INT. WRITERS’ ROOM/LIZ’S OFFICE - MORNING
LIZ enters with shopping bags. Many of the WRITERS look
under the weather. There’s a flu going around.
LIZ
(brightly)
Good morning! How is everyone?
FRANK
I caught that flu. I have a fever,
my feet are swollen and I feel like
my intestines are going to explode.
LIZ
(equally brightly)
Don’t care. Four days ‘til my
beach vacation on St. Bartleby’s.
LUTZ
St. Bartleby’s? Isn’t that the
most politically unstable island in
the Bahamas?
LIZ
That’s the media. No one reports
on dictators who aren’t hanged.
PETE
What is it about that place? Last
year you came back so relaxed
and... pleasant.
LIZ
I have the perfect resort, Pete.
Private beaches, a soft ice cream
machine with a generator so we’re
solid if rebels attack the power
grid, and showing bare feet is
tolerated but not expected.
Liz is lost in dreamy thought.
FLASHBACK TO:
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 2.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
EXT. BAHAMAS RESORT - LAST YEAR
Perfect Caribbean backdrop. Island music plays. Liz lounges
holding a blue drink in one hand and a butterscotch dipped
soft ice cream in the other. She wears a long robe and her
feet are covered with matching hospital booties.
CUT BACK TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
2 -
Vacation Interrupted
INT. WRITERS’ ROOM/LIZ’S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Everyone as we left them.
CERIE
Good for you finally cutting loose.
It’ll be just like that movie...
LIZ
“Under the Tuscan Sun”?
CERIE
No, I want to say “Cocoon”?
(re: Liz’s shopping bag)
Ooh. Is that a new bathing suit?
LIZ
Better. It’s designer beachwear
from the St. John collection. This
is called a “tankoort.”
She holds up an aggressively non-sexy beach garment: princess
sleeves and culottes with a skirt.
LUTZ
(re: tankoort tag)
From the Jill St. John collection?
LIZ
Jeez. It’s like you can’t buy
fashion at the CVS anymore.
Liz enters her office and starts “Bosu Balling.”
LIZ (CONT’D)
Leaving Monday. Got to get it
tight. Cerie, I am really excited.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 3.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
CERIE
Go girl. Oh, the Pelican Bay hotel
called and said they’re over-booked
and your reservation is canceled.
(off Liz’s stricken look)
Is that for the same vacation?
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
3 -
The Nurse and the Girlfriend
INT. JACK’S OFFICE - A LITTLE LATER
JACK is there. JONATHAN pops his head in.
JONATHAN
Mr. Donaghy, your mother’s nurse is
here. Should I tell her to go
away, we’re busy and things were
perfect before she came along?
JACK
Jonathan, Elisa is my girlfriend.
JONATHAN
(scandalized)
Sir, she’s from the Bronx. The
other assistants are talking. And
you know how cruel they can be.
(bitter)
Especially Andrew.
ELISA enters, dressed for work. Jack gives her a big hug.
JACK
Hey there, beautiful. I can’t wait
to see you at my place tonight.
ELISA
That’s what I’m here about, Jack.
I like you. But us being together
while I work for your mom has
created an uncomfortable work
environment.
JACK
I know. I never should’ve gotten
her that hydraulic wheelchair.
FLASHBACK TO:
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 4.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
INT. JACK’S DEN - LAST WEEK
Jack and Elisa are having an intimate moment on the couch.
Jack leans in for a kiss but is interrupted by the ominous
whir of a wheelchair. We see COLLEEN’S feet slowly enter
frame.
COLLEEN (O.S.)
Jack!!!
CUT BACK TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
4 -
The Impossible Date
INT. JACK’S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Jack, Elisa and Jonathan are as we left them.
JACK
Colleen has many prejudices:
Blacks, Jews, Scots, vegetarians,
the bearded. She has issues with
me dating a woman who’s, I’m sorry,
what do you call yourself?
ELISA
A Puerto Rican.
JACK
No, I know you can say that, but
what can people like me call you?
ELISA
Puerto Ricans.
JACK
Wow. That does not sound okay. I
get it though. When you’re working
for mother it’s all work. But you
are off tonight...
ELISA
Sorry, Jack. I’m caring for
another patient. Mr. Templeton.
Old man, advanced dementia, totally
disconnected from reality.
JACK
That reminds me, I owe Lou Dobbs a
call. What about Friday?
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 5.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
ELISA
Mr. Templeton again. Saturday I
work for your mom. Sunday I visit
with my grandmother.
JACK
Monday?
JONATHAN
That’s my murder mystery party.
You still haven’t RSVP’d.
Jack glowers at him.
ELISA
Look, Jack, I know my schedule is
insane. But that’s my life. If at
any point you think I’m too much
trouble I’ll totally get it.
She kisses him and exits. Jack is pensive for a silent beat.
JONATHAN
No one’s signed up to bring swiss
cheese fondu so --
JACK
Shut up.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
5 -
The Unbreakable Kenneth
INT. STUDIO BACKSTAGE - A LITTLE LATER
Liz notices sick people everywhere. KENNETH approaches.
