Original subtitles

It's time for Merrie & Mason in the Morning!

Today's guests include

from television's longest-running series,

On Eagle's Wing,

Jon Rogerston!

Summer DIYs from lifestyle master Daria Daniels!

And Mason and Merrie

take on the latest dance challenge sweeping the nation.

It's time to wake up, America!

And now, New York's own Merrie and Mason!

Happy Monday, everybody!

Did you have a good Fourth of July, Mason?

Uh, a little too good, Merrie.

I think I succeeded

in busting the waistband on my stretchy pants

at the barbecue.

Ho-ho!

Well, I hope your dance shoes still fit,

because today,

we're gonna teach you how to shed

those extra Fourth of July pounds

with the latest dance moves that have gone viral...

- Hey! - Hey.

Was your family happy to have you for the Fourth?

Oh, yeah. Mom whipped up

her red, white, and blue Jell-o mold.

For some reason, it had ham in it.

Wow. Nothing says "patriotism" like pork for dessert.

Right?

She spent the entire trip saying

how I deserve to get the executive producer promotion

for all the holidays I've had to skip.

Mm!

Love the new intro, Fred.

So, have you talked to Merrie about the job?

No. No, the meeting this morning

was all about getting us to the top-rated slot

by the end of the summer.

My gut says they're gonna go with an outside hire.

You just need to show them that they already have

the best producer in-house.

Kaitlin. What's the plan?

Okay, so, last night, I saw this clip

of this rhino at the Cincinnati Zoo

who saved this kid who fell into the rhino pit.

I'm thinking,

"Rhinos:

America's surprising new best friend."

And if she doesn't go for that,

there's always the hippo with the crocheted hat.

Oh...

You know, that one that everybody was sharing?

Yeah, definitely sensing a theme.

Well, yeah, I mean, you gotta,

you know, keep it happy and light.

Something America can get behind, you know?

Yeah, I'm sure that Merrie will love it,

and now that Ronnie is retired,

It only makes sense to bump you up.

Well, I hope so, otherwise I'm gonna become

New York's longest-serving segment producer.

It's time to sink or swim.

And for some parents, not fast enough,

but that means it's time for my favorite summer hit

from the super-dreamy '90s boy band

Absolutely Yeah!

Hey, whatever happened to them?

Oh! I don't know.

But I had a such a huge crush

on the lead singer, Derrick Dane.

Mm-hmm!

I think maybe you still might.

Come on, audience, let me hear you shout,

the greatest summer album ever...

Hotter... Than... July!

Woo! Oh, that beat!

I like that group!

And, remember, I'm Merrie.

- I'm Mason! - And...

don't wake up without us!

You okay?

Yeah. Fine. Just...

Yeah. Crazy.

Hey, Derrick!

Morning, gentlemen.

You ready to get these care kits packed up?

Yeah, you know it!

Awesome. I've got everything set up for you in the kitchen.

All righty, then. Let's do it.

So, uh, let's do

that whole clockwise assembly-line thing.

- Uh, grab a bag. - Yeah.

Uh, so how was everybody's Fourth?

- Really good. - Awesome. -Okay.

We got to video chat with my dad.

Yeah? How's he doing?

Good. He's counting down the days till he's home.

His leave came through?

Three whole weeks.

Nice!

Oh, I almost forgot,

I'm gonna need your band of merry men here

to put up some more flyers.

Of course. Thanks, Lucille.

Okay.

Oh, how are we doing on ticket sales, by the way?

Uh, well, um,

including you and me and half a dozen parents,

roughly that.

All right, guys.

Well, you heard the boss. Once we're done here,

we gotta get the rest of those flyers out.

- Thanks. - Aw, man.

We just put 'em out last week.

Yeah, I just gave all mine to my grandma

to hand out at her knitting club.

That might explain why we need to put them up again.

Look, I know this isn't the most exciting thing in the world,

but we gotta get the word out.

It's only a few weeks till the show,

and we need these ticket sales to pay for next year's programs.

We'll do it. Right, guys?

All right.

- Yeah, let's do it. - Let's do it.

There we go! That's the spirit!

Sounds good.

Come in.

Hey!

Ah, Kaitlin. I'm not sure if you saw,

but Mason tripped in the craft segment

and knocked Daria into camera four,

and she nearly lost a pinky toe.

Can't be losing pinky toes.

I already spoke to the floor manager

to clear the lanes,

and Daria won't be wearing sandals again on set.

Amazing.

I don't know what I'd do without you.

Funny you should say that.

Um, do you have a minute?

Yeah. Will you make it quick, though?

I have got a ratings call in five minutes.

Great.

Um, I have a pitch for the Summer Beach Bash.

Wonderful!

But you'll have to save it for next year.

Oh?

Yeah, Mason and I already booked it.

Winkles, the lifeguard dog.

Have you seen this video?

He's so cute!

It'll be a great finale.

You know, lifeguard dog at the beach bash?

He's already cracked 10 million views with this one.

Wow.

And you're okay with helping out, you know,

until we hire the new executive producer?

About the executive producer...

Nabbing Winkles before Today with Tabitha

was such a huge win for us.

He's really gonna

wrap our summer up with a bang!

I don't wanna jinx it,

but I think with this momentum,

we're on way to become

the number-one morning show in the country!

Well, that's what we want.

You were gonna pitch me something?

Oh, you know, it can wait till next year.

Oh, okay, okay.

This is Winkles's trainer.

Keep up the good work, Kaitlin,

oh, and you may want

to invest in some dog biscuits, by the way.

Right.

Thank you. Hello!

Dog biscuits. Yeah.

How'd it go?

Uh, well, let's just say

now would be a really good time

for me to find out

I had a rich uncle who left his entire estate to me

so I didn't have to worry about lifeguard dogs

or people tripping over their own shoelaces.

So, not well?

No. She didn't give me any indication

I was gonna get the job.

Well, the day's young.

This cannot be happening!

- Oh, boy. - Oh, boy.

We shook on it.

You can't back out now.

What's happening?

Oh, it seems that Tabitha from Today with Tabitha

found out about Winkles the lifeguard dog

and offered his trainer a huge bonus

to do their end-of-summer show instead of ours,

so good luck.

This is a catastrophe!

Three weeks out,

and we've lost our headlining act.

That's a cute necklace.

I'm gonna swoop. I'm gonna swoop!

With what? Baby hippos?

That's all I got!

Okay, but she's in a mood.

I know!

Sink or swim.

Merrie?

I heard about Winkles. Real tragedy.

We've been neck and neck with Tabitha all year

in the ratings.

I should've expected her to pull a stunt like this.

Okay, well, we'll think of another idea

for the Summer Beach Bash.

If she pulls ahead in the ratings,

then the sponsors are gonna flock to her,

and it'll sink us

and everything that we've built here.

We'll turn this around.

We need something to turn it around!

Exactly. Yep. Um...

Okay.

I'm not sure if you've heard, but there is this baby,

he's the cutest...

One sec.

- What is it? - The dog dropped?

Yeah! I know! And we shook on it!

We need to replace the dog.

- What about that baby hippo? - Baby hippos?

He could wear a crochet hat!

No, call me back when you have a good idea. Okay?

Okay, you said you had something to pitch me?

Oh, I, uh...

um...

uh...

I need a vacation!

Yeah.

Your ringtone.

Mm-hmm?

Uh...

Absolutely Yeah, the, uh,

the band with the one-hit-wonder album

from-from the-the summer...

You wanna get Absolutely Yeah! on our show?

Yeah!

