The Goldbergs

When Erica is left by her boyfriend, the whole family bands together, while Beverly sets off to find an attractive new partner. Meanwhile, Barry finds himself short of cash after becoming hooked on an arcade game, as he struggles to fund his habit.

The Age of Darkness is a programme presented as an episode, falling within the genre of a standard television episode. It follows a slice‑of‑life narrative centred on a single family and the small crises that surface in their everyday lives. When Erica discovers that her boyfriend has ended their relationship, the family instantly bands together to support her. Their collective effort underscores the close‑knit nature of the household, offering Erica comfort and a sense of belonging despite the sudden heartbreak. The scene sets the tone for the episode’s focus on personal setbacks and the ways relatives respond. Meanwhile, Beverly takes it upon herself to look for a new romantic prospect, hoping to find a handsome replacement for Erica’s former partner. Her quest reflects both a desire to move forward and the family’s inclination to keep morale high. By actively seeking companionship, Beverly demonstrates a proactive approach to dealing with the emotional ripple caused by the breakup. At the same time, Barry finds himself in a financial pinch after becoming hooked on an arcade game. His growing addiction leads him to require money, adding another layer of tension to the household. Barry’s struggle illustrates how a seemingly harmless pastime can quickly evolve into a pressing concern, further testing the family’s ability to rally around each other.