
Mr. Banks.
- I'm glad you made it out.
- Congratulations.
There's a lot of
big dogs in here.
Yeah, just a few.
Hope you got to do
a little networking.
I know you know the
value of ownership.
Oh, absolutely.
So how's the vinyl store doing?
I heard a lot of businesses in
your area have been struggling.
You know, I'm just
hanging in there.
Yeah.
Well, I'm always looking
for opportunities to extend
my investment portfolio.
If you have any interest, I'd
be happy to infuse the store
with a little liquid capital,
and with the vinyl market
exploding the way it has
[soft music]
We could grab some time
this week and talk about it.
I appreciate that, Mr. Banks.
- All right.
- Mm-hmm.
- It's good to see you, Jazz.
- Good to see you.
♪
[phone ringing]
This is not a good time.
No.
You know I can't talk
when Geoffrey's around.
No, I-I swear I
ain't said nothing.
Geoffrey has no idea.
OK.
OK, cool. I'll
talk to you later.
[dramatic music]
♪
Yeah.
OK, yeah, um, I will have it to
you first thing Monday morning.
All right, you too.
You've certainly been
keeping my husband busy.
Me? No, no.
I mean, we do work
some late nights,
but I swear we put
it all behind us.
[chuckles]
OK.
Is everyone enjoying themselves?
Oh, thank you.
You two have
fun tonight, hmm?
[upbeat hip-hop beat]
♪
Hilary, I need to talk to you.
What are you still doing here?
The party's over.
- I don't need your charity.
- Excuse me?
- Oh, what?
You're trying to play me?
You told your dad to give
me a business loan, right?
- I hope you took it.
- Hell, no, I didn't take it!
Of course not. Still so proud.
Still stuck in your own way.
- OK, so check this out.
I need you to stay in your
lane and stay out of mine.
Oh, really?
Says the person who
keeps popping up
at every Banks family function?
[scoffs] Oh, word?
But you don't just pop
up at my record shop?
What are you talking about?
- I didn't want to do that.
I told you that.
That was my sister.
Oh, your sister.
Yeah, yeah, yes,
Ashley loves me.
And Will, he also loves me.
And now your dad loves me.
It seems as if Jazz is actually
a great fucking guy, Hilary.
So, if we hate
each other so much,
why do we keep ending up
in the same fucking room?
I don't know. How
about you tell me?
Let it be known
I'm not afraid ♪
It's just a bad
situation, bad situation ♪
What what what is this?
♪
Um, I'm sorry.
I
I'm not afraid
I'm gonna go.
It's just a bad
situation, bad situation ♪
I'm letting go
'cause I can't wait ♪
To end this bad
situation, bad situation ♪
Fuck.
[tense music]
♪
Y'all came all the
way down to the club
and pulled me out
of my poker game.
What's up?
- You said 48 hours.
We had to catch you
before time ran out.
So we're mixing it up
with the heaviest hitters
in the CEO game tonight.
And all I kept thinking was,
how the hell does a kid like me
get in a room like that?
- And then it hits us.
We're the special sauce.
- Mm-hmm.
OK, so hit me with what you got.
We share our story
the addict who got
a second chance.
And the West Philly
basketball phenom
who dared to reach for more.
And then we brand
our message, right?
Turn it into some fly merch.
I'm talking tees, sweats, swag.
But it's not just a
brand. It's a lifestyle.
Yeah, we could build this
into books, events, podcasts.
We want to build a
conversation and a legacy.
And we want to keep it 100
by giving some of the proceeds
to Black-owned businesses.
Starting with Charlie's
Vinyl in Inglewood.
I fuck with Charlie's.
We want to let the ladder down
to lift the culture
up, to grant access.
The same access that
changed my life.
I'm leaning in, boys. So
what you're gonna call it?
Both: Blackccess.
Ooh, that's hot.
- [laughs]
- OK.
I'm down.
- OK, OK, all right.
Congratulations, baby
- Mm.
- On a successful night.
It was so nice having
you by my side today.
- Mm.
- Working the room.
Dream team.
Mm.
And you know I love it.
- Mm.
But all those dinners
and fundraisers
you volunteered me for, I
ain't doing none of them.
Mm-mm. Baby, I
don't have the time.
I'll do my best, but
You have different priorities
that don't revolve around
me and my every need.
Yeah, that part.
But my baby is a boss now.
Both: Mm, mm, mm.
Yes, sir. Get used to it.
Mm, I like it.
I like it a lot.
And what was going on
with your girl Erika?
What was she on?
- Huh? I didn't really notice.
Oh, come on. How
could you not?
I mean, she definitely
had too many drinks,
that's for damn sure.
Why? Did she say
anything to you?
Every time I got near her,
she'd find a reason
just to run off.
I wouldn't put too much on it.
[grunts softly]
[whistle blows]
- Welcome back, everyone,
to what has been an
absolutely thrilling match
here at Villa Park.
It's Aston Villa 2, Arsenal 2,
with just 15 minutes
left on the clock.
Both teams are fighting tooth
and nail for a crucial goal
[continues indistinctly]
It's true.
I ran with the Hill Boys.
I started as a Top Boy.
It was
dirty work.
