Original subtitles

This program is rated G

and is suitable for general audiences.

The breakout duo of the decade.

Two boys from Pineville

now selling out arenas across the country.

Please welcome Bedford and Sullivan.

Hey folks, how you doing tonight?

What a great audience.

The world renowned musical duo

keeps recording hit after hit.

One December Night stays on the top of the chart

for the sixth week in a row.

After multiple gold records,

Steve Bedford and Mike Sullivan are calling it quits.

This may be the end of our favorite duo.

Hopefully this isn't the last

of Bedford and Sullivan.

Yes, hi, it's Quinn Allen.

You saw Addison's review in Pitchfork, right?

Of course she can sell out a theater.

I understand what you're saying,

but I think that you're missing the bigger picture here.

There's more to music than just streaming numbers.

I mean, that's why they don't write songs on calculators,

am I right?

Hello?

Thank you so much.

Quinn.

Oh. Peppermint mocha.

Thank you. Addison, you are so amazing.

Any luck?

Not yet, but I'm going to get you booked

on a big tour soon enough.

I believe in you.

I won't let you down.

Cheers. Cheers.

Okay, stay warm.

Thank you, I needed this.

I'm gonna get to work, I will be in touch.

Okay.

Bye. Bye.

You good?

Addison is the best singe-songwriter

since Joni Mitchell.

Can't even get her booked in a coffee shop.

Some of those Starbucks are huge.

I told her to move to New York.

I told her to take a smaller advance.

And if I can't get her booked on a big tour...

What?

She's in a pretty deep hole.

How deep?

Haven't found the bottom yet.

You know, Jay Savant needs an opener.

Maybe I convince Diane, to book Addison.

What's that for?

To remind myself why I do this.

Who's that?

Oh, this is Addison Reed, it is from her new album.

Can you turn it down? People are trying to work.

Jason what's this I hear

you can't keep your stars in the same room?

Steve Bedford's my client.

We all know, no one's crazy enough to manage Mike Sullivan.

So how are you involved, exactly?

I was asked for my assistance, so here I am.

Moved by the Christmas spirit, I'm sure.

Don't look a gift reindeer in the mouth, Jason.

So the network called?

No, the producer.

Troy.

He's my nephew.

Hmm.

That makes sense.

He told me you two needed help,

and I have just the person in mind.

Well, thank you, Diane, but no, we-

Troy?

That's work-related, right?

Allen.

We're walking.

What can you tell me about Bedford and Sullivan?

The musical duo?

No, the magicians.

Yes, the duo.

I mean, they're legends.

But they broke up years ago.

10 years ago.

And then you know what happened in Alberta?

Mike Sullivan got so drunk he couldn't even play guitar.

And they never shared a stage again.

Until now.

In three weeks, Bedford and Sullivan are reuniting

live on network TV, Christmas From Big Red.

Okay, but they're not even our clients.

Familiar with quid pro quo?

Yes.

Seems Mike is making things difficult.

So, I told the network I'd send somebody over.

Me?

Mm.

Wouldn't Brooke be better? She's very persuasive.

I considered Brooke, but you're still my first choice.

Why?

Because Mike Sullivan is your father.

We background check all the employees, nothing personal.

Allen's your mother's maiden name, yeah?

You're Mike's daughter, you can talk some sense into him.

Sorry.

You'll have to find someone else.

Oh, we all have fathers.

Hm.

Okay.

Fine.

I'll do it, on one condition.

Jay Savant needs an opener.

Book Addison Reed.

She's ready.

Quid pro quo.

Christmas From Big Red goes to air,

Addison's got her tour.

She actually, she could be a star given the right guidance.

Pick a couple of songs she can play

before Bedford and Sullivan.

Wh...

You want her to open the show?

But what about the network?

Let me worry about the network.

Diane, thank you.

Talk to Elaine. She'll set you up with a car.

We need you in Pineville by tomorrow.

Quinn.

Addison isn't the only one who's ready.

Get that show to air.

Good morning. Morning.

My office made the reservation.

Should be under Quinn Allen.

Sorry, I'm not seeing a reservation under Allen.

Quinn, uh, Sullivan?

Oh, there you are.

Second floor.

Wait, Sullivan?

No relation.

Enjoy your stay.

Thank you.

And make sure to book the tour soon.

Tickets are selling out fast this year.

Tour?

The world famous Bedford and Sullivan Bus Tour.

See where they first met, played their first show.

And Big Red, the house

where they recorded their greatest album.

I'll think about it.

Thank you again, Principal Wilkes.

Pineville doesn't have many options for rehearsal space,

so I appreciate it.

Oh, it's no problem at all.

The kids are getting a real kick out of big stars

using the theater. Hey.

Big?

Well sure, I have gained a little weight.

Hi, Steve Bedford. How you doin'?

Now we're guests here and that's exactly how we'll behave.

You make yourself at home.

Let me know if you need anything.

I can't wait to see the show.

If there is a show.

Let me guess, no word from Mike?

No, we knew what we signed up for.

Memory has a way of playing tricks.

Oh, I do have some good news.

Check this out.

What is it?

That's your bobblehead.

A bobblehead?

Why do I need a bobblehead?

'Cause last week you asked for a bobblehead.

Right. Okay.

So, do you like it?

I mean, it's just a prototype.

No, it's great.

I look pretty good as a bobblehead.

I look pretty good as a bobblehead.

You're kidding me.

Excuse me? I'm looking for Steve Bedford's manager?

I don't know his name, but I was told that he would be here.

Just a second.

Yeah, I'm actually...

Quinn.

Jason.

You're Steve's manager?

They have the best pumpkin pie here.

You know, dad actually used to have it delivered

to the city after we moved?

I always make it a point to grab a slice when I'm in town.

Do you come back often?

Yeah, pretty often.