KENNETH
Miss Lemon, Mr. Donaghy wants you
in the green room for a flu shot
ASAP.
LIZ
Wow, it’s hitting everyone. Until
you get your shot, be careful.
KENNETH
Oh, don’t worry about me. I’ve
never been sick a day in my life.
(whispers)
They say I’m “unbreakable.”
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 6.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
LIZ
No one says that.
Liz heads towards the green room.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
6 -
Vaccine Rationing and Racial Missteps
INT. GREEN ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Jack is with DR. SPACEMAN who prepares to give him a shot.
DR. SPACEMAN
Boy I hate giving shots. But I’m a
professional so I’ve gotten drunk.
(brandishing shot)
Jack, I need to ask you to drop
your pants.
Jack does. Dr. Spaceman gives Jack a shot in the arm. Jack
reacts, then buckles up. Liz enters.
JACK
Lemon, there you are. We need to
get you vaccinated. Leo...
DR. SPACEMAN
Hold on, I’m losing my buzz.
Dr. Spaceman begins fixing himself a drink. Liz reacts.
DR. SPACEMAN (CONT'D)
Don’t worry, Liz. Alcohol’s been
scientifically proven to increase
focus and dexterity. Not to
mention sexual performance.
JACK
Lemon, I don’t know what to do
about Elisa. She works all the
time. I guess it comes with dating
a second generation Puerto Rican.
LIZ
Jack, you can’t call her that.
JACK
That’s what I thought.
(then)
(MORE)
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 7.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK (CONT'D)
As you know, I jumped head first
into this thing because she was a
crutch when I found that strange
thing on my left ball...
LIZ
(re: them)
This has gotten too comfortable.
JACK
The early part of a relationship is
so fragile; if we don’t see each
other it could die before we find
out what we have. It’s hopeless.
Our schedules are too complicated.
LIZ
You know, you said the same thing
about C.C.
JACK
I did, didn’t I? With C.C., I was
only willing to meet halfway and
things fell apart. If Elisa’s that
busy, I’m going to come to her.
LIZ
Look at you growing. Good for you.
DR. SPACEMAN
(to Liz, holds syringe)
Is this the arm you want it in?
LIZ
That’s my face.
She rolls up her sleeve to let Spaceman at her.
JACK
Now my friend at the CDC could only
get me a few shots, so you’ll need
to tell me who on your staff is
important enough to keep well.
LIZ
(stopping Spaceman)
Whoa. We’re rationing care?
There’s like special shots for the
elite? That’s wrong, Jack.
JACK
Please don’t take one of your
ethical stands -- it’s so boring.
(MORE)
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 8.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK (CONT'D)
Lemon, you’re talented, you work
hard, like it or not, you’re elite
and you deserve the benefits:
better health care, getting out of
jury duty, early warnings for
natural disasters. Come on, you
don’t want to be sick on vacation.
LIZ
It so happens my vacation is
canceled but that’s irrelevant.
Unlike you, I do not place myself
above anyone else.
(then)
I am from Whitehaven, P.A. damn it!
Jack reacts, confused. Liz storms off haughtily. A beat.
DR. SPACEMAN
I’m going to rock a turkish bath.
New school. You want insies?
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
7 -
An Unexpected Escape
INT. MR. TEMPLETON’S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Elisa tends to CARL TEMPLETON, (think Carl Reiner) a sweet
old man who sits staring off into space. Elisa answers a
knock at the door. It’s Jack, carrying a picnic basket.
ELISA
Jack. What are you doing here?
JACK
I needed to see you.
(re: picnic basket)
I brought dinner, desert, wine...
ELISA
Jack, this so nice but I’m working.
Mr. Templeton’s son is in Europe
and I’m entrusted with his care.
I’m sorry, but this is my job.
JACK
What if you quit? I’m rich. I
could give you money and you could
spend time with me.
ELISA
So I’d be your hooker.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 9.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK
People love hookers. They’re the
new “it” girls. Have you heard
Ashley Dupre’s music? It’s not
bad.
(off her look)
Come on, don’t you ever want a
little time for yourself?
ELISA
Of course. I’ve been in New York
fifteen years and I’ve never seen a
Broadway play or gone to a fun
restaurant. I work so hard I never
even get the chance to have a
romantic dinner with a sweet guy...
They lock eyes. He puts his hands on her shoulders.
JACK
(lost in her eyes)
Come on. Let tonight be for us.
Just me and my “P.R.” girl.
ELISA
(lost in his eyes)
That’s offensive.
JACK
Good to know.
They kiss then fall onto the couch. ANGLE ON Mr. Templeton.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
8 -
Flu Shot Uprising
INT. STUDIO - THE NEXT DAY
Liz is there with the growing ranks of sick “TGS” STAFF and
CREW. JENNA and TRACY enter, healthy and chipper.
JENNA
Liz, great news. Tracy and I have
been chosen to get flu shots.
