On today’s episode of That Was Us, we’re diving into Season 4, Episode 7: The Dinner and the Date. Malik and Deja skip school to explore Philly, which leads to a dinner at Beth and Randall's with Malik's parents to discuss how to handle their relationship. Meanwhile, in the past, Jack and Rebecca welcome Randall’s teacher, Mr. Lawrence, to their home for dinner. Plus, Mandy, Chris, and Sterling chat with Asante Blackk, AKA Malik, about his journey leading up to This Is Us, what it was like playing Malik, memories acting with Lyric Ross (Deja), funny memories in scenes with Sterling, and so much more!

That Was Us is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions. Music by Taylor Goldsmith and Griffin Goldsmith.

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🍋 About the Show:

The stars of This Is Us, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, and Chris Sullivan, dive back into the world of the Pearsons, reliving each episode and all the life lessons that came with it. Together, they dig in and dig deep, have the tough conversations, bring in very special and familiar guests, share never-before-heard behind-the-scenes moments, and feature listeners in highly anticipated fan segments. Join your favorite family back in the living room to examine our past, cherish our present, and look to the future with new episodes of That Was Us every Tuesday.

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00:00 – Welcome Back to “That Was Us” 🎧 Mandy Moore and Sterling K. Brown catch up on life, healing, and why This Is Us remains the emotional balm we all need.

03:35 – Philly Vibes & Cheesesteak Debates 🧀

Deja and Malik’s adorable date begins with laughter, local eats, and some serious cheesesteak talk. 7:10 – The Real Philly: Malik’s World 🌆

Malik takes Deja off the tourist trail to see his real Philadelphia — the heart, soul, and neighborhood connections that define him.

12:30 – First Crush, First Kiss 💕

A beautiful young love story unfolds — from butterflies to that perfect first kiss. Tender, honest, and unforgettable.

19:59 – Meet the Parents: Pearson vs. Hodges Dinner 🍽️

Randall and Beth host Malik’s parents for a dinner that’s equal parts hilarious, tense, and eye-opening.

22:02 – Open-Toed Shoes & Open Minds 👠

Beth’s comic brilliance shines as she tries to “keep an open mind” — and open-toed shoes — during the world’s most awkward dinner.

27:21 – Dinner Table Drama & Class Clashes ⚡

Class, culture, and judgment come to a boil as the families size each other up — with grace said and shade thrown.

38:19 – Truths, Tensions & Tattoos 💬

Randall and Malik’s dad find unexpected common ground after a night of confrontation, honesty, and reflection.

41:07– Parenting Lessons & Redemption 🙏

The Pearsons face their own biases — and learn that love, not control, is what their daughter really needs.

41:56 – Flashback: Jack, Rebecca & Mr. Lawrence 🕰️

In the past, Jack invites Randall’s teacher over for dinner — and the night reveals deep insecurities and unspoken lessons.

58:20 – Langston Hughes, Identity & Healing 📚

A moving finale as young Randall recites “I, Too” — a powerful reflection on identity, belonging, and love.

1:01:3 – Spotlight on Asante Blackk 🌟

The hosts chat with Asante Blackk (Malik) about his acting journey, music, and life lessons from This Is Us.

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Executive Producers: Natalie Holysz and Rob Holysz

Creative Producer: Sam Skelton

Video Editor: Todd Hughlett

Mix & Master: Jason Richards

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Deja and Malik's First Kiss | "The Dinner and the Date" (407) with special guest Asante Blackk