Diff'rent Strokes

Multi-millionaire Phillip Drummond takes in two African American boys, Arnold and Willis, at the request of his late housekeeper, hoping to provide them a better life in his luxurious penthouse. As he attempts to win their trust with gifts and affection, he becomes concerned when he discovers the boys are plotting to return to Harlem. Helping Drummond integrate the boys into his affluent, predominantly white household are his new housekeeper, Mrs. Garrett, and his teenage daughter, Kimberly.

Arnold overhears Mr. Drummond speaking with a social worker and misinterprets a private conversation, leading him and Willis to believe they are no longer wanted at the school. The misunderstanding causes tension as they feel their place at the school is in jeopardy.

Mr. Drummond's mother, a high-society and aloof woman, visits and disapproves of her son's new family. She initially judges them based on superficial standards but gradually comes to understand the true qualities that matter in people.

Mr. Drummond enrolls Arnold and Willis in an elite preparatory school, but the institution's extreme exclusivity creates unexpected challenges for the boys and those around them.

Arnold disregards warnings and continues throwing water balloons from the balcony, leading to a confrontation with Mr. Drummond. When Mr. Drummond decides to punish Arnold with a spanking, Willis volunteers to carry out the punishment, only to discover that Arnold has mysteriously disappeared.

Arnold becomes increasingly upset after losing his favorite doll and takes out his frustration on his family, leading them to make efforts to recover it and restore peace at home.

Arnold faces disciplinary action after placing his goldfish in Mr. Drummond's hot tub, prompting Willis to argue that a trial is necessary before judgment. The family holds a mock trial with Mrs. Garrett presiding, ultimately delivering a significant verdict.

The Drummond family comes together for a Christmas celebration, sharing fond and funny memories since Arnold and Willis became part of the household. This special episode is a compilation of past moments, showcasing the family's growth and humor over time.

The Drummond family gathers for a Christmas celebration, reminiscing about the comedic moments that have occurred since Arnold and Willis became part of the household. This special one-hour episode showcases memorable highlights from earlier seasons.

Willis enlists Arnold to train for a fight against a local bully, but Mr. Drummond advocates for resolving the conflict through more peaceful and civilized means.

Willis brings his Harlem neighborhood club to visit, but his attempt to showcase his newfound wealth leads to complications.

Mr. Drummond's plan to marry an attractive widow is met with disapproval from his children, who conspire to sabotage the romantic proposal through a carefully devised scheme.

Arnold, feeling neglected, devises a scheme to capture his family's attention. His plan succeeds beyond his expectations, drawing the concern of the entire household, including their doctor.

LaWanda Page appears as a distant cousin of Willis and Arnold, reuniting with the boys after learning of their improved living situation and deciding to get closer to them.

Drummond arranges for a tutor to assist Willis and Arnold, but the tutor spends more time on unconventional activities than actual teaching.

The children come up with a plan to persuade Arnold to convince the new landlord to allow the family to remain in their penthouse apartment.

Willis tries to distance himself from his annoying younger brother by splitting their bedroom and spending more time at a friend's house.

Mrs. Garrett, feeling unfulfilled in her role as a housekeeper, stays as a guest in the Drummond home and ultimately makes a significant decision about her future.

Willis takes a job to earn money for disco skates and to challenge Mr. Drummond's expectations, but he is fired on his first day.

Phillip Drummond faces a moral dilemma when he discovers that buying a Portland radio station might cost his friend Larry Alder his job, leading to a comedic and heartfelt confrontation between the two longtime friends.

Phillip Drummond faces a moral dilemma when he discovers that buying a Portland radio station might cost his friend Larry Alder his job, leading to a comedic and heartfelt confrontation between the two longtime friends.

Arnold accidentally witnesses a robbery, and the perpetrator takes steps to prevent the boy from recognizing or reporting him.

Willis becomes upset when he believes his family has forgotten his birthday, but his concerns are unfounded as they have planned a special celebration in his childhood Harlem neighborhood, fulfilling a long-held wish of his.

Mrs. Garrett visits Kimberly's school and challenges the assertive principal, leading to unexpected outcomes.