Dr. Ken – “Pat’s Rash” Recap. Mixed Bag of Nuts.

Season 2, Episode 17

Air Date: Friday, February 17, 2017, 8:30/7:30c on ABC

Rating: ★★★★★

“It’s just a basic irritant who happens to have a rash.” – Ken

As Pat’s (Dave Foley) relationship with Megan (Gillian Vigman) intensifies, a mysterious rash begins to develop on Pat’s face. Thankfully, Welltopia’s ~~fifth~~, ~~seventh~~ tenth best doctor is on the case. It’s not long before Ken (Ken Jeong) begins to wonder whether Pat’s association with Megan and his rash are related or if there are other factors at work behind Pat’s rash. Could Pat be allergic to Megan?

Pat’s skin irritation doesn’t come as a surprise. Let’s face it, it was only a matter of time before he came down with something! Fortunately, the rash is contained to Pat’s face. Nevertheless, much to Ken’s chagrin, he has to examine Pat everywhere, and I do mean everywhere! The results are comical and the banter between the two men is some of their best. There are so many quips that had me laughing, it’s hard to pick a favorite. That said, one of them is when Pat scolds Ken, saying, “Under this rash, I am red with anger.”

In my review of “Ken and the Basketball Star,” I mentioned some of my favorite moments on Dr. Ken are when Pat shares quality one-on-one time with various members of the Park family; “Pat’s Rash” is no exception. As quirky as he can be, there are times when Pat’s humanity really shines through. For Ken, Pat isn’t just a boss; he’s a friend and the two share several scenes that are really heartfelt. That is, until Ken’s diagnosis, which puts Pat’s relationship with Megan in jeopardy. Considering how enjoyable Pat and Ken are when alone, perhaps there should be an episode titled “Ken and Pat Get Trapped in an Elevator.”

Allison (Suzy Nakamura) joining Welltopia has opened up all kinds of new storylines for her. It has allowed Allison to form friendships with her co-workers rather than having the occasional visit to the clinic as Ken’s wife in season one. I especially enjoy the bond forming between Allison and Clark (Jonathan Slavin) as they spend quality time together away from work. While I wouldn’t want to see it used too often, the bit about the voice in their heads is extremely funny and works exceptionally well in “Pat’s Rash.”

Meanwhile, Dave (Albert Tsai) overhears a conversation between Allison and Ken and assumes they’re talking about him and his girlfriend Emily (Zooey Jeong). Following advice that’s not meant for him, Dave realizes he isn’t as compatible with Emily as he thought and decides to end things with her. Needless to say, Emily’s reaction isn’t what Dave expects. I can only imagine what Ken Jeong, the father, felt as he watched his TV son break up with his real life daughter.

This season, Jeong and the Dr. Ken writers appear to be striving to tackle more medical issues. This isn’t without risk as the writers walk a fine line in finding the humor in a situation without making a mockery of it. A similar approach is taken when it comes to Clark’s storylines in that he isn’t the stereotypical gay character with amusing gay sub-plots; Clark is an entertaining character who just happens to be gay.

Written by Lisa McQuillan and directed by Phil Lewis, “Pat’s Rash” is an entertaining episode. I can’t help wondering, however, if the increase in serious tone is meant to pave the way for next week’s episode, “Allison Finds a Lump.” Most likely, it will have some deep emotional correlation to Jeong’s own family.

Tweet me @Staffaroadtrip or leave a comment below to let me know what you think about “Pat’s Rash.”

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Greg Staffa

I provide testosterone to the site. You won’t be reading about how nice a actress looks in a dress or how much of a hunk Matt Bomer is in my reviews. I describe colors using words like brown, not taupe. My twitter name is @staffaroadtrip because I love road trips and have done two different 48-state road trips since 2008. My favorite show is White Collar.