Drop the Dead Donkey

Henry's nephew arrives hoping to secure a role in the newsroom, eager to start his career under his uncle's guidance. Yet his talent for charming the women there soon undermines his chances, as his flirtatious behaviour raises doubts about his professionalism.

Old Father Time is a programme presented in the form of a single episode. It falls under the genre of an episode‑type series, offering a brief, self‑contained story within the wider title. The format is straightforward, focusing on a specific situation rather than a long‑running narrative. The central action revolves around Henry’s nephew, who arrives with the intention of securing a position in the newsroom. He is eager to prove himself and hopes the job will launch his career. However, his prospects quickly become compromised because he demonstrates an excessive talent for flirting with the female staff, a habit that undermines his professional ambitions. His penchant for charming the girls proves to be more of a liability than an asset. While his charisma might initially appear appealing, it distracts from the seriousness of the role he seeks and raises concerns among those overseeing the hiring process. The nephew’s behaviour creates a tension between his desire for employment and the impression he leaves on his potential colleagues. In the end, the nephew’s flirtatious approach jeopardises the very opportunity he came to obtain. The episode highlights how a seemingly harmless skill can backfire when it clashes with the expectations of a workplace, ultimately putting his chance of a newsroom job at risk.