Saw a lot
climbed fast.
I was good
second-in-command good.
[dramatic music]
Hmm.
Then you came along.
You made me want to
be a different man.
I wanted out of the game.
♪
And that didn't go down so well.
My boss
the boss
even after years of
serving by his side, he
♪
He tried to take my life.
I fought back.
It was him or me,
you understand?
He was a friend,
a father beloved
by his young-uns.
Been hiding ever since.
But they may have
finally found me.
♪
They know who you are now.
♪
I need you close.
That's why you're here.
♪
Uh, my first meeting
I didn't show up for me
or my sobriety.
I came here for a girl,
which I'm sure you
probably all witnessed.
[soft laughter]
My entire life,
I've been an expert
at lying to get my own way.
Since I got out of rehab
I just want to make
my family proud of me.
And after everything I
put them through, I
So I smile, and I say
that I'm all good
and I'm excited for
the journey ahead
because I know that
they just want to know
that I'm gonna be OK.
[soft music]
But I think I'm still lying
About about the anxiety
every time I leave the house,
about feeling like a pariah
every time someone whispers
about me or doubts me.
[sighs softly]
♪
I don't know.
I just didn't know that
I would feel this alone.
Carlton, look around.
You're not alone anymore, kid.
♪
[clears throat]
Oh, these people
are doing too much.
Mm, this one isn't
about Neeman season.
Enjoy.
[upbeat hip-hop beat]
♪
[car door closes,
indistinct chatter]
[car beeps, lock clicks]
So I guess I'm the stalker now.
I-I didn't see you in there.
Um
- I hung in the hallway.
You were brave and honest.
Um
I am a walking shit show.
Let a lot of people
down multiple times.
Been there.
So the thought of
someone needing me
Look, I shouldn't
have put that on you.
I'm sorry.
But what scares me even more
I need you, too.
So why don't we just
be scared together?
[Shawn Wasabi's
"Trigger Warning"]
♪
Whip the whip so hard
and make them nauseous ♪
Yeah, you with
them big dogs now ♪
Proceed with caution
Play with big bands
All right, boys, let's stack
her up and send her out!
You're good. Get out.
Get out of here.
- Go, go, go.
Move! Come on!
Come on, let's move.
Let's make a move.
Make a move.
- All right.
All right. Break time, fellas.
Oh, also, Briggs wanted
me to introduce y'all
to our new yoga instructor.
I actually think y'all know her.
Hey, y'all.
Your Aunt Viv put in
a good word for me.
That's my aunt
always looking out.
Oh, my mom is so
messy. [laughs]
Can I get a
trigger warning? ♪
I want to apologize
for the past.
- We were young.
- Yes.
But while I could excuse
it in college, as an adult,
I can own it.
I'm sorry, Viv.
Oh.
Uh, I'm I'm sorry.
- That cannot happen.
- No, I agree.
It seems like everybody
made up except for us.
I just wish things could have
started a little differently.
We still got time for a do-over.
Mom, Dad, I would love for
you to meet my friend Amira.
Prioritize yourself right now.
Let Carlton do the same.
Me and LaMarcus have a
very special announcement.
I got down on my knee
and asked the love of
my life to marry me.
[cheers and applause]
I'm sorry that I hurt you, Jazz.
Every time something in
life gets hard, you run.
It's only a matter of time
before you run away
from that nigga, too.
If you'll consider
teaming up, final spot
in "Young, Gifted,
and Black" is yours.
We are really about to
start a business together.
You, uh, got any ideas?
A million.
[hip-hop music]
♪
- Think about our hobbies.
- OK, what do we like to do?
Master class for Black athletes.
A bread pudding dessert ball.
- Chest toupees.
- Uncle Phil could use that.
Think about it.
The freedom to drive around
in peace without worrying
about getting pulled over.
The app would hack into
local police scanners
so you would know exactly
where the speed traps are.
Dope. Not a bad idea.
No. Just an illegal one.
- How illegal are we talking?
- Right.
Picture this.
A shopping cart you
don't have to push.
They just follow you
around the store, Aunt Viv.
It feels unnecessary.
OK, I think you guys are
going to love this one.
An online trading post
for designer clothes.
- I mean, that's fire.
- Right?
Like, it's it's brilliant.
You you would totally use it.
Absolutely.
In fact, I already do.
It's a very popular
app called Depop.
Damn it!
[footsteps approaching]
- Good morning, Will.
- Good morning.
You're up and at
'em early, nephew.
Just catching up on
Quentin's reading list.
You know he reads a book a week?
[scoffs] I just love
the way this guy thinks.
Check this out.
"You got to shift into
that hustle mentality.
"Learn you can create your
life instead of letting
life happen to you."
Yeah, I read Quentin's memoir
he's a smart young man.
Yeah, and he's always
thinking about what's next.
[scoffs] Imagine
one of the biggest fighters
in the world at 22,
millions in endorsement
deals, at the top of his game.
And what does he
do? He pivots.
He starts investing
into startups, you know.
He got into crypto
before anybody
even knew what that was.
And look at him now.
See, that's the hustle
I'm trying to have.
I love where your
head's at, Will.
Mm-hmm.
But now that you're not
playing basketball this summer,
it seems like you got
a lot of free time.
