Greatest TV Episodes of All Time
by mehrul-bari | created - 10 Dec 2013 | updated - 22 Jan 2022 | PublicThis is my list of the greatest television episodes ever to air. I had previously published an identical list through my now-defunct account which has been taken down by IMDb for some reason. I was bummed out initially at the thought of doing it from scratch but my love for television and my love for lists drove me to construct the list all over again. So, here is the updated list via my new account. Hope you liked seeing this list half as much as I did making it (twice!)
P.S. Every episode listed as Part 1 or 2 (or higher) represents all parts, as they collectively form one episode. Also, all episodes from a mini-series or television plays are ineligible for inclusion, because of course.
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1.
Seinfeld (1989–1998)
Episode:
The Contest
(1992)
PG | 23 min | Comedy
George's mother throws her back out when she falls down after catching George performing a personal act; the gang partakes in a contest of self-denial.
Director: Tom Cherones | Stars: Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Michael Richards, Jason Alexander
Votes: 9,168
2.
The Sopranos (1999–2007)
Episode:
Long Term Parking
(2004)
TV-MA | 57 min | Crime, Drama
Tony makes a request to Johnny Sack on behalf of his cousin, and Adriana makes a request to the FBI, followed by one to Chris.
Director: Timothy Van Patten | Stars: James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, Michael Imperioli, Steven Van Zandt
Votes: 10,634
3.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Last Exit to Springfield
(1993)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
When Mr. Burns revokes the plant's dental plan, forcing Lisa to be fitted with cheap, ugly braces, Homer leads its union into going on strike.
Director: Mark Kirkland | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,257
4.
The X-Files (1993–2018)
Episode:
Clyde Bruckman's Final Repose
(1995)
TV-PG | 45 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
A grumpy old man with psychic powers that show him how someone will die assists the agents with the hunt for a crazed killer who targets psychics. He also cryptically reveals to Mulder and Scully their own ultimate fates.
Director: David Nutter | Stars: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Peter Boyle, Stuart Charno
Votes: 7,390
5.
The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970–1977)
Episode:
Chuckles Bites the Dust
(1975)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy
Mary thinks that the death of Chuckles the Clown is nothing to laugh about--until she attends the funeral.
Director: Joan Darling | Stars: Mary Tyler Moore, Edward Asner, Gavin MacLeod, Ted Knight
Votes: 526
6.
The Twilight Zone (1959–1964)
Episode:
Time Enough at Last
(1959)
TV-PG | 25 min | Drama, Fantasy, Horror
A henpecked book lover finds himself blissfully alone with his books after a nuclear war.
Director: John Brahm | Stars: Burgess Meredith, Vaughn Taylor, Jacqueline deWit, Lela Bliss
Votes: 7,778
7.
Breaking Bad (2008–2013)
Episode:
Ozymandias
(2013)
TV-14 | 47 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
Walt goes on the run. Jesse is taken hostage. Marie forces Skyler to tell Walter, Jr. the truth.
Director: Rian Johnson | Stars: Bryan Cranston, Anna Gunn, Aaron Paul, Dean Norris
Votes: 214,724
8.
The Leftovers (2014–2017)
Episode:
The Book of Nora
(2017)
TV-MA | 72 min | Drama, Fantasy, Mystery
Nora wishes to step into Dr. Eden and Dr. Bekker's machine. What are the consequences?
Director: Mimi Leder | Stars: Justin Theroux, Amy Brenneman, Christopher Eccleston, Chris Zylka
Votes: 8,376
9.
Chappelle's Show (2003–2006)
Episode:
The Love Contract & True Hollywood Stories: Rick James
(2004)
TV-MA | 19 min | Comedy, Music
Dave introduces The Love Contract and the first of Charlie Murphy's True Hollywood Stories featuring Rick James. Musical guest Ludacris.
Directors: Neal Brennan, Andre Allen, Scott Vincent | Stars: Dave Chappelle, Rashida Jones, Charlie Murphy, Rick James
Votes: 1,055
10.
Twin Peaks (1990–1991)
Episode:
Beyond Life and Death
(1991)
TV-14 | 50 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
Agent Cooper follows Windom Earle and Annie into the depths of the Black Lodge. Big Ed and Norma get a shock when Nadine suffers head trauma. Andrew and Pete unlock Eckhardt's final box and Audrey stages an act of civil disobedience.
Director: David Lynch | Stars: Kyle MacLachlan, Michael Ontkean, Mädchen Amick, Dana Ashbrook
Votes: 6,201
11.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Marge vs. the Monorail
(1993)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After receiving a considerable donation of money, Springfield builds a monorail system with Homer as the conductor, unaware they've just boarded a one-way train to Hell.
Director: Rich Moore | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,773
12.
The Wire (2002–2008)
Episode:
Final Grades
(2006)
TV-MA | 79 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
In the Season Four finale, the bodies from the vacants pile up while Burrell offers his support to Daniels and admonishes Rawls for crossing him. A distraught Bubbles finds himself at his wit's end after his revenge plan backfires.