They can play your favorite song

at the Summer Beach Bash.

Oh... oh, that would be a dream come true!

Right?

And then the sponsors would flock to us.

That's right.

I mean, this would be a job.

To produce it and-and put it all together

would be something for, like, you know,

an executive producer-style role...

You want to be the new E.P.?

I do.

Only if you think that I'm ready for it, Merrie.

Kaitlin, you're my best segment producer.

And I would still keep producing my own segments.

There's been rumors

of an Absolutely Yeah! reunion for decades,

and it always falls apart,

so how are you suddenly gonna make it happen

in the next three weeks?

Well, Merrie, if there's one thing that I'm good at,

it's, you know,

bringing people together and making things happen.

Uh, I got this.

Oh, Kaitlin! Ha!

Yay! Yeah.

I've always wanted to meet Absolutely Yeah!

Absolutely Yeah!

Oh! Okay. Well...

Ahem.

It's a deal.

If you get them here, you've got the job.

Okay.

- Okay? Okay. - Yep.

What am I gonna wear to meet Derrick?

I don't know!

Can you get Sara in here, please?

- Yes. Copy that. - Oh! Work on my wardrobe.

- Getting Sara. - Okay, and Kaitlin, Kaitlin?

- Yep! Yep? - Listen.

You're incredible, and I believe you can do this,

but should it not pan out

and I have to hire an outside executive producer,

they're gonna wanna bring in their own team,

and likely their own segment producer.

Noted.

I got that... locked away.

- Go get 'em, tiger! - Okay.

She's got this.

Did you hear that?

Yeah. Yeah, I did.

I didn't know that you were an Absolutely Yeah! fan.

I'm not.

I mean, I might've had a poster or two of them

when I was younger, on my wall.

And yet you staked your entire promotion

on getting them back together?

Yep.

Okay.

Ugh.

Where's Winkles the lifeguard dog

when you need him?

Oh, I don't think he could save you.

Going to get a boy band back together.

If anyone can do it, you can!

How do I get a hold of you?

Do you have a manager still?

Nope.

Bingo.

Hi there! My name is Kaitlin.

I'm enquiring about a boat.

I love all the merchandise you have.

Yeah. Our manager went a bit crazy with the merch

when the album came out.

There you go. Cheers.

And I ended up with all of it after we broke up.

But it's okay.

It's a good conversation-starter.

Yeah. Well, Merrie would love this.

She is such a huge fan.

Lucky for us.

I mean, I've always loved

the idea of getting us back together.

I feel like the world didn't have enough

of Absolutely Yeah, in my opinion.

- Yeah! I mean... - Yeah.

Who wouldn't want this, right?

Have you reached out to the rest of the group yet?

I have, yep.

Uh, and I'm meeting with you all individually

over the next few days.

You got everyone? Really?

Well, I mean, essentially.

I'm still...

I'm still looking for Derrick Dane.

Oh, that tracks.

You wouldn't happen to have his contact info, would you?

Nope. No idea.

But hey, three out of four, it's still a reunion, right?

Huh? Aha!

- Right. - Right.

So you have no idea

where I could... get in touch with him?

Oh, well, he asked me not to share.

Okay, so you do know where I can find him.

But I have to respect that.

- Yes. - Mm-hmm.

I just... if this is gonna happen,

I-I do just need to at least have a conversation with him,

if not to cross him off the list.

Okay. Let's say I was to be

somewhere,

and he was there...

Mm-hmm?

And I just kind of bumped into him,

you know what I mean?

Like, you didn't tell me, but I just bumped into him.

Casually.

- "Whoops!" - Okay! Okay.

Yeah, um...

No one told me.

Of course not. I would never do that.

But we could just go inside,

and you could point to exactly where that is, and...

- Just the directions? - General directions!

- I'm still a good friend. - Yep!

- Best friends. - That's right!

Thank you.

Great meeting, everybody!

Let's get those volunteers here ASAP!

Okay...

Hello?

- Hi! - Hi.

Hi. How can I help you?

Yeah, I was looking

for someone by the name of Derrick Dane?

- Is he here? - Sorry. Who?

Derrick? Oh, uh, actually...

uh, this guy.

Right in the middle.

He might not look like that anymore, but...

- Nope. - Um...

No. And who are you, may I ask?

Oh, I'm Kaitlin Thomson,

from the Merrie & Mason, The Morning Show?

Oh, yeah. That's always on at my dental office.

Oh.

Well, your dentist has good taste.

I'm sorry, I don't know anyone named Derrick Dane.

Sorry.

Oh! Where are you kids off to?

To put up the flyers you and Derrick gave us.

Oh, good, good! I have a whole bunch more!

Hold on, guys. Get back here! I want you to paper the town!

- Go, go, go! - No! Come back!

You little...

Hi there.

Would you, uh...

could you hold the other side of this net?

Uh, sure. I'm...

A little straighter, please?

Okay, I'm looking for...

A bit more taut,

if you could?

Right. Um, I'm Kaitlin. I didn't, uh...

I didn't get your name.

Kaitlin.

I'm Derrick.

Are you here to volunteer?

No, uh...

I-I, um...

Derrick Dane, right?

Oh, uh, I saw your fliers for the variety show fundraiser.

That looks like a great event.

Uh, are you organizing that?

I mean, that makes sense, with your experience and all.

I don't know what you mean.

Oh, well, I'm a producer with Merrie & Mason in the Morning,

and we're doing a segment for our End of Summer Beach Bash,

and I was hoping to talk to you about it.

Oh, you mean about our variety show?

I'm sure we could get some of our acts

to perform for you.

You know, the exposure would

really help the community center bring in donations.

Right. Yes.

A, uh, a segment

for the community center would be great, that's right.

I just, I'm actually here to talk to you

about a reunion show for Absolutely Yeah!

I talked to your other bandmates and they're in,

but, of course, it wouldn't be a reunion show

without... Derrick Dane.

Ah.

I mean, you are Derrick Dane, obviously?

You want Absolutely Yeah! To get back together, huh?

Absolutely!

Yeah.

Absolutely not.

Uh, well, absolute... uh, okay.

What do you mean, "absolutely not"?

How else can I put this?

Uh, no? Negative? Not, happening?

Okay, let me just get a chance to state my case.

This would be so good for you and your former bandmates.

You mean the bandmates who told you where to find me?

Ah, let me guess. It was Juan Carlos.

Producer never reveals her secrets.

The last time somebody tried to track me down like this,

they got my parents' address and showed up

at my sister's bridal shower while we were playing games,

and tried to interview me as a toilet-paper bride.

And that... is totally unacceptable.

Your family won't have anything to do with this.

This is just a reunion

to remind people just how great you were,

and that's it.

And give up what little anonymity

I've regained in my life?

I don't think so.

The country is aching to feel like it did

when "Hotter Than July" came out,

and Absolutely Yeah! Can lift us all back up,

just not without you.

The community center is closing.

And mean what I say about doing a segment after the reunion

to help you with whatever you need.

Donations, volunteers, you got it.

No. I mean, literally, it's closing time,

and Lucille doesn't like to stay late.

Oh! Okay, all right.

Well, why don't we get a coffee, or maybe something stronger?

Goodbye, Kaitlin.

And, uh, little word of advice,

you don't want to get on Lucille's bad side.

No.

Oh. Okay.

Uh, all right.

I'm...

leaving.

But we should pick this up again.

No, we're not.

We should. We really should.

Buh-bye.

Okay. I'll be in... I'll be in contact.

Yep. That sounds good!

Another one asking for a reunion?