And we've been thinking that you
might want to pick up some
hours at the country club.
Hours?
Well, Quentin held
down a full-time job
while he was training
for his first fight.
I mean, you spend your
days at the club anyway.
I made a few calls.
They're still hiring.
What are y'all talking about?
Will getting a job at the club.
Why?
Carlton, your father and I think
you could use a job, too.
- Wait, what?
You could stand to learn the
value of a little hard work.
Yo, literally,
what is happening?
Your therapist said that
structure is important.
You know, a routine
would be good for you.
I have a routine.
Wha you we have to
turn in our business plan
this week, right?
Look, man, we been racking our
brains, and we got nothing.
I think if we want
to have an idea,
we should be out there
networking, you know.
The country club is
full of power players.
It's full of kids we
go to school with.
The stares, the sad
eyes, the "how are yous?"
You can't hide from life, son.
All right, sooner or
later, the day will come.
Great. I vote later.
- Carlton, I believe in you.
- And I appreciate that.
This is nonnegotiable.
Keep us posted.
High-res vision
High tops fitting
just right ♪
Rich almost like that,
I don't drop right style ♪
Drop top whipping all
night, V12 high screen ♪
Breaking necks when
you see me on sight ♪
Break brand-new respect
Ain't slept, next
check just right ♪
It's always good to
see you, Mr. Briggs.
Well, I was pleasantly
surprised you wanted a job.
You've been a regular on
our pickleball courts.
Yeah, man, I'm still trying
to figure out my sweet spot
on that ground stroke.
[laughs] It's all
about lining up
the hand-eye coordination.
- Yeah.
Yeah.
And, uh, how are you, Carlton?
I mean, really, are you
taking care of yourself?
I am. Thanks.
Your parents have been
members for years,
and I will do anything to help.
Well, that's amazing to hear
because, uh, me and Carlton
are actually a part
of a very prestigious
entrepreneurship program.
- Oh.
Yeah, we would love
the opportunity
to grow our business skills.
Uh, account management,
maybe maybe sales.
Well, I'm afraid
at this juncture,
the options are
a little limited.
Oh, darn. Maybe next summer.
No, we're not picky.
Yeah, we'd be happy
to learn the business
from the ground up.
- Good.
I have something
perfect for you two.
Cha-ching.
[hip-hop music]
Don't tell me we're
gonna be pit pigs.
Pit what?
It's what we call
the cart cleaners.
Will, you're one of us now.
Welcome to the pit.
You, my friend, you're
a little overdressed.
♪
[Easy McCoy's "Deja Vu"]
I should be in bed right now.
♪
Sister!
I have treats for you.
So we have fresh crepes
with lemon sauce,
a twist of jasmine
ganache, and whipped cream.
Yum! What's the occasion?
Girl, this cookware
company gave me,
like, a dozen crepe makers.
You want one?
Give one to your
friends or something.
[chuckles] I mean, how does
it feel to be so in demand?
It's wild.
I just signed with
this big agency,
and I'm excited to
see what's next.
Your sis is kind of blowing up.
- [chuckles]
Here.
I mean, too bad all
social media cares about
is your engagement.
- I know, right?
That video damn near
broke the Internet.
Mm.
Ash
what do you have
against LaMarcus?
I mean, he's fine
enough, but he's no Jazz.
OK?
Anyway
OK, so what are the plans
for sister-sister day?
Whatever you want to do.
OK, so I'm thinking mani-pedis,
lunch at Nobu, vintage shopping,
and a quick stop
at Charlie's Vinyl.
That's it.
I saw you sneak that in there.
You're not slick.
- What?
Jazz set aside a few albums
for my new record player.
And you said whatever I want.
[hip-hop music]
[indistinct chatter]
♪
My body was not
made for hard work.
Yeah, but at least
we're almost finished.
Wait, Carlton?
What, you're back?
And you're working as a pit pig?
Wait, what is this, like,
rehab-mandated or
Nope, parent mandated.
And Carlton doesn't need his
resident dope dealer anymore,
so, uh, take your cart
and hit the green.
OK, we are loaded,
and we are up next.
Oh, hey, Carlton.
Look at you. Back
on your feet.
Mr. Sinclair, thanks.
Please, stop.
It's Paul. [chuckles]
Smith, right?
I've been cheering you on at
every Bel-Air Academy game.
You're one hell of a
player, aren't you?
I'm all right. [both chuckle]
Sorry, sorry.
I'm Connor's dad.
- Uh, stepdad.
Well, listen, I appreciate that.
Always nice to meet a fan, Paul.
You're staying fit?
We're going to need
you in top shape
to take us through
the final next season!
[both chuckle]
- You know, actually, I quit
basketball for the summer.
Me and Carlton are
starting a business.
Why the hell would you do that?
Oh, we got into this young
entrepreneurship program
run by Quentin Harrison.
It's actually a pretty big deal.
Oh, yeah.
Trying to build some
generational wealth,
like y'all, you feel me?
Ah, good for you,
son. Do you know what?
I work for Google, so if
you ever need anything,
you know, like an introduction
or a connect, you let me know,
OK?
- Yeah.
Let's go. [chuckles]
- Welcome back.
