American Dreams Episode Rating Graph
Sep 2002 - Mar 2005
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Browse episode ratings trends for American Dreams. Simply click on the interactive rating graph to explore the best and worst of American Dreams's 61 episodes.
Best Episodes of American Dreams
The Home Front
S1 Ep9
9.0
1st Dec 2002
As the Christmas season takes hold, Meg decides to spend more time with Luke, venturing to the rough streets of North Philly (with Roxanne) to hear him play with a local Church choir. Meanwhile, JJ catches the eye of a slightly older and more experienced country club employee and sneaks out of the house, just as Meg is sneaking in. Catching on to both of his older children's escapades, Jack implores a slightly uneven standard of discipline, by grounding Meg, but saying virtually nothing to J.J. Angering the family's growing feminist Helen. Patty finds out that Will broke the Virgin Mary, and replaces it with a slightly larger version. Elsewhere, Henry enjoys the recent success his advertising ideas have brought the store, but a few choice words from an over-eager friend leaves Jack concerned he might leave.
City on Fire
S1 Ep25
8.5
18th May 2003
In the season finale, racial tensions begin to flare in North Philly sparking a massive riot, while an oblivious Meg (Brittany Snow) makes final preparations for her sweet sixteen birthday party. Unaware of the violent situation building around her, Meg attempts to save her friendship with Sam (Arlen Escarpeta), visiting him at the new store, and finds herself in the middle of the urban chaos. Elsewhere, an angry Nathan (guest star Keith Robinson) who helped incite the violence, urges the enraged rioters forward, while Pete (guest star Matthew John Armstrong) and the rest of Philadelphia's finest race to quell the disturbance. Meanwhile, a defeated JJ (Will Estes) returns from Lehigh after being kicked off the football team and makes a surprising announcement to Jack (Tom Verica) and Helen (Gail O'Grady) about his future, while Michael Brooks (Joe Lawrence) reveals the possibility he might be leaving ""Bandstand"" for a new record-producing gig in California. R&B sensation Kelly Rowland
Pryor Knowledge
S1 Ep4
8.3
20th Oct 2002
Jack surprises Meg with the announcement that Jimmy stopped by the shop and asked to take her out and he is allowing her to go.Patty takes a liking to a new boy who is also a finalist in the spelling bee competetion.She listens in as Roxanne gives Meg some dating tips and takes one to heart,a little to much. Rebecca invites Helen and Jack on a double date with her and her economics-professor husband Leo. Meanwhile J.J. won't take Beth to a mixer, because he can't dance, that is until Meg teaches him. Jack can't stand Rebecca's out spoken boyfriend and wants to end the night early.Meg and Jimmy's first date goes from bad to worse, as she first talks on and on about cars and later accidently bloodies his nose. Beth tells J.J. she would rather go alone to the mixer.Not being able to reach her parents, Meg accepts an offer from Sam to walk her home, only to be stopped by the police. With the family looking on, Patty loses the spelling bee,only to be outed by Roxanne who knows she blew it o
Act of Contrition
S1 Ep16
8.2
2nd Mar 2003
In the first track meet of the season, JJ (Will Estes) and Sam (Arlen Escarpeta) square off to determine who will race one of the fastest runners in the city, creating a new-found relationship between this unlikely pair. Meanwhile, after their break-up, Meg (Brittany Snow) and Luke (Jamie Elman) try to figure out exactly what to call their relationship with the help of confidents Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies) and record storeowner Mr. Greenwood (guest star Art Garfunkel). Elsewhere, Helen's (Gail O'Grady) classmates lead her to believe that their professor, Mr. Witt (guest star Robby Benson), has a crush on her. Musical guest star India.Arie portrays Nina Simone performing at the Vinyl Crocodile record store. Tom Verica, Sarah Ramos and Ethan Dampf also star.
The End of the Innocence
S1 Ep2
8.1
6th Oct 2002
Advance Preview It's Thanksgiving week in 1963, but, in the wake of the JFK assassination, no one feels thankful. Even Meg's selection as a Bandstand regular seems hollow to her---especially since best friend Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies) wasn't chosen. And the resentful Roxanne isn't going easy on Meg (Brittany Snow). Meanwhile, East Catholic's football team has a hole at running back without J.J. (Will Estes); and Helen (Gail O'Grady) gets together with the worldly Rebecca Sandstrom (Virginia Madsen) at Temple University.
California Dreamin'
S3 Ep15
8.0
16th Mar 2005
Meg & Roxanne go to Hollywood for a special ""American Banstand"" episode. While the girls are there, they meet up with Barabra Eden a.k.a. ""Jeannie"". J.J. goes for an interview with an Engineering company in the hopes of following his dream of becoming an Astronaut. Meanwhile, Sam realizes the he has more in common with Nathan's date then Nathan does and Pete & Shelley decide to have an ""open relationship"" where they can see each other and other people. Jack decides to tell a reporter his reasons for leaving City Council. ~Graciem
What Dreams May Come
S3 Ep7
8.0
7th Nov 2004
As the Pryor's await news on JJ, Jack goes to Washington D.C. to try and find more information. Chris tells Meg about an anti-war rally in Washington D.C. and Meg convinces her father to let her to go to Washington D.C. Melanie invites Sam and his family to Thanksgiving diner, however Sam does not extend the invitation to his family and goes by himself. Helen is haunted by flashbacks of JJ while Patty and Will have a hard time going on with life. As the family sit downs to Thanksgiving dinner they recieve a package that announces JJ's fate.
