The Big Valley Season 4 Episode 26

Okay, Let's Talk About "The Big Valley" and *That* Episode...

Alright, "The Big Valley" fans. Let's get real. We all have our favorite episodes. And, of course, the ones we maybe... skip over. Today, we are going to talk about Season 4 Episode 26.

Now, I know what you're thinking. Season 4? Already? But hear me out. This one is...interesting.

"Joshua Watson" – An Unpopular Opinion?

The episode is called “Joshua Watson.” It involves a man with a troubled past. Naturally, he crosses paths with the Barkley family. Things get complicated, as they usually do when someone steps foot on the Barkley ranch.

Here's where my unpopular opinion kicks in. I just wasn't *that* invested in Joshua Watson's story. Sorry, not sorry!

I wanted more Victoria! More Jarrod arguing legal points! Even more Heath getting into fistfights. Joshua? Eh.

Look, the acting was fine. The plot was…there. It's just that it lacked that special something. You know, that *Barkley* family magic.

Maybe it's because the episode felt a bit predictable. Troubled stranger arrives. Barkley family helps. Stranger almost ruins everything. Barkley family saves the day. Rinse and repeat!

What Were They Thinking? (Probably Not About Me)

I'm sure the writers had their reasons. Maybe they wanted to explore a deeper, more emotional theme. Maybe they were trying something new. But for me, it fell a little flat.

And yes, I understand every episode can't be a home run. Some are bound to be…less memorable. Still, I can't help but feel this one missed the mark.

Did anyone else find Joshua a bit… whiny? I mean, I get it, life's hard. But come on! You're dealing with the Barkleys! They are basically the Western version of the Avengers, capable of anything.

But It Wasn't *All* Bad...Right?

Okay, okay, I'm being harsh. There were a few redeeming qualities. I did enjoy seeing Nick getting involved. The brotherly moments are always great to watch.

And let's be honest, any episode with Victoria Barkley is worth watching. The woman is a legend. Pure class, strong-willed, and always the smartest person in the room. That's the truth.

"She's the glue that holds that crazy family together,"

The scenery was lovely, as always. California in the 1870s? Beautiful! Plus, the costumes were on point. I always appreciate the attention to detail.

So, What's the Verdict?

Ultimately, "Joshua Watson" is an okay episode. Just not a great one. It's the kind of episode you watch when you've already seen all the others ten times over.

I wouldn't skip it entirely. But I wouldn't exactly rush to rewatch it either. It's more of a background noise episode, while you are doing something else.

Maybe I'm being too critical. Maybe I just had high expectations. What do you all think? Am I alone in this? Let me know!

And now, if you excuse me, I'm going to go watch "The Emperor of Nothing". Now *that's* a "Big Valley" episode worth talking about.

Thanks for reading, and remember, everyone is entitled to their *Big Valley* opinions. Even the unpopular ones.