One of TV’s sharpest and funniest sitcoms, “Family Ties” cast Meredith Baxter Birney and Michael Gross as Elyse and Michael Keaton, two liberal baby boomers from Ohio whose children in the 80s exhibit very different attitudes than their parents did in the 60s. Alex (Michael J. Fox) is a republican, Mallory (Justine Bateman) is self-obsessed, and Jennifer is a cynical tomboy.
The kids finally want to spend time with their parents. (Lost Weekend)
The Keatons allow Mallory to keep her job (Fabric Smarts)
Uncle Ned is afraid that he's already washed up and refuses to admit that he has a drinking problem. (Say Uncle)
When a winter storm puts paid to the family's ski vacation, the Keatons spend time reminiscing about earlier days - including the birth of their children. (A Christmas Story)
In his new job as editor of his high school newspaper, Alex must decide whether to print a story about cheaters on a Math exam - one of whom is his sister Mallory. (Big Brother is Watching)
Alex must deal with the fallout from his decision to print the story - which includes being fired from his position as editor of the school newspaper. (Big Brother is Watching)
The kids get caught red-handed. (4 Rms, Ocn Vu)
Alex's hotel scheme goes too far. ( 4 Rms Ocn Vu)
Mallory is taken by surprise when her aunt falls ill and must go go to the hospital. ( Auntie Up)
Jennifer's friend chooses Mallory over her. (Love Thy Neighbor)