How long did you say that you've been your dad's manager?

Five, maybe six years.

How long, Jason? It's not what you think.

You scammed my dad out of his half of the publishing.

We wanted your dad to get a lawyer.

You took advantage of him. But tortured artist,

Mike Sullivan, was above all that,

so you can have it, he said.

My dad gave up his half of the publishing, just like that?

Just like that.

Why would he do that?

Ask him.

Look, my dad built bridges

as fast as your dad burned them down.

Without his charisma and harmonies,

they wouldn't have made it a year.

Without my dad's songs and talent,

they wouldn't have made it at all.

I did what was best for my client.

You're a manager.

You would have done the same exact thing.

Oh.

Good evening. Jason.

Who's your friend?

Hi Norma.

Quinn?

Oh, it's like Bedford and Sullivan the sequel.

I think one Bedford and Sullivan is plenty.

Oh no, not in my book.

Well, what can I get you off the griddle?

Coffee's fine, Norma.

Oh, it's so good to see you, Quinn.

Oh.

Look, I'm sorry, but I'm surprised you're defending him.

Word has it you don't even come back very often.

Diane sent me to help with the show

and that is what I'm going to do.

Fine.

We've gotten a little behind.

The producer, Troy, he's a good guy.

He's just in over his head.

Can we call the network and get them to send someone else?

He's Diane's nephew.

Oh.

Yup.

Oh.

I've held off the network as long as I can,

but they're getting antsy for new promos.

They want proof that Bedford and Sullivan

are still together.

New stills, B-roll.

Not to mention your dad still hasn't signed

the insurance form for- I read the brief.

Production to be on the property.

Let's just deliver one toy at a time, okay?

There's a photo shoot tomorrow.

We really need your dad to be there.

For what it's worth, I'm glad Diane chose you.

It's nice to keep things in the family.

Norma, just put that on my tab.

So I just heard back from the Oasis.

They're offering you a residency.

In Vegas?

Should I order a sequined jumpsuit?

Why not?

Dad, this could be great.

No more busting across country.

We could maybe have time for golf.

Fishing.

You want me to play for a bunch of high rollers

who got free tickets losing at blackjack?

No, thank you.

Dad, the draw of Steve Bedford without Mike has run out.

Look, half of our spring dates are already canceled.

Book what you can sell.

Like what?

Corporate holiday parties?

The Oasis, you say?

Offer stands as long as Christmas at Big Red makes air.

Sound like a plan?

Dad?

Have you seen my room key?

Should I tell them that you're interested or not?

In what?

Vegas?

Vegas? Uh, yeah, sure, just...

Yeah, whatever you think.

Dad, you've been signing these all morning.

Let's, let's go grab a cup of coffee.

No, I just, I just want to do this, okay?

Okay.

Quinn.

Hey dad.

Come on in.

Come on in.

Did you know I was coming?

I wish I had.

Is something wrong?

No.

The place looks good.

Very tidy.

Surprised you haven't decorated for Christmas yet.

Mom would have had the tree up by now.

There's not much sense in putting it up.

I don't get a lot of company.

Except for the tourist buses.

I was just about to make lunch.

How about a ham sandwich?

No, I can't stay.

Well, no, this is not a social call, is it?

My office sent me to help with the show.

They think I need a babysitter.

Prove you don't.

Gear Heart Studios, tomorrow, 10:00 AM.

I must've missed that day in music school

when they talked about posing for pictures.

You knew what you signed up for.

I signed up for a concert.

I'm no show pony.

And you can tell Diane I said that.

How'd you know that I work for Diane?

You know, I heard it, somewhere.

Did she call you when I applied for the job?

I can't believe this.

She was going to hire you anyway.

If I wanted your help, I would've asked.

You don't want my help. You've made that clear.

Dad, are you okay?

Me? Sure.

One day at a time.

You can stay here if you like.

Thanks. I have a room at the Inn.

It's really nice to see you.

Opening for Bedford and Sullivan, Quinn!

You start rehearsals in a couple of weeks.

I'll send you your itinerary.

Thanks, Quinn.

This is the best Christmas present ever.

Bye.

Hi. Can I get a key for Steve's room?

Another one?

I know. Artists, right?

He does have a lot on his plate.

Yeah, here we go.

Mm-hm.

That's a good one. Just crop me out of that one.

Q-Ball?

Uncle Steve.

Hey.

Wow.

Is it great to see you.

Aww, it's good to see you too, Uncle Steve.

I heard you moved to the city.

How are you enjoying life in the Big Apple?

It's big, all right.

Hey, did you talk to your dad?

Yeah. I don't think he's going to show.

Well, we can still get your solo shots, dad.

Yeah, maybe not this time.

You know when Mike decides to grace us with his presence,

then I'll be there, too.

In the meantime, I have some pictures to take.

Great to see you.

Okay, here we go.

All right.

Great.

It's contagious.

My room's that way.

Uh, can I ask, what do you plan on doing

with all those decorations?

Um, decorate.

Um, okay.

Your hotel room?

If I'm going to have to deal with my dad

for the first time in eight years,

I am at least coming home to the smell

of a calming cinnamon candle.

Oh, hey, thanks, by the way.

For what?

Being nice to my dad.

When things soured between them,

I'm sure you felt caught in the middle, too.

Steve Bedford and his manager are one thing,

but I can't stay mad at Uncle Steve.

He's family.

Even at their lowest,

my dad gave Steve credit for one thing:

he was always good to me.

It's funny.

My dad said the same thing about Mike.

Goodnight.

Goodnight.

We switch parents.

What?

It's the middle of the night.

You said so yourself.

Your dad's always been nice to me,

my dad's always been nice to you,

so, maybe we can get them to do things

that the other one can't.

I see where you're going with this.

I didn't have any luck with Mike before you got here.

