Pilot (About a Boy)

The "Pilot" episode of About a Boy is the first episode of the American single-camera sitcom television series About a Boy, which aired on NBC on February 22, 2014. The episode introduces the main characters, Will Freeman (played by David Walton), a carefree and immature man living off royalties from a Christmas song his father wrote, and Marcus Brewer (played by Benjamin Stockham), an unusual and socially awkward boy who moves in next door with his single mother, Fiona (played by Minnie Driver).

The episode establishes the premise of the series, showing how Marcus enters Will's life and disrupts his self-centered routine. Will initially tries to avoid Marcus and Fiona, finding them clingy and undesirable neighbors. However, circumstances force them together, and Will reluctantly begins to mentor Marcus, hoping to use him as a way to meet single mothers. The episode explores the initial dynamic between the three characters, hinting at the eventual bond that will form between them as Will and Marcus both learn and grow from each other. The episode ends with Will realizing Marcus isn't as annoying as he initially thought and recognizing the potential benefit in having them around. The pilot sets the stage for the themes of unconventional family, friendship, and personal growth that are central to the series.