- See you, dude.
See, man? You hear that?
Look, that's the type of
time I'm trying to be on
out there caddying or some shit,
connecting with those guys,
instead of hanging
here scraping bumpers.
Hey, yo, fraternizing with
the members is against policy.
OK, well, some of those members
are actually our
friends, so chill out.
I'm not trying to
hear none of that shit
you talking about, OK?
When you're on the
clock, you're one of us.
Simple. Just do your job.
What?
[scoffs] He ain't
talking to me like that.
- [grunts]
- Good.
- [grunts]
- Focus.
[grunts]
If your gut's telling you
something's off, listen to it.
Go again. Harder!
Harder! Keep that left up.
I got it, old man. Yeah?
All right. Show
me what you got.
[grunting]
Oh! You trying to clock me?
- You know I told you.
- You told me what?
[laughter]
You ready for a break now, yeah?
I think I am. [laughs]
I used to train at a boxing
club in Angel Estates.
I guess I still got a
lot to learn about you.
Same here.
Like exactly what you're
keeping me safe from.
Look, you just have to
trust me for now, yeah?
Mysterious and that.
- [scoffs]
- I got it.
Anything to do with the
Hill Boys Syndicate?
That who you ran
with back in the day?
Ahh. Where did you hear that?
Oh, I heard a lot of
things growing up.
Well, like I said before,
you can't believe
everything you hear.
You get me?
- So you didn't kill a man?
[suspenseful music]
[clicks tongue, scoffs]
What kind of house
manager do you think I am?
♪
[both chuckling]
Ready for our next round, huh?
Sparring team.
All right, you ready
for the sparring team.
Yo, yo.
When y'all start working here?
Oh. Oh, shit. What up, Q?
What's happening?
You know, we still trying
to hustle from all sides,
like you said in
your book, you know?
Getting the coin
from the bottom up.
No doubt. You know, I
respect the hustle, man,
but what's up with y'all idea?
Uh, actually, we are
You know, we're still
working out the details.
Both: Yeah. Fine tuning.
Hmm. I let you in this program
because I saw something
special, but y'all behind.
Look, um, I know
this opportunity
is once in a lifetime,
and I promise you,
we won't let you down.
A'ight.
I'm trying to put you in
front of some top investors
before the end of the summer.
Yeah, and that would be amazing.
You a baller, Will.
You know how to work
good against the clock.
Damn right I do.
You got 48 hours to pitch
me on your business plan,
or I got to move
on point blank.
All right, I'ma holla at y'all.
♪
Viv, I hate to bombard
you the second you come
out of the elevator,
but your call sheet is,
like, a mile long,
so we need to start
rolling calls, like, now.
Oh, here's your
coffee. Oh, cute top.
I also need you to approve the
layout for the LACMA exhibit
by lunch, and I set
aside 15 minutes
for us to go over your
vision for the donor dinner.
Good morning to you, too, Cruz.
Oh, sorry. Did I not say that?
Good morning.
Well, what on Earth?
[sighs] Neeman season.
How exciting.
Neeman season.
Yes, applications
are officially open.
Oh, OK.
Now you hold the
keys to the kingdom.
So, from now until you
announce the next fellow,
you're basically
the most powerful
woman in the art world.
- Ooh.
Yeah.
[phone rings]
- Oh.
[clears throat] Hey, babe.
I just got into the
office. Everything OK?
[sighs] No, um, the
dates got mixed up,
so now I'm looking
for a new caterer
for my firm opening
party tomorrow.
Um, well, did you
talk to Hilary?
I did, but she said, and
I quote, "Sorry, Daddy.
Booked and busy," end quote.
Now, I hate to ask, but I know
your contact list runs deep.
Any ideas?
[sighs] Uh
I got you.
[whispering] I got this.
Let me see what I can do.
Mm. Thank you, babe.
I love you. Mwah.
You're the best.
[smooches]
[scoffs]
OK, well
[sighs] Most powerful woman,
and yet I'm still my
husband's party planner.
Mm, they really are
helpless, aren't they?
That's why I don't have one.
But I'm not opposed if you
know any good candidates.
[chuckles] Cruz
What am I doin' in
here? What am I doin'? ♪
What am I doin'? What
am I doin' in here? ♪
Later, Jazz.
[sighs] [door bells jingle]
Yo, what the fuck?
[door closes]
Shit.
[door opens, bells jingle]
- Jazz!
- Ash-Bash! What's up?
Oh, I got those Shamir
records you wanted.
Let's make this quick, Ash.
Seriously?
Believe me, it's not my choice.
Can't stay away from a brother,
even after basking in your
post-engagement bliss.
[scoffs] Careful, Jazz.
You sound pressed.
"Pressed"?
What, over your little
arranged marriage?
Come on, now, Hilary.
- Stop it.
What me and LaMarcus
have is rock solid,
unlike you and your little
Baddie of the Month Club.
- OK.
- Uh, what's this?
Delinquent taxes?
Uh, just some store paperwork.
You know? No big deal.
It seems like a big deal, Jazz.
What's going on?
What's going on is,
I need to ring you up
and get back to
work, but thank you.