So, Steve's manager didn't, but what about J-Bug?

The kid who always used to sled down his hill

and eat his chocolate fudge?

Are you sure you're not just trying to avoid your dad?

Do you want to save the show or not?

Go to bed.

It's gonna work!

Night!

Morning Troy

Hey, um, bad news.

Before coffee bad news or after coffee bad news?

Network's threatening to cancel the show

if we can't get promo pictures

or drops for the radio station.

Before coffee.

And no Mike.

They're not going to send a crew for a show

that might not happen.

Did you uh, see my dad?

Uh, Quinn came by.

Said something about quality time with Uncle Steve

and they took off.

Did they say where they were going?

No, but she had Principal Wilkes

loan her a camera from the AV closet.

That reminds me, were you going to cancel that photographer

or was I supposed to do that?

That's an after coffee problem.

Well, 'cause I can...

Oh, come on.

Who ordered rock star look number four?

Uh, my face happens to look like that.

Uh, hey dad.

What's going on?

Well, I was having coffee with Quinn

and she talked me into getting my solo shots taken care of.

Ah. Does this qualify as quality time?

Have you met your father?

Fine.

We'll do it your way.

Look at that.

That's the one.

I don't know about this.

Come on. My dad always loved this bonding stuff.

Just be yourself.

You got this J-Bug.

It just feels like I'm tricking him into something.

My dad has locked himself away in that house.

He might need this as much as we do.

Just try.

Okay.

But I've knocked on that door, he doesn't answer.

Well that's because you need the secret knock.

There's a secret knock?

After Life on Big Red came out,

fans started showing up at the house.

So you came up with a secret knock

to know it was one of you.

My dad always joked about putting up an electric fence,

but mom thought that zapping fans was,

hm, probably a bad idea.

Probably.

Sometimes he needs help to do what's right.

So, how's this knock go?

Secret knock's not so secret.

Uncle Mike.

Hey J-Bug.

Can I come in?

I was just about to make a sandwich.

Oh.

Perfect.

You two used to go caroling with Lorraine

every Saturday during the holidays.

I could hear you clear down the block.

Sorry about that.

Quinn and I didn't exactly inherit

our dads' vocal chops, did we?

No, you didn't.

But kids sing with their whole heart.

That's a beautiful sound.

Here.

Keep it, so you can remember.

Oh.

Thanks.

Gotten to do any ice fishing with your dad?

I wish.

Oh, man has not taken 15 minutes off his whole life.

At least, at least you guys are still together.

Yeah.

It's just work, you know?

Sometimes we're in the same room,

it feels like we're even more distant.

Sorry, sorry.

I don't know where that came from.

I'd be happy to take you.

Really?

Mm-hm.

I would love that.

But you know, I'm just so busy with...

What? The show?

Yeah.

So what'd you come here for today?

The insurance forms or the promotional photos?

Neither.

I just came here for a sandwich, Uncle Mike.

Right.

Bedford and Sullivan show

with only your dad on the billboard?

I wouldn't give Steve the satisfaction.

Ooh, nothing wrong with that one.

Yeah, that's good.

Save that one.

Okay.

No way.

All right.

Oh, hold on a sec.

Alright.

Hey, Aunt Diane.

Hey Q-Ball.

How's it looking, Uncle Steve?

Pretty good.

Oh, better than good.

Quinn, it's for you.

Thanks.

Hello?

Sounds like our train is back on the tracks.

So have you spoken with your father?

I did.

He, uh...

It's still a work in progress.

Okay.

Diane, did you hire me because of my father?

Not sure I appreciate the question, Quinn.

Right.

I'm sorry.

Just keep your eye on your goal.

There's a lot riding on you.

I'm on it.

All right.

Let's get this over with.

Wow.

I haven't seen you for five years

and that's all you got to say?

Hello Steve. You lost some hair.

Happy?

Where's the photographer?

I uh, I let her go.

But I was a photography minor in college, so.

Yeah, I'd be happy.

A lot happier if you showed up the first two times

we tried to do this.

That's so funny 'cause skipping those two

put a big smile on my face, like this.

Ha, that's great, Mike.

Hate to think that you've changed.

You just keep singing my songs, Steve.

Our songs.

Yeah.

I'm just so impressed you can sing

two part harmony all by yourself.

Yeah, that's funny.

That's 'cause I can hear myself.

I'm not being drowned out by you.

Hey, think we can get them to relax their hands?

What? The clenched fists don't scream Christmas?

Okay, we good?

Great.

Done.

Thanks.

Hey, guys.

To help get you in the spirit.

Come on, Mike.

Come on, let's do this little better.

You just need to be down front, don't you?

You just can't quite keep up, can you?

Go on, hey!

Don't throw your back out there.

Come on, big man, come on. Hold on!

Got it!

Well that went well.

Thanks for getting my dad there.

Too bad he was...

No, he wasn't.

It took him less than five minutes

to start swinging that candy cane like a morning star.

To be fair, my dad was just as much at fault.

Give your dad a break.

Maybe he's changed.

I've been waiting for that change my whole life.

Well, Troy is getting those photos over to the network,

but they still need video

of them singing together at Big Red.

Better chance they both get struck by lightning.

I'm sure they'd prefer it.

Hey, how's it going over at Big Red?

Great.

Great.

Oh well if you need anything, just give me a shout.

I'll run it right over. Coffee, sandwiches.

Pie?

Oh yes.

Pie.

Listen, tell you dad thank you for us.

I know Mike hates this kind of attention,

so it's not easy for him,

but being the hometown of Bedford and Sullivan

sure means a lot to people around here, you know?

Well, it's certainly good for the tourism.

Yeah, that too, but it's their music

that touches so many people.

We're so proud of them.

Hey.

I may have an idea.

You free later?

Yeah.

But, you know, first I think we should probably

go check in with our dads.

