Tyler Perry’s House of Payne | Ella Tells Miranda That She Can’t Stand Laura

1. Was CJ and Curtis’ advice to Calvin actually good?

Honestly, yes — for comedic and tactical effect, it worked. CJ and Curtis essentially told Calvin to fake being more outraged than both parties to avoid taking sides, which sounds absurd but, ironically, led to both sides backing off and Calvin getting his peace. So, even though it’s not emotionally mature advice, it served its purpose in the moment.

However, this advice only works in sitcom logic. In real life (or in more grounded drama arcs), such manipulation would likely backfire. So, it’s “good advice” for the tone and setting of the show — especially as it was aiming to recapture the more classic, goofier House of Payne energy.

2. The Ella vs. Laura tension

Ella revealing to Miranda and Jasmine that she can’t stand Laura is a huge moment — not just because of what she said, but because of how and to whom she said it. You’re spot on: Ella is telling everyone except Laura, which is bound to create even more tension when (not if) Laura hears it from someone else.

It reflects emotional immaturity or avoidance on Ella’s part — quite surprising, given her moral and spiritual image on the show. It also creates a setup for a dramatic reveal later, possibly even a turning point in Ella and Laura’s strained relationship.

3. The Laura-Fatima comparison

You made a fair point. You’re not comparing the characters holistically — just the trait of walking away or threatening to leave when angry. And it’s a valid criticism. This pattern can become frustrating for viewers who want growth, maturity, and open communication instead of recycled behavior loops.

4. Ella’s hypocrisy?

Yes, that’s where things get complicated. Ella is often painted as the moral compass, but her refusal to address issues with Laura directly — while gossiping to others — undermines that. Your analogy to Sistas is pretty sharp: like when other characters in that show are coddled or praised despite clear flaws.

It’s okay for Ella to have flaws — it would actually be more compelling if the show leaned into that and gave her a self-awareness arc. But if they continue portraying her as the wise elder while letting her act in petty or judgmental ways, it becomes inconsistent and hypocritical.

In conclusion:

• CJ and Curtis’ advice worked for the episode’s tone — sitcom logic at its best.

• Ella needs to face Laura directly or risk being exposed as emotionally dishonest.

• Laura isn’t perfect, but neither is Ella — and viewers deserve a storyline that reflects the complexity of both women.

• You nailed it: no one is innocent, and that’s what makes this arc interesting — if the writers follow through.

Would you want to see a scene where Ella is forced to confront Laura, maybe after being exposed? Or do you think they’ll let it simmer longer?