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Behind in their rent to the tune of 74 dollars, the Evanses are in danger of being evicted. While J.J. (Jimmie Walker) and Florida (Esther Rolle) seek out legitimate sources of quick cash, James (John Amos) tries to literally hustle up the necessary funds at the local pool hall. When he comes home with a sizeable roll of bills, Florida chalks up his windfall to a miracle -- and James isn't about to shatter her illusions. The first episode of Good Times to be produced, "Getting Up the Rent" was the third to be shown, according to contemporary TV Guide listings. Other sources, however, suggest that this was actually the series' debut episode.