Make sure that they've recovered from the candy cane wars.

Yeah.

Good idea.

Well Quinn, the show must...

Don't say it.

Okay.

Whoa, slow down.

You already signed these.

No, I didn't.

Okay, well I know I signed that side,

but I didn't sign that side.

Yeah, but I don't think they need-

Look, you just gotta let me do this my way, okay?

Okay.

The record companies used to make us

sign this stuff all day long.

I'm good.

Are you good?

Yeah. Yeah.

I'm good.

You're not going to find anything.

It's coming up on five years.

Coming up when?

Four and a half years from now?

Christmas.

Imagine the guitar player I would have been

with hands this steady.

I did.

We all did.

That's not me anymore.

Then how do you explain how you acted today?

Oh.

Compared to the scrapes Steve and me used to have?

That was nothing.

If this is all such an inconvenience,

then why are you even doing the show?

Because being a retired rock star doesn't pay much.

So what? You're broke?

You're broke?

Come New Year's, if I don't pay off the mortgage,

Big Red belongs to the bank.

You remortgaged Big Red?

Mm-hm.

If you're having money issues,

then why did you give up your half of the publishing?

Those songs brought me nothing but trouble.

Dad, they're your art.

They were, but at some point they,

they belonged to everyone else.

It's like Big Red.

I grew up here, but now it's a star on a map.

They're going to take that from me, too.

Then maybe you're going to have to start compromising.

Stop being so stubborn all the time.

I can't be someone I'm not.

More albums?

Yeah.

Long story.

It's funny, isn't it?

What?

Most kids rebel against their parents.

We both followed ours into music.

Oh, I didn't follow my dad into anything.

Besides, my dad treats music less like a job

and more like a family curse.

Cider.

You want some?

Yes, please.

Hi. Two, please.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Cheers. Cheers.

Ooh.

You cold?

Uh, yeah.

What kind of New Yorker doesn't have a hat?

The kind who dropped everything last minute to get here.

Hold this.

Thank you.

I guess this life isn't for everyone, huh?

You know, my friends almost put my face on a milk carton?

You have friends?

Lucky you.

What, you're not burnin' up the New York love scene?

Hardly.

My coworker did sign me up for a dating app,

but I haven't finished filling out the profile yet.

I can't figure out a more

elegant way of saying, workaholic.

Has an affinity for productivity.

Well, I do have an answer to our promo problem.

So, I hear.

Great.

Oh Steve, always going above and beyond for the fans.

Well he figured you could use 'em

for a raffle or something.

Oh, absolutely.

Yes. Yeah?

Your dad was always so handsome.

Don't see him much around town anymore.

You know how he can be, Lorraine.

Yes.

Everyone's very excited about

the big Christmas show, though.

Lorraine,

speaking of the Christmas show,

do you still take the kids caroling?

Every Saturday, same was when you were kids.

Why?

Do you think you could add a stop?

I think I could.

Perfect.

Do I still know the spots or what?

I bet you never caught half as many fish with your old man.

Oh, it's hard to say.

It's been so long, Uncle Mike.

You know, that's how I met your dad.

Fishing?

I thought it was at school.

Nah.

We stole that from Paul McCartney and George Harrison.

Because our first publicist

didn't think fishing was relatable enough.

When I was a kid, I had a spot downstream

and one day there was a kid there taking all my fish.

So let me guess, that was also the first Mike/Steve fight?

No.

He put me onto a split shot he was using

and we caught fish until our hands were chapped.

Hm. You don't say.

Good team right from the start.

I guess so.

This okay here?

Yeah, we good? You see him?

You think you can get the house, too?

Okay here, let me...

I'll just take this.

All right. Hey.

Alright, yeah. Let's let's get started.

Okay.

So, Steve, what's it like to be back

in front of the famous Big Red

where the live album was recorded?

Well, it hasn't changed a bit,

though it wasn't a tourist destination back then.

And Pineville can thank you for that.

I'm not sure if I should say you're welcome or I'm sorry.

So, now that you and Mike are reunited,

can we expect to hear any new material at the concert?

Oh, you'll just have to tune in on the 23rd to find out.

Cut. That's great.

Thank you.

This is probably...

Yeah. Lorraine's on her way with the kids.

I'll go check on the sound.

I can't believe Lorraine still takes kids caroling.

Well Pineville is definitely stuck in the past

and you know, that's part of its charm.

Oh, mom loved the caroling.

You know, every Saturday she would have

cocoa and shortbread cookies waiting for all the kids.

Nobody made cocoa like Victoria.

And nobody made shortbread cookies like her, either.

Oh come on, you can say it.

They were dryer than cardboard.

Yeah.

Now did your grandmother have a sweater

that had bells on the sleeve so she jingled when she walked?

Yeah. Yeah?

Yeah, she did.

I haven't thought about that in years.

You know, Christmas with Mike back when your grandparents

owned Big Red was just one big family.

And those memories,

you're not going to find them on a tour bus.

Lorraine.

Hey Lorraine. We're coming!

Here we go.

Hi.

It's time.

Watch those steps. Okay, kids,

now don't out-sing me now.

My name's Steve. I'm the nice one.

Well, what do you think?

What could go wrong?

What's going on here?

Hi.

was fishing?

Great.

It was great...

Until I got back here to people

trespassing on my property.

Hi, Mike.

Lorraine.

Okay, kids.

If you ask real nice,

I bet Mr. Sullivan will join us for a song.

No.

Come on, dad. For old time's sake.

Sure he will.

Yeah.

Fine.

Hey.

I'm not too sure about the words.

Just follow our lead.

Alright.

Hey. That was...

Woo!

Okay, kids, just a few more houses to hit

and then pumpkin pie at Norma's.

Great job!

Thank you! Thank you!

Save me a slice.

