Joe Perkins's Release

Video Clip: Channing's Death and Joe Perkins' Release

Time: 1984, First episode

Setting: The Capwell mansion.

Characters: C.C. and Mason Capwell

Premise: During a party to announce the engagement of Kelly to Peter Flint, Mason receives a note summoning him to his father's study. Mason is currently working as Santa Barbara's Assistant District Attorney as well as being on his father's payroll. C.C. wishes to speak with Mason after he has just learned that Joe Perkins has been released from prison. Joe is Kelly's ex-fiancé and convicted murderer of C.C. and Sophia's first-born son, Channing.

(As Mason enters the study, a backwards chair behind the desk revolves around to reveal C.C. lighting a cigar.)

Mason: What's the matter dad?

C.C.: Joe Perkins has been released.

Mason: No! They--he wasn't up for parole-

C.C.: -I thought you could handle it!

Mason: Well, I was, but-

C.C.: A foul up. Is that it? It just happened? They just let him out?

Mason: (Audibly exhale, and looks dazed as he sits down).

C.C.: It's--It's like it's yesterday. Well, can't let it spoil Kelly's big day. (Gets out of his chair and walks over next to Mason.) Your sister deserves some happiness.

Mason: Well, I think she's very happy, dad.

C.C.: When she finds out he's been released...Thank God she has somebody else.

Mason: Yeah.

C.C.: If Perkins comes back here-if Perkins comes back, and starts to harass Kelly again...

Mason: I'm with you, dad.

C.C.: (Walks over and slaps the desktop with his opened hand.) I lost a son to that bastard! I am not going to lose a daughter.

Mason: She'll never care about him now.

C.C.: I know. You know sometimes, sometimes still, I can't believe, he's gone. My namesake, Channing Capwell Jr. Cut down. He was at the top, toast of two continents, now the man who killed him has been let out onto the streets. Man can have so much, but yet lose what is most dear.

Mason: You have us, dad. Ted, Eden, Kelly, me.

C.C.: I know Mason, I-I didn't mean. It's just this whole-this whole thing stirs so much.

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