Yup. But this one's definitely been the most convincing.

Okay.

Okay! Let's get outta here

before you start having second thoughts.

There's a better chance of it snowing in July.

- You sure about that? - Yeah.

Thank you, dahling. Ladies?

And we could do some backstage clips

and add them to social media.

That will go viral instantaneously!

I cannot believe I am meeting Derrick Dane.

Earth to Kaitlin!

Yes! Derrick.

Um, about Derrick...

Yes! When is he coming to our first rehearsal, by the way?

Well, uh, he might just need a little bit more convincing.

How much more convincing?

Well, he'll be here.

You gotta get him onboard, Kaitlin,

because we are announcing first thing next week.

- Next week? Already? - Yes. Yes.

It's the first reunion of Absolutely Yeah!

Since they broke up!

Mason and I are just gonna milk this!

I have to go.

I have a meeting with Chip.

Oh, I love Chip!

Me too.

Listen, I loved Derrick first.

He's my first official crush...

Yeah.

- But Chip's so charming. - Isn't he?

Please tell him I say hi, okay?

Tell him I can't wait to meet him.

- I will! - Oh, and Kaitlin...

Yeah?

I can make this announcement, right?

I mean, I can maybe hold off on saying Derrick's name

for a little bit, but...

but it's not a reunion if he doesn't show up,

and the sponsors will not like that.

No, they won't.

Thank you.

Have a restful weekend!

I'll be dancing!

I'm so excited!

"To Madeline,

Stay cool, even when it's hotter than July."

"Chip."

There you go.

Thank you!

- Sorry 'bout that. - No. No, no.

I hate disappointing my fans.

Right.

So, uh, where were we?

Uh, we were talking about Derrick.

Right. Right.

Pretty impressive that you found him.

You know his real name is Derrick DeWitt, right?

I did not.

That might explain

why I couldn't find him on social media.

Yeah, that, and he wants nothing to do with it.

- Right. - At all. Ha.

Okay.

I was hoping that maybe you could help me

understand a little bit more about that.

Mm. Okay.

You want me to give you something

so that it'll convince him to perform at the reunion?

Oh, no! No, no, no, no.

I don't want you to turn your friend in or anything.

I just... I was just hoping I could understand a little more

about why he's so secretive.

Yeah, um, you know,

"D" really started keeping to himself

right after we released Hotter Than July.

I mean, we wanted to keep the band going,

you know, do another album,

but... I don't know.

I think all that attention just didn't sit well with him.

How so?

Well, the more famous we got,

the bigger the venues got,

and the less we could really connect with people,

and that's really important to Derrick.

That's just who he is, you know?

Hmm.

At any rate, uh, I'm in, whether you have Derrick or not.

Great.

Sorry. I gotta cut this short.

No.

Promised my mom I'd help in the backyard, so...

Oh. Well, um, thanks so much, Chip.

Pleasure.

I'll be in touch.

You bet.

Hey.

Hey! How did it go?

Did you get any useful information from Chip?

Uh, no.

No more useful information than when I started.

Aw. Okay. Well, what are you gonna do?

I'm gonna figure something out.

Well, if they bring in an outsider,

are they gonna hire a whole new team?

I'm not going to let that happen.

'Cause we're a family.

That's right.

Sara...

you're a genius.

Thank you.

Wait. I am?

Yeah. Yeah.

I think... I think I just figured out

how I'm gonna get Derrick to do the show.

Oh, okay! Call me back.

Uh, check?

So, what's going on with you?

You wanna talk about it?

Um, we just found out

that my dad can't get leave in August after all.

Aw, man.

I'm so sorry, Jordan.

My mom's real tore up about it.

Yeah.

He was supposed to be here for their 25th anniversary.

I know you were planning a big party.

Now we just have a house full

of silver anniversary decorations,

and my mom says we're gonna have to call everyone and cancel.

She cried all night, but I...

I don't know what to do to fix it.

Hey.

You can't expect to take on all that yourself.

It's my job to take care of my family

while my dad is gone.

It's your job to be a kid.

Let the adults take care of the adult problems.

I'll talk to your mom,

help her with the decoration returns.

You know, Jordan,

in times like these,

I try to find something I can fix.

You know? It makes me feel better.

Like what?

Well, you can help your mom in other ways around the house,

but I was also thinking about the Summer Variety Show.

Oh, man, I...

please don't make me put up any more flyers.

No more flyers.

You know, I was thinking

you and the guys could perform in the show.

Really?

- Yeah. - That'd be...

good luck trying to convince them to.

Luckily for me, that's your job.

Look, I've seen the dancing videos that you guys post.

They're... they're awesome.

You know, this is no different.

It's just live, in front of actual people.

Hi.

It's me again.

- You! - Yeah.

Again. Miss, uh...

Thomson.

Thomson, right.

Yeah. Uh, well, I'm...

back because

I want to help the community center.

Oh? Really.

Yep. Yeah.

Uh, do... do you think I could...

get a tour, or...?

Derrick, it sounds like

she wants to help the community center.

Uh, he's always saying we need everyone to lend a hand.

- Yes. Yes, I am... - That's right.

Always saying that, because it's true.

I like him.

Okay, sure. A quick tour.

Great!

After you.

The gymnasium's right through here.

I didn't realize

that Derrick Dane was your stage name.

Let me guess... again.

Chip.

He'll say anything to impress a beautiful woman.

Our manager didn't think

that Derrick DeWitt would sell as many albums,

but the boys don't know anything about that part of my life.

I'd like to keep it that way.

I will not say a word.

Not like they're old enough to know who I am anyway...

who I was.

Your former bandmates couldn't help

with donations to the community center?

With what?

We didn't actually own Absolutely Yeah!

You know, we were kids when we signed that deal.

Turns out, everything belonged to our manager

and the record company.

We all walked away with virtually nothing.

I'm sorry that that happened with your manager.

Ah, it's fine.

I wasn't in it for the money anyway.

But I definitely learned some lessons

about trusting people.

You know, I think I got it.

You have a plan to help the community center,

and it hinges on me

doing your Absolutely Yeah! Reunion concert?

That was...

- Pretty close? - Yeah, it was pretty close.

I know you want more exposure for the community center, right?

I did.

I want to help produce the variety show.

Our variety show?

Yep!

I know you don't trust me yet... yet,

but it seems like you're in a little bit of a pinch.

It's not me. It's the community center.

And you're dedicated to that.

Just like I'm dedicated to my crew.

Your crew?

Without going into all the details,

if this reunion show doesn't happen,

a lot of people that I happen to be really partial to

are gonna lose their jobs,

including me,

so I'm doing this for them,

just like you're doing this for your boys.

Okay.

"Okay" you'll do the show?

I will think about doing the concert

if you can boost ticket sales.

That sounds like a deal.

That... a deal.

It's leaning toward a deal.

Let's just, uh, continue to look

at the rest of the center.

I like the way that this conversation is going now!

Hi!

We don't open until nine.

Oh, that's too bad,

because I have this large iced

mocha latte with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles

that won't be "iced" by then.

Ho, ho, ho. You're in luck!

We're opening early today.

Come to Mama. Ha ha!

I have a special guest coming in this morning.

Would you mind showing him to the gym when he gets here?

I wouldn't mind at all.

And if you keep these coming,

you can bring in a marching band of clowns,

- for all I care. - Thank you.

Have a great day! Mm.

Hey! Not open yet. 9:00.

Shut the door!

Okay! Let's go! Go...

- Elbows? - Guys?

I brought you in early

so you could show me what you've been working on,

so let's see it.

