The still here is from the episode "Two On the Aisle," which features Neil Simon's only cameo on the TV series. He wrote the original stage play, which led to the 1968 movie, which led to the TV show, which he was indifferent toward since he had sold his financial interest in "The Odd Couple." But a family member convinced him the show was good (three Emmy nominations for Outstanding Comedy Series, and three wins for "Best Lead Actor": 2 for Klugman, 1 for Randall). This scene is always cut in syndication, but it's posted here.
#86, The Flying Felix (January 18, 1974): check out who plays the ticket agent! The "simulated" flight, and then Felix's attempt to say bye to Murray at the gate, are my favorite scenes. Also, Myrna could not be more annoying in the cold open. Sorry, Penny Marshall.
#98, Strike Up the Band or Else (October 17, 1974): How can you not like the Sophisticados and Pernell Roberts? Roberts had been on "Bonanza," then played "Trapper John, M.D.," which followed the doctor in the late 70s (when the show aired), years after the character had left "MASH" (where he was played by Wayne Rogers from 1972-75). The producers of "MASH" sued, saying "Trapper John" infringed on their copyright. The producers of TJ countered by saying their show was based on the BOOK "M*A*S*H," not the show. So the MASH TV producers wrote a script in which Hawkeye (in the early 50s) is informed Trapper John is dead. Yikes. The episode was never made, but I can't imagine this was fun at the CBS Christmas parties.
Other great episodes include "Fat Farm" and "Password" (both on TV Guide's list of the Greatest Episodes of All-Time, 1997). Pretty much anything from seasons 2-5 is great. Season one features a single-camera, no-audience set, identical to the movie. For season 2, they started filming with a live studio audience, and the show skyrocketed (although not in the ratings; it never made the Top 30).
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