Director: Ernest R. Dickerson | Stars: Dominic West, John Doman, Frankie Faison, Aidan Gillen
Votes: 6,013
13.
Lost (2004–2010)
Episode:
The Constant
(2008)
TV-14 | 43 min | Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
During the helicopter ride to the ship, Desmond's consciousness begins jumping back and forth between present day 2004 and 1996. He is forced to find Daniel Faraday in 1996 in order to get answers and stop the jumps.
Director: Jack Bender | Stars: Naveen Andrews, Henry Ian Cusick, Jeremy Davies, Emilie de Ravin
Votes: 14,920
14.
The Shield (2002–2008)
Episode:
Family Meeting
(2008)
TV-MA | 72 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
As Vic hopes his immunity deal will help keep his family together, and Shane takes extreme measures to keep his pregnant wife from being charged with murder, Dutch finds he's a suspect in ... See full summary »
Director: Clark Johnson | Stars: Michael Chiklis, Catherine Dent, Paula Garcés, Walton Goggins
Votes: 3,942
15.
Fawlty Towers (1975–1979)
Episode:
The Germans
(1975)
TV-PG | 31 min | Comedy
A moose head to be hung, a fire drill to be conducted, and German guests are all a bit much for Basil to handle while Sybil's in hospital.
Director: John Howard Davies | Stars: John Cleese, Prunella Scales, Andrew Sachs, Connie Booth
Votes: 2,871
16.
Mad Men (2007–2015)
Episode:
The Suitcase
(2010)
TV-14 | 48 min | Drama
Don deliberately delays returning an important call from California, because he knows it's bad news about Anna. Instead, he keeps himself occupied by forcing Peggy to miss her birthday dinner to pull an all-nighter with him for a client.
Director: Jennifer Getzinger | Stars: Jon Hamm, Elisabeth Moss, Vincent Kartheiser, January Jones
Votes: 6,420
17.
I Love Lucy (1951–1957)
Episode:
Lucy Does a TV Commercial
(1952)
TV-Y | 30 min | Comedy, Family
Lucy has angled her way onto Ricky's special as the show's pitch girl. She advertises a medicine called "Vitameatavegamin." Believing it contains vitamins, minerals, meat, and vegetables, ... See full summary »
Director: Marc Daniels | Stars: Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Vivian Vance, William Frawley
Votes: 1,041
18.
Columbo (1971–2003)
Episode:
Now You See Him
(1976)
TV-PG | 98 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
A stage illusionist kills his employer and makes it look like a contract killing; it's up to Lt. Columbo to trick the master trickster.
Director: Harvey Hart | Stars: Peter Falk, Jack Cassidy, Bob Dishy, Nehemiah Persoff
Votes: 2,893
19.
The Sopranos (1999–2007)
Episode:
Pine Barrens
(2001)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama
While Silvio has the flu, Chris and Paulie run his collections for him, which results in the pair getting lost in the woods and nearly freezing to death while Tony's affair with Gloria goes sour as does Meadow's relationship with Jackie Jr.
Director: Steve Buscemi | Stars: James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco, Michael Imperioli
Votes: 15,612
20.
Futurama (1999– )
Episode:
Jurassic Bark
(2002)
TV-14 | 23 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
Fry discovers the intact fossilized remains of his pet dog from his old life. The Professor reveals he can clone the animal.
Director: Swinton O. Scott III | Stars: Billy West, Katey Sagal, John DiMaggio, Tress MacNeille
Votes: 6,899
21.
Homicide: Life on the Street (1993–1999)
Episode:
The Subway
(1997)
TV-14 | 46 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
A man is pinned by a train in a subway station, producing a mortal wound that is temporarily suppressed by his situation, the Homicide detectives must determine if the incident was an accident or deliberate.
Director: Gary Fleder | Stars: Richard Belzer, Andre Braugher, Reed Diamond, Michelle Forbes
Votes: 521
22.
The Twilight Zone (1959–1964)
Episode:
Walking Distance
(1959)
TV-PG | 25 min | Drama, Fantasy, Horror
A man, fed up with where he's at in life, finds himself not only in his old hometown, but back to the time when he was a boy.
Director: Robert Stevens | Stars: Rod Serling, Gig Young, Frank Overton, Irene Tedrow
Votes: 6,061
23.
Six Feet Under (2001–2005)
Episode:
Everyone's Waiting
(2005)
TV-MA | 73 min | Comedy, Drama
Nate and Brenda's daughter Willa is born, but 2 months early and at only 2 lb. 4 oz., requiring a prolonged hospital stay. Nate is convinced she won't make it and insists that he can't ... See full summary »
Director: Alan Ball | Stars: Peter Krause, Michael C. Hall, Frances Conroy, Lauren Ambrose
Votes: 12,239
24.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003)
Episode:
Once More, with Feeling
(2001)
TV-PG | 50 min | Action, Drama, Fantasy
In this musical extravaganza, Sunnydale residents find themselves bursting into song, and flame, when a demon attempts to make Dawn his bride.