♪
I know this place isn't fancy,
but the food is five-star
West African-inspired tacos.
Also, the chef is
easy on the eyes.
Stay focused, Cruz.
OK, more important he's
available last minute.
- Oh, OK. Now you're talking.
- Yeah.
Shareef, this is Vivian Banks.
Hi.
Nice to meet you.
- You as well.
I, uh I hear you're
in a bit of a bind?
Yeah.
[chuckles] Chicken or goat?
Goat sounds a bit adventurous.
Uh, chicken.
- That's a good choice.
Mm.
[soft music]
♪
One chicken for the lady.
Thank you.
OK, let's see.
Oh, my God.
- Mm-hmm.
- What?
- It's good, right?
[chuckles]
- This is amazing.
- [laughs]
- I think you're hired.
Mm. Mm-hmm.
♪
[Will mumbling to himself]
[golf clubs cracking]
[sighs] Look, bruh, I
ain't trying to be a dick,
but you missed a
spot a few, actually.
First of all, I ain't your bruh,
and nobody's going to notice.
I got way better
shit to focus on.
Right. Right.
You know, I used to see you
in your little tennis shorts,
doing cannonballs in
the pool and shit.
What happened, hmm?
- [scoffs]
Mommy and Daddy
make you get a job?
[chuckles]
You don't know me,
Zaire. Now watch out.
- Oh, I don't?
- No, you don't know.
My mama worked a double
shift her whole life.
I ain't scared of no hard work.
Caught in between both worlds.
Same.
I live in Inglewood, go
to school in Brentwood.
Just got some cool
teachers looking out.
Hooked me up with
this summer gig.
- You're a private school kid?
- Hey, don't get it twisted.
You don't know my story either.
But, I mean, gig
not that bad, bro.
We all know the ins
and outs of this place.
You can either complain
about the system,
or you can make it work for you.
But can the system help me
with my entrepreneurship
program?
Look, man I'm just looking for
some inspiration for ideas,
that's all.
[sighs]
Hole nine.
See, them tech guys,
they get real chatty
after a couple beers.
One question, they'll
tell you how they
started their whole empire.
Be back in 20?
[upbeat music]
♪
Hold the cart. Golfers
are playing through.
Hey, can you believe Will
is throwing away basketball?
[scoffs]
I don't get it.
I mean, does no one tell him
he's throwing away his entire
future on a on a pipe dream?
Trust me. Will is delusional.
He wants to be a
Bel-Air kid so bad.
That's a waste.
[sighs] Just dribble the ball.
We're clear.
♪
[insects chirping]
Everything OK?
You look a little tense.
Uh, no. Yeah, no, I'm fine.
Just, uh just chilling.
Nothing to do
with whoever you just
sent a text to right now?
I know the last thing
you want to talk about
is my relationships.
I know dating is a big
part of being a teenager,
and I want all of that for you.
Yeah, well, it doesn't
look like that's
going to happen anytime soon.
I want you to be happy.
But maybe it's better if you
get your life together first
before you bring
somebody else into it.
OK.
But
since you're open, and
and I appreciate that
Amira really helped
me through rehab
like, a lot.
And I just don't
want to lose that.
She sounds really special.
She really is.
We can even talk to
Dr. Thomas about it.
All I ask is that you
keep an open mind.
I'll talk to your dad.
♪
I appreciate you taking the
time to look over my discovery.
I know you're busy
with your own cases.
It's the least I could do,
with all the businesses
your firm sent my way.
[sighs]
Nightcap?
- Yeah, maybe a finger or two.
To us
and an even more fruitful
partnership than I imagined.
- We do stay winning.
- [chuckles]
So, um, I got to ask
did you tell her
about the kiss?
There's nothing for Viv to know.
We put it behind us, remember?
- We did.
I did. I just, uh
just still feel a little guilty.
Let's keep the past in the past.
- It'll be our secret.
- Thank you.
I'll see you tomorrow, then.
[tense music]
♪
[groans softly] [phone dings]
[chuckles]
[indistinct chatter]
I just think that's
absolutely fantastic.
I would be so honored.
I mean, who else
can say they have
a recommendation from the
head of the Neeman Foundation?
[laughter]
- Oh, Will!
♪
Hey, Will.
Hey, Jackie.
Jackie just asked me to
write her recommendation
for her Juilliard application.
Oh, OK, that's
that's dope. Congrats.
- I figured I'd shoot my shot.
- I'll be rooting for you.
Please tell your
uncle I said hi.
And if you need anything
else, just let me know.
Thank you again,
Mrs. Banks. [laughs]
[Will chuckles]
- You look good.
- It's been a minute.
[chuckles awkwardly]
So country club boy these days?
Uh, yeah.
Yeah, you know [scoffs]
Becoming more and more
like Carlton every day.
I was low-key bummed when
I heard you left the team.
I thought I'd be
seeing you this summer.
Doc says something went
down with your pops?
That was nothing.
You don't have to
do that with me.
[sighs]
He told me that basketball was
the only thing I was good at.
[scoffs] As if
he even knows me.
My mom used to
throw little shots
about not having
a dancer's body.
But every recital
whose face was I looking
for in the audience?