- Let's do it. - We're ready.

It's-it's good. You'll like it.

Watch this.

Wow.

All right. All right. Cut. Cut.

Take five.

That bad?

Not great.

Double espresso.

Black... aside from a dash of nutmeg.

Nice.

How did you know my coffee order?

A producer has her ways.

Huh.

Hi, everyone.

Hi.

I'm Kaitlin Thomson,

and Derrick has asked me

to help get the word out about your variety show,

so I'm here to put together a routine

that will help people wanna come and see the show.

Where'd she come from, Derrick?

Just, uh... just go with it.

Don't worry, man. She's cool.

Then why has she not brought us any coffee yet?

What's that... what's that, Evan?

Why didn't she get us any coffee?

I can bring you coffee tomorrow,

and if you really impress me, I'll even bring donuts,

but for now, I have brought someone else.

This is my friend. Hi.

Hey.

Paul Becker.

- Hey, Paul. Derrick. - Hey. Pleasure.

Welcome.

And he's a famous choreographer

who's worked with some of the biggest names

in the entertainment business.

Oh, yeah? Like who?

Oh, pretty much everyone, like...

Yeah, yeah. We already got moves.

- Yeah. you saw us. - Right, Derrick?

It's all right.

That's exactly what the Jonas Brothers said

on the first day of rehearsal.

- Wow. - Like, the actual...

Jonas Brothers?

I will leave you to it.

All right, boys.

Let's get to work.

So, you sure you have time

to produce your summer TV thing and a variety show?

You know, I was once captain

of both my high school volleyball

and basketball team,

at the same time.

- Wow. - Yeah, I know.

- Impressive. - Isn't it?

Not only is he

one of the best choreographers in the country,

but he also happens to have

a very large social media following,

and he's agreed to do some fun posts for us.

Oh, so that's it?

Social media? That's your... your home run?

Oh, well, to be fair, I did try to get

the infamously reclusive lead singer

of Absolutely Yeah!

But he's a little cagey, so I decided to go with this.

I mean, unless somebody's decided to play ball.

Still happy on the bench.

Besides, it seems like

you kinda know what you're doing.

Oh. I do.

Thank you.

Can I continue...

doing what I'm doing?

- Be my guest. - Okay. Great.

So, where'd you find this guy, anyway?

Uh...

I love people who have a passion to inspire.

Kinda like you.

Like a younger me, maybe.

Are you gonna tell me why you and your band...

I'm not going there.

Okay.

Look, I'm happy where I'm at,

working here, at the community center.

And I am not trying to pull you away from that.

I... I am just trying to put on an "A" -plus variety show.

Well, as far as producers go,

you're doing a pretty good job so far.

Was that a compliment?

Maybe.

I feel like I... I feel like it was.

What I really want to know is how you knew my coffee order.

Like you said,

I'm good.

Mm-hmm. And modest.

Very, very modest.

I don't understand these former star types.

- Doorbell? - They write one fancy album,

and then, all of a sudden,

we have to go to their fancy beach house

to do costume fittings.

Well, I offered.

I'm hoping he can help us lock in Derrick.

Well, he's probably just lying on the couch,

cashing in royalty checks as we speak.

You good?

Yeah, I'm good.

Sorry, I was just on the phone trying to adopt a rescue puppy.

It's such a process.

Hi.

Hi!

Hi. Kaitlin.

From the Merrie & Mason in the Morning show.

- This is my associate... - Sara. I'm Sara.

Great to meet you in person. Uh, please, come on in.

- After you? - Oh. Yes.

- Hi. - Wow!

Your wife did an amazing job decorating this place.

Not married.

Girlfriend?

Nope. All me.

A man of many talents.

Oh, yeah. Yeah.

We're just gonna... take a few quick...

- Oh! Yeah. - Measurements,

then we'll be out of your hair real quick.

As long as she promises to be gentle with me.

Oh.

Hmm.

So, you've talked to Juan Carlos and Chip?

I have, yes, and they are both in for the reunion.

And Derrick?

Told you to... take a hike?

Ha! Yeah, he did.

At least he's consistent.

Mm. Yeah.

Um, actually,

you two were close when you were in the band.

I was hoping maybe you could give me some insight

as to why he's so...

Prickly?

Derrick comes from pretty humble origins.

He was never comfortable with the limelight.

Mm. That's what Chip said.

The media attention, guest interviews,

you know, all that stuff, he just hated it.

Just wanted to focus on the music.

- Yeah. - Just in case.

Ah, makes sense.

You two... stay in touch?

The occasional birthday card.

When he quit, it was, uh, it was pretty tough on everyone.

Mm-hmm. You good?

Uh-huh! Yep. I'm good.

- You're good? - Yeah, I'm good.

I'm-I'm awesome. Fine.

Me too.

Okay, well,

this has been... very insightful.

Thank you so much.

We're just gonna...

If you need anything else, just let me know.

- I'm happy to help. - Okay.

I'll-I'll show you out.

- Those are cute! - No.

Are those bobbleheads? Oh, wow.

- It's right through. - Oh.

Bobbleheads.

- Yup. - I know.

- That's very fun. - No. No.

And right through here,

we've got the Merrie & Mason Show.

Okay, okay, okay.

- That's beautiful. - Right?

Yeah. All the lights.

Pretty cool.

Hello, hello. Where's Derrick?

Derrick? Oh, he's not here yet.

Why?

He's just is a little shy around media personalities.

But I do have Chip and Juan Carlos here.

We're gonna do some behind-the-scenes footage today.

It's an absolute pleasure.

Pleasure's mine!

What's up, Merrie?

Oh! I cannot wait for the performance.

And neither can we. Right, guys?

♪ Absolutely Yeah ♪

My heart is exploding!

Well, I would be a bad producer

if I didn't say we have a lot to do with a little time,

so I'm gonna steal these guys, and we're gonna...

Of course, of course!

Get right on it here...

Don't want to ruin the magic.

I can't wait to meet Derrick in person.

Yeah. Absolutely yeah.

♪ Absolutely Yeah ♪

Where does it go?

♪ Yeah ♪

And now we're back with Merrie & Mason!

Welcome back, everybody!

Are you guys ready

for our big announcement that we've been promising you?

If you're standing up,

you might want to put some pillows down,

because you just might faint.

We like to top it all off here every single year

at our End of Summer Beach Bash.

There's no way we're ever gonna top this one, though, Merrie.

Oh, well, should we give them a hint?

Oh, I don't know, Merr. Should we?

Oh, come on, Mason.

Mm...

Drum roll, please?

Oh!

Roll it!

Oh, what does it all mean, Merrie?

It means that in two weeks' time,

at the End of Summer Beach Bash,

the hottest, hunkiest boy band that has ever roamed this Earth

will be reuniting here to sing "Hotter Than July"!

Ooh! Somebody wipe my brow.

It just went up 10 degrees in here.

If you're sweating now, Mason, just you wait

till Absolutely Yeah! reunites right here on this stage!

Two weeks? No way I can wait that long.

You're gonna have to!

We're gonna head to commercial,

but don't go anywhere, when we get back,

we've got sophisticated sun visors

that'll take you from day...

- Ooh! - To night.

You don't want to miss it!

And we're out.

Okay, so what's going on with Derrick?

I'm working on it.

But at what point does he just have to say yeah?

When I start selling tickets to his show.

Oh! Maybe I can get TJ to talk to him.

TJ?

Wait...

are you two dating?

Maybe we went on a couple of dates.

Maybe? "A couple of dates"? Unbelievable.