Soldier Boy
S1 Ep6
8.0
3rd Nov 2002
Roxanne is positive Meg is the ""Blurry Girl"" in a teen Magazine dancing with Jimmy Riley. Jack and Helen are in New York for a reunion of Jack's World War II unit. Beth tries in vain to reach J.J. but he cuts her off again. Later Meg meets Jay of Jay and The American's as he performs their hit ""Come a Little Bit Closer"" at a Bandstand rehearsal. He and Meg hit it off as does Roxanne and Carl the drummer. They plan a party for that night at the Pryor's house. Meanwhile in New York, Helen is approached by a man who claims Jack saved his life during the war. Patty finds out about the Party and wants to impress her spelling-bee foe Kevin by inviting him to party with Jay Black. J.J. and Will find Jack's 'Medal of Honor' while moving the last of the stuff from Meg's new room to the garage. Jay suggests to Meg and Roxanne they go some place else instead for the party. Beth and Kevin both show up, while J.J. and Beth have a fight, Patty and Kevin wait awkwardly for Meg to get home, which she
High Hopes
S1 Ep24
7.8
11th May 2003
JJ, tender ankle and all, arrives at Lehigh to begin football practice. And Roxanne, who's still on the outs with Meg, meets someone she has been on the outs with for eight years: her father. Meanwhile, Meg gets her learner's permit and wants Luke to teach her to drive. And the Girard Avenue store is about to open, but the timing could be better: riots in Harlem have prompted the Philadelphia police to consider a curfew for North Philly.
Cold Snap
S1 Ep7
7.8
10th Nov 2002
Meg is angered to hear Luke, the new record shop employee, talking bad about the music she's about to buy. Elsewhere, a sudden cancellation of his deal to supply a hotel with all there new TV's, forces Jack to examine his family's financial outlook and question his own business philosophy. Sam, who is still adapting to life at East Catholic high school deals with a prank gone too far by the football team, while JJ looks on, unable or unwilling to intervene. While Roxanne uses her Bandstand connections to start her own business of selling autographed 45's, starting with Marvin Gaye. Discovering Luke slipped her a Bob Dylan record instead, Meg rushes back to the store to conmfront him. The Prank gets Tommy suspended and he threatens Sam until J.J. intervenes, which draws a nasty response from Sam. Michael shuts down Roxanne's new business, while Jack tries in vain to still make the big Hotel sell, but it's all for not as Mr. Healey refuses to buy them. Lastly, the bitter cold of the nigh
The Fighting Irish
S1 Ep5
7.8
27th Oct 2002
Jimmy (still sporting a shiner from their first date) asks Meg to be his partner on Bandstand. A Notre Dame recruiter is interested in JJ, but when J.J. doesn't show Jack will have to carry the ball for his son. Patty wants a new water heater and goes around timing everyone's showers to show they need one. Beth tries her best to get through to J.J., but he brushes her off and while Jack is meeting with the recruiter, he gets drunk with Tommy. Helen's walks out on the doctor,when she firsts goes about birth control.Megs thinks her and Jimmy are destined to be a real couple,but he says he only wants to be friends. Jack gives J.J. the cold shoulder over his blowing off the Recruiting meeting. Helen returns to the doctor a second time and it goes much smoother. Things change at the big game,when the team needs a big play, J.J. fakes an injury, before scoring the game winning touchdown on the play Jack taught him.
Old Enough to Fight
S2 Ep14
7.7
22nd Feb 2004
Roy Orbison (Chris Isaak) plays on ?Bandstand, while Nancy Sinatra (Jennifer Love Hewitt) has schlepped her boots to Vietnam, where JJ sees her perform. He could use some cheering up: He's been traumatized by killing a Vietcong soldier. Back in Philly, Meg runs away from home (but not far); Henry's business plans hit a snag; and Will starts delivering newspapers by himself. Also: Tyler Hilton sings the Beatles' I've Just Seen a Face and Days of Our Lives regulars have cameos: Alison Sweeney (as Miss USA), Farah Fath (a Playboy Bunny), and John Aniston and Frances Reid (customers in Pryor Electronics).
Heartache
S1 Ep14
7.6
9th Feb 2003
Preparing for the East Catholic Valentine's Day dance, Meg tries to convince boyfriend Luke of the importance of the holiday, while Roxanne waits for a brave boy to ask her to the dance. Meanwhile, Jack, prompted by his doctor, seeks a second opinion regarding his lingering sickness, while JJ searches for forgiveness from Beth. Elsewhere, Patty braces for her own Valentine's Day festivities as she makes arrangements for her first coed party.
Stewart's Charge
S2 Ep18
7.5
28th Mar 2004
Jason Mraz (Dion) and Fefe Dobson (Tina Turner) are the guest impersonators on Bandstand, where Roxanne wants a hairstyling job. She also has boy woes: Lenny's return has clearly rattled Luke. Meanwhile, Beth makes a decision about her pregnancy; Nathan (Keith Robinson) is drafted, and Sam tries to get Meg to talk to Drew about his CO status; JJ's unit goes on a mission with a by-the-book new corporal (John Sloan); Jack considers his political options over coffee with Will's former teacher, the former Sister Grace (Robyn Lively); Will might be made to repeat fourth grade; and Patty uses hamster chips to get closer to Carl (Wes Robinson).
