The Highest-Rated Gems of Iconic TV Shows

Discovering the pinnacle episode of a beloved TV series can be as challenging though we have looked into the highest-rated episodes from 32 TV favorites, ranging from Breaking Bad to Friends. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions and memorable moments as we explore the epitome of each show.

Table of Contents

Breaking Bad – “Ozymandias” (Season 5)

In the realm of Breaking Bad’s gripping narrative, “Ozymandias,” directed by Rian Johnson, stands as an unrivaled masterpiece. Boasting a perfect 10/10 on IMDb, this episode is hailed for its impeccable execution, particularly in delivering the long-awaited “payoff” in Walter White’s (Bryan Cranston) crime saga.

Better Call Saul – “Plan And Execution” (Season 6)

Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, Better Call Saul shines brightest in its setup to the grand finale. “Plan and Execution” serves as a pivotal mid-season finale, offering unexpected twists, including the climactic betrayal and death of Howard Hamlin (Patrick Fabian). The episode seamlessly sets the stage for the series’ culmination.

Succession – “Connor’s Wedding” (Season 4)

Succession, known for its dark humor and intricate plot twists, bids farewell to Logan Roy (Brian Cox) in “Connor’s Wedding.” This early and surprising departure, combined with the show’s trademark awkward moments, creates a riveting narrative that captivates audiences.

The Office – “Finale” (Season 9)

The Office’s grand finale, aptly titled “Finale,” ties up loose ends with a beautiful bow. As Dwight (Rainn Wilson) and Angela (Angela Kinsey) exchange vows, Steve Carell’s return as Michael Scott adds an extra layer of joy, solidifying this episode as a memorable conclusion to the beloved series.

The Sopranos – “Pine Barrens” (Season 3)

Even after The Sopranos seemingly answered its central question, “Pine Barrens” remains a timeless enigma. Directed by Steve Buscemi, this episode takes Paulie (Tony Sirico) and Chris (Michael Imperioli) into the Jersey woods, leaving viewers with the lingering question: Is Valery dead or not?

Community – “Modern Warfare” (Season 1)

Community, a pop culture joke haven, delivers a cinematic experience in “Modern Warfare.” Directed by Justin Lin, this action-packed episode, where Jeff (Joel McHale) battles for priority registration, not only astounds but also spawns sequels, much like its action movie inspirations.

Lost – “The Constant” (Season 4)

Lost, known for its mind-bending narrative, reaches new heights with “The Constant.” This time-travel-centric episode explores the romantic plot between Desmond (Henry Ian Cusick) and Penny (Sonya Walger), cementing its place in the hearts of fans.

Friends – “The One Where Everybody Finds Out” (Season 5)

“The One Where Everybody Finds Out” reigns supreme as Friends’ highest-rated episode on IMDb. With the clandestine love affair between Chandler (Matthew Perry) and Monica (Courteney Cox) exposed, the episode marks a watershed moment, earning praise for its comedic brilliance.

Six Feet Under – “Everyone’s Waiting” (Season 5)

The series finale, “Everyone’s Waiting,” encapsulates Six Feet Under’s darkly comic dramedy about death. Alan Ball delivers a fitting conclusion, revealing the final fates of the Fisher family, accompanied by Sia’s haunting “Breathe Me.”

How I Met Your Mother – “How Your Mother Met Me” (Season 9)

Delving beyond the identity of “The Mother,” How I Met Your Mother unfolds the intricate journey of Tracy (Cristin Milioti) and her eventual marriage to Ted (Josh Radnor) in “How Your Mother Met Me.” This heartfelt episode provides a comprehensive and emotional backstory.

Buffy The Vampire Slayer – “Once More, With Feeling” (Season 6)

“Once More, With Feeling” takes Buffy The Vampire Slayer to musical heights. This iconic episode introduces a keen gimmick, showcasing the silky smooth singing of Giles (Anthony Stewart Head) and featuring Buffy (Sarah Michelle Gellar) and Spike’s (James Marsters) first non-magically influenced kiss.

The Big Bang Theory – “The Stockholm Syndrome” (Season 12)

In the series finale, “The Stockholm Syndrome,” The Big Bang Theory navigates delicate sitcom dynamics with finesse. Dr. Sheldon Cooper (Jim Parsons) gets his desires fulfilled, offering fans an ending they didn’t know they needed, solidifying the show’s lasting impact.

Seinfeld – “The Contest” (Season 4)

Seinfeld’s cultural impact echoes through time with “The Contest.” This episode, known for inventing enduring pop culture slang and referenced in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, showcases the New York gang engaging in a personal and hilarious challenge.

Modern Family – “Connection Lost” (Season 6)

Modern Family embraces innovation in “Connection Lost,” a format-breaking episode where Claire (Julie Bowen) plays a literal game of telephone to investigate daughter Haley’s (Sarah Hyland) mysterious activities. This unique approach adds a refreshing twist to the show’s narrative.

Star Trek: The Next Generation – “The Inner Light” (Season 5)

“The Inner Light” emerges as a timeless episode in Star Trek: The Next Generation. This fan-favorite, known for its touching story of bittersweet devastation and empathy, epitomizes Captain Picard’s (Patrick Stewart) character and values within the sci-fi franchise.

The X-Files – “Clyde Bruckman’s Final Repose” (Season 3)

Occasionally, story-driven series strike gold with one-off episodes, and The X-Files accomplishes this with “Clyde Bruckman’s Final Repose.” This spooky yet witty episode follows an insurance salesman (Peter Boyle) with an uncanny ability to predict death, providing a memorable victory for Mulder and Scully.

The Wire – “Middle Ground” (Season 3)

“Middle Ground” stands as an exemplary episode in The Wire’s legacy. Fans and critics alike celebrate this Season 3 gem, witnessing the poignant departure of Stringer Bell (Idris Elba) from the streets of Baltimore, aided by the unforgettable presence of Omar (Michael K. Williams).

