"Hark, the Sweatkings" served as the second season's Christmas episode, guest starring movie tough guy Michael V. Gazzo as the homeless derelict Angie, as expected an object of scorn for the Sweathogs. They also learn that Angie describes himself as a 'corporate executive keeping a low profile.' One look at Gabe Kotter and Angie remembers him: "Kotter, ain't you graduated yet?" Angie's life was destroyed by gambling, once a butcher with his own shop, a wife and four kids. Since the holiday season is one of giving, Gabe convinces the Sweathogs to treat Angie to something he'd never expect, a complete makeover in the classroom. There's a brief appearance from Santa Claus, as in next season's "Sweathog Christmas Special."
2 Reviews
Touching Episode
janethdi15 March 2006
This is obviously the Welcome Back Kotter Christmas episode dealing with some harsh facts about the holidays. It also teaches that sometimes people are incapable of change. This took place in 1976 and I remember it as if it was yesterday. It was so nice to see Michael V. Gazzo in something other than gangster movies. Although he plays Angie the bum, this episode was ahead of its time dealing with the homeless. He was a regular guy until his gambling habits became a problem. I remember that he took care of him, groomed him and basically gave him a second chance in life. It really stuck out in my mind after all of these years. Naturally, all of the same sweathog hijinks as usual, but a couple of really tender scenes. The sweathogs learned a lot about having bad habits and how it could ruin your life. Check it out!
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