Good job.

Lorraine.

Thank you so much for coming on such short notice.

Anything for Mike and Steve.

Bye guys.

Bye, Lorraine.

Thank you.

Get that to the network as soon as humanly possible.

Yeah, okay. Okay.

Come on.

No, it's definitely, it's a C.

The bridge, it's a C.

No, it's an A and then it's a C, like on Coming Home.

That's why you always mess up Coming Home.

I got a piano inside. I'll prove it to you.

Alright, lead the way. Come on.

What's going on?

Our dads are going inside to play the piano.

Well, come on.

Let's listen.

It's simpler.

Okay, Mike.

Like, I hope so.

Well, I hate to admit this,

but I think your nutty plan is actually working.

Shh. Don't...

Don't jinx it.

We should look away.

You know, I always loved visiting here.

Dad always made his Pineville years seem so perfect.

I get it.

I was always jealous that you got to grow up in the city,

while I was stuck here with my codependent parents.

Really?

I mean, I get your dad, but your mom?

She always seemed to be so above it all.

Yeah.

That was her talent.

Fortunately, I didn't inherit it.

Wasn't all bad, though. Was it?

No.

There was good times, too.

Google alert for Addison.

She's in a music showcase. It's another rave review.

Okay.

That's good news, right?

It should be.

I just, I cannot get more traction for her.

Yeah, these things take time.

I don't have much time.

I discovered her in Alaska,

and then I convinced her to uproot her entire life

and sign a deal that let her keep her publishing.

Which means a smaller advance.

Diane said that if we can pull off

Christmas at Big Red, that she'll put her on a big tour.

And if the show doesn't happen?

Then I will have ruined a young woman's life.

Yeah, if it makes you feel any better,

my dad's touring, it's not going so hot, either.

I lined up a residency in Vegas,

but they'll only sign if they get the media boost

of Big Red making air.

I'm sorry.

I didn't know.

I guess we're in the same boat, huh?

Same boat, different storms.

Same boat, different storms.

Hi.

I was just...

Reading my mind.

I was about to come ask you

to help me model Christmas attire.

Christmas attire?

Yeah.

Yes.

Great.

What do you think?

Too much?

No such thing as too much Christmas.

Especially not in Pineville.

Well, I can tell you,

Pineville is definitely more festive

than Thailand or Fiji or whatever other

tropical resort my mom dragged me to during Christmas.

What about Christmases with your dad?

Yeah. What about Christmases with my dad?

After my parents split up,

he always worked over the holidays.

But I do remember those Christmases

over at Big Red before we moved.

Your mom went all out decorating.

Oh, like she was hosting Saint Nick herself.

Mm. Nice.

That must be where you get it from.

It doesn't feel like Christmas

if I'm not drowning in decorations.

Hm.

Okay.

What about this one?

For Mike?

Yeah. I don't think this is right for Mike.

He never struck me as the dress-up type.

Mm.

Not even for a televised Christmas special.

I mean, dad loved Christmas, but you're right.

It's not exactly rock star approved.

Yeah.

Christmas was the one day every year

that he was present and not...

and the rest of the year he belonged to the world,

but on Christmas, he belonged to us.

What?

A Rudolph eye mask.

ing)

Hey.

There's trouble at the theater.

Something about Mike and a lot of extension cord.

Nice mask, by the way.

Extension cord? I mean, he probably just needs it

for the equipment or something.

2000 Feet?

Come on.

Yeah whatever was left in Mike's mind, he's lost it.

Where is he?

What took you so long?

Mike, come on back inside.

It's freezing out here.

It's a Christmas show, right?

Right.

Tell me you know what night the show is?

December 23rd.

Since you've all left Pineville in your rear view mirror,

allow me to remind you that Pineville is cold in December.

Okay. Make your point so we can go back inside.

Cold makes guitar strings shorter,

lips numb, fingers stiff.

We got two weeks.

What good's rehearsing inside of a theater

when we need to get used to the elements?

That's actually a good point.

Yeah, you know, I was thinking that same thing.

Jason, let's get my gear ready.

Glad you showed up.

Oh showing up's the easy part.

It's carrying Steve Bedford through another performance

and well, now, that's a whole 'nother story.

Hi folks, I'm Steve Bedford

and I'm here with...

Mike Sullivan

Wishing WKRS Milwaukee a Merry Christmas.

Hope you'll join us for Christmas at Big Red.

That's great, Uncle Steve,

but we've already got Milwaukee, so this is Boise.

Boise.

What did...

Oh.

Okay, sorry. Let's just, let's just go again.

Okay. Dad, maybe we should take a break?

Why, is your finger tired?

No, I was just-

Are we ready, Quinn?

Whenever you are.

Boise. WKRW.

WKRW.

WKRS.

WKRS?

Oh, I see what I did. Okay.

WKRS. WKRS Boise.

WKRS.

Hi folks, I'm Steve Bedford

and I'm here with...

Wishing WKRS Boise a Merry Christmas.

Hope you'll join us for Christmas at Big Red.

Orlando. Is that next?

Mm-hm.

Okay. Meet and greet, Landow Music, half an hour.

Oh, dad. You're wiped.

Let me cancel.

Let's grab lunch.

No.

If people take the time out of their day to see me,

the least I can do is show up, right?

Your dad works so hard.

I see where you get your work ethic.

Remind me to thank him.

Hey, you're making time for him.

At some point it's up to him to make time for you.

You want to grab lunch?

I would, but I've got a Zoom with Addison.

Right, right.

But after that, Lorraine needs help

decorating the Christmas tree in town.

Wanna come with me?

I would love that.

I'll see you there.

Okay.

Are you sure that's not too many ornaments?

Oh, no such thing as too many ornaments.

I'll get some more.

Got plenty over here.

Oh.

Oh my gosh.

