The family watches a videotape from when Danny and Joey were in college, and on the tape, Joey gave himself a deadline of 10 years to be a successful comedian. The end of the 10-year deadline is now two weeks away. Danny surprises Joey with a chance to appear on Star Search, hosted by Ed McMahon. Joey is accepted as a contestant on the show, and he competes against defending champion Steve Oedekerk, who wins yet again, leaving Joey feeling depressed about not being able to honor the 10 year deadline he set for himself, but Michelle lifts his spirits.