J.J.'s Condition

"JJ's Condition" is another stunning episode, a frank adult look at an open marriage. JJ's new girlfriend is gorgeous Barbara (Fay Hauser), who claims to be separated from husband Ernie (Justin Lord), though according to Willona not enough! Penny believes that married people aren't supposed to date others: "honey, that's just what I was trying to tell my ex-husband!" Barbara literally proves to be painful for JJ, who learns that her husband still lives and showers in her apartment, his prerogative since he pays the $400 rent. JJ's understandable jealousy and stomach trouble requires a trip to the doctor, who diagnoses an ulcer. Both Thelma and Willona are quick to defend him to the unapologetic Barbara, who is content to continue seeing JJ without committing to an exclusive relationship. The audience response is loud and dedicated throughout, a shocking situation to be depicted in the late 70s. The latest foxy femme seen with JJ this season, Fay Hauser is probably best remembered as the pretty schoolmarm who weds Richard Thomas in the upcoming ROOTS: THE NEXT GENERATIONS, here turning up the heat considerably as the mere sight of her doubles him up!