Sorry.

Good catch. Let me help you.

I'm not cut out for this, am I?

What are you talking about? This looks great.

Plus I'm sure that Lorraine's

just grateful that you volunteered.

No, I mean producing the show.

If it weren't for you and Jason...

Hey, don't be so hard on yourself.

You've come a long way.

Plus, everyone makes mistakes, right?

Does everyone get hired 'cause their aunt is Diane Carter?

I got my job because my dad's Mike Sullivan.

What? No way.

No, my Aunt Diane loves you.

She says you remind her of her younger self.

Really?

Yeah.

And from my Aunt Diane,

that's like the highest form of praise there is.

Hopefully one day she talks about me

the way she talks about you.

Wow.

I don't even know where to put these anymore.

Here.

Thank you.

Looks good.

We got another problem at the theater.

How much extension cord this time?

I wish.

I think it's serious.

Ugh, they want the hits, Mike.

Give him the hits, Mike.

I was sick of it then, I'm sick of it now.

Yeah, you're always sick of something, aren't you, pal?

Hey, you want to know what I'm sick of?

Oh yeah, I'm dying to hear.

Tell me what you're sick of. Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Hey guys.

Stop.

All this over a set list?

Yeah, I'm sure that we can work something out.

He won't play One December Night.

You know what that's like?

That's like Mariah not doing All I Want for Christmas.

I have over 30 years of hits.

He complains about singing lead,

so we can't play any of our songs where he sings lead.

Come on.

That's right.

Our songs, Steve.

Maybe you forgot that playing by yourself

for the past 10 years.

I never played One December Night, Mike.

Not even once.

Now I know that you were hurting that night in Alberta,

but you didn't just let me down,

you let down 40,000 people who came to watch us play.

And ultimately you let her down.

And ultimately you let her down.

They'll get over it.

It's just the way they talk.

Maybe we can fix it.

You ready?

Is Steve ready?

That was a lot.

Yeah.

Here.

Steve, you now have your guitar back.

Oh, yeah.

Well he's rocking and rolling.

Sorry about my dad.

He didn't have to be so hard on Uncle Mike.

He didn't say anything that isn't true.

He knows that's Vicky song.

Can't imagine how hard that must be for him.

I can.

It was never the same after she got sick.

It really does seem like he's trying.

And if the pain of playing that song makes him go back.

I'll call the network.

They can do without One December Night.

It's one song.

Okay. Okay.

Now we need his head.

Good morning.

Morning.

Look. Quinn and I fixed it.

No harm done.

Look at that.

I look pretty good as a bobblehead.

Yeah, you mentioned that.

Well, I'll tell you this past week with Mike,

it felt almost like when we were kids.

I didn't realize how much I missed that.

Yeah.

I mean, maybe you should've thought

about that, dad, before you-

I know.

I know, Mike can be a handful,

but I can be a real heel sometimes, too.

I wish I could make things right.

Look, dad.

Just tell him how much he means to you.

That before you guys were famous, you were family.

Nothing's more important than that.

That's what I'd want to hear, if I was Mike.

Red or green?

Oh, nobody cares what color shirt I wear.

Well, if I left it up to you, you'd play in a bath robe.

Now we're talkin'.

Need some help decorating?

No.

Come on.

Could use a little Christmas in here.

Hey Mike, open up. It's me.

It's not the secret knock. Could be anyone.

Hey. Hi.

Come in.

I'm not here to fight.

Then why are you here?

Do you remember how he chose

whose name came first in the band?

We flipped a coin.

No, we flipped this coin.

You still carry that around with you?

I have lost it more times than I can count,

but it always finds its way back.

Now, you and I, we haven't always gotten along.

That's an understatement.

But we always find our way back to each other.

What do you say we flip one more time?

Heads we play the show, tails we don't.

I'm not playing One December Night.

Understood.

Okay, hold on. Wait a second.

Let's just all slow this down here, okay?

Ah, heads it is.

Oh, thank goodness.

Okay, if we're going to play, let's play.

You're going to figure out the set list.

Thank goodness it came up heads.

What are we going to play?

It's a trick coin.

It's okay, it's okay, your dad knows.

What?

Well, you said it yourself.

Sometimes your dad needs help to do the right thing? Well.

Why not do the big. The big one?

Sometimes mine needs to think he's getting his way.

They're doing this, all night.

Skiing?

Surfing.

Okay.

Oh, we did it.

Oh.

Thank you so much.

I think it's time.

Hey.

Hey. I thought we were going to have to

light the tree without you.

Oh, you wouldn't dare.

Hey, um, I was going to go to Pineville Grill.

Would you like to come with me?

I haven't been there since prom.

Oh yeah?

Did you have a good date?

Tonight's gonna be better.

Okay, everybody.

Here we go!

Five...

Four,

three,

two,

one!

But why a bobblehead?

Well, the lunchbox was one of our best sellers,

so my question is why not a bobblehead?

It's not about lunchboxes and bobbleheads.

You know, people love your dad.

They want to support him.

It's a beautiful thing.

You have to be careful not to take advantage.

Hm.

So, I should cancel the Mike Sullivan action figure?

Did you know that dad doesn't even have a Christmas tree?

Yeah, I noticed.

What are you doing?

We, are going to get Uncle Mike a Christmas tree.

It's 10 o'clock.

If Santa can deliver toys to every child in one night,

we can deliver one Christmas tree.

Shh-shh.

Shh-shh.

Shh-shh.

All that's missing is

the Mission Impossible music.

Operation Christmas tree accomplished.

Well, do you have anything to go on top?

Do the honors?

As you wish.

I think...

Not bad.

Not bad at all.

It was a lot quieter before you two got into town.

Hey. Uncle Mike.

J-Bug.

We just thought that you...

No, no, no, no, no.

I like it.

Thank you.

