7.022 minSeason 1 • Episode 9
LatestBen is in for a surprise when his one-night-stand turns out to be Crystal's new assistant, Vivian. When Ben and Vivian try to continue their "no strings attached" relationship, Ben discovers something about himself. Meanwhile, Crystal's efforts to be a responsible mom to Roman are derailed, and the mascot sends Alonzo over the edge.
Ben Donovan is a self-involved manager of a second-rate San Diego sports arena who begins to re-evaluate his life on his 40th birthday. Working alongside him is his boss and arena owner, Crystal--attractive, powerful and highly erratic; Alice--the cute, tomboyish marketing director and Ben's friend with benefits; Alonzo--a former basketball player, handsome and unbelievably happy; Ben's assistant, Heather--pretty, sweet, but terrifying because she once lit a boyfriend on fire; Crystal's son, Roman--sweet-faced, clueless and Ben's newest employee; and a hapless operations crew whom Ben refers to collectively as the "Steves."
Acting
Allison Janney unhinged as Crystal is unmissable.
Writing
Perry's self-loathing one-liners hit weirdly personal.
Creators
Matthew Perry, Marc Firek, Alex Barnow
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Perry co-created this during his post-Friends slump, drawing from his own addiction recovery and failed relationships for Ben's bitter self-awareness.
ABC's 2011 comedy block implosion: Sunshine aired alongside Mr. Sunshine, Happy Endings, and Off the Map—three shows, three fates, one network exec's nervous breakdown.
US
