| "Sparky" | |
|---|---|
| Shameless episode | |
| Episode no. | Season 10 Episode 5 |
| Directed by | William H. Macy |
| Written by | Philip Buiser |
| Cinematography by | Anthony Hardwick |
| Editing by | Russell Denove |
| Original release date | December 8, 2019 |
| Running time | 55 minutes |
| Guest appearances | |
| |
"Sparky" is the fifth episode of the tenth season of the American television comedy drama Shameless, an adaptation of the British series of the same name. It is the 115th overall episode of the series and was written by supervising producer Philip Buiser, and directed by main cast member William H. Macy. It originally aired on Showtime on December 8, 2019.
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. The family's status is shaken after Fiona chooses to leave. In the episode, Ian is released from prison, while Frank is confronted by Randy. Meanwhile, Tami struggles in raising her child, while Debbie hires a lawyer in order to gain Derek's military benefits.
According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 0.83 million household viewers and gained a 0.26 ratings share among adults aged 18–49. The episode received mixed reviews from critics, who criticized the characterization of the story arcs in the episode.