He's so great, and he owns a surf shop.

- Does he? - Mm-hmm!

Well, maybe he can give me a job

after they inevitably replace me.

You are being very dramatic.

- I need to get out of here. - Okay.

We're back in five.

Um, Mason? Psst! Mason!

- Two, one. - Oh. Right.

Welcome back!

Tenderloin, beefsteak, and gravy.

- Oh... - Bam.

- Dang it! - Oh, my.

Hey, not so fast, there, big boy.

I'm coming for ya.

- Bam! - Okay.

- You like that? - Okay.

Man.

So, uh, what's with this Kaitlin person

you've pawned off on us?

She's, uh, helping us out with the variety show.

Get more butts in the seats.

I like her. Knows what she's doing.

{Derrick] Yeah.

So, when are you gonna ask her out, Derrick?

How many times have I told you guys

I'm not talking about my personal life?

Whoa, whoa! Why not?

We could offer you valuable advice.

Like what?

Like asking out Kaitlin!

I saw how you looked at her when she got you your coffee.

Come on, you can admit it to us.

We know you like her.

Like, like-like her.

There may be certain things about her

that I find somewhat likeable, yeah.

Who's likeable?

Wow.

Uh, uh, we were just talking about, um...

uh, Lucille!

- Yeah. Exactly. Yes. - Uh, on a good day.

I heard that!

Hi, boys.

- How're you doing? - Good. How are you?

Good.

Um, I have Justin here,

and he's gonna be

doing some voice lessons with you today.

But we can already sing.

Oh? Like you could already dance?

Remember when you told me that?

Yeah.

If you pay attention, you might learn something new,

so let's... let's do this.

Hey. Oh. Um, Derrick?

I-I was thinking,

having you and Kaitlin watching, I think,

is gonna make me feel pretty self-conscious about my voice,

so I think you should, uh, you should go somewhere else,

on your... on your own.

- Oh, yeah! - The anxiety!

He gets like an anxious tummy...

Okay! Okay. We're good.

- Voice cracks. - We're good.

I think they're kicking us out.

Mm.

It seems so.

It's a beautiful day out there.

Would you, uh, care to join me for a walk?

I mean, unless that is crossing

a professional boundary, or...?

Well, let me check my

"Not Crossing Professional Boundaries" manual real quick.

Yeah. We're good.

All right. After you.

Okay.

Okay.

Yes!

I've been working at the center

for almost ten years now.

Before that, I was doing music lessons

and volunteering on the side,

until Lucille offered me

a full-time position as Activities Director.

Sounds like it keeps you busy.

You could say that.

We offer a lot of essential programs

to families in our community...

cooking classes,

basketball camps, you know, childcare,

tutoring for our kids during the school year...

and if the after-school program closes,

all that goes away.

Would you lose your job?

Likely,

but that's not what keeps me up at night.

It's these boys.

You know, the center's a lifeline for them, you know?

It gives them structure, it keeps them on the right path.

After my life in music,

I wanted to do something that mattered.

You know? Give something back.

Mm. Your music wasn't doing that?

Not in the way I wanted.

You wanna sit?

- Sure. - All right.

You know, I know a lot of musicians who say

that their music brings people joy,

but I've never really felt that.

- Hmm. - I mean, we had a lot of fans,

but I never got to connect with them on a human level.

Not like I do at the center.

Well, I happen to know for a fact

that your music brings a lot of people joy,

but I hear what you're saying.

Hmm.

Now, you bring people joy.

Oh yeah?

- Segments on baby animals... - Mm.

And the latest dance trends?

I may have watched a couple episodes.

- Oh yeah? - Yeah.

I know it sounds silly,

but we're the start of a lot of people's day,

and it's our job to, you know,

wake 'em up and send 'em out into the world

with just a little bit of positivity,

and sometimes that means,

uh, dancing baby animals.

Well, I get that, and it's not silly.

It's actually pretty important.

I picked morning TV

because I-I wanted to put uplifting things out there

and fill people with joy.

It's sort of the show's whole reason for existing.

Well, who can argue with that?

If I told you

you didn't have to do any interviews or appearances?

You just get up, sing a song, get out...

You don't quit, do you?

No.

I mean, you know you still have to deliver on your end?

Oh, I'll deliver.

That... I never fail on.

Uh... I should get back to the studio.

Hey.

Um, you know, I have to pick up some donations

for the variety show first thing tomorrow.

If you're coming in to see the boys rehearse anyway,

maybe you'd want to join me, help out?

You sure?

Then it's a date.

I mean, not a... not a date.

You know, just another walk and talk,

and maybe some food.

Just walking and talking and eating.

Okay.

Walking and talking and eating?

Sounds a little like a date.

Tsk. Yeah.

You trying to date me?

No.

I think you might be.

Ahh...

are you gonna wait for me or what?

Come on.

Ahh, hey.

Hi.

Um, interesting deal

that you've made with this Kaitlin character.

She knows what she's doing.

Besides, the boys love her.

Yeah. That's not what I mean.

You and I both know you're not gonna do this reunion,

so why do you keep stringing her along?

She's not gonna stop trying to change my mind.

In case you haven't noticed, she's pretty stubborn.

Kinda like your type.

And what're you gonna do when she sells out the show?

I didn't promise her anything.

Uh-huh.

Okay, well, mark my words, Derrick.

Um, that girl is gonna

see this thing through to the finish,

and then you're gonna have to pay up.

Just sayin'.

Five, six, a-five, six, seven, eight.

One, two,

three, four, five, six, seven, eight,

and one, two, three, four...

six, seven... good! Yeah, you guys are getting it!

You guys are feeling it! All right, good, good, good.

All right. Don't stop it. Keep going. Keep going.

One, two, three, and four, five, six, seven, eight.

30 seconds, folks! We're back in in 30.

Oh, you're kidding!

What?

One of our sponsors just pulled out.

What?

Well, I think they're obviously concerned

that we haven't mentioned Derrick Dane.

Without him, they don't think our Absolutely Yeah! reunion

will be absolutely as big as they were expecting.

- We're back in three, two... - Okay.

One.

Well, you're probably wondering about our little costume change.

Things are really heating up around here,

and we figured we should dress the part.

Mm-hmm!

And, uh, only a week and a half left to go until...

And I know our fans have been a-twitter

with one big question.

Oh. And what's that?

Well, one member of Absolutely Yeah!

Has been under the radar and out of the spotlight

for years.

He's seemingly disappeared.

Yeah, that... that's true.

But our fans want to know if we're really delivering.

So, Mason, give us the truth.

Will Derrick Dane be participating

in the Absolutely Yeah!

End of Summer Beach Bash reunion?

Well, you know, we really don't want

to disappoint our fans...

And so we won't!

Derrick Dane will be reuniting

with Absolutely Yeah!

At the End of Summer Beach Bash reunion concert!

Well...

- Yeah! - Look at that!

High five. High five!

Wow.

We're going to do this.

What a surprise!

We love you. I'm so excited!

This place is one of the best-kept secrets

on Long Island.

The owner was a program kid.

He donates pizzas

for the show's concessions every year.

Says it's his way of paying it forward.

- Hey, Derrick! - What's up, Joel?

Hi.

- This is Kaitlin. - Hey.

She's volunteering at the community center.

- Nice to meet you. - Nice to meet you.

Derrick is the best of the best.

Listen, it's been crazy here today,

so I don't have everything gathered up for you.

All good.

Why don't I get you guys a couple of slices...

Ah, that would be great.

I will get myself organized.

Sure!

