Knots Landing: Season 3
Season 3 Lore Primer
Key plot threads, lore context, and character stakes you need to remember before diving into this season.
- Directly follows the overarching narrative developments of Knots Landing Season 2.
- Faction dynamics and core character alliances shift under escalating external stakes.
- Crucial mysteries introduced previously reach key turning points and narrative reckonings.
- Sets up serialized story arcs that build directly toward the climactic season finale.
Episode Guide
Season 3 Progress Shield
The Vigil
Nov 12, 1981
Gary feels responsible for Sid's coma, while Richard promises to help Abby find her kidnapped children.
Critical Condition
Nov 19, 1981
Sid faces a risky, life-or-death operation. Karen convinces a guilt-ridden Gary to stay in Knots Landing.
Aftermath
Nov 26, 1981
Karen remains uncaring and detached in the wake of Sid's death - even with her children. Ginger gives birth.
Moving In
Dec 3, 1981
Val is upset about her mother's upcoming visit. Abby tries to subpoena her mother-in-law to find her children.
The Surprise
Dec 10, 1981
Abby locates Jeff and concocts a scheme to get her children back. Richard is asked to arrange entertainment.
One of a Kind
Dec 17, 1981
Karen's ex-boyfriend returns and claims to be Diana's father. Laura receives a generous gift from Scooter.
Secrets
Dec 24, 1981
When the IRS audits the dealership, Karen asks for Abby's help. After a party, Richard doesn't come home.
Mistaken Motives
Jan 7, 1982
Diana's rebellious behavior leads to her arrest. Karen meets a young widower.
The Rose and the Briar
Jan 14, 1982
Lilimae leaves for Las Vegas. After Richard takes out his anger on Laura, she seeks comfort with Scooter.
The Three Sisters
Jan 21, 1982
When the neighborhood women spend the night in an old haunted mansion, things turn strange.
Power Play
Jan 28, 1982
Gary mortgages his home to finance a methanol-powered car deal. Val becomes suspicious of Gary and Abby.
Possibilities
Feb 11, 1982
Karen invites a new boyfriend over for dinner. Ginger pursues a singing career against Kenny's wishes.
Reunion
Feb 18, 1982
Karen considers taking a job in New York. Laura learns she's pregnant with Richard's child and gets depressed.
Cricket
Mar 4, 1982
Val's former boyfriend leaves his troubled 11-year-old stepdaughter with the Ewings and leaves town.
Best Intentions
Mar 11, 1982
Laura and Richard argue about her abortion. Lilimae and Abby convince Val to send her book to a publisher.
Silver Shadows
Mar 25, 1982
When an elderly film director lavishes Abby with gifts, she utilizes her resemblance to a silent film star.
Letting Go (a.k.a.) Shadow Waltz
Apr 1, 1982
Gary, Abby and Val go to Sacramento to see a state senator. Larry asks Karen to leave with him for a weekend.
Expose
Apr 8, 1982
Against Gary's wishes, Val agrees to have her book published. Richard is fired after his misdeeds are exposed.
Night (a.k.a.) Nervous Breakdown
Apr 15, 1982
A despondent Richard holds Laura and Jason hostage in the Avery home. Ginger returns from San Francisco.
Acts of Love
Apr 22, 1982
Val must rebuff advances from a cafe owner. Abby and Gary consummate their affair.
China Dolls (a.k.a.) Obsession
Apr 29, 1982
Val confronts Gary and Abby about their affair. Richard prepares to leave the hospital.
Living Dangerously
May 6, 1982
Val encounters Gary and Abby together. Laura becomes worried Richard may attempt suicide and moves back home.