Every now and then, a show comes along that ignites intense debate and discussion among TV fans. It could be the writing, the acting, the directing, the cinematography – something about it is so special that it gets talked about for years to come.
This article looks at some of the best television series episodes of all time. Selected from an impressive array of favorites – comedies, sci-fi, dramas, thriller, and more – each of these stand-alone shows leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve watch it. From tear-jerking moments to jaw-dropping shocks, here are the top ten greatest television episodes of all time.
The Best of Comedy
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Seinfeld, “The Contest” – Seinfeld reaches hysterical heights in this four-way battle of will power between Jerry, Kramer, George, and Elaine. The rule: whoever can go the longest without “you know” wins a fine prize, regardless of individual losses.
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The Office, “Dinner Party” – The tension has been building for weeks between Jim and Pam, as well as between Michael and Jan. Just when it seems Jim, Pam, and Michael can’t take it anymore, they invite Jan to a come-to-Jesus dinner that quickly descends into chaos.
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Friends, “The One Where Everybody Finds Out” – All it takes is one wild night at Central Perk for the gang to discover Phoebe’s been helping Rachel hide her feelings for Ross. Of course, they’re not giving up without a fight, and hilarity ensues as they battle to keep their secret.
The Best Of Drama
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Breaking Bad, “Ozymandias” – One of the greatest TV dramas of all time, this show reaches its epic finale with the complete destruction of its main character, Walter White. Throughout the episode, Walter’s slow walk to the edge of disaster is emotionally heartbreaking and gripping.
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The Wire, “Middle Ground” – This dark urban drama plunges further into the warped moral code of Baltimore’s drug dealers. With its tight writing, complex characters and sharp dialogue, this episode is an intense look at loyalty and justice in a world that doesn’t have much of either.
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Mad Men, “The Suitcase” – This show reached its pinnacle in this episode, when the ad exec Don Draper unexpectedly spends the night at the office with long-time secretary Peggy Olson. Draper’s emotional journey of self-discovery is beautiful and inspiring.
The Best Of Sci-Fi and Fantasy
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Star Trek: The Next Generation, “The Inner Light” – Capt. Picard is the perfect choice for this episode, as his relationship with a far-away culture takes an unexpected turn. Its layered story, perfect casting and gripping resolution make this episode a Trekkie favorite.
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Battlestar Galactica, “The Passage” – The Galactica is on a mission to save the human race and the pressure is really on. When they discover a way to save billions, they give up their own freedom to make it happen. This episode definitely packs an emotional punch.
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Game of Thrones, “The Rains of Castamere” – This episode sees two powerful families clash in a violent battle, with a surprise twist ending. The episode’s cinematography is amazing and the visual effects are top-notch.
The Best of Thrillers
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Twin Peaks: The Return, “Part 8” – This eerie and unsettling episode of the cult classic series features a new threat to Agent Cooper, as he faces a mind-bending reality. It’s a slow burn masterpiece with plenty of plot twists and turns.
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Lost, “Through the Looking Glass” – In this action-packed season-three finale, everything changes in a dramatic plot twist. The episode masterfully interweaves story arcs and character arcs to a thrilling conclusion.
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The X-Files, “Home” – This episode of the sci-fi thriller series is an intense and disturbing journey, as two agents seek answers in a small rural town home to a seriously twisted family. Unsettling, creepy and full of mystery, it’s unforgettable.
When it comes to great TV, these are some of the best episodes of all time. Capturing viewers within the story, these shows leave an impact and that’s what makes them so special. Whether you’re a fan of comedy, drama, sci-fi, or thrillers, there’s an episode from this list that’s sure to elicit an emotional response.