TRACY
They said it was a flu shot but I
know it was really truth serum.
LIZ
It was not truth serum.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 10.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
TRACY
Then why am I telling you I stole
this shirt?!
JENNA
As we’ve been given the gift of
health we would like to help those
here who are less fortunate. We’re
like Brad Pitt and Angelina
Jolie...
TRACY
We’re beautiful and caring...
JENNA
And our best sex is behind us and
happened with Billy Bob Thornton.
TRACY
We’re gonna step up, Liz Lemon.
And that’s truth serum talking!
LIZ
You know you can’t work together.
JENNA
Sounds like a challenge.
LIZ
It’s not. You will make things
worse.
TRACY
That’s it! The fire has been lit
lady who’s boobs I secretly think
look great today!
(to Jenna)
Let’s go woman who’s bathroom I
pooped in and then didn’t flush
‘cause I couldn’t be bothered!
Tracy and Jenna move off. Liz notices Jack talking to
Kenneth who’s now showing clear flu symptoms; he’s feverish
and weak. Jack holds a clipboard.
JACK
Kenneth, we can only give shots to
personnel we deem essential. Your
work ethic is clearly unmatched and
your passion inspires us and
elevates our esprit de corp. So...
(re: clipboard)
(MORE)
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 11.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK (CONT'D)
On a scale of one to ten how easily
would you say you can be replaced
by robots?
KENNETH
I don’t need a shot, Mr. Donaghy.
It’d be an honor to die at my post.
My only request is to be given the
traditional burial of a Parcell
man: wrapped in a Confederate Flag,
fried, and fed to dogs.
Liz confronts Jack.
LIZ
This is disgusting. Two-tiered
health care based on class is part
of why this country’s such a mess.
JACK
Lemon, you’re going to want a shot.
Please just get it over with.
LIZ
No, Jack. I don’t bail on my
morals when it’s convenient.
JACK
Self interest is the most moral
defining principle of a society.
People can’t deny their nature
indefinitely. You’ll cave.
LIZ
Oh yeah?
Liz turns and addresses the “TGS” staff and crew.
LIZ (CONT’D)
The “Man” has decided that flu
shots are only for the special few.
But I believe we are all equal at
“TGS”... and as Americans...
(finding it)
And as citizens of the world!
KENNETH
Kill the mine owners! We don’t
need their filthy New York money!
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 12.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
LIZ
I say shots should be for everyone,
or for no one! And that is why I
am refusing a shot!
Everyone cheers louder. Liz basks in the love of the people.
LIZ (CONT’D)
(fist pumps, chanting)
Whitehaven! Whitehaven!!!
Lights out. The crowd goes nuts and joins in chanting Liz’s
confusing chant. Jack shakes his head, “Fucking Lemon.”
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
9 -
The Stuck Chair Standoff
INT. STUDIO - A LITTLE LATER
Jenna and Tracy enter surveying sick crew members. Jenna is
dressed in white, hair back, like she’s Madonna in Africa.
JENNA
Don’t worry, everyone, we’re here.
In every great crisis celebrities
have stepped to the fore, from
fixing Africa to ending the scourge
of the irritable bowel.
TRACY
We know you’re sick! If we could
take your places we would! And
those are empty words!
Jenna notices a weakened crew guy struggle to lift a chair in
the prop cage.
JENNA
Take a rest, friend, we’ll do that.
CREW GUY
It’s against union rules.
JENNA
Sounds like a challenge.
Tracy and Jenna enter and push him aside. They start to move
the chair out, but it gets caught in the doorway.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 13.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JENNA (CONT’D)
Watch my nails! I used the same
manicurist who did Sean Penn before
he went to Afghanistan!
They continue to struggle. They can’t coordinate the move.
TRACY
Higher. Higher! No, I’m saying
that to myself!
(then)
Left. Left! No, that’s a figure
of speech!
Jenna drops the chair.
JENNA
You’re insane.
TRACY
You’re a diva.
JENNA
Liz is right, we can’t work
together, even in a crisis. This
chair is like our relationship...
we’re stuck in a door.
TRACY
No one metaphors me!
Tracy storms off. Jenna clambers over the chair then storms
off.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
10 -
A Date with a Twist
INT. JACK’S OFFICE/MR. TEMPLETON’S LIVING ROOM - LATER
Jack is on the phone. SPLIT SCREEN with Elisa.
JACK
I had a wonderful time last night.
ELISA
I did too. For me picnics usually
involve my Uncle Roberto getting
smashed and doing Carlos Mencia
jokes. And not the good ones he
steals from D.L. Hughley.
(then)
(MORE)
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 14.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
ELISA (CONT'D)
I’m really lucky to have met a man
willing to work around my schedule.
JACK
Whatever it takes. Tonight?
ELISA
Mr. Templeton again. I’m sorry.
JACK
It’s okay. I’m just dying to show
you the New York you’ve never seen,
take you to a play...
ELISA
(laughs)
Well, maybe someday we can have a
date where we’re not stuck at a
patient’s house. Adios, querido.