Another Saturday Night
S2 Ep3
7.5
12th Oct 2003
Saturday Night hits Philly as the Pryor women go exploring. Helen heads to New York with Uncle Pete's girlfriend to see a show and a new emerging side of womanhood, beset with temptations. Patty, starting high school, learns new lessons in social skills in trying to make friends. Meg, completely broken off from Luke, goes to her first college party, with serious consequences. Roxanne starts at the Vinyl Crocodile with Luke still in the background as JJ continues with military training. In addition, Sam finds out how his cousin Nathan really makes his money
No Way Out
S2 Ep19
7.4
4th Apr 2004
As the anti-war movement gains momentum, Meg and Sam get caught in the crossfire at an anti-war rally and finds themselves taking a stand that may have severe consequences in their future. Jack also takes a stand on Beth and her marital status as he begins his campaign for city councilman. Helen makes a shocking discovery at work and Patty , disappointed with her first date, turns to Roxanne for advice. Meanwhile, JJ and his squad are surrounded by the Viet Cong and under heavy gunfire when they are told they will not be receiving backup and will be on their own
For Richer, For Poorer
S3 Ep12
7.3
23rd Jan 2005
JJ and Beth began searching for the perfect house, but JJ recieves a letter from Vietnam and gives away their money for a house. As their wedding day approaches, the family is busy preparing. JJ learns that Helen is involved with an anti-war movement while Patty falls for Beth's cousin. Meg continues to struggle with Chris who keeps showing up. When Meg realizes her true feelings it's too late as Chris has left town.
Long Shots and Short Skirts
S3 Ep1
7.3
26th Sep 2004
BRANDY GUEST-STARS AS GLADYS KNIGHT, GAVIN DEGRAW AS SINGER IN THE LAIR, AND BEN TAYLOR'S ACTING DEBUT - Meg (Brittany Snow) and Sam (Arlen Escarpeta) continue to find themselves at odds with their parents after their court date, as the uncertain future of Sam's scholarship hangs over Henry's (Jonathan Adams) head. Meg's arrest is leaked to the papers, compromising the integrity of Jack's (Tom Verica) bid to run for city council. Back at school, Meg and Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies) learn that the new headmaster is enforcing the school's dress code, so they organize a mini-skirt protest. Meanwhile, Beth (Rachel Boston) continues to work at the Lair, and has caught the eye of Cal (guest-star Ben Taylor), an aspiring singer/songwriter. When Helen (Gail O'Grady) asks Beth to join the Blue Star Women, an organization that donates necessities to the wives of soldiers at war, she expresses her concerns of not being JJ's (Will Estes) wife. In Vietnam, JJ is in a military hospital where he learns
Worst Episodes of American Dreams
Tidings of Comfort and Joy
S3 Ep9
5.7
21st Nov 2004
Helen occupies her time helping Beth care for John Pryor III. However, Beth is angry with Helen after she invites her father (Beth's) to see the baby. Meg continues with her anti-war movements but is shocked when Chris and his friends want to burn down an army recruiting center. Luke's girlfriend from San Francisco comes to visit but doesn't realize Luke wants to break up with her. Roxanne then becomes afraid that Luke will suddenly dump her one day. Nathan continues to spend time with an elderly veteran. As a result, when he dies he leaves Nathan his boat. Sam realizes that he handled things with Melanie wrong way and invites her to his house for dinner. The Pryor family must continue through the holiday season without JJ. What they don't know is JJ is still alive and fighting for his way home. After the family leaves for Christmas Eve mass, the Pryors receive a phone call and learn that JJ is on his way home. In a tearful reunion, JJ is reunited with his family and meets his son for
Leaders of the Pack
S3 Ep3
6.3
10th Oct 2004
Meg's having trouble getting students interested in her updated production of “Henry V", so she tries to enlist her popular new neighbor, Chris.
So Long, Farewell
S3 Ep5
6.3
24th Oct 2004
While JJ is in Vietnam he meet Gunnery Sergean Finch. Father Cassidy discovers Meg's plans to add an anti-Vietnam aspect to the play and forbids her to do the play as it is. Jack is aproached by the pastor about getting a colored person on the police commision. Luke returns to Philadelphia with shocking news for Roxanne. Melanie becomes increasingly jealous of Sam and Meg's friendship. At the last second, Meg decides to do the play as she wrote it.
Chasing the Past
S2 Ep17
6.4
21st Mar 2004
Roxanne begins to question her relationship with Luke. Meg lets Patty drive the family car after Patty blackmails her. Meg ends up crashing the car. After Beth tells her parents about her pregnancy they give her two options. JJ and his squad rescue American POW's. JJ thinks one may be Danny O'Conners brother.
Charade
S3 Ep2
6.5
3rd Oct 2004
NICOLE RICHIE GUEST-STARS AS LEAD SINGER OF THE EXCITERS, HAYLEY WESTERNA AS A SINGER IN THE LAIR - When the Pryors meet their new neighbors, they are surprised and shocked to discover that Shelly Pierce is a single mom, a Playboy Bunny, and that her son, Chris, is old enough to attend East Catholic. As Meg continues her anti-war campaign, she is reprimanded at school by a progressive nun who decides that a better way for Meg to get her message out is to direct Shakespeare's play ""Henry V"", with a modern day twist. As Patty becomes obsessed with winning the Campbell's Tomato Soup essay contest, she seeks Donald's help, which causes some discomfort for Helen. Meanwhile, Sam is recuited for basketball at Penn, which concerns Henry, but provides a new girlfriend for Sam - in the form of his tutor. When Jack's campaign for city council begins to affect his family and professional life, he finds himself faced with questions only he can answer. Meanwhile, JJ's excitement to be with his new s
Home Again
S3 Ep10
6.5
2nd Jan 2005
JJ has trouble readjusting to life at home. Meanwhile, Meg is accepted into college, but the two most important men in her life aren't pleased. Nathan gets his first look at the boat he inherited.
