Steptoe and Son

Harold attracts a new admirer—a gay antiques dealer whose persistent attentions quickly become evident, sparking interest and discomfort among those around him. Albert's homophobia is provoked by the dealer's advances, sending his prejudice into overdrive and intensifying the tension within the household.

is a television programme presented as a single episode. It falls within the broader category of episodic drama, and its format is that of a self‑contained story rather than a multi‑part series. The title itself hints at the show's focus on the world of second‑hand goods and the characters who inhabit it. In this episode, Harold becomes the object of affection for a new admirer – a gay antiques dealer. The dealer’s interest in Harold is not fleeting; his attentions are persistent, creating a clear and ongoing thread throughout the narrative. This development places Harold at the centre of an unexpected romantic pursuit that drives much of the episode’s action. The dealer’s relentless approach does more than simply court Harold; it also acts as a catalyst for tension elsewhere. Albert, another key figure in the story, reacts strongly to the dealer’s overtures. Albert’s response is characterised by an intense, almost reflexive homophobia that is amplified by the dealer’s continued advances. This heightened reaction underscores a clash of attitudes that fuels the episode’s conflict. Ultimately, the episode juxtaposes Harold’s newfound attention with Albert’s over‑the‑top homophobic response, highlighting how a single personal interaction can ripple outward, affecting the dynamics between the characters. The storyline remains focused on these two relationships, keeping the narrative tight and centred on the immediate consequences of the dealer’s persistence.