JACK
Adios, querido.
Jack hangs up thinking. A beat. He has an idea.
JACK (CONT’D)
Jonathan! I need front row tickets
to “Xanadu” tonight.
(purposefully)
Three tickets.
Jonathan, looks up, giddy. Can the third one be for him?
SMASH CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
11 -
A Night at the Roller Spectacular
INT. BROADWAY THEATER - NIGHT
Jack and Elisa sit in the front row. She is decked out,
glowing with excitement. WIDEN TO REVEAL Mr. Templeton
sitting next them with his distant, vacant stare.
JACK
I know we’re pushing it here, so
the second you feel uncomfortable --
ELISA
Quiet! It’s starting!
(enrapt)
The Broadway roller skating
spectacular is starting.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 15.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
The lights dim as Olivia Newton John’s “I’m Alive” plays.
Elisa snuggles into Jack’s side. He’s in heaven. ANGLE ON
Mr. Templeton staring.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
12 -
The Unclean Escape
INT. WRITERS’ ROOM/LIZ’S OFFICE - LATER
Liz enters. The sick writers cheer for her.
FRANK
Liz, way to stand up to the “Man”
and his elitist shots.
LIZ
Hey I’m no better than you, Frank.
Sure I work harder, I bathe
regularly, and I didn’t put vodka
in Sue’s orange juice even though
we all know she’s an alcoholic.
FRANK
She deserved it. Not drinking is
so gay.
Liz enters her office. Cerie follows her in.
LIZ
I feel good, Cerie, standing up for
my principles. Worst comes to
worst I get sick, but who cares,
right? My vacation’s off anyway.
CERIE
Totally.
(then, re: message slip)
So a resort called. They had lots
of cancellations because of the flu
and your reservation is back on.
Also, Brian’s going to kill himself
if you don’t return his texts. He
bought a gun. Wait, that’s for me.
Cerie exits. Liz is lost in dreamy vacation thought.
FLASHBACK TO:
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 16.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
EXT. BAHAMAS RESORT - LAST YEAR
Same blissful setting and music. Liz lounges finishing a
soft ice cream. She licks drippings from her arm as she’s
handed another from off screen. She winks flirtatiously.
LIZ
Thank you, Banyani.
CUT BACK TO:
INT. LIZ’S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Liz smiles still far away. Lutz enters. He starts to say
something, emits a horrifying cough, tries to speak again,
sneezes disgustingly then has a wheezing coughing fit.
LIZ
Ah! Unclean! Get away from me!
She covers her mouth and runs out, kicking the door open.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
13 -
Salad of Doom
INT. HALLWAY - MOMENTS LATER
We follow Liz through a stylized homage to “28 Days Later”.
She moves fearfully past SICK PEOPLE huddled and coughing.
Kenneth comes at her holding a salad. He looks terrifying:
sweating, weird pallor, hair askew, slight trickle of blood
from his nose.
KENNETH
(eerie)
Ms. Lemon I got your salad.
He sneezes on it. Liz starts to run. Sick people
everywhere. She grabs a prop gun to avoid touching them.
Liz sees healthy guys in the sound booth and runs to them but
they lock her out. She pounds on the door.
LIZ
No! Please! I’m not one of them!
CUT TO:
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 17.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
14 -
The Flu Shot Ultimatum
INT. GREEN ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Dr. Spaceman is there with his flu shot gear. Liz bursts in.
LIZ
Give me a shot.
DR. SPACEMAN
That would be wise medically. But
as your doctor I must remind you
you’d be compromising a dramatic
ethical stand you took with Jack --
LIZ
Now!!!
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 18.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
15 -
The Shot and the Secret
INT. GREEN ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Liz rolls up her sleeve, preparing to get a shot.
DR. SPACEMAN
You’re lucky. As karma would have
it we ended up with one extra shot.
Sadly, Mr. Garkle had a seizure and
I just sent him to the morgue.
LIZ
He died?
DR. SPACEMAN
(oops)
I should check on that.
LIZ
Listen, you have to promise not to
tell anyone I’m getting this.
DR. SPACEMAN
Liz, I believe doctor-patient
confidentiality is a two-way
street.
(then)
I’m cheating on my wife.
(nervously holds syringe)
Okay. Let’s do this.
TIGHT ON Liz lost in Bahamian fantasy. We hear island music
play as she smiles. Suddenly she winces.
LIZ
That’s my face.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
16 -
The Flu Shot Fakeout
INT. STUDIO - MOMENTS LATER
A secretly inoculated Liz walks happily while rubbing her
sore face. She is lost in song.
LIZ
CARRIBEAN QUEEN/NOW WE’RE SHARING
THE SAME DREAM --
(MORE)
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 19.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
LIZ (CONT'D)
(bumps into Lutz)
Balls, Lutz!
She notices that Lutz is woozy and about to faint.
LIZ (CONT’D)
Whoa, buddy, you need to sit down.
She grabs him a chair and water as he coughs horribly.
PETE
Careful, Liz. You don’t want to
get his flu and ruin your vacation.
