Mixed Blessings
Mixed Blessings is a British sitcom produced by LWT for broadcast on the ITV network between 1978 and 1980, It was created by comedy-writer Sid Green and starred Christopher Blake and Muriel Odunton. White Thomas Simpson and Black Susan Lambert are a young couple who wed without their families' knowledge, forcing them to navigate the challenges of introducing their families to their relationship. The show explores themes of cultural differences and family dynamics within the context of a mixed-race marriage.
Seasons
1. Welcome to the Family
Air Date: 1978-03-03
Thomas and Susan have married without letting their families know. They intend to inform both parties, but there's a surprise in store.
2. Your Place or Mine?
Air Date: 1978-03-10
Thomas and Susan are temporarily living with Aunt Dorothy, but need to find a permanent home. Their families take it upon themselves to determine where the newlyweds should stay.
3. You Haven't Got Much, Have You?
Air Date: 1978-03-17
Susan and Thomas move into Dorothy's basement apartment, but have no furniture to speak of, their respective families take care of that.
4. Jobs for the Boys
Air Date: 1978-03-24
Winston clashes with his father over his inability to get a job, Thomas also feels bad for relying on Susan to bring home the bread. William and Edward are both looking for staff, but will either boy be good enough?
5. Happy Birthday, Dear Fathers
Air Date: 1978-03-31
While Susan bakes a cake, Thomas has gone out in search of a gift for Dad. Unfortunately for the couple, it soon becomes apparent that both of their fathers share the same birthday.
6. We're Only Trying to Help
Air Date: 1978-04-07
Thomas ends up in bed with flu, prompting Annie to fuss over him. Later, when Susan returns home sick, Matilda arrives to look after her. Peace turns into chaos when Edward and William arrive after work for a homecooked meal.
7. The House Warming
Air Date: 1978-04-14
Finally settled in, the young couple throw a housewarming party, inviting their friends and parents. However, Susan isn't amused to learn that Thomas has invited his ex and Susan's former roommate, Phyllis.
1. A Leg from the Past
Air Date: 1978-10-06
Susan isn't impressed when Deirdre, Thomas's flirtatious second cousin, arrives for a visit. Far from shy, Deirdre flirts openly, motivating Susan to take action.
2. The Loneliness of the Long Distance Unemployed
Air Date: 1978-10-13
Thomas continues struggling to get a job and Susan is worried that he's getting bored at home, so se sends him one of her clients to help out, Fred, who's about to enter a mixed-race marriage of his own.
3. My Chap's Got Work
Air Date: 1978-10-20
Thomas finally lands a job; to celebrate, both families want to have Sunday dinner, leaving the pair to decide how to divide their time.
4. Thou Shalt Deny Me
Air Date: 1978-10-27
Mr. Huntley announces that an executive vacancy has arisen, and that Thomas is in the running. A social event is planned, and Huntley – who is prejudiced – wants to meet Susan, unaware that she's Black.
5. Your Money or Your Life
Air Date: 1978-11-03
Winston is desperate to buy a car, convinced it's the only way to be a hit with the ladies. He tries to get the funds from Thomas and Susan, but fails, leaving his only option is to ask Edward at the bank.
6. You're Going to Have a What!
Air Date: 1978-11-10
Susan has been having some very odd cravings, and Aunt Dorothy quickly realises that she's pregnant. After Thomas digests the news, it's time to tell both sets of parents.
1. Raising the Roof
Air Date: 1979-10-26
The new Vicar visits Thomas and Susan, seeking new recruits. Despite their frequent rejections, he invites them to a bring and buy. Meanwhile, Matilda donates an African statue, but William wants it back.
2. Away from It All
Air Date: 1980-04-12
Susan is desperate for a holiday, only Thomas is keen to save the pennies. Edward suggests the couple join him and Annie on their annual trip to The Castle Hotel, Bickermouth, a piece of old England.
3. Up in the World
Air Date: 1980-04-19
Thomas is desperate to impress his boss and jet-set friends, so he joins the badminton club and started using crystal liquor glasses. Susan isn't happy when Thomas says that he's invited his new friends to dinner, and Carole offers to help.
4. The Anniversary Wars
Air Date: 1980-04-26
It's Annie and Edward's silver anniversary, but the pair don't want a fuss. Thomas and Susan organise a surprise party, only sorting out the guest list proves a challenge.
5. The Law and Mr. Lambert
Air Date: 1980-05-03
The police call Thomas and Susan early to inform them that Winston has been arrested for breaking into a car. When William hears, he wants to help his son out, even if it means going to prison himself.
6. Goodbye Charlie
Air Date: 1980-05-10
Edward informs Thomas that his estranged Uncle Charlie has died, Thomas isn't upset, but he's shocked when Edward informs him that the body is being delivered to his and Susan's flat the night prior to the funeral.
7. Your Turn for Grandad
Air Date: 1980-05-17
Edward and Annie pay a visit to Thomas and Susan, together with Grandad. The young couple are placed in an awkward situation when Edward announces that it's their turn to care for Grandad. Meanwhile, Grandad takes a shine to Susan's aunt.
8. Practice Makes Perfect
Air Date: 1980-05-24
Susan is now seven months pregnant, and her mother is treating her like valuable china as is Thomas. To become the perfect father, Thomas attends classes and returns home with all sorts of leaflets and a fake baby to look after.
9. Survival
Air Date: 1980-05-31
A friendly game of family cards turns sour. Edward leaves in a fit of pique, only to encounter heavy snow, meaning the whole family has to spend the night together, under the same roof, where tempers get somewhat exercised.
10. Onto Us a Child
Air Date: 1980-06-07
Thomas gets an early morning call, Susan is set to have the baby. Thomas finds the whole thing somewhat overwhelming. William and Edward are set on the birth of a baby boy.
Select an episode to start watching
Rating
6.2/10
Release Date
1978-03-03
Episodes
23 (3 seasons)
Status
Ended
Cast
Production Companies
LWT