"Freddy Spaghetti" | |
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Parks and Recreation episode | |
Episode no. | Season 2 Episode 24 |
Directed by | Jason Woliner |
Written by | Daniel J. Goor |
Original air date | May 20, 2010 |
Guest appearances | |
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"Freddy Spaghetti" is the second season finale of the American comedy television series Parks and Recreation, and the 30th overall episode of the series. It originally aired on NBC in the United States on May 20, 2010. In the episode, as Ron helps state auditors make governmental cuts amid a government shutdown, Leslie tries to save a children's concert starring musician Freddy Spaghetti. Meanwhile, Andy asks April to be his girlfriend, while Ann tries to cope with her renewed feelings for Andy following her breakup with Mark.
The episode was written by Daniel J. Goor and directed by Jason Woliner. "Freddy Spaghetti" featured the second performances of Adam Scott and Rob Lowe as two state auditors sent to help Pawnee through its budget crisis, as well as the second appearance by Natalie Morales as Tom's girlfriend Lucy. Jama Williamson reprised her recurring guest role as Tom's ex-wife Wendy, and comedian and writer Brian McCann portrayed Freddy Spaghetti.
"Freddy Spaghetti" marked the final performance for Paul Schneider playing Mark Brendanawicz, and also the last time anyone on the show mentioned him in any capacity. The final scene between Mark and Leslie, sitting on a bench together at a lot Leslie hopes to turn into a park, mirrored their scenes together in the first season finale "Rock Show". "Freddy Spaghetti" was also a turning point in the romantic subplot between Andy and April, who share their first kiss in the episode.
According to Nielsen Media Research, "Freddy Spaghetti" was seen by 4.55 million household viewers, a five percent increase in viewership compared to the previous episode, "The Master Plan". The episode received generally positive reviews, with many commentators calling it a strong ending to an excellent season. "Freddy Spaghetti" and the rest of the second season of Parks and Recreation was released on DVD in the United States on November 30, 2010, which included an extended 26-minute "producer's cut" of the episode.