Director: Joss Whedon | Stars: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Nicholas Brendon, Emma Caulfield Ford, Michelle Trachtenberg
Votes: 11,106
25.
M*A*S*H (1972–1983)
Episode:
Abyssinia, Henry
(1975)
TV-PG | 25 min | Comedy, Drama, War
Henry finds out he's been discharged from the army and everyone at the 4077th prepares to say goodbye to him as he heads home.
Director: Larry Gelbart | Stars: Alan Alda, Wayne Rogers, McLean Stevenson, Loretta Swit
Votes: 1,486
26.
Friends (1994–2004)
Episode:
The One with the Embryos
(1998)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy, Romance
Phoebe's uterus is examined for implantation of the embryos. Meanwhile, a seemingly harmless game between Chandler and Joey against Monica and Rachel escalates into a full blown contest where the stakes are raised higher and higher.
Director: Kevin Bright | Stars: Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc
Votes: 9,543
27.
Doctor Who (2005–2022)
Episode:
Blink
(2007)
TV-PG | 45 min | Adventure, Drama, Sci-Fi
Sally Sparrow receives a cryptic message from the Doctor about a mysterious new enemy species that is after the TARDIS.
Director: Hettie Macdonald | Stars: David Tennant, Freema Agyeman, Carey Mulligan, Lucy Gaskell
Votes: 23,854
28.
Arrested Development (2003–2019)
Episode:
Pier Pressure
(2004)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy
When Buster asks George-Michael to buy him marijuana to treat Lucille Austero's vertigo, Michael stages a phony bust to teach George-Michael a lesson.
Director: Joe Russo | Stars: Jason Bateman, Portia de Rossi, Will Arnett, Michael Cera
Votes: 3,585
29.
The Honeymooners (1955–1956)
Episode:
The $99,000 Answer
(1956)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy, Family
Ralph's out to prove himself to Alice, his neighborhood, and the world when he becomes a contestant on a hit television game show.
Director: Frank Satenstein | Stars: Jackie Gleason, Art Carney, Audrey Meadows, Joyce Randolph
Votes: 414
30.
The Alfred Hitchcock Hour (1962–1965)
Episode:
The Jar
(1964)
TV-PG | 48 min | Crime, Drama, Horror
Charlie Hill is mesmerized by a strange jar at a carnival sideshow. He buys it from the owner, but his wife Thedy Sue is frightened and wants it thrown out. The townspeople come from miles to see it and Charlie becomes a local celebrity.
Director: Norman Lloyd | Stars: Alfred Hitchcock, Pat Buttram, Collin Wilcox Paxton, William Marshall
Votes: 771
31.
The Prisoner (1967–1968)
Episode:
Fall Out
(1968)
TV-PG | 60 min | Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi
After witnessing the trials of Number Two and Number Forty-Eight and meeting the President of the Assembly, Number Six escapes during the chaos that follows.
Director: Patrick McGoohan | Stars: Alexis Kanner, Angelo Muscat, Leo McKern, Kenneth Griffith
Votes: 904
32.
South Park (1997– )
Episode:
Trapped in the Closet
(2005)
TV-MA | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
Several religious leaders recongize Stan as the second coming of L. Ron Hubbard, and a whole soap opera unfolds with the help from a famous R&B sensation.
Director: Trey Parker | Stars: Trey Parker, Matt Stone, John 'Nancy' Hansen, Mona Marshall
Votes: 5,375
33.
Blackadder Goes Forth (1989)
Episode:
Goodbyeee
(1989)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy, War
Blackadder pretends that he's insane to avoid certain death carrying out the General's order for the "big push".
Director: Richard Boden | Stars: Rowan Atkinson, Tony Robinson, Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie
Votes: 1,817
34.
Homicide: Life on the Street (1993–1999)
Episode:
Three Men and Adena
(1993)
TV-14 | 46 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
Bayliss has a new clue on his primary case and with Frank they interrogate a suspect who they believe to be the murderer of Adena
Director: Martin Campbell | Stars: Daniel Baldwin, Richard Belzer, Andre Braugher, Clark Johnson
Votes: 503
35.
The Larry Sanders Show (1992–1998)
Episode:
Flip
(1998)
TV-MA | 55 min | Comedy
Larry, Hank, Arthur and the staff prepare for, and put on, Larry's last show.
Director: Todd Holland | Stars: Garry Shandling, Jeffrey Tambor, Wallace Langham, Penny Johnson Jerald
Votes: 304
36.
Star Trek (1966–1969)
Episode:
The City on the Edge of Forever
(1967)
TV-PG | 50 min | Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
When a temporarily insane Dr. McCoy accidentally changes history and destroys his time, Kirk and Spock follow him to prevent the disaster, but the price to do so is high.
Director: Joseph Pevney | Stars: William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, Joan Collins, DeForest Kelley
Votes: 6,566
37.
Yes, Prime Minister (1986–1987)
Episode:
The Key
(1986)
TV-PG | 29 min | Comedy
Sir Humphrey has to scramble when the Prime Minister's Political Advisor, Mrs. Wainwright, convinces the PM that she should get her old office back. Sir Humphrey and his predecessors have ... See full summary »
Director: Sydney Lotterby | Stars: Paul Eddington, Nigel Hawthorne, Derek Fowlds, Peter Cellier
Votes: 413
38.
