Happy’s Place Episode 12 Addresses Major Storyline Flaw but Overlooks One Overlooked Arc

Warning: Spoilers for Happy’s Place season 1, episode 12

New Developments in Happy’s Place as Season 2 Awaits

The anticipation for a second season of Happy’s Place continues as episode 12, titled “Baby Doll, ” addresses a major ongoing concern within the storyline. This episode spotlights Gabby’s journey after she acquires an AI-powered baby that grades her parenting skills, setting the stage for her staff to demonstrate their own babysitting capabilities. Gabby’s goal in doing this is both practical and emotional, as she prepares for the possibility of single motherhood.

Previously, Gabby expressed a desire for a child in episode 5, but this narrative was largely ignored until now. Additionally, Isabella has been in management training, which has seen little progression. Meanwhile, Steve’s exposure therapy was introduced as another potential abandoned plotline. Thankfully, “Baby Doll” indicates that the show may finally be settling into a clearer narrative direction, albeit alongside some ongoing challenges.

Revisiting Gabby and Steve’s Character Arcs

Gabby’s Long-Awaited Baby Plotline

Reba McEntire as Bobbie, Pablo Castelblanco as Steve, and Melissa Peterman as Gabby in Happy's Place

In “Baby Doll, ” the series shifts gears, engaging with previously neglected story arcs. Gabby not only begins to actively pursue her dream of motherhood but we also observe Steve making strides in overcoming his OCD through exposure therapy. His willingness to take risks and openly discuss his condition marks a significant development for his character.

This evolution is vital for the series moving forward, especially since Steve’s OCD has often been played for laughs. In this episode, he embraces the challenge of hugging a doll, despite its unusual background, while Gabby expresses a relatable fear of inadequacy in her parenting skills. These newly explored themes resonate with viewers, adding depth to both characters.

The Importance of Consistent Character Development in Happy’s Place

Steve’s Growth is Crucial

Initially, Happy’s Place revolved around the death of a character named Happy and its impact on Bobbie and Isabella. However, the narrative arc transitioned quickly when Isabella forgave Happy following a minor revelation. Despite this, numerous mysteries linger, particularly regarding Isabella’s academic performance versus her apparent unpreparedness for real-world challenges.

As Gabby faces common parental anxieties, Steve candidly expresses concerns that his OCD may prevent him from becoming a parent altogether. This moment of vulnerability is significant, serving to humanize both characters and showcasing the need for heartfelt storytelling in the show. Until now, Steve and Gabby had seemed more like archetypal figures rather than fully developed characters. Achieving character depth is essential for viewer engagement and approval.

Isabella’s Managerial Aspirations Require Attention

Lack of Direction for Isabella’s Character

Belissa Escobedo as Isabella in Happy's Place

Regrettably, Isabella’s role seems diminished within the series as she lacks a clearly defined purpose. Initially positioned as a co-manager in training under Bobbie’s supervision, Isabella’s shadowing experiences have been scant, with almost no progress evident in her storyline. Aside from an isolated moment spent helping in the kitchen, her character development has stagnated.

While Happy’s Place successfully elaborates on Gabby and Steve’s arcs, the neglect of Isabella’s journey could lead to detrimental consequences for the show. It is crucial that the series revitalizes her managerial training narrative, exploring her relationships with other characters—especially Steve, with whom she has yet to engage meaningfully in a working context. Reviving Isabella’s storyline will provide the series with the momentum it needs moving forward.

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