The new CBS sitcom "Partners" debuted on Sept. 24, and it looks like it could be a great addition to the network's strong comedy lineup. The show focuses on Joe and Louis, two life-long friends who are also business partners. The two have a lot in common, but have one major difference when it comes to sexuality. While Joe is straight and dating Ali, Louis is gay. That sets the stage for the first episode, and likely, the rest of the series. Here is a recap of the first episode of "Partners."
Joe and Louis
The episode opens with the two partners working on a model for the architecture firm. After sharing a childhood story, the two start talking about Ali. When Louis sees Joe avoid her phone call, he senses a problem. It turns out that Joe is considering ending the relationship because he's scared of commitment. Ali wants to get married and have kids, but Joe seems nervous about it. After talking to Louis, Joe realizes that it isn't fair to string Ali along. It seems clear that the two are close enough friends to share all details of their lives. However, that gets threatened when Louis inadvertently gets involved in Joe's relationship.Joe and Ali
Joe visits Ali with the intention of dumping her, but she surprises him with some great news about a ring she designed. In addition, Ali informs Joe that she loves him but doesn't want to pressure him. Just then, Joe gets down on one knee and proposes to her. She happily accepts, and all seems well. That is, all seems well until Ali attends a yoga class with Louis. Unaware that Joe has popped the question, Louis tries to console her for being dumped. A understandably angry Ali calls Joe and calls off the engagement. Eventually, Louis visits her and begs her to marry Joe. He even stages a proposal, asking Ali to marry his best friend. As strange as that was, Ali calls Joe and ultimately accepts the proposal. She also encourages Joe to forgive his friend, and things return to normal.Louis and Wyatt
While Joe has Ali, Louis is in a relationship with Wyatt. Wyatt is a male nurse that the ultra-vein Louis refers to as a doctor. While Louis is flamboyant and self-absorbed, Wyatt is casual and laid back. While he doesn't articulate things very well, he does explain the value of relationships to Joe during a meeting. While they seem like an odd couple, it seems clear that Louis and Wyatt have a strong connection. He accepts that Wyatt is a nurse, and the episode ends with the four main characters sharing coffee. At the end, Wyatt and Ali both realize that Joe and Louis are the third couple at the table.
