Tread Perilously is a podcast in which hosts Erik Amaya and author Justin Robinson watch the “worst” episodes of popular TV shows, attempting to determine if they would continue to watch the series based on the most off-key moments.

This Week: Punky Brewster‘s “Cherie Lifesaver”

Tread Perilously begins its summer Patreon request month with the infamous Punky Brewster episode “Cherie Lifesaver.”

Just as Punky and Margaux learn basic CPR techniques, Henry decides it’s time to buy a new refrigerator. While his visit to Cheap-o Chester’s seems to go okay — although he may have overpaid — the bigger issue arrives when he puts the old fridge in the backyard. There, Punky, Cherie, and Allen are playing hide-and-seek in the snow. But having seen Cherie run into the building, he never sees her get into the old ice box. And once he finds her unconscious inside, will Punky and Margaux employ what they learned in time to save her?

Erik and Justin recall the times when getting stuck in a refrigerator was a genuine concern. Erik also turns out to be a guacamole purist. Justin finds Punky unfunny — although Erik has a hypothesis as to why. Justin investigates Henry actor George Gaynes’ unique accent. The pair also stumble into what John Carpenter’s The X-Men might’ve looked like. The presence of T.K. Carter might have something to do with it. Erik is convinced Allen would’ve been tested for developmental issues in more modern times. A surprise Frank Bonner appears. The weeds grow taller with various topics and Sugar Beasties becomes the official breakfast cereal of the podcast.

Be sure to subscribe to Tread Perilously on Apple Podcasts and follow us on Facebook and Twitter (@TreadPerilously)!