Seinfeld (1989–1998)
Episode:
The Parking Garage
(1991)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy
The four get stuck in a parking garage for hours when they forget where they parked.
Director: Tom Cherones | Stars: Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Michael Richards, Jason Alexander
Votes: 5,652
39.
Northern Exposure (1990–1995)
Episode:
Aurora Borealis: A Fairy Tale for Big People
(1990)
TV-PG | 60 min | Comedy, Drama
While Joel gives Ed golf lessons, the Indian warns him Adam is around, the never actually seen monster-prankster, blamed for all kinds of weirdness for some 15 years. Passing the night in ... See full summary »
Director: Peter O'Fallon | Stars: Rob Morrow, Barry Corbin, Janine Turner, John Cullum
Votes: 499
40.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003)
Episode:
The Body
(2001)
TV-PG | 60 min | Action, Drama, Fantasy
Buffy, Dawn, and their friends deal with the aftermath of Joyce's death.
Director: Joss Whedon | Stars: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, Emma Caulfield Ford
Votes: 7,599
41.
The Office (2001–2003)
Episode:
Christmas Special: Part 2
(2003)
TV-MA | 52 min | Comedy, Drama
Tim's world is rocked when Dawn turns up at the office to say hello. Despite a stern warning from Gareth and wise words from Keith in Accounts, Tim can't help but get his hopes up again. ... See full summary »
Directors: Ricky Gervais, Stephen Merchant | Stars: Ricky Gervais, Martin Freeman, Mackenzie Crook, Lucy Davis
Votes: 3,005
(representing both Part 1 and 2)
42.
Twin Peaks (1990–1991)
Episode:
Lonely Souls
(1990)
TV-14 | 47 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
Cooper and the One-Armed Man inspect guests at the Great Northern. Hawk finds Harold Smith dead - with a mysterious suicide note and the diary torn to shreds. Leo speaks to Bobby about "new shoes."
Director: David Lynch | Stars: Kyle MacLachlan, Michael Ontkean, Mädchen Amick, Dana Ashbrook
Votes: 6,414
43.
Frasier (1993–2004)
Episode:
The Ski Lodge
(1998)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy
Roz wins a weekend at a ski lodge, and trades it to Frasier. Daphne invites along her friend Annie, a swimsuit model. Frasier is taken with her, but she is interested in Niles.
Director: David Lee | Stars: Kelsey Grammer, Jane Leeves, David Hyde Pierce, Peri Gilpin
Votes: 2,138
44.
Friday Night Lights (2006–2011)
Episode:
Always
(2011)
TV-14 | 61 min | Drama, Sport
With the decision to close the East Dillon Football program speculation runs wild on two fronts. Will the Lions be able to win State and go out in a blaze of glory; and will Coach Taylor ... See full summary »
Director: Michael Waxman | Stars: Kyle Chandler, Connie Britton, Aimee Teegarden, Michael B. Jordan
Votes: 1,245
45.
Lost (2004–2010)
Episode:
Through the Looking Glass: Part 1
(2007)
TV-14 | 43 min | Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
Jack and the survivors wait for Charlie to turn off The Others' signal-jamming device, not knowing that he has been captured at the Looking Glass station. The plan to blow up the group of Others who invade the camp fails.
Director: Jack Bender | Stars: Naveen Andrews, Henry Ian Cusick, Emilie de Ravin, Michael Emerson
Votes: 13,271
46.
Moonlighting (1985–1989)
Episode:
The Dream Sequence Always Rings Twice
(1985)
TV-PG | 50 min | Comedy, Drama, Mystery
David and Maddie meet the owner of a club who tells them about an unresolved murder. Maddie and David argue about who they think the real murderer is and, in their dreams, set about solving the murder that occurred 40 years ago.
Director: Peter Werner | Stars: Cybill Shepherd, Bruce Willis, Allyce Beasley, Jack Bannon
Votes: 466
47.
Arrested Development (2003–2019)
Episode:
Development Arrested
(2006)
TV-14 | 23 min | Comedy
After returning home from Iraq, George Sr. is finally cleared of all charges, and Michael is relieved to be the head of a successful company for a change. The real brains behind the madness... See full summary »
Director: John Fortenberry | Stars: Jason Bateman, Portia de Rossi, Will Arnett, Michael Cera
Votes: 3,007
48.
The Sopranos (1999–2007)
Episode:
The Blue Comet
(2007)
TV-MA | 53 min | Crime, Drama
The allegiance of those closest to Tony is put to the test. A case of mistaken identity has serious ramifications.
Director: Alan Taylor | Stars: James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco, Michael Imperioli
Votes: 9,443
49.
The Wire (2002–2008)
Episode:
Middle Ground
(2004)
TV-MA | 59 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
The wire begins to yield information about the Barksdale organization. Stringer and Avon reminisce on how far they have come. McNulty finds the way to a key piece of the puzzle in an ... See full summary »
Director: Joe Chappelle | Stars: Dominic West, John Doman, Idris Elba, Frankie Faison
Votes: 7,012
50.
