Brenda wins the lead, much to the amazement of those who saw her audition. Steve starts a rumor that Brenda slept with Roy. Dylan is the only person who completely believes Brenda’s denial. Laura causes Brenda to miss a rehearsal in an attempt to get her fired. When this fails, she asks Steve to injure Brenda. Roy kicks Laura out of the play. Steve and Brenda race to stop Laura from killing herself in the auditorium. Suzanne and Kevin get engaged, and Dylan learns more about Kevin’s research. Kevin quits his job and decides to pitch the project to independent investors. Clare tries to tag along on Brandon’s trip to Berkeley. Brandon tells the chancellor the truth about his daughter’s behavior.

Music: “”Free Ride”” by The Edgar Winter Group (#14, 1973)