No Satisfaction
S3 Ep16
6.5
23rd Mar 2005
With Ted, Jack's brother in the hospital he faces a tough decision to pull him of the respirator that is keeping him alive. Meg and Roxanne are excited for The Rolling Stones concert but are surprised to find where their seats are. Patty wants to become cool after being teased by some students at summer school about being a nerd. She receives a makeover from Meg and Roxanne and goes on bandstand but ultimately decides she likes who she is. Meanwhile, JJ is doing well at his job and able to use his knowledge from Vietnam to help him.
Black and White
S1 Ep8
6.8
17th Nov 2002
While preparing for the city championships, JJ (Will Estes) discovers some of Philadelphia's police officers have offered his teammates money to throw the game (although Tommy denies it at first), forcing him to question their integrity, as well as that of his police officer uncle Pete who stops by the house for a sudden strategy session. Meanwhile, Meg (Brittany Snow) who shows signs of affection for Luke, a record store clerk at the Vinyl Crocodile and Patty's new piano teacher, is upset with Roxanne's sudden interest in him.Turns out Roxanne was only pretending to like him, long enough so Meg would get jealous and admit she liked him. Elsewhere, Helen leaves the family for a rare girls night out with new age classmate Rebecca. Meanwhile Jack (still saddled with the TV's from the busted hotel deal),prompted by Henry's suggestion, expands his customer base to include a few black customers and Sam deals with backlash from his former friends over the impending game.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
S2 Ep2
6.8
5th Oct 2003
Episode 2 rolls in as Meg continues to live life without Bandstand, while Roxanne tries to keep her on before she is replaced. JJ undergoes major training at camp while Patty is promoted to academic success, to the frustration of Meg. Luke and Meg see the end of their relationship while getting further from Meg is Sam's choice. Helen searches for more opinions on Will's surgery while the couple prepares for a dinner with Beth's parents.
Starting Over
S3 Ep13
6.8
30th Jan 2005
Prom is on the brain in this episode of American Dreams. With senior prom soon approaching, Roxanne and Meg scramble with their preperations. Patty is invited to prom which she rubs in Meg's face but is later upset when her date asks somebody else. Roxanne works to convince Luke to shave her beard off, while Meg prepares to face the prom on her own. JJ comes to her rescue after having a fight with Beth, that begins when JJ confesses his gamble that he lost. While at prom, JJ is offered a job at the high school. Meanwhile, Mr. Pryor feels the pressure from his bribers, and struggles to make a choice, which effects his family more than he knows.
I Wanna Hold Your Hand
S1 Ep11
7.0
5th Jan 2003
The Beatles' arrival in America sends the country and the Pryor household into a frenzy, except for a concerned JJ, who receives word that Notre Dame has denied him a full scholarship. Determined to afford his son's college education, Jack seeks financial help from his successful and slightly distant older brother Ted despite Pete and Helen's concerns. Ted offers to pay for J.J. first year in South Bend in exchange for 50% ownership in the shop. Meanwhile, a confused Meg attempts to classify her relationship with Luke, employing Roxanne's ""perfect plan"", which is to simply have Luke introduce himself as Meg's boyfriend, to determine if the record store clerk is in fact her boyfriend. Patty's put in a tough position when she has to teach Will, the twleve apostles or not get to watch the Beattles on Ed Sullivan that night.
Fear Itself
S1 Ep21
7.0
13th Apr 2003
Meg and Roxanne are chosen for East Catholic's Prom Committee. Their assignment: get ""cool"" seniors onto the ""Bandstand"" set so they can take candid photos known as ""senior snaps."" Success, Roxanne gushes, will make them ""the coolest sophomores in history."" But they don't have permission from ""Bandstand"" to do it. Meanwhile, Will's Soap Box Derby is coming up, but he's afraid of the hills, and JJ's afraid of testing his newly healed leg; Patty has joined the Robins, and is very competitive about earning badges; and Jack hires Sam to do a job at the Girard Avenue store.
And Promises to Keep
S2 Ep1
7.0
28th Sep 2003
In the episode, Meg find herself getitng a little too close to Sam. Causing questions after she defends Sam when he sticks up for a friend being teased for race. After defending, her dad finds out and suspends her from bandstand. Roxanne is shocked to learn the Bandstand Director is leaving. JJ questions Beth's trust, and the only way to not worry-engangment? Helen looks into surgery for Will and against her doctor's best advice calls a clinic. Kelly Clarkson performed
Crossing the Line
S2 Ep4
7.0
19th Oct 2003
Helen learns the pressuers of being a working mom when she takes a job at a travel agency. Meanwhile Beth goes to visit JJ at Camp Lejeune and is surprised at the results. Meg wants to prove that she is grown up and does her book report on a controversial book. Roxanne is excited with the prospects of her new boyfriend.
Life's Illusions
S2 Ep5
7.0
26th Oct 2003
Meg attends a free speech rally with Drew at the college. Roxanne's new relationship with Lenny is tested after he throws a party at her house. JJ is tempted to cheat on Beth with a mysterious woman he meets at a bar. JJ also recieves some exciting news. Beth finally recieves her ring from JJ and they set a date for their wedding. The Walker family must deal with the tragic loss of the matriarch in their family.
Rescue Me
S2 Ep6
7.0
2nd Nov 2003
Roxanne's relationship with Lenny begins to heat up as things are pushed to the next level. JJ's relationship with Diane, the mysterious woman from the bar takes an unexpected turn when he finds out who's wife she is. Meg must take a long hard look at her relationship with Drew after finding out that he is seeing other people. Jack wants Helen to quit her job after finding out that Will's surgery will be funded by the March of Dimes. The Walkers must put their lives back together after the death of their mother.