Deadwood (2004–2006)
Episode:
Sold Under Sin
(2004)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama, History
General Crook rolls into Deadwood with his troops, known as "Custer's avengers," and the Yankton magistrate, Clagett, prompting a parade and business solicitations from E.B. Farnum and Cy ... See full summary »
Director: Davis Guggenheim | Stars: Timothy Olyphant, Ian McShane, Molly Parker, Jim Beaver
Votes: 2,259
51.
Seinfeld (1989–1998)
Episode:
The Chinese Restaurant
(1991)
TV-PG | 23 min | Comedy
Jerry, Elaine and George stop for a quick Chinese dinner before seeing "Plan 9 From Outer Space," but circumstances at the eatery make them miss the movie.
Director: Tom Cherones | Stars: Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Michael Richards, Jason Alexander
Votes: 5,514
52.
All in the Family (1971–1979)
Episode:
Sammy's Visit
(1972)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy, Drama
The classic tale about the time Sammy Davis Jr. stopped by to visit the Bunkers. It begins with a briefcase he left in Archie's cab ... and ends with the kiss of infamy.
Director: John Rich | Stars: Carroll O'Connor, Jean Stapleton, Rob Reiner, Sally Struthers
Votes: 547
53.
Family Ties (1982–1989)
Episode:
A, My Name Is Alex
(1987)
TV-PG | 60 min | Comedy, Drama, Family
Alex's friend dies in an accident. As the family grieves, Alex tries to mask his pain, but he can't hide his sadness and other emotions forever.
Director: Will Mackenzie | Stars: Meredith Baxter, Michael Gross, Michael J. Fox, Justine Bateman
Votes: 353
54.
The West Wing (1999–2006)
Episode:
Two Cathedrals
(2001)
TV-14 | 43 min | Drama
As the Haitian army continues their seizure of the American embassy there, Bartlet and the staff prepare for the announcement that Bartlet has M.S. and the President must decide whether or ... See full summary »
Director: Thomas Schlamme | Stars: Rob Lowe, Dulé Hill, Allison Janney, Janel Moloney
Votes: 3,639
55.
Twin Peaks (1990–1991)
Episode:
Northwest Passage
(1989)
Unrated | 94 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
The small northwest town of Twin Peaks, Washington is shaken up when the body of the Homecoming Queen, Laura Palmer, is discovered washed up on a riverbank, wrapped in plastic.
Director: David Lynch | Stars: Kyle MacLachlan, Michael Ontkean, Mädchen Amick, Dana Ashbrook
Votes: 16,820
56.
Seinfeld (1989–1998)
Episode:
The Outing
(1993)
PG | 22 min | Comedy
A prank by Elaine leads a newspaper journalist to think that Jerry and George are gay.
Director: Tom Cherones | Stars: Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Michael Richards, Jason Alexander
Votes: 6,701
57.
Mystery Science Theater 3000 (1988–1999)
Episode:
'Manos' the Hands of Fate
(1993)
Not Rated | 93 min | Comedy, Sci-Fi
The Mads present the satellite people a film so bad that apologies are sent, and Tom Servo goes off his nut from it.
Director: Joel Hodgson | Stars: Trace Beaulieu, Joel Hodgson, Jim Mallon, Kevin Murphy
Votes: 1,506
58.
The Dick Van Dyke Show (1961–1966)
Episode:
Coast to Coast Big Mouth
(1965)
TV-G | 30 min | Comedy, Family
Laura accidentally spills the beans on a nationally televised talk show that Alan Brady is bald.
Director: Jerry Paris | Stars: Dick Van Dyke, Rose Marie, Morey Amsterdam, Larry Mathews
Votes: 431
59.
Succession (2018–2023)
Episode:
All the Bells Say
(2021)
TV-MA | 66 min | Comedy, Drama
Matsson's vision for the business leads Shiv and Roman to manage the fallout, while Logan weighs his options.
Director: Mark Mylod | Stars: Nicholas Braun, Brian Cox, Kieran Culkin, Dagmara Dominczyk
Votes: 16,648
60.
Breaking Bad (2008–2013)
Episode:
Half Measures
(2010)
TV-14 | 47 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
Against Walt's advice, Jesse lashes out. Fearing for Jesse's safety, Walt takes drastic action to intervene. Meanwhile a tragic event leads to a shocking confrontation.
Director: Adam Bernstein | Stars: Bryan Cranston, Anna Gunn, Aaron Paul, Dean Norris
Votes: 32,447
61.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Rosebud
(1993)
TV-PG | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After his birthday party goes wrong, Mr. Burns begins to want his childhood toy, a teddy bear named Bobo; Homer finds that Maggie is in possession of the doll.
Director: Wesley Archer | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,422
62.