LIZ
Oh, um, I’m not worried about that.
Crew guys overhear her. They’re impressed.
CREW GUY #1
How ‘bout that Liz Lemon? First
she refuses to get a shot...!
CREW GUY #2
Now she risks her health to help
Lutz, the most common of all the
writers!
AFRICAN AMERICAN CREW GUY
I heard he bit a thermometer as a
child!
LIZ
Hold on. I don’t want you to get
the wrong idea. The truth is...
(off their innocent looks)
What wouldn’t I do for my guys?!
The crew cheers Liz. Playing to the crowd she wipes Lutz’s
forehead with a cloth. Lutz coughs hard in her face.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
17 -
The Compatibility Test
INT. TRACY’S DRESSING ROOM - LATER
Tracy is there. Jenna enters.
JENNA
Dotcom said you wanted to see me.
Tracy motions for her to sit. She does. After a long beat.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 20.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
TRACY
Jenna, why don’t you like me?
JENNA
What? Tracy, that’s not true.
TRACY
It is. And it hurts. I’m loved by
everyone, except Jimmy Carter. But
that dude has no sense of humor. I
mean, it’s 2009 and we still can’t
make Menachem Begin jokes.
JENNA
You really want to do this?
TRACY
Yes. We’re going to sit here and
work it out. No finger pointing,
no judgement. Now I can take it so
be honest... What is it about me
that makes you such a bitch?
JENNA
Okay, you’re being insulting.
TRACY
That’s racist. Not what you said,
I was just thinking about how all
Chinese people are good at math.
JENNA
This is pointless. We’re the two
least compatible people on earth.
TRACY
Lightbulb! Let’s try a
hypothetical exercise. What if the
flu killed everyone and we were the
last two people? Could we make it
work?
JENNA
Wow. I don’t know.
TRACY
Come on, humans are extinct. We’re
a couple with kids we got from, to
offer a notional point of
reference, doing it like animals.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 21.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JENNA
Okay. If we had kids I suppose I’d
want to raise them Catholic.
TRACY
I’d want to raise them ninja.
JENNA
I’d want to move into Barney’s.
TRACY
I’d want to live in the Joker’s
lair.
JENNA
It’d be nice to spend Thanksgiving
at the empty Kennedy Compound.
TRACY
We’re always going to the Kennedy
Compound for Thanksgiving! This
isn’t working!
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
18 -
Nurturing Acceptance
INT. STUDIO - A LITTLE LATER
Liz is in full Mother Theresa mode, reveling in her newfound
popularity with the crew. She gives one guy a hot compress,
wraps a shivering GRIZZ in a blanket, and gives a feverish
Frank hot tea with lemon.
FRANK
Liz, you’re so kind and beautiful.
I love you.
(calling out)
I love Liz Lemon!
CREW GUY #1
She’s a saint!
CREW GUY #2
Why did we ever hate her?!
LIZ
You hated me?
CREW GUY #1
I think it was her glasses! They
made her seem aloof and stuck up!
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 22.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
AFRICAN AMERICAN CREW GUY
And the way she can’t keep black
guys straight!
LIZ
That’s not true, Fred.
AFRICAN AMERICAN CREW GUY
I’m Rick.
(then smiling)
But your racial insensitivity’s
okay now, you’re one of us!
They all cheer. Liz notices Jack and crosses to him.
JACK
Lemon, I never realized you were
such a woman of the people.
LIZ
I have humble roots, Jack.
(proudly)
As a kid one of my best friends was
on food stamps and another may have
been mentally retarded.
(then)
How was your date with Elisa?
JACK
Oh, Lemon, it was magical...
QUICK CUTS TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
19 -
The Vaccination Revelation
EXT. CENTRAL PARK - LAST NIGHT
A perfect romantic night as Jack, Elisa and a vacant, staring
Mr. Templeton take a pedicab ride.
EXT. COLUMBUS CIRCLE - LAST NIGHT
Jack and Elisa walk arm in arm as the old man trails behind.
Jack tosses change to a MAN IN SILVER MAKEUP performing as a
robot.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 23.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
INT. THE RAINBOW ROOM - LAST NIGHT
Jack and Elisa slow dance on the revolving floor as the old
man sits and stares.
CUT BACK TO:
INT. STUDIO - CONTINUOUS
Liz and Jack as we left them. Jack lost in thought.
JACK
As we sipped wine outside Lincoln
Center I experienced one of life’s
rare perfect moments. Chopin
playing, Elisa laughing and holding
my arm, moonlight reflecting off
Mr. Templeton...
LIZ
You took out a catatonic man?
JACK
I admit it’s an ethical grey area --
LIZ
You’re “Weekend at Bernies”-ing Mr.
Templeton!
JACK
Well, we can’t all be perfect like
you, Lemon: selfless, principled,
risking getting sick even though I
hear your vacation is back on.
LIZ
Yes, and my vacation is very
special to me. But it must take a
backseat while my crew is in need.