Ticket to Ride
S2 Ep7
7.0
16th Nov 2003
In a surprise turn of events Roxanne announces she is dropping out of school to be on tour with Lenny. Meg and Sam finally go on their first date but ends in disaster as Meg storms out of the restaurant. JJ tells the family where he has been stationed. As Will's surgery appropoaches Helen becomes nervous. Meanwhile Henry must decide whether or not to confront his wife's former employer about money they are still owed.
Change a Comin'
S2 Ep8
7.0
23rd Nov 2003
Hilary Duff and her sister Haylie impersonate two members of the Shangri-Las, a '60s girl group, in an episode in which the Vietnam War gets in the way of JJ and Beth, and Meg and Drew (Sam Page), when they go on a ""double date"" to Harrisburg, where Roxanne's friend Lenny is playing with his band. Meanwhile, Uncle Pete's drinking is getting in the way of his relationship with Nancy (Alicia Coppola); Helen is concerned about Will's state of mind as he recovers from his operation; Sam's getting interested in Malcolm X; and Patty makes a friend.
American Dreams Episode Guide
Pilot
S1 Ep1
7.3
29th Sep 2002
It's November 1963 and Meg Pryors dream is to appear on the Philly Based American Bandstand.Thanks to her best friend Roxanne, Meg finally gets the chance to appear, but her hopes are dashed when at dinner that night, Jack refuses to let her go on. While at the same time J.J. drops a bombshell on his dad and announces he doesn't wanna play football anymore, so he quit the team. Jack blames his girlfriend Beth and she storms out. Defying her father, Meg goes and does the show, in place of seeing Patty's spelling bee. Jack sees her on TV and when she's asked back as a regular, he refuses to let her appear. Meanwhile Helen struggles with her decision to stop having kids, of which Jack doesn't wanna hear,but finally accepts it.J.J. tells his coach he doesn't wanna play fottball, because he's being forced too and that took the fun out of it, but his coach says he should play anyway.Helen tries to talk Jack into letting Meg appear on the show,but he's made his decision. Which surprises and d
The End of the Innocence
S1 Ep2
8.1
6th Oct 2002
Advance Preview It's Thanksgiving week in 1963, but, in the wake of the JFK assassination, no one feels thankful. Even Meg's selection as a Bandstand regular seems hollow to her---especially since best friend Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies) wasn't chosen. And the resentful Roxanne isn't going easy on Meg (Brittany Snow). Meanwhile, East Catholic's football team has a hole at running back without J.J. (Will Estes); and Helen (Gail O'Grady) gets together with the worldly Rebecca Sandstrom (Virginia Madsen) at Temple University.
New Frontier
S1 Ep3
7.3
13th Oct 2002
To Meg's utter amazement she is asked to dance by Bandstand regular Jimmy Riley,before he is whisked away by another regular Teresa. J.J. quietly rejoins the football team. While Henry's son Sam earns a track scholarship to almost-all-white East Catholic. Jack invites Sam to dinner to meet J.J., being that their both now on the track team. Meg is informed by Teresa to be wary of Jimmy Riley. J.J. gets upset when he finds out Beth applied to Stanford. Helen tries to find a class that will fit her busy schedule at Temple. A Rumor starts circulating about Meg and Jimmy Riley "doing it", which Roxanne thinks is great, because it means Meg's important now. J.J. hears Beth's father call him a "Catholic kid from West Philly" to his country-club friends. Meg is asked out on her first date by Jimmy Riley and she readily accepts. While J.J. dominates the competition in his return to the gridiron.
Pryor Knowledge
S1 Ep4
8.3
20th Oct 2002
Jack surprises Meg with the announcement that Jimmy stopped by the shop and asked to take her out and he is allowing her to go.Patty takes a liking to a new boy who is also a finalist in the spelling bee competetion.She listens in as Roxanne gives Meg some dating tips and takes one to heart,a little to much. Rebecca invites Helen and Jack on a double date with her and her economics-professor husband Leo. Meanwhile J.J. won't take Beth to a mixer, because he can't dance, that is until Meg teaches him. Jack can't stand Rebecca's out spoken boyfriend and wants to end the night early.Meg and Jimmy's first date goes from bad to worse, as she first talks on and on about cars and later accidently bloodies his nose. Beth tells J.J. she would rather go alone to the mixer.Not being able to reach her parents, Meg accepts an offer from Sam to walk her home, only to be stopped by the police. With the family looking on, Patty loses the spelling bee,only to be outed by Roxanne who knows she blew it o
The Fighting Irish
S1 Ep5
7.8
27th Oct 2002
Jimmy (still sporting a shiner from their first date) asks Meg to be his partner on Bandstand. A Notre Dame recruiter is interested in JJ, but when J.J. doesn't show Jack will have to carry the ball for his son. Patty wants a new water heater and goes around timing everyone's showers to show they need one. Beth tries her best to get through to J.J., but he brushes her off and while Jack is meeting with the recruiter, he gets drunk with Tommy. Helen's walks out on the doctor,when she firsts goes about birth control.Megs thinks her and Jimmy are destined to be a real couple,but he says he only wants to be friends. Jack gives J.J. the cold shoulder over his blowing off the Recruiting meeting. Helen returns to the doctor a second time and it goes much smoother. Things change at the big game,when the team needs a big play, J.J. fakes an injury, before scoring the game winning touchdown on the play Jack taught him.
