Episode 3: Denial, Anger, Acceptance Online

is the third episode of The Sopranos ' first season, originally airing on January 24, 1999. The title refers to the stages of grief Tony experiences as his close friend and acting boss, Jackie Aprile , succumbs to terminal cancer. Key Plot Points

: Against Hesh’s advice, Tony intervenes in a dispute for Shlomo Teittleman, whose son-in-law refuses to grant his daughter a religious divorce ("get"). Tony and his crew use intimidation to secure the divorce in exchange for a stake in a motel. Episode 3: Denial, Anger, Acceptance

: Stung by Livia’s complaints about Tony and frustrated by the unauthorized truck hijackings, Uncle Junior orders a hit on Brendan Filone . Mikey Palmice executes Brendan in his bathtub, delivering a clear message to Christopher Moltisanti. is the third episode of The Sopranos '

: Carmela hosts a fundraiser catered by the Buccos. She offends Charmaine Bucco by treating her like a servant, prompting Charmaine to reveal she once slept with Tony. Meanwhile, Meadow buys speed from Christopher to help study for her SATs. Thematic Elements Tony and his crew use intimidation to secure

: Tony cycles through the titular emotional stages, initially insisting Jackie will "scare that cancer away" ( Denial ), lashing out at Dr. Melfi when she suggests a grim prognosis ( Anger ), and finally acknowledging the inevitability of Jackie’s death ( Acceptance ).