Summary
The many minor storylines slowly develop in episode four, “Be Bold”, while Cal and Maddie’s relationship is the clear highlight of the season so far. The show moves at its own pace, offering a different style of storytelling, which is steadily winning me over, I must admit.
We recap the Netflix series Sweet Magnolias Season 3 Episode 4, “Be Bold,” which contains significant spoilers.
All the many subplots in Sweet Magnolias are very steadily starting to develop and move forward in “Be Bold.” Maddie (JoAnna Garcia Swisher) and Cal (Justin Bruening) celebrate the end of their two-week challenge, Dana Sue (Brooke Elliott) contemplates what to do with Frances’ (Cindy Karr) money, and Helen (Heather Headley) offers help to teenager CeCe (Harlan Drum).
Sweet Magnolias Season 3 Episode 4 Recap
The episode begins with Helen looking through her box of memories from Frances. Ryan informs Helen that he only has a few more boxes to deliver, but he has decided to stay in Serenity for good anyway.
Helen brings up work. Ryan has taken on a substitute teacher position at the local school but is considering other options as well.
Why is Peggy investigating the mayor?
At Sullivan’s, Dana Sue is visited by reporter Peggy. She has been digging into the mayor’s finances. Mayor Trent has gone missing after announcing his resignation. Peggy believes that he has been using the town’s funds for his own financial gain. She asks Dana Sue to listen out for any rumors about the mayor’s whereabouts.
Annie overhears this conversation and messages Jackson, but he doesn’t respond. Later she phones him, and still there is no response. She starts to worry about her boyfriend’s safety.
Elsewhere, Maddie and Cal’s two-week challenge is nearing its end. Cal is desperate to kiss Maddie, but they still have two more days to endure.
Maddie tells Cal that she has signed up for figure drawing with Pastor June, although she’s worried that she’ll be no good. Her mother is a renowned painter, and she feels out of her depth.
Maddie discusses Tyler’s college prospects. He still doesn’t know what he wants to do in the future. Maddie suggests that he makes a pile of things he may want to do and one of the definite no-nos.
Gabe suggests Tyler take up football, but he instantly declines.
Why is Erik given time off work?
Things are still awkward between Erik and Helen. A chance encounter at Sullivan’s ends badly. Erik is distracted and accidentally injures his hand in the kitchen. Dana Sue gives him time off work to regain some focus.
Erik uses this time to contemplate Kathy’s offer. He heads to Kathy’s work and shakes hands with the assistant manager; it looks like he’s made his mind up after all. Kathy’s having a great day, she’s won over Erik, and then Bill asks her out on a date. I bet she can’t believe her luck.
Why did Dana Sue get so much money from Miss Frances?
Paula passes Dana Sue one of Miss Frances’ old journals. She admits that Frances was in love with Dana Sue’s father but never acted on those feelings. She saw Dana Sue as her life’s legacy. This explains why Dana Sue ended up with Frances’ money. Dana Sue realizes that she needs to use this money to make Serenity a better place and to fulfill Miss Frances’ wishes.
The trio meet up later. Dana Sue discloses her revelation about Frances. It all makes sense to her now. Helen talks about a fancy dinner she has planned with Ryan; she invites the others.
Dana Sue says yes, but Maddie will be busy at figure drawing class instead.
Next, Helen meets with Peggy. The reporter has found out that Mary Vaughn is selling her home. Peggy is suspicious of her and the mayor’s behavior.
Helen says she hasn’t heard or seen anything illegal from them but will keep an eye out. She suggests that Peggy run for office.
Why does Helen offer CeCe a place to stay?
Then CeCe enters Helen’s office. She wants to get emancipated. Her parents are moving away, and she wants to finish out her education in Serenity. Helen offers CeCe a place to stay at her home instead. They agreed to discuss this offer with CeCe’s parents.
She tries to convince them that this is a sensible plan. The parents have their reservations, but Helen puts their minds at ease. Helen awaits their decision.
Ryan is surprised by this news and annoyed that Helen would make such a big decision on her own. Ryan promises that he is staying in Serenity, but the CeCe news has definitely shaken him.
Ronnie decides to make a scene at Sullivans, where he proclaims his love to Dana Sue. He then gets down on one knee and proposes a second marriage. They kiss, and the whole restaurant cheer and applaud this happy union.
Sweet Magnolias Season 3 Episode 4 Ending Explained
Near the end of the episode, Jackson finally reunites with Annie. He tells her that his mom took his phone, and they are moving away from Serenity.
Cal takes Maddie out on a romantic date. He has built her a beautiful wooden garden swing. They celebrate the end of their two-week challenge. They admit that their relationship feels stronger now and then finally kiss one another. Hooray!
What did you think of Netflix’s Sweet Magnolias Season 3 Episode 4? Comment below.
