The Giving Tree (Friday Night Lights)

"The Giving Tree"
Friday Night Lights episode
Episode no.Season 3
Episode 10
Directed byDavid Boyd
Written byElizabeth Heldens
Cinematography byTodd McMullen
Editing byAngela M. Catanzaro
Original release datesDecember 10, 2008 (2008-12-10) (DirecTV)
March 20, 2009 (2009-03-20) (NBC)
Running time43 minutes
Guest appearances
Episode chronology
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"The Giving Tree" is the tenth episode of the third season of the American sports drama television series Friday Night Lights, inspired by the 1990 nonfiction book by H. G. Bissinger. It is the 47th overall episode of the series and was written by co-executive producer Elizabeth Heldens, and directed by David Boyd. It originally aired on DirecTV's 101 Network on December 10, 2008, before airing on NBC on March 20, 2009.

The series is set in the fictional town of Dillon, a small, close-knit community in rural West Texas. It follows a high school football team, the Dillon Panthers. It features a set of characters, primarily connected to Coach Eric Taylor, his wife Tami, and their daughter Julie. In the episode, Buddy gets in trouble after attacking an old friend, while the Taylors face a dilemma with Julie and Matt. Meanwhile, Tyra asks Landry for help, and J.D. faces his father when he interferes in a relationship.

According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 3.84 million household viewers and gained a 1.2/4 ratings share among adults aged 18–49. The episode received critical acclaim, with critics praising the performances, writing, tone and themes.