Night Uncle Mike.

I'll see you, J-Bug.

So, how'd you get inside?

I still have my key.

I'm glad you do.

This is your home, too.

Goodnight, dad.

Goodnight.

Hey.

You want to talk about it?

Growing up, everybody talked about Mike Sullivan

like he and my dad were two completely different people.

Yeah, they say never meet your heroes,

but pretty hard when their heroes are our dads.

Everybody loves a bad boy rock star, right?

So, even when I was a kid and his drinking was scary

and confusing, everybody around me excused it.

And then mom got sick

and I just couldn't excuse it anymore.

It was just too devastating.

And then the end came...

And he wasn't there.

Hey.

You shouldn't have had to go through that alone.

And I told myself that anybody who depends on me,

I will be there for them,

And that I would never depend on my dad, again.

But...

People can change.

Right?

I think so.

And I think you need to give him a chance to prove it.

Hey, it's gonna be okay.

I can tell Quinn.

Okay, yeah, you're the messenger.

Hey.

Hey.

What?

Well, uh, we heard from the network.

No One December Night, no show.

Oh, they're not going to cancel three nights before.

Well, you don't book Mike Sullivan without a backup plan,

so they've got a best of Christmas

late night thing ready to go.

They did agree to a compromise.

Yeah, which is I sing One December Night myself.

Dad'll never go for it.

No, no he wouldn't.

So, what are you saying?

We film my dad in his show day wardrobe

and they cut it in during broadcast.

Without telling dad?

If he found out-

Look, you say the word,

we'll forget the whole thing.

If the show doesn't happen, dad's going to lose Big Red.

Oh well, if it's about the money.

It's not just that.

He's also getting his life back.

Let me talk to him.

Well, we won't do anything until we hear from you.

You have our word.

Dad?

Good morning.

Do you have more shirts for me to try on?

Weirdest thing, but I've had a hankering

for some short bread cookies.

Say no more.

It's not coming together.

Oh, good.

Grandma Sullivan's never did either.

Wait.

It was grandma's recipe? I thought it was mom's.

No.

Your mom got it from my mom.

So she knew they were dry?

Oh yeah, but she didn't want to hurt my feelings

by changing my mother's recipe.

Why didn't she say anything?

Well, we Sullivan's tend to be a bit hard-headed.

News to me.

She knew that it was not just a recipe.

It was a connection and family and traditions.

Speaking of traditions,

I like what you did to the living room.

Well, the place was looking a little bare.

This is wonderful.

But you might as well come out with it.

The network says no show

if you guys don't do One December Night.

Well, I'm glad we got to decorate Big Red one last time.

This is where you grew up.

It's where I grew up. It's home.

Don't give up on that.

Please, dad.

Quinn.

I was not the father you deserved.

Dad.

When your mother was in the hospital,

I couldn't handle it.

I was scared.

And she saw the way I was drinking

and she asked me to stay away

until I could stop thinking about myself

and start thinking about you.

But, by then it was too late, and she was gone.

I'm sorry.

I am sorry, I am sorry, I am sorry.

Can you ever forgive me?

Hey dad? Why are you in your show clothes?

We shot a backup of One December Night.

Just in case.

Are you serious?

Dad.

I know.

We have no intention of using it,

but sometimes Mike has to be saved from himself.

He can't lose Big Red.

Troy, can you give us a minute?

Dad, we talked about this.

You gave us your word right here.

This is wrong.

Look, Mike needs the show to happen.

I need this show to happen.

It might be the last one.

I'm getting you a residency in Vegas.

You can do that until you're 90, Dad.

No, I can't.

I think it's your only option.

No, Jason, I...

I can't.

What do you mean you can't?

It was the little things at first

and then the bigger ones.

My memory felt like snow melting through my fingers

and uh, so I went to see a doctor.

What did they say?

It's Alzheimer's.

So, it helps if I have something to focus on,

which is why I've been so busy.

Dad, why didn't you tell me?

I don't want to be a burden to anyone.

Dad, I'm so sorry.

Yeah, careful with those.

And keep 'em off the lawn if you can.

This is intense.

Live television.

Welcome to the circus.

I will show you to your trailer.

I get my own trailer?

A long way from Alaska.

Oh my gosh, he's coming this way.

Who? Uncle Steve?

You call Steve Bedford Uncle Steve?

Hi.

Hi, Uncle Steve.

I want to introduce Addison Reid.

So this is who all the buzz is about.

Hi, how you doing?

Hi. Thanks for coming tonight.

Appreciate it.

Get some pie.

Okay.

Hey, you okay?

Yeah. yeah.

Can we, can we talk?

Yeah.

Let me just show Addison to her trailer.

I'll meet you inside?

Sure.

Nice to meet you, Addison.

Thanks, you too.

You have to do that one.

Everyone loves it. Hey.

Sorry for interrupting.

Joyce is grabbing dad.

I know this week has been stressful.

It's alright, J-Bug,

I'm going to do One December Night.

Okay guys, Steve's going to be a few more minutes,

but before he gets here,

I just want to apologize upfront.

Troy-

No I need to say I'm sorry.

Mike, this is on me.

I was just worried that-

What's going on?

Steve and I shot a version of One December Night.

Did you know about this?

Yes.

We discussed this and we agreed.

He only did it for...

Steve Bedford.

It's the same reason he's done everything else.

Uncle Mike.

I think you should leave.

Have you tried this pumpkin pie?

It's amazing.

You don't like pumpkin pie?

I don't think the show is going to happen.

I'm so sorry.

Nutmeg.

What?

That's what makes the pie so good.

This isn't a joke.

If my dad doesn't go on tomorrow

then the label's...

Quinn.

I grew up on a school bus.

You think I care about being broke?

I was happy then and I'm happy now.

It's not just the money.

You deserve for the world to hear your music.