Cheers (1982–1993)
Episode:
Thanksgiving Orphans
(1986)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy, Drama
Thanksgiving is approaching and no one has anything to do except Diane, who is among a select few graduate students one of her professors has asked to spend Thanksgiving with his family, ... See full summary »
Director: James Burrows | Stars: Ted Danson, Shelley Long, Rhea Perlman, John Ratzenberger
Votes: 780
63.
Hill Street Blues (1981–1987)
Episode:
Freedom's Last Stand
(1982)
TV-14 | 48 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
An angry Furillo testifies a second time before a grand jury for the Sullivan Commission on police corruption. Goldblume goes undercover in drag to catch a purse snatcher. Bates represents ... See full summary »
Director: Gregory Hoblit | Stars: Daniel J. Travanti, Michael Conrad, Michael Warren, Bruce Weitz
Votes: 152
64.
The Bob Newhart Show (1972–1978)
Episode:
Over the River and Through the Woods
(1975)
TV-G | 30 min | Comedy
With Emily out of town, Bob spends Thanksgiving with Jerry and Mr Carlin watching a football game. They proceed to get drunk and try to order Moo Goo Gai Pan from a Chinese restaurant for dinner.
Director: James Burrows | Stars: Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, Peter Bonerz, Bill Daily
Votes: 218
65.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003)
Episode:
Hush
(1999)
TV-PG | 43 min | Action, Drama, Fantasy
When everyone in Sunnydale loses their voice, the Scooby Gang must silently solve the mystery of the monsters who stole their ability to speak.
Director: Joss Whedon | Stars: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, James Marsters
Votes: 8,249
66.
WKRP in Cincinnati (1978–1982)
Episode:
Turkeys Away
(1978)
TV-PG | 24 min | Comedy
Feeling left out by all the recent changes, Mr. Carlson decides to launch his own Thanksgiving promotion. With the aid of Herb and Les, the Big Guy turns a routine turkey give-away into a comic catastrophe.
Director: Michael Zinberg | Stars: Gary Sandy, Gordon Jump, Loni Anderson, Richard Sanders
Votes: 1,082
67.
Friday Night Lights (2006–2011)
Episode:
The Son
(2009)
TV-14 | 43 min | Drama, Sport
Just as the East Dillon Lions start to perform as a team, the town of Dillon is rocked with the news of the death of Matt's dad. Coach & Mrs Taylor and Julie all do their part to help Matt ... See full summary »
Director: Allison Liddi-Brown | Stars: Kyle Chandler, Connie Britton, Taylor Kitsch, Jesse Plemons
Votes: 1,050
68.
Mad Men (2007–2015)
Episode:
Shut the Door. Have a Seat
(2009)
TV-14 | 60 min | Drama
With another sale on the horizon, Sterling, Cooper, and Draper convince Lane Pryce to fire them and then join them as they start up a new advertising firm. At home, Betty follows through with her plans to divorce Don.
Director: Matthew Weiner | Stars: Jon Hamm, Elisabeth Moss, Vincent Kartheiser, January Jones
Votes: 5,087
69.
The Sopranos (1999–2007)
Episode:
College
(1999)
TV-MA | 57 min | Crime, Drama
While visiting colleges with Meadow, Tony spots a snitch. Carmela, meanwhile, discovers something about Dr. Melfi.
Director: Allen Coulter | Stars: James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco, Michael Imperioli
Votes: 10,482
70.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Cape Feare
(1993)
TV-14 | 23 min | Animation, Comedy
After being released from prison on parole, Sideshow Bob plots to murder Bart.
Director: Rich Moore | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,756
71.
The Wire (2002–2008)
Episode:
Late Editions
(2008)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
With Steintorf ordering Rawls to initiate 'creative' remedies for the rising crime rate, Freamon's vigilance pays off with a promising lead, sending Sydnor and the department into overdrive.
Director: Joe Chappelle | Stars: Dominic West, Reg E. Cathey, John Doman, Aidan Gillen
Votes: 4,684
72.
Watchmen (2019)
Episode:
This Extraordinary Being
(2019)
TV-MA | 61 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
Deep under the influence of Nostalgia, Angela gets a firsthand account of her grandfather's journey.
Director: Stephen Williams | Stars: Regina King, Jean Smart, Don Johnson, Hong Chau
Votes: 9,569
73.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Treehouse of Horror V
(1994)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
The family's job at Mr. Burns' country estate goes awry when Homer goes mad; Homer's attempt to repair a toaster results in inadvertent time travel; The school staff turn cannibalistic.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,224
74.
Taxi (1978–1983)
Episode:
Reverend Jim: A Space Odyssey
(1979)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy
The guys run into Reverend Jim and try to get him a job, but first they have to convince Louie to hire him and help him pass the exam.
Director: James Burrows | Stars: Judd Hirsch, Jeff Conaway, Danny DeVito, Marilu Henner
Votes: 453
75.
The Dick Van Dyke Show (1961–1966)
Episode:
Never Bathe on Saturday
(1965)
TV-G | 30 min | Comedy, Family
While on their second honeymoon, Laura gets her toe stuck in a hotel bathtub faucet and Rob can't get through the locked bathroom door to free her.