JACK
Of course. Oh, Lemon, not that
you’d care, but a few hours after
you get a shot you end up with a
very distinctive bruise in the
shape of a bulls-eye.
Jack rolls up his sleeve. TIGHT ON a bulls-eye bruise.
Liz’s eyes go wide. She nervously touches her face.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 24.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
LIZ
You’re right. I wouldn’t care.
Because I’m a woman of the people.
(then)
White --
JACK
Don’t shout White Haven.
Liz walks off with forced casualness, turns a corner and
frantically sprints off.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
20 -
Fever Dream Denial
INT. MAKE-UP ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Liz bursts in. She sees a bulls-eye bruise forming and grabs
some makeup. Grizz and DOTCOM enter as she covers her cheek.
DOTCOM
Liz, you’ve been so kind during
this trying time. Grizz would like
to read you a haiku he’s written.
LIZ
Grizz, you don’t have to --
GRIZZ
(clears throat, re: paper)
Liz Lemon Lady -- Special healing
flower -- Beautiful Lemon.
LIZ
Oh boy, that’s so nice--
Grizz puts his finger to her mouth and shakes his head; “No.
Words will ruin this.” They exit. Liz starts rapidly
applying make-up but the color’s wrong. She opens the closet
to get more. Out falls a super feverish Kenneth.
KENNETH
I wasn’t resting! A Parcell never
lies down on the job, or undresses
in front of a horse.
LIZ
Kenneth, please get out of here.
KENNETH
(through delirium)
Wait. What’s on your cheek?
(MORE)
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 25.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
KENNETH (CONT'D)
Is that... a bulls-eye bruise?
(putting it together)
Ms. Lemon, you got a shot after
telling everyone you wouldn’t?!
You’re a bigger liar than my cousin
Hank who said I took off my shirt
in the gelding paddock!
LIZ
(thinking on her feet)
Kenneth you’re confused. You’re
having a fever dream.
KENNETH
I am?
Liz quickly covers her mark with the proper shade of makeup.
LIZ
Yes. You dozed off.
(suddenly shaking him)
Kenneth, wake up!
KENNETH
What?! Huh?!
LIZ
You were asleep.
KENNETH
Oh my. I just dreamed I accused
you of lying about getting a flu
shot and you told me I was confused
and was having a fever dream and
then you shouted wake up. I’m so
sorry. Ms. Lemon, can you ever
forgive me?
LIZ
(beat)
No.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
21 -
The Unexpected Visitor
INT. MR. TEMPLETON’S LIVING ROOM - LATER
An elegantly dressed Elisa lets Jack in. He carries papers.
JACK
Sorry I’m late. Meeting ran long.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 26.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
ELISA
Jack, I’m so excited. I’ve never
taken a cruise around Manhattan.
Do you think he’ll be warm enough?
She indicates Mr. Templeton, dressed in a heavy coat and hat.
JACK
He looks fine. But afterwards I
thought we’d get a formal dinner.
Elisa opens Mr. Templeton’s coat revealing proper formal
wear. Jack smiles and gives her a kiss. Suddenly the
doorbell rings.
ELISA
Who could that be?
She crosses to the door and peeks through the curtain.
ELISA (CONT’D)
Oh God. It’s Mr. Templeton’s son.
JACK
I thought he was in Europe?
ELISA
Me too. Jack, I’m not allowed to
have visitors.
She franticly removes Mr. Templeton’s coat and hat.
ELISA (CONT’D)
I can’t lose this job. I’d have to
go back to working the late shift
at Dunkin’ Donuts at eighty-ninth
and Broadway. It was so mind
numbing and the customers made me
so sad...
FLASHBACK TO:
INT. DUNKIN’ DONUTS - MONTHS AGO - LATE NIGHT
Elisa works behind the counter. REVEAL Liz Lemon and a crazy
homeless looking guy (the COLONEL) sizing each other up. A
worker enters with a tray of fresh Boston Kremes. Liz and
the man rush to the counter pushing and shoving.
CUT BACK TO:
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 27.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
22 -
The Madman's Testimony
INT. MR. TEMPLETON’S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Jack and Elisa are as we left them. A key fumbles at the
lock.
ELISA
He’s coming in. Please hide!
Jack nimbly jumps behind some curtains as Elisa covers Mr.
Templeton with a blanket. MICHAEL TEMPLETON enters.
MICHAEL
Hey, Elisa, sorry for the surprise.
I had a last minute meeting in the
city and I wanted to check on dad.
ELISA
No. It’s fine.
Michael notices Jack’s work papers near Mr. Templeton.
ELISA (CONT’D)
Oh, I was just reading to him. You
know, stimulating his brain with --
(re: document title)
-- “Corporate Protocol for
Undermining Sexual Harassment
Claims.”
MICHAEL
How is he?
ELISA
He’s healthy. But as always lost
in his own world, unaware of
anything happening around him --
MR. TEMPLETON
(springing to life)
A man comes to the house! He comes
at night and takes me!
Jack and Elisa react, shocked.
MICHAEL
Dad? What are you saying?