Soldier Boy
S1 Ep6
8.0
3rd Nov 2002
Roxanne is positive Meg is the ""Blurry Girl"" in a teen Magazine dancing with Jimmy Riley. Jack and Helen are in New York for a reunion of Jack's World War II unit. Beth tries in vain to reach J.J. but he cuts her off again. Later Meg meets Jay of Jay and The American's as he performs their hit ""Come a Little Bit Closer"" at a Bandstand rehearsal. He and Meg hit it off as does Roxanne and Carl the drummer. They plan a party for that night at the Pryor's house. Meanwhile in New York, Helen is approached by a man who claims Jack saved his life during the war. Patty finds out about the Party and wants to impress her spelling-bee foe Kevin by inviting him to party with Jay Black. J.J. and Will find Jack's 'Medal of Honor' while moving the last of the stuff from Meg's new room to the garage. Jay suggests to Meg and Roxanne they go some place else instead for the party. Beth and Kevin both show up, while J.J. and Beth have a fight, Patty and Kevin wait awkwardly for Meg to get home, which she
Cold Snap
S1 Ep7
7.8
10th Nov 2002
Meg is angered to hear Luke, the new record shop employee, talking bad about the music she's about to buy. Elsewhere, a sudden cancellation of his deal to supply a hotel with all there new TV's, forces Jack to examine his family's financial outlook and question his own business philosophy. Sam, who is still adapting to life at East Catholic high school deals with a prank gone too far by the football team, while JJ looks on, unable or unwilling to intervene. While Roxanne uses her Bandstand connections to start her own business of selling autographed 45's, starting with Marvin Gaye. Discovering Luke slipped her a Bob Dylan record instead, Meg rushes back to the store to conmfront him. The Prank gets Tommy suspended and he threatens Sam until J.J. intervenes, which draws a nasty response from Sam. Michael shuts down Roxanne's new business, while Jack tries in vain to still make the big Hotel sell, but it's all for not as Mr. Healey refuses to buy them. Lastly, the bitter cold of the nigh
Black and White
S1 Ep8
6.8
17th Nov 2002
While preparing for the city championships, JJ (Will Estes) discovers some of Philadelphia's police officers have offered his teammates money to throw the game (although Tommy denies it at first), forcing him to question their integrity, as well as that of his police officer uncle Pete who stops by the house for a sudden strategy session. Meanwhile, Meg (Brittany Snow) who shows signs of affection for Luke, a record store clerk at the Vinyl Crocodile and Patty's new piano teacher, is upset with Roxanne's sudden interest in him.Turns out Roxanne was only pretending to like him, long enough so Meg would get jealous and admit she liked him. Elsewhere, Helen leaves the family for a rare girls night out with new age classmate Rebecca. Meanwhile Jack (still saddled with the TV's from the busted hotel deal),prompted by Henry's suggestion, expands his customer base to include a few black customers and Sam deals with backlash from his former friends over the impending game.
The Home Front
S1 Ep9
9.0
1st Dec 2002
As the Christmas season takes hold, Meg decides to spend more time with Luke, venturing to the rough streets of North Philly (with Roxanne) to hear him play with a local Church choir. Meanwhile, JJ catches the eye of a slightly older and more experienced country club employee and sneaks out of the house, just as Meg is sneaking in. Catching on to both of his older children's escapades, Jack implores a slightly uneven standard of discipline, by grounding Meg, but saying virtually nothing to J.J. Angering the family's growing feminist Helen. Patty finds out that Will broke the Virgin Mary, and replaces it with a slightly larger version. Elsewhere, Henry enjoys the recent success his advertising ideas have brought the store, but a few choice words from an over-eager friend leaves Jack concerned he might leave.
Silent Night
S1 Ep10
7.3
15th Dec 2002
Advance Preview With Christmas a day away, Meg (Brittany Snow) and dance partner Jimmy Riley (guest star Jesse Hutch) are voted one of ""Bandstand's"" favorite couples landing them a date under the mistletoe for their first kiss, which hurts her budding relationship with Luke (guest star Jamie Elman). Meanwhile, JJ (Will Estes) receives an early Christmas present with his acceptance into the University of Notre Dame, which prompts him to reconsider his break-up with longtime girlfriend, Beth (Rachel Boston). Elsewhere, Jack's (Tom Verica) military expertise is called upon when a local boy serving in Vietnam goes missing and Henry (Jonathan Adams) looks for a raise during the store's holiday rush. R&B singing star Ashanti (""Foolish"") guest stars as 1960s pop sensation Dionne Warwick singing ""Walk on By"" on ""American Bandstand."" Gail O'Grady, Arlen Escarpeta, Ethan Dampf and Sarah Ramos also star.
I Wanna Hold Your Hand
S1 Ep11
7.0
5th Jan 2003
The Beatles' arrival in America sends the country and the Pryor household into a frenzy, except for a concerned JJ, who receives word that Notre Dame has denied him a full scholarship. Determined to afford his son's college education, Jack seeks financial help from his successful and slightly distant older brother Ted despite Pete and Helen's concerns. Ted offers to pay for J.J. first year in South Bend in exchange for 50% ownership in the shop. Meanwhile, a confused Meg attempts to classify her relationship with Luke, employing Roxanne's ""perfect plan"", which is to simply have Luke introduce himself as Meg's boyfriend, to determine if the record store clerk is in fact her boyfriend. Patty's put in a tough position when she has to teach Will, the twleve apostles or not get to watch the Beattles on Ed Sullivan that night.
Great Expectations
S1 Ep12
7.2
12th Jan 2003
Meg gets two Cs on her report card and Helen, more concerned about it than Jack is, thinks it would be a good idea for Meg to accompany her to her Temple class. Meg dislikes the idea, but not as much as she dislikes the fact that Luke agrees with her mother. Roxanne is also at odds with her mother, so she stays with the Pryors. Meanwhile, Beth notices JJ talking to Colleen; Jack hires Henry's nephew, Nathan; and it seems that there's a bullying problem in Will's third-grade class.
