: Eric's birth date is given as May 19, 1959, in this episode, though later seasons shift his birth year to 1960. "That '70s Show" Eric's Birthday (TV Episode 1998) - IMDb

: Red Forman displays blatant favoritism toward Laurie, giving her cash and the keys to his new car while giving Eric a chore list and an outdated eight-track player for his birthday.

" Eric's Birthday " is the second episode of the first season of the sitcom , which originally aired on August 30, 1998. The episode focuses on Eric Forman's 17th birthday and his struggle to avoid the "childish" surprise party his mother, Kitty, is determined to throw for him. Episode Summary

: Despite Eric's attempts to enlist Laurie to help cancel the event, the surprise party goes forward. The night ends successfully for Eric and Donna when they hold hands on the patio. Key Continuity and Trivia

: Eric explicitly asks for no surprise party and expresses a desire for a cassette player for his Vista Cruiser. Kitty ignores his wishes, planning a party and inviting his older sister, Laurie, home from college.

: This episode marks the first appearance of Laurie Forman.

: In a notable continuity error, Donna's mother Midge mentions a second daughter named Valerie who is away at college; this character is never seen or mentioned again in the series.

: Donna is anxious about what to get Eric for his birthday, as they have recently shared their first kiss. Following Jackie’s advice to get something "meaningful," she eventually gives him a sand candle.