Mad Men – “The Suitcase” (Season 4)

“The Suitcase” showcases a pivotal moment in the Mad Men series, marked by the unforgettable argument between Don (Jon Hamm) and Peggy (Elisabeth Moss) over the Glo Coat ad. This fracture between mentor and mentee reverberates through the series, solidifying the episode’s impact.

The Twilight Zone – “Eye Of The Beholder” (Season 2)

In the iconic collection of The Twilight Zone episodes, “Eye Of The Beholder” emerges as a standout with its unforgettable twist ending and truly frightening prosthetics. This Season 2 gem continues to captivate audiences, earning its place as one of the series’ highest-rated episodes.

Parks and Recreation – “One Last Ride” (Season 7)

Contrary to expectations, Parks and Recreation’s highest-rated episode is not the iconic “Flu Season” but rather the series finale, “One Last Ride.” This concluding installment provides a satisfying and happy ending for the ensemble cast, ensuring a memorable conclusion for fans.

The West Wing – “Two Cathedrals” (Season 2)

“Two Cathedrals” stands as a defining moment in The West Wing, showcasing one of President Jed Bartlet’s (Martin Sheen) darkest hours. This episode, where Bartlet contemplates running for another term amid personal losses, is elevated by Sheen’s riveting monologue in a church, a bilingual tongue-lashing of fury.

The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air – “Papa’s Got A Brand New Excuse” (Season 4)

“Papa’s Got A Brand New Excuse” from The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air’s Season 4 tugs at the heartstrings. Will Smith’s emotional portrayal of abandonment by his father in the episode’s conclusion resonates deeply, making it a fan-favorite for its poignant storytelling.

24 – “11:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m.” (Season 1)

As a cultural phenomenon, 24 reached its zenith with “11:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m.” This highest-rated episode sees Jack Bauer’s (Kiefer Sutherland) deadly battle with the Drazen family reaching an explosive conclusion, setting the stage for the character’s enduring journey.

Battlestar Galactica – “Crossroads: Part 2” (Season 3)

“Crossroads: Part 2” stands as Battlestar Galactica’s payoff episode, resurrecting Starbuck (Katee Sackoff) and revealing the Final Five Cylons. The dual reasons for its acclaim, coupled with the anticipation of Earth, make it a pivotal and memorable entry in the series.

Schitt’s Creek – “Happy Ending” (Season 6)

Schitt’s Creek showcases its superpower – the ability to evoke both laughter and tears. “Happy Ending” closes out the series with the joyous marriage of David (Dan Levy) and Patrick (Noah Reid). As the Rose family embarks on new journeys, this finale resonates as a truly happy ending for beloved characters.

ER – “On The Beach” (Season 8)

ER’s heart-wrenching episode, “On The Beach,” bids a tearful farewell to Dr. Greene (Anthony Edwards). The emotional intensity is heightened by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole’s cover of “Somewhere Over The Rainbow,” creating an enduring impact.

MAS*H – “Abyssinia, Henry” (Season 3)

MAS*H stands as a unique animal in the world of television, exemplified by “Abyssinia, Henry.” The departure of Colonel Henry Blake (McLean Stevenson) transitions from bittersweet to devastating, leaving an indelible mark on fans and showcasing the show’s ability to defy expectations.

Gilmore Girls – “Raincoats And Recipes” (Season 4)

“Raincoats And Recipes” claims the top spot for Gilmore Girls fans, thanks to the episode’s pivotal moment – Lorelai’s (Lauren Graham) first kiss with Luke (Scott Patterson). This complicated yet memorable scene resonates differently for fans supporting Lorelai or Rory (Alexis Bledel).

Sex and the City – “An American Girl in Paris: Part Deux” (Season 6)

Before movies and legacy-sequels, Sex and the City wrapped up with flair in “An American Girl in Paris: Part Deux.” Carrie’s (Sarah Jessica Parker) fairy tale reunion with Mr. Big (Chris Noth) provides a fitting and satisfying conclusion to the series.

Friday Night Lights – “Always” (Season 5)

The series finale, “Always,” marks the last dance with Coach Taylor (Kyle Chandler) and his East Dillon Lions in Friday Night Lights. While a State Championship hangs in the balance, the true draw for fans remains the enduring philosophy of “clear eyes, full hearts.”

I Love Lucy – “Lucy Does A TV Commercial” (Season 1)

Legendary sitcom I Love Lucy boasts timeless gags, and “Lucy Does A TV Commercial” is no exception. Lucille Ball’s unforgettable foray into a medicine commercial for Vitameatavegamin remains a comedic pinnacle in television history.

Cheers – “One For The Road” (Season 11)

Cheers bids farewell in its series finale, “One For The Road,” acknowledging that there is no Cheers without Sam Malone (Ted Danson). The closing moments, where Sam realizes the significance of the bar, resonate deeply with fans who cherish the place “where everybody knows your name.”

Conclusion: A Tapestry of Television Excellence

These highest-rated episodes from 32 beloved TV series weave a tapestry of excellence, showcasing the emotional depth, comedic brilliance, and narrative ingenuity that define the best of television. As fans reminisce about these iconic moments, they contribute to the rich history of television storytelling, where unforgettable characters and plotlines leave an indelible mark on the collective memory of audiences. The next time your favorite show takes its final bow, remember that it joins the ranks of these exceptional episodes that have etched themselves into the annals of television history.

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Dan Dunn

Executive Managing editor

Editor and Admin at MarkMeets since Nov 2012. Columnist, reviewer and entertainment writer and oversees all of the section's news, features and interviews. During his career, he has written for numerous magazines.

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