And I will get you those vouchers

in a couple of seconds.

- Sounds good, man. Thanks. - Okay. Enjoy.

- Uh... - Let's sit over here.

- Okay. - Good, right?

Yeah. Pizza for breakfast? It's been a minute.

Mm. Pizza's great any time of day!

That's true.

Mm!

Right?

This is really good!

Joel's pizza is legendary.

Mm-hmm.

Have you had any word

on whether ticket sales have picked up for the variety show?

I know that Paul's been posting

some videos of the boys and rehearsals.

You know, honestly, I haven't heard anything yet.

I mean, hopefully that picked up.

I can shoot Lucille a message and let you know.

Okay, well, what I want to know,

how did you become

part of a boy band in the first place?

Started writing songs in my garage,

and then we entered this competition.

We didn't win,

but this guy who would later become our manager

saw us and said we had "potential,"

and before I knew it, we were recording an album.

Well, that sounds exciting.

Yeah.

We went from trying to find prom dates

to selling out arenas all around the country.

Well, I bet it made finding a prom date easier.

Yeah.

Well, either way, you made a great album

and an unforgettable summer for an entire country.

Sorry.

Um, what's up? Is everything okay?

Oh, yeah. Yeah, yeah. It's just... work.

You know, in this business,

everything's an emergency until it's not.

One of the many things I don't miss about it.

Mm.

Hey, Derrick?

Got those vouchers.

Be right back.

Okay.

[Derrick Yeah!

Looking good, fellas!

I knew you'd find that swag.

That was good! That was good! Yeah!

Ow! Ahh, my ankle!

Jordan, you all right?

- Um... - You all right?

- Sorry. - What's up?

It hurts. It kinda hurts.

Uh, Marco, can you go get some ice,

and Spencer, can you grab the chair?

Easy.

- Thank you. - There you go.

My jacket.

- Owie. - Here.

Okay, well, I guess that's a wrap

on rehearsal for today.

Just leave the ice on it,

keep it elevated,

and we'll see about getting you home.

- Thanks. - Can you guys not do the...

- you know, chest-bumping... - Chest bump?

Thing that you like to do anymore?

I really need each of you

at least until the end of the week

in one piece, okay?

Okay, well, you guys hang with Jordan,

and I will walk Nurse Kaitlin out.

Oh, right.

Okay.

Thanks, guys.

Be right back, guys.

Sorry, man.

You trying to take me out

so you can be the star of the show?

I don't need to do that.

This face is always the star of the show.

Hey.

Thanks for that.

Yeah.

And, uh, for everything you're doing here.

You're, uh... you're pretty impressive.

In a lot of ways.

As are you.

Jordan needs more ice.

You know where it's at!

These guys.

I should probably... go.

Lucille just texted back.

She said we've only sold a handful more tickets.

Oh. Okay.

Look, I-I know how hard you're working on this,

so if it's not gonna work out,

maybe we should just call it quits.

Oh, whoa, whoa, whoa.

Does this look like a face of a quitter?

No, no, no, no.

No, no, no, sir!

I do not quit!

No, sirree.

Plus, we have a deal, right?

Sure.

Yep. Okay, Jordan, stay off that foot!

Okay!

Don't... say a word.

Hi.

Hi! I have been trying to get a hold of you all day.

- I know. I saw. - And?

And... Hi. Kaitlin.

I know he won't be doing any reunion

unless I sell out his show, so...

Okay, well, you have a way of bringing people together

and making things happen.

Here's an oldie but a goodie

summer anthem for you.

Hey, uh, Sara?

I'm gonna call you back, okay?

Okay.

- Hi, TJ? - Hello.

- It's Kaitlin. - Kaitlin!

I have an idea.

Where's Kaitlin?

I need the 411 on Mr. Derrick Dane.

I've seen all the other Absolutely Yeah! guys here,

but I still haven't seen him.

Really?

- Yeah. - I've seen him a ton.

Ohh!

Oh, ho...

Tell me what he's like.

Does he smell good?

Smell good?

Yes.

I imagine he smells like...

vanilla

and soft, fine Italian leather.

Mm-hmm, yeah.

Just like that.

Oh! Is he as handsome as he used to be?

I read in a magazine once that when he laughs,

his eyes turn from blue to green.

Oh...

You know, Merrie, I... I didn't notice.

Well, I'm so excited to meet him.

It is gonna be the best day of my life,

better than when they crowned me "Miss Americana."

- Merrie? - Kaitlin.

Help me.

Got your 911.

Don't you look lovely in pink?

Kaitlin, how's it going with Derrick?

- Derrick? - Yeah.

Uh... everything's on track.

- It is? - It is?

Yep.

Even Derrick?

I mean, I had to announce

that he was going to be on the show,

because the sponsors were gonna pull out,

so I need to know if Derrick is really going to show up

for the reunion.

Can't imagine he won't,

but I will keep you posted.

Okay, Kaitlin, I don't need to know

everything my executive producer does,

but I need to know that I can trust you.

Can I trust you with this?

Yeah. You can trust me.

Good.

I knew it! Crisis averted.

Yeah. I'm gonna go back to work.

- Oh. Okay, you do that. - Okay.

Thank you, ladies.

All right. I'll be back.

I appreciate you both.

Good news all around. Okay.

I'll put the recording on,

and then you guys just jump right in with the song,

and...

Derrick! Hey!

Come on. It's our time.

No...

Fine. We'll come back. Sorry, guys.

Sorry. Really sorry.

All right. Great work, guys.

Let's make room for the next act,

and maybe we can run it one more time outside?

Uh, we kinda have somewhere to be.

Oh. O-Okay. What, everyone has somewhere to be?

Oh, we're going... Mother's Day shopping?

- For our moms. - Yes!

Mother's Day was in May.

Yeah, but we, we all forgot it.

So now we have to fix it. Uh, together.

'Cause we're besties!

Maybe we could do it, uh, one more time?

Yeah, but after that, we definitely gotta go.

No, no, no. It's all good.

Just do what you gotta do. It's fine.

I know you got it.

Hey, Derrick?

You all right?

Yeah. Yeah. Heck, yeah.

I just... I got a lot to do to get ready for the show,

so, um, go get your mom a Mother's Day present.

Okay. Um,

so he definitely knows we're not buying gifts.

We can't worry about that right now.

We gotta catch the bus,

or we're gonna be late for Kaitlin.

I...

I don't know, maybe we just should tell him.

But Kaitlin said no.

It'll mess everything up.

Okay. All-all right.

Let's do it.

They are my favorite boy band!

Oh!

Sorry.

TJ!

What are you doing here?

Last-minute rehearsal thing for the show.

Oh, is that why you couldn't come to dinner?

Yes. And I'm lost.

Do you know where studio two is?

Oh, it is just that way, around the corner.

- Okay. - Hey, uh, hey.

So, Kaitlin is really putting on a brave face,

but I can tell deep down, that she is very worried,

and as her best friend, that makes me very worried,

so don't you feel like

maybe it would be in everybody's best interest

if...

you spill the beans,

tell me what's happening?

She said you'd try to break me,

and I'm not supposed to fall for it.

I just want to know what's happening!

It's TJ!?

It's Merrie! Gotta go.

Oh! Oh, come back later.

What?

He's my second favorite, after Derrick.

Oh!

Okay!

Come on, sit over there.

So you were saying, um, about Jordan,

that his dad wasn't able to get the leave?

It's not looking good.

Aw.

Jordan puts on a brave face,

but I know it really gets to him.

Mm.

That must be hard for his mom. And for Jordan.

