Ten of the Very Best TV Episodes of All Time

We can thank shows like The Sopranos for turning television from a pastime into a true art form.

So many shows and series have inspired us over the past decades, and we wanted to explore some of the very best, most loved, and most impactful episodes from TV of all time.

Clearly this list will be subjective. But having scoured a myriad of TV write-ups, reviews, and forums, we’re confident that we’ve hit upon ten of the most memorable, gripping, and beautifully made episodes in the history of the medium.

“Two Cathedrals” is not just the finest hour of The West Wing—it’s one of the most electrifying episodes in television history. President Jed Bartlet grapples with grief, faith, and an impossible political decision in a way that feels simultaneously intimate and grand.

Martin Sheen delivers a towering performance, especially in the unforgettable cathedral scene, where he challenges God in both anger and despair. The culmination, set to Dire Straits’ “Brothers in Arms,” is a triumph of writing, direction, and emotion, cementing Aaron Sorkin’s masterpiece as a benchmark for political drama.

Few finales in television history have managed to wrap up a series as perfectly as “Everyone’s Waiting.” The episode delivers a gut-wrenching yet cathartic conclusion to the Fisher family saga, culminating in a montage that shows the eventual deaths of each character. It’s a hauntingly beautiful meditation on mortality, legacy, and the passage of time.

With its poignant direction and Sia’s “Breathe Me” swelling in the background, the episode left an indelible mark on viewers, ensuring Six Feet Under will forever be remembered as one of TV’s most profound dramas.

In a show often defined by its grim take on technology, “San Junipero” stands out as a beacon of hope and beauty. This Emmy-winning episode tells the love story of Yorkie and Kelly in a digital afterlife, blending sci-fi innovation with raw emotional depth.

Its vibrant 1980s aesthetic, coupled with the unforgettable strains of Belinda Carlisle’s “Heaven Is a Place on Earth,” creates a world both nostalgic and futuristic. With its deeply human exploration of love, loss, and immortality, “San Junipero” isn’t just a highlight of Black Mirror—it’s one of the most touching stories ever told on television.

Before its infamous decline, Game of Thrones gave us “Battle of the Bastards,” a visual spectacle that redefined what TV could achieve. The battle between Jon Snow and Ramsay Bolton is as brutal and chaotic as medieval warfare gets, with stunning choreography and visceral intensity. It’s more than just a fight—it’s a clash of ideologies, underscoring the show’s core themes of power and honor.

“The Contest” is Seinfeld at its sharpest and most daring. This iconic episode took on the taboo subject of self-control with wit and innuendo, crafting one of the most memorable half-hours in sitcom history.

The premise—who can resist their “urges” the longest?—is hilariously absurd, and yet, the clever writing and impeccable performances keep it from ever feeling crass. It’s a prime example of Seinfeld’s ability to push boundaries while staying true to its mantra of being “a show about nothing.” Decades later, “Master of my domain” still gets a laugh.

Rarely does television capture growth, redemption, and the crushing weight of expectations so vividly as “Forks.” In this episode of The Bear, we follow Richie as he embarks on a transformative journey working at a high-end restaurant. What begins as a seemingly mundane side quest evolves into a poignant exploration of purpose and pride.

Richie’s epiphany, delivered through meticulous direction and heartfelt performance, resonates deeply, leaving viewers with a profound sense of hope. It’s a quiet yet epic moment in storytelling that reminds us even the smallest forks in the road can lead to big changes.

There’s no mystery why Mad Men dominates critics’ lists, and “The Suitcase” is its magnum opus. The episode strips away the glitz and grandeur of 1960s Madison Avenue to focus on the relationship between Don Draper and Peggy Olson.

Over the course of one boozy, emotionally charged night, they confront loss, ambition, and their shared loneliness. It’s intimate, raw, and devastatingly human.

Nature documentaries rarely achieve the cinematic brilliance of Planet Earth II, and “Jungles” is the crown jewel. This episode immerses viewers in the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, showcasing the awe-inspiring beauty and harsh realities of jungle life.

From the breathtaking footage of glass frogs guarding their eggs to the heart-stopping escape of an iguana pursued by a swarm of snakes, “Jungles” marries cutting-edge technology with masterful storytelling. Sir David Attenborough’s narration adds a poetic layer to the stunning visuals, creating a truly unforgettable television experience.

Darkly comedic, suspenseful, and oddly poetic, “Pine Barrens” remains The Sopranos’ most beloved episode. Paulie and Christopher’s misadventure in the snowy woods is both hilarious and haunting, capturing the absurdity and danger of mob life.

Directed by Steve Buscemi, the episode is a tonal masterpiece that balances gallows humor with existential dread. 100% worth rewatching the entire series, just to get to this point.

“Ozymandias” isn’t just Breaking Bad’s best episode; it’s a masterclass in tension and tragedy. This is the moment Walter White’s empire comes crashing down, leaving devastation in its wake.

Directed with clinical precision by Rian Johnson, the episode captures the full consequences of Walt’s choices in excruciating detail. Every scene is a gut punch, every word laced with finality.

Many critics have described it as an utterly perfect episode of television, and if you haven’t watched the series, this is a plea to immediately put it on your list.

Television’s ability to capture our imagination and emotions is startling and impressive. We can easily say these episodes left us breathless, in tears, or both.

After reading this list, which ones have you seen, and which do you agree with? What have we missed, and what might you replace?

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