MR. TEMPLETON
A man in a suit comes! His hair is
thick like a Bolshevik Commissar.
(MORE)
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 28.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
MR. TEMPLETON (CONT'D)
He eats in rooms with spinning
floors! He throws metal at a
silver gentleman!
ANGLE ON Jack wincing at the description of their night out.
MICHAEL
Dad you sound crazy. God, maybe we
do need to consider homes. Elisa,
is he making any sense to you?
MR. TEMPLETON
People were singing on roller
skates!
Elisa looks to Jack who shakes his head; “Don’t.”
ELISA
He’s crazy. Your father’s crazy.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
23 -
Last Audience
INT. TRACY’S DRESSING ROOM - LATER
Tracy and Jenna are as we left them. Tracy is fed up.
TRACY
Argh, Jenna! Argh! Why is our
hypothetical relationship so hard?
JENNA
Because you’re impossible. We’re
the last people on earth and you
won’t let me emcee the Emmys?
TRACY
Is nothing sacred?! That should be
a reality TV show host! You’re the
problem. You won’t even let me
give you an affectionate nickname.
JENNA
You called me the N-word.
TRACY
Can we at least agree that we’d
want our kids to be actors?
JENNA
Of course. They’d study Strasberg.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 29.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
TRACY
They’d study Stanislavski! Just
like my role model Sidney Poitier!
JENNA
My children must be “method”! When
they do overly sexualized jeans
commercials I want it to feel real
and very inappropriate!
TRACY
Damn it, Ni --
(bummed)
Jenna. There won’t be commercials
or actors because there won’t be
anyone around to watch us!
This realization hits them both hard. A silent beat.
JENNA
Wow. That would be so sad.
TRACY
I know. People should see you.
You’re really good.
JENNA
You’re making fun of me.
TRACY
No I’m not. You’re very talented.
JENNA
Thanks. You’re very talented too.
This is a genuine sweet moment. Overcome, they hug.
JENNA (CONT’D)
Wow. Maybe we can get along.
TRACY
Yes. And while that chair is
probably stuck in the door forever,
we can still lift people’s spirits--
Lightbulb! Let’s get them food.
JENNA
That’s a great idea! Hey, are you
thinking what I’m thinking?!
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 30.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
TRACY
(excited)
Seems unlikely but maybe!
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
24 -
The Man Behind the Curtain
INT. MR. TEMPLETON’S LIVING ROOM - LATER
Elisa and Michael Templeton are as we left them. Jack still
hides behind the curtain. Mr. Templeton sleeps.
MICHAEL
Good. Dad’s finally asleep. Poor
guy’s really lost it.
ELISA
Don’t feel bad. If I learned
anything from “Girl Interrupted”,
“Sometimes the only way to stay
sane is to go a little crazy.”
(then)
Come on. Let’s make sure your
bedroom is set up.
They exit, leaving Mr. Templeton behind. Jack emerges and
tiptoes out. He stops and casts an affectionate glance at
the old man. Suddenly Mr. Templeton’s eyes open. He starts.
MR. TEMPLETON
He’s here! The man is here!
JACK
Shhh! Please, sir --
MR. TEMPLETON
With his barrel chest and his
trickster eyes! Are you coming to
take me?! I did things during the
war! Terrible things!
JACK
No. Sir. My name is Jack. I’m
just a man dating your nurse and I
took advantage of your condition to
be with her. You see, I ruined my
last relationship because we didn’t
make time to be together and I was
so afraid of reliving that pain
that I behaved terribly. And I’m
sorry.
(MORE)
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 31.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK (CONT'D)
But being out with Elisa these last
few nights has allowed me to
discover that this amazing,
beautiful woman is my soulmate.
MR. TEMPLETON
The Puerto Rican?
JACK
That really does not sound right.
But yes. She’s a gift, and I don’t
want her to lose her job. So I beg
you, sir, please be discrete.
MR. TEMPLETON
Listen, Jack, you seem like sweet
kids. I won’t tell anyone. All I
ask is that you still take me out
once in a while.
JACK
(moved)
Of course, sir. It’d be a
pleasure.
MR. TEMPLETON
And I’m gonna write down the name
of a Ukrainian man I want killed.
Jack reacts, “Is he kidding?” It’s not clear.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
25 -
The Flu Shot Fiasco
INT. STUDIO BACKSTAGE - A LITTLE LATER
Sick people are everywhere. Tracy and Jenna enter.
JENNA
TGS Staff! Tracy and I have joined
forces to lift your spirits.
TRACY
You’re all so special to us.
Especially you, guy I couldn’t care
less about.
JENNA
We’ve gotten everyone the perfect
“get over the flu” treat...
TRACY/JENNA
Sushi!
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 32.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
DELIVERY MEN enter with trays of sushi. Everyone recoils.
TRACY
Don’t be shy! There’s eel!
JENNA
Come on. Promise you’ll at least
smell it.
Liz enters. Facial bruise totally covered.
LIZ
What are you guys doing?! This is
not the way to help sick people!