Right. It's like we
shouldn't give a fuck, but
We do. [both scoff]
But, hey, look at you now
Miss Juilliard.
- [laughs]
Maybe we're both
bigger than the boxes
they try to put us in.
♪
Well, anyway, I should
- Yeah.
No, thanks for, uh, stopping by.
Mm-hmm, yeah.
♪
Don't be a stranger.
♪
[scoffs]
[indistinct chatter]
What it do, buddy?
Girl, those pants are
fire. I'm stealing them.
Hey, baby boo. You look new.
I'm Spencer, group moderator.
Carlton.
Newcomer.
[chuckles]
All righty, then. [sighs]
Sit anywhere your
little heart desires,
preferably in the
first two rows.
Everyone's always trying
to hide in the back.
Hurts my feelings.
Amira.
Hey.
Carlton?
What are you doing here?
Well, you know, I'm just
trying to stay sober,
like everyone else.
I mean at this meeting, the
one I told you I come to?
OK, I-I've been texting you.
All right? I Snapped you.
You're totally ghosting.
Is everything OK?
Just trying to set a boundary.
Is this because of my mom?
Because she's totally
coming around.
I am an all-or-nothing
kind of girl.
So
with you, I think it'd be
best we just go cold turkey.
OK?
I-I totally respect you
wanting to put a pause
on whatever this is, but
I don't have anyone else I
can talk to about this stuff.
All right, look, I need you.
This is nothing.
It has to be.
You stalking me isn't going to
make this shit any better, OK?
- Whoa, stalking. I
- You know what?
[chuckles]
You stay, and I will
find another meeting.
[tense music]
♪
You don't have to sit in the
front row if you don't want to.
♪
[car horn honks]
[elevator bell dings]
And how is it possible
that we can't come up
with one viable business idea?
Maybe this whole pivot
was a stupid move.
Maybe we chuck it,
lean into this pit-pigs
thing as our natural calling.
Look, I hate to be that nigga,
but y'all are bitching
over some real bougie-ass
shit right now, man no cap.
I mean, look, y'all
get to give up,
try new things, start over,
find yourself, drop out, quit.
It don't work like
that for everybody.
Some of us, when we
go down, we stay down.
[elevator bell dings]
[jazzy music playing,
indistinct chatter]
♪
Wait, I'm sorry.
Who invited you?
Like, does my dad fuck
with you like that?
Hey, I invited him.
Jazz's been going through
it with his record shop.
Tax collector has
been on his ass.
Ah. Shit, I'm sorry, man.
Oh, man, I appreciate it.
It just seems like everybody
want a piece of South LA
right now.
There's a lot of new
businesses coming in.
I might even lose my
fucking record shop.
Like [sighs]
Where's the bar at?
Catch y'all.
Boys, you made it.
What up, G?
I'd like to introduce
you to my son, Frederick.
- Oh.
- This is Carlton.
Yo, great to finally meet you.
- You too.
- And this is
- Will, the legend.
- What's up?
I heard we got a lot in
common outsiders and all.
Oh, yeah.
Not so much an outsider anymore.
- Yeah, it's nice to meet you.
- You too.
So what brings you to Bel-Air
this summer, Frederick?
Seemed as good a time as any,
before classes start back up
some long-overdue bonding time.
[both chuckle softly]
- You hungry?
- I'm starving.
- Come on.
- Come on.
Well, that seems
to be going well.
Mm. I don't know, you know?
Boy's got a lot of
questions I can't answer.
I think he's wearing thin.
Maybe you should
tell him the truth.
Well, if there's one thing this
Carlton situation's taught me,
it's trust your kid
to meet you halfway.
Trust is a new one for me, Phil.
What do you think about
giving him a job at the firm?
Give him some freedom, but you
can still keep an eye on him.
[dramatic music]
♪
[indistinct chatter]
Oh.
Oh, sorry. I got
caught up at work.
Both: Oh.
This looks great.
Fantastic turnout.
And your caterer is a hit.
Thanks again for pulling
off a miracle, baby.
Oh, hey, Erika.
Viv. Oh, so good to see you.
- Oh.
- You look great.
[both chuckle]
Oh, some clients just walked in.
Excuse me.
Baby, I am so glad you're here.
You know I'm always better
with you by my side.
Of course.
Oh, Viv, this is Dave
and his wife, Gloria.
They sit on the Los
Angeles Urban League Board.
Oh, you all do incredible work.
And I hear you're a
brilliant fundraiser.
We always need support.
Yeah, we'd be happy to host
something at the house.
- Yes, well
- Really?
Well, we'll make
it something easy.
Say, a luncheon or
a cocktail hour?
Yeah, we'll send
over some dates.
And that fundraiser
that you threw last year
was such a success, you know.
Maybe we can do
something in that vein.
[indistinct chatter]
[glass clinking]
Ladies, and gentlemen, may I
have your attention, please?
I have a few words.
Look at Philip
Banks & Associates
ready to run this damn city!
[cheers and applause] Yeah!
We owe so much of
our launch success
to our partnership with
Carson and Lake law firm.
Thank you for the business
you've sent our way.
Now, I could not have done
it without the support
of my incredible family,
especially my stunning wife,
who makes me look good just
by standing next to me.