The Pursuit of Happiness
S1 Ep13
7.2
2nd Feb 2003
In the aftermath of his confession to Beth, JJ struggles to put their relationship back together again, but quickly realizes that it might be too little too late. Elsewhere, Meg strikes up a musical friendship with Sam as they decide to save money by sharing records - causing problems with JJ who quickly reminds his sister about the trouble she faced after her previous interactions with Sam. Meanwhile, Jack entrusts his new employee -- Nathan, the nephew of Henry with delivery duty, but later questions his decision when Nathan fails to return. Helen volunteers to baby-sit for her professor and gets to know him better while Roxanne fights for a coveted position writing the ""Backstage on Bandstand"" column for Teenzine magazine.
Heartache
S1 Ep14
7.6
9th Feb 2003
Preparing for the East Catholic Valentine's Day dance, Meg tries to convince boyfriend Luke of the importance of the holiday, while Roxanne waits for a brave boy to ask her to the dance. Meanwhile, Jack, prompted by his doctor, seeks a second opinion regarding his lingering sickness, while JJ searches for forgiveness from Beth. Elsewhere, Patty braces for her own Valentine's Day festivities as she makes arrangements for her first coed party.
False Start
S1 Ep15
7.2
16th Feb 2003
In the first track meet of the season, JJ and Sam square off to determine who will race one of the fastest runners in the city, creating a new-found relationship between this unlikely pair. Meanwhile, after their break-up, Meg and Luke try to figure out exactly what to call their relationship with the help of confidents Roxanne and record storeowner Mr. Greenwood. Elsewhere, Helen's classmates lead her to believe that their professor, Mr. Witt, has a crush on her. Musical guest star India.Arie portrays Nina Simone performing at the Vinyl Crocodile record store.
Act of Contrition
S1 Ep16
8.2
2nd Mar 2003
In the first track meet of the season, JJ (Will Estes) and Sam (Arlen Escarpeta) square off to determine who will race one of the fastest runners in the city, creating a new-found relationship between this unlikely pair. Meanwhile, after their break-up, Meg (Brittany Snow) and Luke (Jamie Elman) try to figure out exactly what to call their relationship with the help of confidents Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies) and record storeowner Mr. Greenwood (guest star Art Garfunkel). Elsewhere, Helen's (Gail O'Grady) classmates lead her to believe that their professor, Mr. Witt (guest star Robby Benson), has a crush on her. Musical guest star India.Arie portrays Nina Simone performing at the Vinyl Crocodile record store. Tom Verica, Sarah Ramos and Ethan Dampf also star.
Past Imperfect
S1 Ep17
7.3
9th Mar 2003
Celebrating a Pryor family tradition, Jack and Uncle Pete make their annual trip to the cemetery to tend to their father's grave only to be joined by an unexpected visitor - their brother Ted. After impressing him with her musical knowledge, Bandstand producer Michael Brooks asks Meg to help him put together an upcoming special. However, when she is drafted as part of the cemetery expedition, Meg asks Roxanne to fill in, offering her best friend a chance to spend time with her latest crush. Elsewhere, JJ receives some disturbing news from the doctor regarding his broken leg. Helen volunteers to help register voters for the upcoming election, working closely with Professor Witt, while Sam decides to join his cousin Nathan at a local rally.
The One
S1 Ep18
7.3
16th Mar 2003
MEG STRUGGLES WITH HER FEELINGS FOR BOTH HER EX-BOYFRIEND AND FAKE ONE ; WAYNE BRADY GUEST STARS AS JACKIE WILSON -- Making an appearance to sign autographs at the Vinyl Crocodile, Meg (Brittany Snow) struggles with her lingering feelings for ex-boyfriend Luke (guest star Jamie Elman) and rekindled interest in ""Bandstand"" partner Jimmy Riley (guest star Jesse Hutch). Meanwhile, Jack (Tom Verica) moves forward with Henry's (Jonathan Adams) suggestion as he investigates the possibility of opening a second store. Prompted by interest from his brother Ted (guest star Christopher Cousins), he decides to make this a family venture enlisting the help of younger brother Pete (guest star Matthew John Armstrong), thus leaving Henry out of the deal. Elsewhere, JJ (Will Estes) pushes Sam (Arlen Escarpeta) to forget about the former teammate's accident and run his best for the rest of the year. Jackie Wilson (Wayne Brady) performs ""Baby Work Out"" on ""American Bandstand."" Vanessa Lengies, Gail O'Gra
Where the Boys Are
S1 Ep19
7.2
30th Mar 2003
In the midst of a special memory lane ""Bandstand,"" Meg (Brittany Snow) copes with a hostile Bobby Darin (guest star Duncan Sheik) while attempting to help roving columnist Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies) land an interview with the hit singer. In the midst of the chaos, Jimmy Riley (guest star Jesse Hutch ) surprises his dance partner when he shares the big news that he joined the marines. Elsewhere, Jack (Tom Verica), Henry (Jonathan Adams), Nathan (guest star Keith Robinson ) and Pete (guest star Matthew John Armstrong ) spend a rainy day playing an allegedly friendly game of poker. Helen (Gail O'Grady) receives a friendly ride home from her professor (guest star Robby Benson ) while JJ (Will Estes) spends a rainy afternoon drowning his sorrows in beer. Country music sensation LeAnn Rimes guest stars as Connie Francis singing ""Where the Boys Are"" on ""American Bandstand"" and Duncan Sheik portrays Bobby Darin singing ""Beyond the Sea."" Sarah Ramos and Ethan Dampf also star..