All I can do is lend that extra support

and try to give him something to look forward to.

Mm. Well, you're doing a good job.

Well, that's why the programs at the community center

are so important.

Mm!

So... you've told me how you joined the band,

but you haven't told me

how you started singing in the first place?

Mm, no, enough about me.

Tell me about you.

I mean, you're literally the most determined

and ambitious person I've ever met.

Where does that come from? What drives you?

Um... I don't know.

I grew up wanting to do something special.

You know? Make a difference in some way.

I was always this bossy little girl

who just wanted everybody to be happy

and have a good time.

Wasn't always that way in my house,

so I think I...

I want to put that into other people's homes,

and it wasn't gonna be singing or dancing, so, ha!

Um, producing it was.

Well, I get wanting to be behind the scenes.

Mm.

But no dancing? Really?

Hmm? Dancing?

No.

Well, that's too bad,

because I brought you here specifically to dance.

- No, you didn't. - I did.

No, you didn't. No, no...

No. No.

Trust me. All right?

You want me to trust you, right?

Put myself back out there?

You gotta show me you can do the same.

This is gonna get you to do the show?

I have two left feet!

Well, luckily for you...

I have two right ones.

Come on. Let's do this.

- Get up here! - Oh!

- I'm sorry, I tol... - It's okay. Just relax.

I don't know how to relax.

Okay.

So, this is...

starting to feel like a...

Like a date?

That was the plan.

Oh yeah?

Uh, is it true that your eyes

turn from blue to green when you smile?

Nah, that's just another rumor about me.

Oh, it's just a rumor.

Tabloid gossip.

Okay. Phewf!

Oh, no!

- Little dip? - No! No...

and our Naval Ship Open House

is a great opportunity for the public to visit us

and learn more about what we do.

Sounds perfect for the whole family.

Absolutely. If you've got kids who love ships,

this is the event for them.

Commander, thank you so much for joining us

and for helping us get the word out

about the National Naval Ship Open House

that starts this weekend.

So get your tickets!

Don't miss it.

And we're out.

- Thank you so much. - My pleasure.

Hi. I'm Kaitlin, the segment producer.

It's nice to meet you.

I was wondering if I could ask you a quick question?

Of course. What can I do for you?

Okay. Just come right over here.

Whoa!

Where's everybody off to in such a hurry?

You can't be done with the rehearsal already.

Yeah, no, we're-we're, I mean,

we're-we're meeting Kaitlin later.

I wasn't aware of that.

Should I stick around and lock up?

No. That's okay.

We're-we're not meeting here anyway.

Okay. Well, you need a ride?

No.

Thank you.

You know, I already bought

the whole Mother's Day in July thing,

so what's the deal here?

What're you guys up to?

It's nothing, really.

Just kind of like a...

- I wouldn't worry about it. - It's nothing, really. I swear.

You wouldn't lie to me, would you?

No. Uh, no way.

I promise.

Okay. I believe you.

Just excited to see the latest version of the act.

Yeah, that's all we're working on,

around the clock.

It'll be good.

Okay.

- Man, that was close. - Way too close.

Hey, Jordan. What's up?

Hey, Kaitlin.

Yeah, we just ran into Derrick,

and I-I think he's onto something,

- but I-I... - Okay.

I can't do this anymore.

All right. Talk to me.

I can't lie to Derrick anymore.

He almost caught us. I-I feel terrible.

Okay, just remember, Jordan, we're doing this for Derrick.

Right?

I know, but...

look, it just, it doesn't feel right.

Okay?

I'm sorry, but he needs to know.

Okay. Um...

Then I guess we'll just, uh...

we'll bring him in on the surprise early.

Wake Street Community Center!

Beyond compare! The reunion of the year!

Hey, yo, we back! It's the reunion of the year!

Yeah!

That's right! It's gonna be hotter than July, guys!

Get tickets from Lucille at the front desk!

She's the coolest!

She's ready for you! Oh yeah!

- Absolutely Yeah! - Whoo!

Nice!

That's how you do a livestream!

Amazing!

You got my message.

What's, uh... what's going on here?

What is this?

Well, uh...

- Surprise? - {all laughing]

This is what we've been working on with Kaitlin.

Yeah, she paired us up with Absolutely Yeah!

To do promos for the variety show.

We did a livestream!

Oh, you should've seen the comments.

People are so excited to see the show.

That's, uh... that's great.

Hey, man.

Missed our lead singer.

The one thing I asked you not to do,

that I specifically told you I didn't want to happen.

We already knew.

Knew what?

About you and Absolutely Yeah!

Since, like, forever.

Oh, yeah? How?

Our moms told us.

Dude, you used to give lessons here,

and you were way too good.

And, you know, the Internet exists.

We just knew you were pretty private about it

so we didn't wanna bring it up,

but we all think you're the coolest.

Why don't we... take five, 'kay?

Just... be right back.

This is getting a lot of attention.

Okay?

This is gonna save the community center.

Maybe, but at what cost?

Now, all the attention on social media, the fame,

I don't want these boys idolizing that

and then waking up one day

and feeling like they're not enough.

You're not even giving them the chance.

You just decided for everyone!

For these boys,

for your band.

You talk about wanting to connect with people.

Connect with them!

Why are you hiding? They already knew!

Look, I already told you, it's not about me.

It's about protecting them.

Is it?

I need some air.

Derrick...

I'll talk to him.

Well, you look good.

Maybe a little grumpier, but...

Don't be mad at Kaitlin.

I am.

Okay, don't just be mad at Kaitlin.

We were in on it too.

We wanted to help the kids,

to help you.

It's a good idea.

Is it?

Yeah. It is.

In case you didn't know it already,

those kids adore you.

Everyone does.

You're upset. I get it.

But the way I understand it, you and Kaitlin had a deal,

and she held up her end of the bargain.

You might not like how she did it,

but she basically sold out that show,

and she seemed pretty convinced that meant you'd do the reunion.

So if that was never your intention,

you probably should've told her that...

a while ago.

Whether you decide to do the show or not...

it's good to see you.

I'd like to see more of you.

And how many more sleeps, Merrie, until our big show?

Oh, I can hardly sleep

knowing that Absolutely Yeah! Will be reuniting

at our Summer Beach Bash!

Did you talk to him after?

No, he had to drive one of the boys home,

so I didn't get a chance to.

Well, wh... what are you gonna do?

I don't know. Working on it.

I mean, I already overstepped and nearly blew things up.

I don't think he wants to see me right now.

Uh, on the other hand,

maybe he does.

- Pick it up, pick it up! - Okay, okay, okay.

Hi.

Hi.

Hi.

Listen, um,

I am so blown away by what you've done here,

and the people you brought in to work with the boys,

the social media promotion...

I mean, the show's pretty much sold out.

That's wonderful.

Look, Kaitlin, um,

I am really, really sorry, but...

and-and I know we had a deal...

but I-I can't do the show.

I know you're angry about the kids

and the band.

I-I get it.

I just, I really thought you'd see

the good that came out of this.

I mean, the show is sold out.

And that's what made this decision so hard.

We had a deal.

And I considered it. I did.

You considered it?

Really?

'Cause it feels like

you didn't consider anyone else but yourself.

It has taken me so long

to get back to myself,

my real self.

I've worked so hard for that,

and I have zero interest

in going back to being that guy.

I am not Derrick Dane.

I never was.

I was never asking you to be Derrick Dane.

I was just asking you to be you.

'Cause that guy?

That guy is pretty great.

That guy brings a lot of people joy,

and I don't think you see that.