You know why I hired you?

Because you're smart, determined

and just the right amount of pain in the neck.

As long as it's the right amount.

I'm not the only one who needs you.

You're not going to let me down

and you're not going to let them down either.

Now I'm going to finish my pumpkin pie.

You go save our show.

Quinn. I'm sorry.

Troy, there are trucks that need to get unloaded.

Can you make that happen?

Yeah, but, I just- I know, what matters

is what happens next, okay?

It's time to make your Aunt Diane proud.

Hey, it's Jason.

Is Blitzen still in a gift giving mood?

Dad?

Dad?

Dad, where are you?

Dad?

Why didn't you answer me?

My mouth was full.

I know that what Steve did feels like a betrayal

because I feel it, too.

But you can't solve this by shutting down

and kicking everyone out.

Well, last I checked, this, this is still my home.

It's our home.

Of course.

It feels like nothing's mine anymore.

This house...

It's a tourist destination.

And the song I wrote about that night

I first met your mom...

It's a sweater ad.

They take and they take and they take.

It just never seems to be enough.

Anyhow, even the man I thought of like a brother.

You're right.

Your music isn't yours anymore because you share it,

with all the lives that you've touched.

But don't turn your back on something that beautiful.

And if not for them, do it for me.

I need this, dad.

Please talk to Steve.

Please talk to Steve.

Hey Steve.

We got to talk.

You're right, Mike.

I just gotta find, my um...

What?

My jacket.

Well it's not down there.

Steve.

I was sure that I had it.

What's going on?

How much time?

They can't say exactly.

All those fights...

They were just as much my fault as yours.

No, we didn't fight 'cause we were enemies, Stevie.

We fought 'cause we're brothers,

and brothers fight sometimes.

What do you say, we give everyone

one more night to remember?

That sounds good but you'll just have to remember

it for the both of us.

I got you.

I got you.

Oh.

Hi, Diane.

Hello Quinn.

I'm sure that you've heard.

I have.

that I'm going to do everything

that I possibly can to...

Congratulations.

Congratulations?

On the show.

Mike called.

I know, I know you don't want him involved,

but you can't blame a proud Papa, can you?

I uh, I guess not.

And tell Jason not to worry.

Getting a lawyer this close to Christmas can be tricky,

but it was a fairly easy fix.

Just make sure he's familiar with quid pro quo.

I will.

Merry Christmas, Dianne.

Merry Christmas, Quinn.

Hey.

Hi.

I didn't know if you'd answer.

You don't have to do a secret knock

to get me to answer the door.

Can we talk?

I'm so sorry.

So, what now?

Well, back to the city, see some specialists.

Figure things out.

Whatever you need, you know that I will be there.

Thanks.

Come here.

You know, for now, I want to make sure

that we give Bedford and Sullivan

the sendoff that they deserve.

What do you think, Quinn?

Still time to save a show?

Oh, I think our dads already did.

Let's move it, people. We're losing daylight.

Check, check.

We'll do it again.

We got the other players.

A Christmas miracle.

We can learn something from her, I think.

Merry Christmas, Pineville!

Those of you at home, stay right there

because coming up next for the first time

in almost a decade, Bedford and Sullivan!

All right, cut, cut, two minute commercial.

Let's reset for Mike and Steve.

That was amazing.

Thank you so much for everything.

It's just the beginning.

Let's go, guys, let's go.

Quick as we can, all right.

You good?

This is it, huh?

Mike and Steve together after 10 years.

You guys aren't nervous, are you?

Uh, if you're not nervous, it's time to hang it up.

Nerves are how you know you still care.

45 seconds everybody.

I wrote out a chart with lyrics

just in case you have some trouble.

And I'm sorry about the handwriting.

Thanks, Mike.

30 seconds, you guys.

Welcome Bedford and Sullivan!

All right, all right.

Hey folks, how you doin' out there?

My name is Steve Bedford.

This handsome devil standing next to me

is my sparring partner, my headache,

my brother, Mike Sullivan.

Hey.

You'll have to forgive Mike.

He doesn't talk much.

Well, you do enough talking for both of us, Steve.

But he does sing and since it's Christmas,

we thought let's start with a classic.

What do you say, Mike?

We really did it.

We should do this professionally.

Well as much as I hate to say it,

we only have one more song.

For this last number,

I'm going to turn it over to my partner.

Mike, playing up here next to you all these years,

it's really been an honor.

Thank you, Steve.

The same for me.

This song is, is for my daughter, who's here tonight.

And for her mom and it's for each one of you, too.

I uh...

I have a Christmas present for you.

Hey, that's not fair.

I don't have anything for you.

I got a contract that splits the publishing rights.

I knew you were up to something.

Six years ago, it seemed like the right thing to do,

to protect the catalog.

Now...

I'm gonna look out for Bedford and Sullivan.

Thank you.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas everybody!

Okay everybody, that's a wrap.

Congratulations.

They're really good

if you dunk 'em in hot chocolate,

but I prefer a glass of milk.

So, I see it out probably 10 yards.

I just flick the lure, bam.

This thing grabs it, pretty much pulls me

out of my long johns.

But you landed her.

I landed her, yeah, and I,

I've told you this story before, haven't I?

It's okay, dad.

I love it.

Oh.

All right, I'm going to refresh my eggnog,

see what Mike is up to.

You might want to check out the other Sullivan.

Thanks, dad.

So, you're going on tour with Addison, huh?

Life on the road calls again.

But in between I was thinking about splitting

my time between here and the city.

Oh yeah?

Why's that?

I think Norma might be right.

Bedford and Sullivan the sequel.

We'd look so cute as bobbleheads.

There better be some mistletoe over there, J-Bug.

Sorry, Uncle Mike.

I swear it was there a second ago.

Merry Christmas, dad.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.