Frank goes missing and turns up in Toronto, tries without success to embrace sobriety, and bends the law to protect his disability checks. Fiona falls for Steve, a handsome player with a nice car, a fat wallet, and a big secret. Ian embraces his sexuality, much to the chagrin of his brainy brother Lip. Debbie goes too far at a child's birthday party. Monica shows up with an announcement about baby Liam.

The ceremonial burning of a stolen car marks the end of summer on the Chatsworth Estate in Manchester. Meet the local family — the Gallaghers. There's dad Frank and his six kids, Lip, Ian, Carl, Debbie, Liam and Fiona. Into their world steps Steve. Cool, well mannered, well dressed and romantic, he makes a beeline for big sister Fiona. Steve's soon getting his feet under the table but why he wants them there, no one quite knows.