Ranking the Best Episodes of The Good Wife

The legal and political drama The Good Wife captivated audiences for seven seasons, earning praise for its compelling storytelling and well-developed characters. Inspired by real-life political scandals, the series follows Alicia Florrick, portrayed by Julianna Margulies, as she navigates her return to work as an attorney following her husband’s incarceration due to a sex and corruption scandal. While the show consistently delivered quality content, certain episodes stood out for their exceptional storytelling, intriguing cases, and emotional depth.

Plot

The Good Wife follows Alicia Florrick as she rebuilds her career and navigates the intricacies of the legal world after her husband’s public scandal tarnishes their reputation. Balancing her roles as a mother, wife, and attorney, Alicia confronts ethical dilemmas, professional challenges, and personal relationships while striving for justice and independence.

The series delves into complex legal cases, political machinations, and interpersonal dynamics within the law firm of Lockhart & Gardner. As Alicia rises through the ranks and forms alliances with colleagues and rivals alike, she grapples with moral ambiguity, betrayal, and redemption.

Throughout its seven seasons, The Good Wife explores themes of power, ambition, loyalty, and resilience, offering a nuanced portrayal of the legal profession and the human experience.

Cast

Julianna Margulies as Alicia Florrick

Julianna Margulies portrays the titular character, Alicia Florrick, a resilient attorney who returns to work following her husband’s scandalous fall from grace.

Chris Noth as Peter Florrick

Chris Noth portrays Peter Florrick, Alicia’s husband and a former state’s attorney who faces legal and personal challenges throughout the series.

Christine Baranski as Diane Lockhart

Christine Baranski plays Diane Lockhart, a formidable attorney and mentor to Alicia, known for her unwavering principles and legal prowess.

Josh Charles as Will Gardner

Josh Charles portrays Will Gardner, Alicia’s colleague and romantic interest, whose complex relationship with her drives much of the series’ drama.

Matt Czuchry as Cary Agos

Matt Czuchry plays Cary Agos, a talented young attorney and rival to Alicia who undergoes significant character development over the course of the series.

Alan Cumming as Eli Gold

Alan Cumming portrays Eli Gold, Peter Florrick’s cunning and calculating political strategist, whose Machiavellian tactics shape the course of the series.

Archie Panjabi as Kalinda Sharma

Archie Panjabi plays Kalinda Sharma, a mysterious investigator with a talent for uncovering secrets, whose enigmatic presence adds intrigue to the series.

Here, we rank the top ten episodes of The Good Wife, each exemplifying the series’ brilliance and impact.

1. “Hitting the Fan”

Season 5, Episode 5

In this thrilling episode, Alicia and Cary are forced out of Lockhart & Gardner, igniting a fierce battle for clients and power. As tensions escalate, alliances shift, and loyalties are tested, the episode culminates in a showdown between Alicia and her former mentor, Will Gardner. With its fast-paced narrative and powerful performances, “Hitting the Fan” stands as a pinnacle of the series’ intensity and drama.

2. “The Last Call”

Season 5, Episode 16

Following the shocking death of Will Gardner, this poignant episode explores the aftermath of his tragic demise. As Alicia and her colleagues grapple with grief and uncertainty, they confront the harsh realities of loss and seek solace amidst chaos. “The Last Call” poignantly captures the emotional turmoil of coping with sudden loss and pays tribute to a beloved character’s legacy.

3. “Dramatics, Your Honor”

Season 5, Episode 15

A routine deposition takes a harrowing turn when a courtroom shooting leaves Will Gardner fatally wounded. Amidst the chaos and confusion, the characters are thrust into a state of shock and disbelief, grappling with the aftermath of the senseless violence. “Dramatics, Your Honor” delivers a gut-wrenching exploration of tragedy and its profound impact on the lives of those left behind.

4. “Nine Hours”

Season 2, Episode 9

When a last-minute tip leads Alicia and her team to race against the clock to prevent an unjust execution, tensions run high as they fight to uncover the truth. “Nine Hours” is a gripping testament to the power of perseverance and justice, showcasing the characters’ unwavering dedication in the face of adversity.

5. “Hybristophilia”

Season 1, Episode 22

In the season one finale, Alicia finds herself embroiled in a complex case involving a notorious criminal and a deceased stalker. As she navigates murky moral waters, Alicia confronts the complexities of human nature and the blurred lines between right and wrong. “Hybristophilia” serves as a riveting conclusion to the season, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.

6. “Another Ham Sandwich”

Season 3, Episode 14

As Will faces allegations of judicial bribery, Alicia and her colleagues rally to defend him against mounting accusations. Amidst courtroom drama and personal confrontations, alliances are tested, and loyalties are questioned. “Another Ham Sandwich” delivers riveting courtroom intrigue and emotional turmoil, showcasing the characters’ resilience in the face of adversity.

7. “Red Team/Blue Team”

Season 4, Episode 14

Tensions reach a boiling point as rival factions within the firm clash during a high-stakes mock trial. With personal and professional reputations on the line, alliances are forged and broken amidst a backdrop of legal intrigue and internal power struggles. “Red Team/Blue Team” is a gripping exploration of loyalty, ambition, and the pursuit of justice.

8. “Bang”

Season 1, Episode 15

Peter’s return home ignites a series of personal and professional upheavals for Alicia and her colleagues. As they grapple with the fallout of Peter’s actions, alliances are tested, and new rivalries emerge. “Bang” is a pivotal episode that sets the stage for future conflicts and character developments, laying the groundwork for the series’ evolving narrative.

9. “Bad”

Season 1, Episode 13

Alicia finds herself torn between her professional obligations and her moral convictions when she defends a controversial client accused of murder. As personal and professional ethics collide, Alicia must confront uncomfortable truths and navigate the complexities of the legal system. “Bad” is a compelling exploration of justice, morality, and the human condition.

10. “The Decision Tree”

Season 5, Episode 10

In this milestone 100th episode, Alicia’s departure from Lockhart & Gardner is met with unexpected challenges and revelations. As she grapples with personal and professional dilemmas, Alicia confronts her past and charts a course for her future. “The Decision Tree” is a poignant reflection on identity, ambition, and the pursuit of truth, marking a significant milestone in Alicia’s journey.

The Good Wife remains a landmark series in television history, celebrated for its compelling storytelling, strong performances, and timely social commentary. It received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe nominations.

Beyond its original run, The Good Wife has left a lasting legacy, inspiring spin-offs such as The Good Fight and Elsbeth, which further explore the legal and political landscape introduced in the original series.

With its memorable characters, thought-provoking themes, and gripping narratives, The Good Wife continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying its status as a timeless classic in the pantheon of television dramas.