The Carpetbaggers
S1 Ep20
7.2
6th Apr 2003
As Meg's (Brittany Snow) recently rekindled romance with Luke (guest star Jamie Elman) begins to heat up, she grows concerned over his level of ""experience"" in matters of love. Prompted by some sagely wisdom from Roxanne (Vanessa Lengies), she attempts to broaden her sex appeal with shocking results. Elsewhere, Jack (Tom Verica) decides to rethink Nathan's (guest star Keith Robinson) employment status after learning of Helen's (Gail O'Grady) brush with danger, and his involvement in her defense during the recent voter registration drive. Meanwhile, JJ (Will Estes) re-ignites his romance with Colleen (guest star Jessica Collins) as he prepares to celebrate his 18th birthday and Helen agonizes over her own secret from that fateful day with Professor Wit (guest star Robby Benson).
Fear Itself
S1 Ep21
7.0
13th Apr 2003
Meg and Roxanne are chosen for East Catholic's Prom Committee. Their assignment: get ""cool"" seniors onto the ""Bandstand"" set so they can take candid photos known as ""senior snaps."" Success, Roxanne gushes, will make them ""the coolest sophomores in history."" But they don't have permission from ""Bandstand"" to do it. Meanwhile, Will's Soap Box Derby is coming up, but he's afraid of the hills, and JJ's afraid of testing his newly healed leg; Patty has joined the Robins, and is very competitive about earning badges; and Jack hires Sam to do a job at the Girard Avenue store.
Secrets and Lies
S1 Ep22
7.3
27th Apr 2003
JJ's senior prom is coming up but he's not going because Colleen has made him another offer. Then he hears from Beth. In other prom-related doings, Meg's new friend Carol invites her---but not Roxanne---to a pre-prom sleep-over at her house. Meanwhile, Patty's afraid that no one likes her (there's some reason for this: she has a reputation as being a ""know-it-all""); Natha puts Henry in another delicate situation at the Girard Avenue store; and Jack runs into Professor Witt near the store and senses that there might be something between him and Helen.
Down the Shore
S1 Ep23
7.2
4th May 2003
June 19, 1964: Jim Bunning's on the mound for the Phils and the Pryors have just begun their annual Wildwood vacation. Roxanne isn't with them because she's still mad at a still-distressed Meg. But her rich new friend Carol has invited her to her beach club at ""the Crest."" And Meg returns the favor, getting Carol and her friends into a Bandstand beach ""hop"" featuring the Kinks (Third Eye Blind does the impersonation). Meanwhile, Helen finally tells Jack about Professor Witt's advance. Back in town, JJ's at home---with Beth while Henry's minding the North Philly store. The neighborhood is steaming and the city pool hasn't opened yet.
High Hopes
S1 Ep24
7.8
11th May 2003
JJ, tender ankle and all, arrives at Lehigh to begin football practice. And Roxanne, who's still on the outs with Meg, meets someone she has been on the outs with for eight years: her father. Meanwhile, Meg gets her learner's permit and wants Luke to teach her to drive. And the Girard Avenue store is about to open, but the timing could be better: riots in Harlem have prompted the Philadelphia police to consider a curfew for North Philly.
City on Fire
S1 Ep25
8.5
18th May 2003
In the season finale, racial tensions begin to flare in North Philly sparking a massive riot, while an oblivious Meg (Brittany Snow) makes final preparations for her sweet sixteen birthday party. Unaware of the violent situation building around her, Meg attempts to save her friendship with Sam (Arlen Escarpeta), visiting him at the new store, and finds herself in the middle of the urban chaos. Elsewhere, an angry Nathan (guest star Keith Robinson) who helped incite the violence, urges the enraged rioters forward, while Pete (guest star Matthew John Armstrong) and the rest of Philadelphia's finest race to quell the disturbance. Meanwhile, a defeated JJ (Will Estes) returns from Lehigh after being kicked off the football team and makes a surprising announcement to Jack (Tom Verica) and Helen (Gail O'Grady) about his future, while Michael Brooks (Joe Lawrence) reveals the possibility he might be leaving ""Bandstand"" for a new record-producing gig in California. R&B sensation Kelly Rowland
The best rated episodes of American Dreams are:
- The Home Front S1E9 rated 9.0
- City on Fire S1E25 rated 8.5
- Pryor Knowledge S1E4 rated 8.3
- Act of Contrition S1E16 rated 8.2
- The End of the Innocence S1E2 rated 8.1
- California Dreamin' S3E15 rated 8.0
- What Dreams May Come S3E7 rated 8.0
- Soldier Boy S1E6 rated 8.0
- High Hopes S1E24 rated 7.8
- Cold Snap S1E7 rated 7.8
The lowest rated episodes of American Dreams are:
- Tidings of Comfort and Joy S3E9 rated 5.7
- Leaders of the Pack S3E3 rated 6.3
- So Long, Farewell S3E5 rated 6.3
- Chasing the Past S2E17 rated 6.4
- Charade S3E2 rated 6.5
- Home Again S3E10 rated 6.5
- No Satisfaction S3E16 rated 6.5
- Black and White S1E8 rated 6.8
- R-E-S-P-E-C-T S2E2 rated 6.8
- Starting Over S3E13 rated 6.8
The first episode of American Dreams aired on September 29, 2002.
The last episode of American Dreams aired on March 30, 2005.
There are 61 episodes of American Dreams.
There are 3 seasons of American Dreams.
No.
American Dreams has ended.
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