Directed by Steven Robman
Written by Josh Schwartz, Debra J. Fisher, and Erica Messer.
Kirsten's uptight father, Caleb Nichol, comes for a visit along with his new girlfriend, Gabrielle, a 24-year-old model. Caleb does not hesitate to speak his mind and immediately angers both Sandy and Ryan, and browbeats Seth, with constant criticism with their backgrounds, while Gabrielle makes a move on Ryan. Kirsten finds her job at Caleb's company, Newport Group, in jeopardy, while Sandy considers making a change. Meanwhile, Luke approaches Marissa and tells her that he wants a second chance with her, much to Ryan's disappointment. Also, Summer makes the moves on Seth, who wonders if her feelings are real or if she just using him.
This episode contains examples of:
- Dogged Nice Guy: Seth just does not give up on Summer (and hasn't since the sixth grade). The "low-key yearning" variety.
- Give Away the Bride: Mentioned, notable in that Kristen is said to have walked herself down the aisle because Caleb was unavailable.
- Gold Digger: Summer is sure to talk to the richest and most successful men at the party.
- Hollywood Healing: Marissa lampshades it, but Luke is entirely recovered from his gunshot wound.
- Interrupted Intimacy: Marissa walks in on Gabrielle and Ryan.
- Love Triangle: Ryan, Marissa, Luke.
- May–December Romance: Gabrielle and Caleb. (Also Gabrielle and Ryan, in the other direction.)
- Male Gaze: When Gabrielle gets out of the pool and Ryan and Seth watch.
- Obnoxious In-Laws: Caleb.
- Their First Time: Luke and Marissa.
- "Well Done, Son" Guy: Kristen just wants Caleb's approval.
- Wounded Gazelle Gambit: Julie uses Crocodile Tears to manipulate Caleb.
- Stalking is Love: Seth lists a creepily long list of things about Summer, making it clear that he's been watching her for years. She kisses him.
- Sympathetic Adulterer: Gabrielle explains that her relationship with Caleb is more like a business than love, and it's therefore okay to cheat.
- You Are Too Late: Marissa says this to Ryan at the end of the episode.
