Denise Gets a D

Denise Gets a D is the ninth episode and Season 3 of The Cosby Show, also the 58th overall in the series. The episode was directed by Jay Sandrich and written by Matt Geller. The episode originally aired in the United States on NBC on November 20, 1986.

Synopsis
Denise's college career starts with a D, but Denise is too scared to show her parents. Clair needs to rest in bed because of a pinched nerve. Rudy portrays "the wind" in a school play.

Plot summary
Denise is sure her English paper deserved an "A," but discovers the difference between high school and college when her professor gives her a "D." When she comes home from college for the weekend, Denise must explain to her parents why her grades are faltering. Also, when Clair takes to her bed with a pinched nerve, Theo helps out with the family chores - much to Cliff's amazement.

Note: Rosiland Cash guest stars as Dr. Hughes. The episode is preceded by a 30-second anti-drug public service announcement featuring Bill Cosby).