| "Summertime" | |
|---|---|
| Shameless episode | |
| Episode no. | Season 2 Episode 1 |
| Directed by | Mark Mylod |
| Written by | John Wells |
| Cinematography by | Rodney Charters |
| Editing by | Regis Kimble |
| Production code | 2J5951 |
| Original release date | January 8, 2012 |
| Running time | 52 minutes |
| Guest appearances | |
| |
"Summertime" is the first episode of the second season of the American television comedy drama Shameless, an adaptation of the British series of the same name. It is the 13th overall episode of the series and was written by series developer John Wells, and directed by co-executive producer Mark Mylod. It originally aired on Showtime on January 8, 2012.
The series is set on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois, and depicts the poor, dysfunctional family of Frank Gallagher, a neglectful single father of six: Fiona, Phillip, Ian, Debbie, Carl, and Liam. He spends his days drunk, high, or in search of money, while his children need to learn to take care of themselves. In the episode, Frank is forced to pay $10,000 to a man who keeps Liam as collateral, while the Gallaghers face new challenges.
According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 1.58 million household viewers and gained a 0.8 ratings share among adults aged 18–49, which was higher than any episode of the previous season. The episode received positive reviews from critics, who praised the new storylines for the characters.