I'm sorry.

Mm.

Me too.

Kaitlin.

I didn't know you were here.

Oh, I, uh... I was just, um...

What? Is something wrong?

Derrick, he's, um,

he's not gonna, he's not gonna do the reunion show.

Ah, yeah.

And a lot of people are gonna be

really disappointed in me...

and I'm probably gonna lose my job.

Uh, what's the bad news?

Sorry.

You know, I really thought that I could...

get through to him.

I've built this whole career and identity

on being able to make things happen,

and I, um, I just... can't.

I can't, um, can't fix this one.

Right. Yeah.

Do you, um...

my mother, very, very smart woman,

she used to have this saying.

"What's for you won't go by you."

Right?

Sometimes you just gotta let something go.

Just let it go and see if it comes back to you.

Yeah. So easy to do. Not!

Letting go is the hard part,

but you know, doing that, just letting go,

it helps me sleep at night,

which is something I bet you don't do a whole lot of.

- Mm-mm. - Yeah.

Aww.

Just try it sometime.

For you, okay?

And, uh, you know, if that doesn't pan out for ya,

just, um... not this...

what I suggest

is you take this lavender mist

and spray it all over your face.

Go on, take it. I want you to have it.

Just give it a little spray.

Just, yeah.

Just try it. Try... you know, to chill out.

What do you got to lose?

- Thank you. - Yeah.

You know, you're... you're not so bad.

Oh?

Thank you.

You're not so bad yourself.

Hmm.

What are you guys doing here?

We figured we should talk. All four of us.

Yeah, D. Yesterday reminded us

that we never did get an official debrief

when Absolutely Yeah! broke up.

And how you felt about things.

So maybe now is a good time to clear the air?

Talk it out?

Merrie & Mason's Summer Beach Bash

starts now!

Well, it's been an amazing summer!

Full of late-night swims and fireflies...

Popsicles

and coconut-smelling sunscreen...

Warm sand between your toes...

And romance in your heart...

Because that's what summer is made of!

We've been promising one last big summer send-off,

and I think it's finally time

to unleash... the heatwave!

Performing with youth

from Wake Street Community Center,

this is Absolutely Yeah! and...

Hotter Than July!

♪ Ooh, yeah ♪

♪ Ahh ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

♪ She's brighter than the summer sun ♪

♪ She's my everything ♪

♪ I've never seen another one ♪

♪ I'll give her anything ♪

♪ There's something about the way she moves ♪

♪ She turns up the heat when she walks in the room ♪

♪ She's hotter than July ♪

♪ With fire in her eyes ♪

♪ She's got me burning up inside ♪

Where is Derrick?

I know, Merrie...

I announced to the entire country

that Derrick Dane was gonna be

a part of the Absolutely Yeah! reunion.

I told our sponsors, the network,

all the fans!

I'm sorry. If you need to let me go,

I completely understand.

What I need is Derrick Dane!

♪ She's hotter than July ♪

♪ I wake up to another day ♪

♪ She's on my mind again ♪

♪ Oh, yeah ♪

♪ I see you shining in the rain ♪

♪ We can be more than friends ♪

♪ Ah ♪

♪ There's something about the way she moves ♪

♪ She turns up the heat when she walks in the room ♪

♪ She's hotter than July ♪

♪ With fire in her eyes ♪

♪ She's got me burning up inside ♪

♪ She's hotter than July ♪

♪ Got sunshine in her eyes ♪

♪ She's got me burning up inside ♪

♪ 'Cause she's hotter than July-ly-ly-ly-ly ♪

♪ She's hotter than July ♪

♪ If you tell her that you love her ♪

♪ She's as cold as ice ♪

♪ I told her once ♪

♪ But I ain't gonna tell her twice ♪

He looks so good!

♪ She looks into the mirror and she knows she's fine ♪

♪ What's it gonna take for me to make her mine? ♪

She's hotter than July.

Hotter than July.

She's hotter than July.

Oh, my god! Kaitlin! He's here!

♪ She's hotter than July ♪

♪ With fire in her eyes ♪

♪ She's got me burning up inside ♪

♪ She's hotter than July ♪

♪ Got sunshine in her eyes ♪

♪ She's got me burning up inside ♪

♪ 'Cause she's hotter than July-ly-ly-ly-ly ♪

♪ She's hotter than July ♪

♪ She's hotter than July! ♪

Bravo!

I want to set up a segment

about the community center next week,

and I want to help personally.

I-I will set that up for you in the morning.

And make sure you tell them

that my new Executive Producer will be arranging it.

Really?

You bet.

Thank you.

You deserve it.

- I'm gonna go. - Yeah, yeah, go meet him.

Congratulations, Kaitlin.

Thank you.

Ooh...

Aah!

Derrick... Derrick... I just want to thank you.

Was that summer-riffic, or what?

We were a little worried you weren't gonna make it.

Yeah, it was a close call, but I'm glad I'm here.

Well, please, tell us about these talented teens

that you've brought with you today.

Okay, well, we've got Spencer, Jordan, Evan, and Marco.

They're part of the after-school program

that I oversee

at the Wake Street Community Center

right here in Long Island.

And you run this program?

I'm just a small part of it.

But these young men right here

have worked incredibly hard on this number,

and you can see them perform it again

at the Wake Street Community Center

Summer Variety Show.

Uh, special thanks

to our fantastic producer, Kaitlin Thomson.

Uh, because of her,

we're able to fully fund all of our programs this year.

Well, we can't think of a better note

to end this summer on, could we?

No, we couldn't. No, we couldn't.

Right, Merrie?

Oh, my god!

Well, that's about it for our End of Summer Beach Bash!

We hope you've had a summer to remember.

- I'm Merrie. - And I'm Mason!

And don't wake up without us!

Wow!

Waa-ba-ba! Ba-da! Ba-ya-ya-ya!

Ohh!

And then Kaitlin said she knew someone in the Navy.

Yeah, I just got in. It's fantastic.

Oh, uh, actually, Kaitlin?

Uh, this is my dad!

Oh! Nice to meet you.

We can't thank you enough.

My pleasure.

You are literally the best!

Aww! You're welcome.

Come on, buddy. Let's go find your mom.

Did you have something to do with that?

Hi.

Walk with me?

Come on.

Likewise.

- So good to meet you. - You as well.

Hey. Brilliant.

So, Kaitlin...

I know. I know.

Can I just say

I am sorry for arranging rehearsals

between the boys and the band.

I mean, you specifically said not to do that,

and I went ahead and did it anyway,

like my job was the most important thing,

and it is not the most important thing.

It was selfish and-and-and not good.

It was not good at all,

and, um, I totally understand if you never want to talk to me

or-or trust me ever again.

I mean...

Are you finished?

I think so.

Good.

My turn.

You were right.

I was... hiding.

I think deep down,

I never truly believed in myself

enough to really let people in,

that I was worthy of any of it.

Then this determined and passionate woman

stormed into my life

and changed all that.

I mean, she might be a little bossy sometimes, but...

but I like that.

Matter of fact, I like everything about her.

Really?

Really.

♪ She's hotter than July ♪

♪ Got sunshine in her eyes ♪

♪ She's got me burning up inside ♪

Um...

if you think singing softly to me

is gonna make me melt into your arms, then...

Correct.

You are correct.

Look, I know

you're this big executive producer,

and I'm just a lowly community center director...

Mm.

But I thought maybe I could take you out sometime.

Like, on a proper date.

No agendas.

Like a date-date?

Mm-hmm.

Absolutely. Yeah.