American Dreams (2002)

Episode Overview

In November 1963, Meg Pryor dreams of performing on the Philadelphia-based show American Bandstand. Her best friend Roxanne secures her an opportunity, but Meg's excitement is crushed when her father Jack forbids her from participating during dinner. Concurrently, J.J. drops a surprise on Jack by quitting the football team, citing lack of enjoyment, which leads to tension with his girlfriend Beth. Defying her father's wishes, Meg goes on the show instead of attending Patty's spelling bee. Jack sees her on TV and remains adamant that she shouldn't return. Meanwhile, Helen grapples with her choice to stop having more children, while trying to persuade Jack to support Meg's ambitions.