Join or Sign In
Sign in to customize your TV listings
By joining TV Guide, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy.
ABC Afterschool Specials Season 5 Episodes
Season 5 Episode Guide
6 Episodes 1976 - 1977
Episode 1
Francesca, Baby
Wed, Oct 6, 197645 mins
Teenage Francesca James has had to pick up the slack at home, to cover for her father Bix's long trips away working, and for her mother Lillian's drinking, which has become worse in the months since Francesca's brother died in an accident. New neighbor Connie helps out, but can't prevent Lillian from ruining Kate's birthday party. Lillian also endangers them by dropping a lit cigarette on her pillow after a binge, nearly causing a house fire. Enough clues have slipped out to Francesca's friends to be concerned, and they invite her to AlaTeen. Angered at first by the approach, Francesca comes to value the things they teach her, and helps Lillian begin to help herself.
Episode 2
P.J. and the President's Son
Wed, Nov 10, 197647 mins
Update of Mark Twain's The Prince and the Pauper. Delivery boy and President's son discover they are exact doubles and decide to swap identities.
Episode 3
Mighty Moose and the Quarterback Kid
Wed, Dec 1, 197648 mins
Football coach tries to mediate a conflict between the star Quarterback and his father.
Episode 4
My Mom's Having a Baby
Wed, Feb 16, 1977
Told in flashback to his baby brother, nine-year-old Petey Evans explains the way his brother was born, the impact it had on his life, and how real-life OB/GYN Dr. Lendon Smith helped him deal with it. Considered controversial at the time for videotaping a live birth, this ABC Afterschool Special was later praised for its honest explanation of how babies are born.
Episode 5
The Horrible Honchos
Wed, Mar 9, 197760 mins
Neighborhood gang makes a pact to torment and bully the new kid on the street.
Episode 6
Very Good Friends
Wed, Apr 6, 197745 mins
A sensitive young girl (Melissa Sue Anderson) gradually comes to terms with the accidental death of her younger sister. Based on the award-winning young adult novel by Constance Greene.
