Sitcom Worlds Colliding!

A few weeks ago I mentioned sitcom worlds colliding, ie two separate sitcoms from vastly different eras - and countries - that shared a similar joke; today I'm starting what HOPEFULLY becomes a series, in which I note when different sitcoms share entire plot lines. First up? The ol' "someone tries to be opportunistic when what they think is a tear on a holy relic appears. Here are three:

Only Fools and Horses

Episode: The Miracle of Peckham

Year: 1986

Description: Del has a rare religious urge and heads to his local Catholic church. Father O'Keith cries out that the statue of the Virgin Mary is weeping holy tears. Within seconds, Del has persuaded the priest that this miracle needs publicizing – something that could go a long way towards raising funds for St Mary's renovations and lining Del's pockets. Father O'Keith reluctantly agrees. As press arrives from all over the world, Del helps Father O'Keith collect the contributions from all those who wish to witness the miracle of the weeping virgin. It is only when the priest notices rain dripping from the roof of the church that Del Boy's elaborate con trick is exposed.

It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia

Episode: The Gang Exploits a Miracle

Year: 2006

Description: When the Gang finds a water stain in the office that resembles the Virgin Mary, Frank charges patrons to see the miracle. 

Curb Your Enthusiasm

Episode: The Bare Midriff

Year: 2009

Description: Larry accidentally pees on a painting of Christ, and when his assistant sees the “tears”of Christ she believes God has chosen her to take the painting around the country, showcasing the “miracle.”

Derry Girls

Episode: Episode 3

Year: 2018

Description: After cramming for exams all night, the friends see a dog resembling Erin's recently deceased pet, Toto. They pursue it into a church where, overcome by sleep deprivation and caffeine, Clare, Michelle, and Orla believe a statue of the Virgin Mary is smirking. Chasing the dog to the upper floor, Erin sees it urinate directly above the statue. Mistaking the urine for tears, the others tell Sister Michael of the "miracle", hoping to be excused from exams. Before Erin can tell the truth, handsome young priest Father Peter becomes interested in their story.