[laughter]
But today is also about
each and every one of you.
I mean, look at
the power players
you're rubbing elbows
with right now.
We've got media mogul
Byron Allen in the house,
ladies and gentlemen.
[cheers and applause]
Thank you.
Uncle Nearest
founder, Fawn Weaver.
[cheers and applause]
And Mielle Organics co-founders
Monique and Melvin Rodriguez
and so many more.
Thank you. Welcome,
welcome, welcome.
Now, my firm is dedicated
to letting the ladder down
so that the next
generation can climb.
So let's lift each other
and share in the
hard-fought battle scars
that won our success.
It starts right now,
right here, today.
Cheers, folks. All: Cheers!
[cheers and applause,
lively chatter]
Listen, business is
nothing more than a sport.
And the way we keep
score is with money.
Now, the good news is,
you're on the right track,
because it's about ownership,
ownership, ownership.
I've been an
entrepreneur for decades,
but when I heard the
story of Uncle Nearest,
the enslaved man who
taught Jack Daniel
how to make whiskey,
I knew that my purpose
would be manifested.
When you got your
ride-or-die partner,
you are halfway there.
The best way to
find your idea
figure out what it is that
makes you the special sauce.
How are you going to
make this succeed?
What you're trying to
say is just as important
as whatever it is
you are trying to do.
And I only need you
to remember one thing.
Greatness is a decision.
And when you decide to be
unstoppable, you will be.
Work a plan now
Can't I, can't I,
can't I, can't I? ♪
♪
[indistinct chatter]
Shareef. Shareef.
Vivian. I was hoping
you'd swing my way.
Oh, my God. Everything
is perfection.
As long as the queen is happy.
Ugh.
Oh, OK, so, Shareef, I
wanted to introduce you
to my daughter Hilary.
- Oh, pleasure.
- She's also a chef.
- Your tacos were magnifique.
- Mm, thank you.
Was that alligator
pepper I tasted?
Mm-hmm.
I didn't even know
they had that in LA.
Oh, I got all the
homeland hook-ups.
Mm.
Leimert has some good markets.
Crenshaw, West Adams
You see, I knew you two would
have a lot to talk about.
- You know I do. I love
- Yes, I know.
OK, I got to be real with
you my mind is blown.
How do you have
an adult daughter?
I mean
- [scoffs]
You guys could be
sisters. [both chuckle]
- Pardon me, ladies.
- OK.
What?
That fine-ass chef was
flirting with you, like, hard.
And apparently
Mama still got it.
- [scoffs]
- [laughs]
I'm telling Daddy.
- What?
There's nothing to talk about.
[indistinct chatter]
Jazz.
Mr. Banks.
- I'm glad you made it out.
- Congratulations.
There's a lot of
big dogs in here.
Yeah, just a few.
Hope you got to do
a little networking.
I know you know the
value of ownership.
Oh, absolutely.
So how's the vinyl store doing?
I heard a lot of businesses in
your area have been struggling.
You know, I'm just
hanging in there.
Yeah.
Well, I'm always looking
for opportunities to extend
my investment portfolio.
If you have any interest, I'd
be happy to infuse the store
with a little liquid capital,
and with the vinyl market
exploding the way it has
[soft music]
We could grab some time
this week and talk about it.
I appreciate that, Mr. Banks.
- All right.
- Mm-hmm.
- It's good to see you, Jazz.
- Good to see you.
♪
[phone ringing]
This is not a good time.
No.
You know I can't talk
when Geoffrey's around.
No, I-I swear I
ain't said nothing.
Geoffrey has no idea.
OK.
OK, cool. I'll
talk to you later.
[dramatic music]
♪
Yeah.
OK, yeah, um, I will have it to
you first thing Monday morning.
All right, you too.
You've certainly been
keeping my husband busy.
Me? No, no.
I mean, we do work
some late nights,
but I swear we put
it all behind us.
[chuckles]
OK.
Is everyone enjoying themselves?
Oh, thank you.
You two have
fun tonight, hmm?
[upbeat hip-hop beat]
♪
Hilary, I need to talk to you.
What are you still doing here?
The party's over.
- I don't need your charity.
- Excuse me?
- Oh, what?
You're trying to play me?
You told your dad to give
me a business loan, right?
- I hope you took it.
- Hell, no, I didn't take it!
Of course not. Still so proud.
Still stuck in your own way.
- OK, so check this out.
I need you to stay in your
lane and stay out of mine.
Oh, really?
Says the person who
keeps popping up
at every Banks family function?
[scoffs] Oh, word?
But you don't just pop
up at my record shop?
What are you talking about?
- I didn't want to do that.
I told you that.
That was my sister.
Oh, your sister.
Yeah, yeah, yes,
Ashley loves me.
And Will, he also loves me.
And now your dad loves me.
It seems as if Jazz is actually
a great fucking guy, Hilary.
So, if we hate
each other so much,
why do we keep ending up
in the same fucking room?
I don't know. How
about you tell me?
Let it be known
I'm not afraid ♪
It's just a bad
situation, bad situation ♪
What what what is this?
♪
Um, I'm sorry.
I
I'm not afraid
I'm gonna go.