Director: Jerry Paris | Stars: Dick Van Dyke, Rose Marie, Morey Amsterdam, Larry Mathews
Votes: 328
76.
The West Wing (1999–2006)
Episode:
In the Shadow of Two Gunmen: Part I
(2000)
TV-14 | 43 min | Drama
The President is rushed to hospital following a shooting; staffers field questions on protection measures and executive authority. Flashbacks show how key staff members joined the Bartlet campaign.
Director: Thomas Schlamme | Stars: Rob Lowe, Dulé Hill, Allison Janney, Janel Moloney
Votes: 1,815
(representing both Part I and II)
77.
Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000–2024)
Episode:
Seinfeld
(2009)
TV-MA | 41 min | Comedy
Taping the Seinfeld reunion proves to be difficult after Larry's fight with a local coffee vendor alienates Jason Alexander and costs him quality time with Cheryl.
Directors: Jeff Schaffer, Andy Ackerman | Stars: Larry David, Jeff Garlin, Cheryl Hines, Jerry Seinfeld
Votes: 2,314
78.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Lisa's Wedding
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
A fortune teller gives Lisa a look at her wedding in the year 2010.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,349
79.
The Honeymooners (1955–1956)
Episode:
Better Living Through TV
(1955)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy, Family
Ralph's newest get-rich-quick scheme is to sell an all-purpose kitchen gadget. With Norton's assistance, Ralph plans to demonstrate it during a live TV commercial, in order to reach more ... See full summary »
Director: Frank Satenstein | Stars: Jackie Gleason, Art Carney, Audrey Meadows, Joyce Randolph
Votes: 354
80.
The Wire (2002–2008)
Episode:
Bad Dreams
(2003)
TV-MA | 58 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
The detail makes a desperate move. Nick's deceit is in the open, as Sobotka is overwhelmed by bad news. The Greeks confidently ease out of a brief encounter with the detail and Omar's ... See full summary »
Director: Ernest R. Dickerson | Stars: Dominic West, Chris Bauer, Paul Ben-Victor, John Doman
Votes: 5,411
81.
24 (2001–2010)
Episode:
11:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m.
(2002)
TV-14 | 42 min | Action, Crime, Drama
After being falsely informed his daughter has been killed, the enraged Jack Bauer goes to the dock to kill the Drazens whilst the traitor at CTU tries to make a quick escape.
Director: Stephen Hopkins | Stars: Kiefer Sutherland, Leslie Hope, Sarah Clarke, Elisha Cuthbert
Votes: 2,602
82.
Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994)
Episode:
The Inner Light
(1992)
TV-PG | 45 min | Action, Adventure, Drama
Picard awakes to find himself living in a small village where he is a well-known member of the community who is suffering from a delusion of being a starship captain.
Director: Peter Lauritson | Stars: Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, LeVar Burton, Michael Dorn
Votes: 8,238
83.
Hannibal (2013–2015)
Episode:
Mizumono
(2014)
TV-14 | 44 min | Crime, Drama, Horror
Jack devises a plan to apprehend Hannibal, while Hannibal prepares for his departure. Will makes his decision, and it results in devastating consequences.
Director: David Slade | Stars: Hugh Dancy, Mads Mikkelsen, Caroline Dhavernas, Laurence Fishburne
Votes: 21,467
84.
The Wonder Years (1988–1993)
Episode:
Goodbye
(1990)
TV-PG | 24 min | Comedy, Drama, Family
Kevin's grades in Mr. Collins' math class are not that good. After talking to Kevin, Mr. Collins suggests that he could give him extra lessons to help him on the upcoming test. One day, Mr. Collins fails to show up.
Director: Michael Dinner | Stars: Fred Savage, Dan Lauria, Alley Mills, Olivia d'Abo
Votes: 713
85.
Freaks and Geeks (1999–2000)
Episode:
Carded and Discarded
(2000)
TV-14 | 45 min | Comedy, Drama
Sam, Neal, and Bill befriend a pretty new transfer student, but soon fear of losing her to the popular crowd and try to win her over with a series of fun things they plan for her. Lindsay, ... See full summary »
Director: Judd Apatow | Stars: Linda Cardellini, John Francis Daley, James Franco, Samm Levine
Votes: 1,991
86.
Battlestar Galactica (2004–2009)
Episode:
33
(2004)
TV-14 | 43 min | Action, Adventure, Drama
The Galactica and the other remaining ships - with about 50,000 people aboard them all - are being pursued by the Cylons. They are forced to jump into hyper space every 33 minutes. Somehow,... See full summary »
Director: Michael Rymer | Stars: Edward James Olmos, Mary McDonnell, Katee Sackhoff, Jamie Bamber
Votes: 3,275
87.
Lovecraft Country (2020)
Episode:
Meet Me in Daegu
(2020)
TV-MA | 63 min | Drama, Fantasy, Horror
In the throes of the Korean War, nursing student Ji-ah crosses paths with a wounded Atticus, who has no recollection of their violent first encounter.
