Over the opening credits, an attractive young couple appears glum. The woman is pregnant. After the credits, we flashback to the meeting of teacher Meredith Baxter (as Patricia "Pete" Peterson) and architect Scott Hylands (as Michael Lewis). The two seem as close as "made for each other" as two can get. Because they are away on a cruise, Ms. Baxter's parents Lana Turner (as Claire) and Robert Alda (as Ben) are unable to attend the impending wedding. Happily, Mr. Hylands' parents Robert Lansing (as Howard) and Celeste Holm (as Marian) are present. But something is not right...
While showing off her wardrobe, Ms. Turner begins having dramatic moments. Soon, a family secret is revealed. Now, we know why Baxter and Hylands were looking glum in the opening. In the production style of a TV movie, "Bittersweet Love" brings up an interesting topic and takes it nowhere. Most obviously, Baxter and Hylands should have accepted an apparent lucky incident and take precautions to avoid future problems. That Baxter's character can't accept this is perfectly understandable, but not sufficiently explained; the problem is slighted and the outcome unsatisfactory.
**** Bittersweet Love (10/76) David Miller ~ Meredith Baxter, Scott Hylands, Lana Turner, Robert Lansing