It's just a bad
situation, bad situation ♪
I'm letting go
'cause I can't wait ♪
To end this bad
situation, bad situation ♪
Fuck.
[tense music]
♪
Y'all came all the
way down to the club
and pulled me out
of my poker game.
What's up?
- You said 48 hours.
We had to catch you
before time ran out.
So we're mixing it up
with the heaviest hitters
in the CEO game tonight.
And all I kept thinking was,
how the hell does a kid like me
get in a room like that?
- And then it hits us.
We're the special sauce.
- Mm-hmm.
OK, so hit me with what you got.
We share our story
the addict who got
a second chance.
And the West Philly
basketball phenom
who dared to reach for more.
And then we brand
our message, right?
Turn it into some fly merch.
I'm talking tees, sweats, swag.
But it's not just a
brand. It's a lifestyle.
Yeah, we could build this
into books, events, podcasts.
We want to build a
conversation and a legacy.
And we want to keep it 100
by giving some of the proceeds
to Black-owned businesses.
Starting with Charlie's
Vinyl in Inglewood.
I fuck with Charlie's.
We want to let the ladder down
to lift the culture
up, to grant access.
The same access that
changed my life.
I'm leaning in, boys. So
what you're gonna call it?
Both: Blackccess.
Ooh, that's hot.
- [laughs]
- OK.
I'm down.
- OK, OK, all right.
Congratulations, baby
- Mm.
- On a successful night.
It was so nice having
you by my side today.
- Mm.
- Working the room.
Dream team.
Mm.
And you know I love it.
- Mm.
But all those dinners
and fundraisers
you volunteered me for, I
ain't doing none of them.
Mm-mm. Baby, I
don't have the time.
I'll do my best, but
You have different priorities
that don't revolve around
me and my every need.
Yeah, that part.
But my baby is a boss now.
Both: Mm, mm, mm.
Yes, sir. Get used to it.
Mm, I like it.
I like it a lot.
And what was going on
with your girl Erika?
What was she on?
- Huh? I didn't really notice.
Oh, come on. How
could you not?
I mean, she definitely
had too many drinks,
that's for damn sure.
Why? Did she say
anything to you?
Every time I got near her,
she'd find a reason
just to run off.
I wouldn't put too much on it.
[grunts softly]
[whistle blows]
- Welcome back, everyone,
to what has been an
absolutely thrilling match
here at Villa Park.
It's Aston Villa 2, Arsenal 2,
with just 15 minutes
left on the clock.
Both teams are fighting tooth
and nail for a crucial goal
[continues indistinctly]
It's true.
I ran with the Hill Boys.
I started as a Top Boy.
It was
dirty work.
Saw a lot
climbed fast.
I was good
second-in-command good.
[dramatic music]
Hmm.
Then you came along.
You made me want to
be a different man.
I wanted out of the game.
♪
And that didn't go down so well.
My boss
the boss
even after years of
serving by his side, he
♪
He tried to take my life.
I fought back.
It was him or me,
you understand?
He was a friend,
a father beloved
by his young-uns.
Been hiding ever since.
But they may have
finally found me.
♪
They know who you are now.
♪
I need you close.
That's why you're here.
♪
Uh, my first meeting
I didn't show up for me
or my sobriety.
I came here for a girl,
which I'm sure you
probably all witnessed.
[soft laughter]
My entire life,
I've been an expert
at lying to get my own way.
Since I got out of rehab
I just want to make
my family proud of me.
And after everything I
put them through, I
So I smile, and I say
that I'm all good
and I'm excited for
the journey ahead
because I know that
they just want to know
that I'm gonna be OK.
[soft music]
But I think I'm still lying
About about the anxiety
every time I leave the house,
about feeling like a pariah
every time someone whispers
about me or doubts me.
[sighs softly]
♪
I don't know.
I just didn't know that
I would feel this alone.
Carlton, look around.
You're not alone anymore, kid.
♪
[clears throat]
Oh, these people
are doing too much.
Mm, this one isn't
about Neeman season.
Enjoy.
[upbeat hip-hop beat]
♪
[car door closes,
indistinct chatter]
[car beeps, lock clicks]
So I guess I'm the stalker now.
I-I didn't see you in there.
Um
- I hung in the hallway.
You were brave and honest.
Um
I am a walking shit show.
Let a lot of people
down multiple times.
Been there.
So the thought of
someone needing me
Look, I shouldn't
have put that on you.
I'm sorry.
But what scares me even more
I need you, too.
So why don't we just
be scared together?
[Shawn Wasabi's
"Trigger Warning"]
♪
Whip the whip so hard
and make them nauseous ♪
Yeah, you with
them big dogs now ♪
Proceed with caution
Play with big bands
All right, boys, let's stack
her up and send her out!
You're good. Get out.
Get out of here.
- Go, go, go.
Move! Come on!
Come on, let's move.
Let's make a move.
Make a move.
- All right.
All right. Break time, fellas.
Oh, also, Briggs wanted
me to introduce y'all
to our new yoga instructor.
I actually think y'all know her.
Hey, y'all.
Your Aunt Viv put in
a good word for me.
That's my aunt
always looking out.
Oh, my mom is so
messy. [laughs]
Can I get a
trigger warning? ♪