Director: Helen Shaver | Stars: Jurnee Smollett, Jonathan Majors, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Wunmi Mosaku
Votes: 2,734
88.
Star Trek (1966–1969)
Episode:
The Devil in the Dark
(1967)
TV-PG | 50 min | Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
The Enterprise is sent to a mining colony that is being terrorized by a mysterious monster, only to find that the situation is not that simple.
Director: Joseph Pevney | Stars: William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, Ken Lynch
Votes: 4,290
89.
The X-Files (1993–2018)
Episode:
Bad Blood
(1998)
TV-14 | 45 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
Scully and Mulder each recount their version of events that led Mulder to drive a stake through the heart of a Texas teenager he claims was a vampire.
Director: Cliff Bole | Stars: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Mitch Pileggi, Luke Wilson
Votes: 6,711
90.
My So-Called Life (1994–1995)
Episode:
Life of Brian
(1994)
TV-PG | 49 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
Brian is caught between taking Angela or a new girl at school to a dance. Rickie has a crush on a new student at Liberty High.
Director: Todd Holland | Stars: Bess Armstrong, Wilson Cruz, Claire Danes, Devon Gummersall
Votes: 397
91.
Parks and Recreation (2009–2015)
Episode:
Flu Season
(2011)
TV-PG | 21 min | Comedy
Leslie gets the flu right before an important fund-raising pitch for the Harvest Festival, Chris tries frantically to avoid catching the bug, and Ron hires Andy to replace April while she is out.
Director: Wendey Stanzler | Stars: Amy Poehler, Rashida Jones, Aziz Ansari, Nick Offerman
Votes: 3,323
92.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Bart Sells His Soul
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Bart casually sells his soul to Milhouse for $5 but soon regrets it; Moe converts his dank bar into a family restaurant.
Director: Wesley Archer | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,210
93.
Saturday Night Live (1975– )
Episode:
Steve Martin/The Blues Brothers
(1978)
TV-14 | 66 min | Comedy, Music
The host for the episode is Steve Martin (his fifth appearance), and the musical guest is The Blues Brothers (their second appearance). The skits for this episode are as follows: Concert ... See full summary »
Directors: Dave Wilson, James Signorelli | Stars: Steve Martin, Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, Jane Curtin
Votes: 204
94.
30 Rock (2006–2013)
Episode:
Black Tie
(2007)
TV-14 | 22 min | Comedy
Jack asks Liz to accompany him to a societal event, the birthday party of a royal. When Jack's ex-wife arrives, he introduces Liz as a girlfriend. To help Pete reclaim his manhood, Tracy holds a party in the office, inviting girl dancers.
Director: Don Scardino | Stars: Tina Fey, Tracy Morgan, Jane Krakowski, Jack McBrayer
Votes: 1,561
95.
Game of Thrones (2011–2019)
Episode:
Blackwater
(2012)
TV-MA | 55 min | Action, Adventure, Drama
Stannis Baratheon's fleet and army arrive at King's Landing and the battle for the city begins. Cersei plans for her and her children's future.
Director: Neil Marshall | Stars: Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey, Charles Dance, Liam Cunningham
Votes: 54,548
96.
What We Do in the Shadows (2019–2024)
Episode:
On the Run
(2020)
TV-MA | 19 min | Comedy, Fantasy, Horror
After a vengeful enemy from the past appears without warning, Laszlo flees his home and goes into hiding to avoid certain death.
Director: Yana Gorskaya | Stars: Kayvan Novak, Matt Berry, Natasia Demetriou, Harvey Guillén
Votes: 2,989
97.
Everybody Loves Raymond (1996–2005)
Episode:
Talk to Your Daughter
(2002)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy
Ally asks what the meaning of life is and no one knows how to answer her.
Director: Jerry Zaks | Stars: Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, Brad Garrett, Madylin Sweeten
Votes: 454
98.
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2005– )
Episode:
The Nightman Cometh
(2008)
TV-MA | 22 min | Comedy
Charlie stages a rock opera based on his song "Nightman," and recruits the rest of the gang to help him with it.
Director: Matt Shakman | Stars: Charlie Day, Glenn Howerton, Rob McElhenney, Kaitlin Olson
Votes: 8,118
99.
The Twilight Zone (1959–1964)
Episode:
The Hitch-Hiker
(1960)
TV-PG | 25 min | Drama, Fantasy, Horror
A young woman driving cross-country becomes frantic when she keeps passing the same man on the side of the road. No matter how fast she drives, the man is always up ahead, hitching her for a ride.
Director: Alvin Ganzer | Stars: Inger Stevens, Adam Williams, Lew Gallo, Leonard Strong
Votes: 5,226
100.
Six Feet Under (2001–2005)
Episode:
All Alone
(2005)
TV-MA | 60 min | Comedy, Drama
The family prepares for the worst funeral of their lives. Ruth makes things worse on David by taking out her pain on him until he stands up for himself, and Nate makes things worse for ... See full summary »
Director: Adam Davidson | Stars: Peter Krause, Michael C. Hall, Frances Conroy, Lauren Ambrose
Votes: 3,452
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