DOTCOM
They don’t get us like you do, Liz.
She smiles proudly, then notices Kenneth collapsed on a chair
shivering. She removes her sweater and bundles him with it.
It’s a stylized, saintly moment: she smiles maternally,
Kenneth smiles back, everyone is moved, Grizz is glowing. An
angelic light from above shines down on her (a GAFFER adjusts
a light to see better). Kenneth reaches out a clammy hand
and touches his angel’s face. Make-up comes off on his hand
revealing... the bulls-eye bruise. Everyone gasps.
PETE
Liz, what’s that on your face?
JENNA
Saint Liz got a flu shot!
Everyone reacts angry and betrayed.
CREW GUY #1
She sold out her principles for a
stupid vacation!
CREW GUY #2
She’s so selfish and shallow!
AFRICAN AMERICAN CREW GUY
Just because I’m black she assumed
I wanted to hear a Dr. J anecdote!
KENNETH
Wake up, Kenneth! Wake up!
ANGLE ON a devastated Grizz who sheds a single tear. Jack
enters to witness this disaster.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 33.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
LIZ
It’s not what you think! It wasn’t
just a vacation. It’s... I...
Everyone boos and jeers.
LIZ (CONT’D)
There’s a gentleman involved!!
Everyone freezes. A stunned silence. No one expected this.
LIZ (CONT’D)
That’s right! A Filipino gentleman
named Banyani! He’s a parasailing
instructor! I let him touch my
feet when they get tan! I have an
island lover!!
FLASHBACK TO:
EXT. BAHAMAS RESORT - LAST YEAR
Same scene. Liz lounges. WIDEN to reveal she’s making
flirty eye-contact with BANYANI, a beautiful Filipino man.
CUT BACK TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
26 -
The Blanket Betrayal
INT. STUDIO BACKSTAGE - CONTINUOUS
Everyone is as we left them.
LIZ
I work hard! Don’t I deserve some
fun?! Come on, buddies, I’m still
one of you! I made you tea! I
laughed at your butt-centric sex
jokes! I gave you blankets!
Everyone starts to boo.
LIZ (CONT’D)
Grizz, remember the blankets!
Grizz shakes his head and exits. Jack reacts, “Oh, Lemon.”
CUT TO:
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 34.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
27 -
Taking a Chance on Magic
INT. JACK’S OFFICE - LATER
Jack fixes Liz a drink as she sits, head in hands.
JACK
Once again, Lemon, the line between
you and I blurs. Turns out you do
want your elite benefits. By the
way, don’t be in Istanbul in March.
We expect mud tornados and a fire
hurricane.
(off look)
Global warming may be real.
LIZ
I’m so embarrassed.
JACK
Why, because you’re human? Because
you desire an exotic lover?
Because you want to “get you groove
back?”
LIZ
You’re kind of torturing me...
JACK
Yes. It’s very satisfying.
LIZ
You know, I’m at a good place in my
life. I have a job I love, I own a
treadmill, I’m not ashamed to make
a scene at McDonalds when I get
“under-McNuggeted.” But with guy
stuff, I cannot keep it tight.
JACK
Lemon, earlier tonight I was
literally hiding behind a curtain
for a woman. It was like a scene
in a Moliere farce...
(off confused look)
A “Three’s Company” episode.
LIZ
(remembers chuckling)
Mr. Roper thought Chrissy was
pregnant, but she just had a wart.
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 35.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
JACK
Everyone’s floundering when it
comes to love. We’re all beating
our heads against the wall, hoping
against hope for a moment of magic.
LIZ
Well, I’m not going on my trip.
What was I thinking? Meeting some
strange guy I’d kinda gotten to
second base with depending on how
exactly you count feet touching.
JACK
Come on, Lemon. You’ve already
been humiliated. The worst has
happened. Take a chance. Take a
chance on finding some magic.
Liz takes this in.
CUT TO:
Genres:
Ratings
Scene
28 -
The Price of Romance
EXT. BAHAMAS RESORT - A WEEK LATER
Liz sits in her dream vacation chair as “Magic” from Xanadu
plays. She looks fantastic; her hair blows in the breeze and
she makes the tankoort work. Suddenly, she sees him...
Banyani. He’s gorgeous. They share a smile. He approaches.
LIZ
Oh, hello, Banyani.
BANYANI
Elizabeth. I’ve been counting the
days until I could see you again.
Liz laughs at nothing in particular.
BANYANI (CONT’D)
You are so beatiful. Do you think
tonight could be a special night?
LIZ
Maybe it could.
He leans in close, taking in her beauty. It’s magic.
BANYANI
You know this will be two hundred
dollars, right?
30 ROCK 308: "TBD" 36.
Writers' Draft 9/18/08
Liz reacts, “of course,” and stands. A passing waiter hands
her an ice cream. She moves to shove it in Banyani’s face,
then thinks better of it, takes a huge messy bite and strides
off proudly, displaying odd tankoort bows and straps.
FADE OUT.
END OF SHOW