"Getting Up the Rent" waited for the third broadcast but was actually the pilot, spun off from MAUDE, where Esther Rolle's Florida character was introduced. Florida's appendix has been removed, and thoughts of rest have to wait until the rent payment is made. At this early stage, J. J. is referred to as 'James Jr.' and is a specialist in 'finding things,' much to his mother's displeasure (he also has yet to find his hat). James insists that his friend Monty (Stymie Beard, first of five) figures they'll be all right, though they're still short $70. With eviction only hours away James brings out the old cue stick for a little hustle, no matter how loudly his bible quoting wife protests. J. J.'s petty thievery would soon be dropped for a more artistic lifestyle, though we learn that he has at least one finished painting, with Michael already in full 'militant midget' mode.