The Harder They Fall (Porridge)

"The Harder they Fall" is an episode of the BBC sitcom Porridge. It first aired on 28 November 1975.^[1] In this episode, Godber takes up boxing. However, Fletcher is threatened by the prospect of fight fixing.

Synopsis

Godber has taken up boxing, much to Fletcher's displeasure, as their cell "smells like a Turkish wrestler's jockstrap". Mr Mackay, however, believes boxing to be a noble sport, as he boxed for the army. Mackay gives Godber his encouragement.

Later, Fletcher is summoned to meet 'Genial' Harry Grout (aka Grouty), a rich prisoner who unofficially runs Slade Prison. Grouty's cell is plush compared to the rest of the prison cells. Grouty persuades Fletcher to rig the fight, so that Godber loses. If Godber wins, Fletcher would be in big trouble with Grouty.

That night, a troubled Fletcher shows a rarely seen kind side to Godber. Fletcher then explains to Godber that Grouty wants Godber to take a dive in the second round. Godber says he cannot do this as he's already promised Grouty's rival that he'd go down in the first round. Fletcher is angry at Godber for not having any morals, and also because he's going to be in big trouble with both Grouty and Moffat if either boxer wins. Fletcher claims he hasn't been so disappointed since his young son Raymond broke into his school one night to have a prior look at the exam paper, and he still didn't pass.

On the night of the boxing match, both boxers going down in the first round after throwing only one punch each. This means that neither boxer wins and Fletcher is free from comebacks from Grouty and Moffat. However, Fletcher has come off well, because he was the only one who made a bet on a draw. The episode ends with Fletcher offering Godber his favourite chocolate bar Fruit and Nut.

Episode cast

Notes

• First appearance of 'Genial' Harry Grout. Although Grouty was referred to in Series 1, he didn't make a physical appearance until this episode.
• Jackdaw, who was referred to in Heartbreak Hotel, makes an appearance in this episode. It is his only appearance.

References