Northern Disclosure: Season 2, Episode 2 - "The Big Kiss"

Release Date: July 22, 2025

Hosts: Rob Morrow and Janine Turner
Podcast: Northern Disclosure
Produced by: Evergreen Podcasts

Introduction

In Season 2, Episode 2 of Northern Disclosure, titled "The Big Kiss," hosts Rob Morrow and Janine Turner delve deep into one of Northern Exposure's most memorable episodes. They explore the intricate narratives, underlying themes, and the lasting impact of the episode on both fans and the show's legacy.

Overview of "The Big Kiss" Episode

"The Big Kiss," scripted by the late Henry Bral and directed by Sandy Smolet, intertwines two primary storylines:

1. Ed's Quest for His Parents:
   Ed, portrayed by Darren E. Burrows, embarks on a spiritual journey to find his biological parents. Guided by his guardian angel, One Who Waits, Ed navigates metaphysical realms to uncover his origins.

2. Chris's Lost Voice:
   Chris Stevens, the beloved radio DJ played by John Corbett, loses his voice after being enchanted by a mysterious woman. The only remedy is a kiss from the most beautiful woman in town, leading to the titular "Big Kiss."

Themes and Discussions

Spirituality and Metaphysics

Rob and Janine delve into the episode's rich spiritual tapestry. They discuss how Northern Exposure seamlessly blends everyday life with metaphysical elements, creating a unique narrative experience.

Janine Turner [03:15]:
"Ed is looking for his parents... his guardian angel spirit arrives to help him go on a journey to help him find his parents. It's kind of a little bit like 'It's a Wonderful Life.'"

Rob expands on this, highlighting the show's exploration of different cultural perspectives on spirituality.

Rob Morrow [05:19]:
"One who Waits says white people can be blind... It's an interesting notion to put out there."

They further discuss the delicate balance between portraying spiritual elements and maintaining respect for diverse cultural beliefs.

The Big Kiss Plotline

The hosts analyze the whimsical yet poignant storyline of Chris losing his voice. They explore Maggie o'Connell's role and the communal effort to restore Chris's voice through the symbolic "big kiss."

Rob Morrow [18:29]:
"Maggie and Joel's chemistry was so damn cute."

Janine reflects on the suspension of reality that the episode demands, allowing viewers to embrace the magical realism inherent in the show's storytelling.

Janine Turner [08:51]:
"I think that ... that was wonderful the way he took him from play... the spiritual quality that the Native Americans were having. The white folk were having it, too."

Character Arcs and Development

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Joel Fleischman's character arc, emphasizing his spiritual growth and the gradual softening of his materialistic worldview.

Rob Morrow [26:05]:
"One could argue in terms of Joel's journey that it is a spiritual journey that is a kind of an arc, an opening to other than what is before our eyes."

Behind the Scenes

Writing and Direction

Rob and Janine pay tribute to Henry Bral, the episode's writer, praising his exceptional storytelling and profound impact on the series.

Rob Morrow [13:24]:
"Henry was a super smart and talented writer."

They also discuss Sandy Smolet's direction, noting his ability to maintain consistency and enhance the episode's emotional depth.

Janine Turner [14:32]:
"He did such a good job. I think it's really lovely. It's really well directed, don't you think?"

Production Challenges

The hosts share anecdotes about the logistical challenges of filming, such as coordinating large trucks for scenes and managing multiple shooting locations.

Rob Morrow [23:07]:
"They would pay a logging company to allow a driver to drive through a shot with a big, long flatbed... We had to wait for the truck to circle because it was a big truck."

They also touch upon the complexities of securing music rights for the show, highlighting the dedication of the production team to preserve the series' musical essence.

Janine Turner [51:23]:
"The music was really difficult to have to call all the licensing."

Listener Interactions

Questions and Comments

The hosts engage with listener feedback, reading and responding to insightful questions and heartfelt comments that demonstrate the show's enduring impact.

Listener Question from Kaja Koshnova [39:27]:

"Rob once said in an interview that he remembers that many times his character merged with himself... Does Rob also remember such moments?"

Rob and Janine share personal reflections on how their own experiences influenced their performances, blurring the lines between actor and character.

Rob Morrow [40:26]:
"The whole way that I approach the work is to use my own experience... if I were talking about missing home, I could tap into what I'm actually feeling."

Heartfelt Listener Comments:

• Turtle Kitty 357 [48:06]:
  "Thanks so much for this show. It meant more to me than you know... the show was a national event at the time."

• Sky Tenniel [49:32]:
  "I marvel at the amazing storytelling this series brought to television and still does."

These interactions underscore the show's ability to resonate deeply with its audience, offering comfort and a sense of community.

Reflections on the Show's Impact

Rob and Janine acknowledge the profound influence Northern Exposure has had on its fans, providing a sanctuary of eccentric characters and thought-provoking narratives.

Janine Turner [56:50]:
"Northern Exposure is the perfect antidote to the times we are living through."

They discuss the challenges of retaining the show's essence in today's fragmented media landscape, where binge-watching dominates over weekly episode releases.

Rob Morrow [62:18]:
"It's a different world for sure. It's fragmented."

Nonetheless, they celebrate the show's timeless appeal and its ability to foster meaningful connections among viewers.

Conclusion

Season 2, Episode 2 of Northern Disclosure offers a rich exploration of "The Big Kiss" episode, blending nostalgic reverence with insightful analysis. Rob Morrow and Janine Turner adeptly navigate the episode's spiritual themes, character developments, and behind-the-scenes intricacies, all while engaging deeply with their dedicated fanbase. This episode serves not only as a celebration of a beloved series but also as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling that touches the soul.

Notable Quotes:

• Janine Turner [00:00]:
  "Close your eyes. Exhale. Feel your body relax and let go of whatever you're carrying today."

• Rob Morrow [18:29]:
  "Maggie and Joel's chemistry was so damn cute."

• Janine Turner [56:50]:
  "The way they used music... it was coming from somewhere... it was always."

Remember:
Northern Disclosure is available for streaming on the Northern Disclosure YouTube channel and major podcast platforms. Stay tuned for more engaging discussions and behind-the-scenes insights into Northern Exposure.