The Best Episodes of Famous Series - The Best of the Best!

Television has the power to captivate. It has always had the ability to convey emotions, tell memorable stories that we recall for years, and deliver unforgettable moments.

Among the most acclaimed series, some episodes stand out, earning exceptionally high ratings compared to others in the same show, becoming true exceptions in the history of entertainment.

We exclusively used ratings from various sources like IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and online discussions to identify the highest-rated episodes of these iconic series. However, since IMDb's scoring system is easier to follow, it served as the tiebreaker criterion.

Breaking Bad – "Ozymandias" (Season 5, Episode 14)

Synopsis: Walter White faces the loss of everything he built as his world collapses around him. Hank's death and the unraveling of his family mark a point of no return.

Why is it brilliant?

Considered by many as the best television episode ever, "Ozymandias" is a devastating and emotionally impactful climax. It marks the peak of Walter White's transformation and serves as a masterclass in visual and dramatic storytelling.

Game of Thrones – "Battle of the Bastards" (Season 6, Episode 9)

Synopsis: Jon Snow faces Ramsay Bolton in one of the series' most epic battles, with the survival of Winterfell at stake.

Why is it brilliant?

With cinematic battle scenes and a narrative of rising tension, this episode is a milestone in direction and choreography. It captures the brutality of war while delivering a cathartic victory to a conflict that spanned multiple seasons.

The Sopranos – "Pine Barrens" (Season 3, Episode 11)

Synopsis: Paulie and Christopher get lost in a frozen forest after a job goes wrong.

Why is it brilliant?

Blending dark humor with tension, this episode crafted a masterpiece of minimalist humor and storytelling. Steve Buscemi's direction adds a unique charm.

The Office – "Stress Relief: Part 2" (Season 5, Episode 14)

Synopsis: Michael attempts to reduce office stress while Pam and Jim deal with the consequences of their relationship.

Why is it brilliant?

The balance between iconic absurd comedy and emotional moments in The Office is impeccable in this episode. The first aid sketch is one of the most memorable moments in the entire series.

Stranger Things – "The Gate" (Season 2, Episode 9)

Synopsis: Eleven unleashes all her power to close the gate to the Upside Down, while the other characters face their own challenges.

Why is it brilliant?

The episode combines intense action with emotional moments. Season finales tend to be highly rated as long as they don't disappoint, and this finale ties up the characters' arcs while leaving us eager for more.

Lost – "Through the Looking Glass" (Season 3, Episode 22)

Synopsis: Jack and the survivors attempt to escape the island while flashbacks reveal shocking secrets.

Why is it brilliant?

This episode redefines the show's narrative, introducing flash-forwards in an innovative way while delivering emotional and impactful moments.

Mad Men – "The Suitcase" (Season 4, Episode 7)

Synopsis: Don Draper and Peggy Olson share a transformative conversation during a long night of work.

Why is it brilliant?

The emotional depth and performances by Jon Hamm and Elisabeth Moss elevate this episode to one of Mad Men's finest, exploring the complexity of their relationship in an unprecedented way.

Friends – "The Last One" (Season 10, Episode 17)

Synopsis: The group of friends says goodbye in an emotional finale that ties up the characters' arcs.

Why is it brilliant?

As the farewell to one of the most beloved series, this episode strikes the perfect balance between nostalgia and emotion. Finally, a long-running series gets a proper ending.

BoJack Horseman – "The View from Halfway Down" (Season 6, Episode 15)

Synopsis: BoJack reflects on his life in a surreal sequence while facing his mortality.

Why is it brilliant?

With poetic writing and visually innovative storytelling, this episode masterfully explores themes of regret and acceptance, resonating deeply with viewers.

Black Mirror – "San Junipero" (Season 3, Episode 4)

Synopsis: In a virtual reality, two women fall in love and discover the chance to live together beyond death.

Why is it brilliant?

An optimistic and emotional story that contrasts with Black Mirror's usually dark tone. Yorkie and Kelly's relationship is touching and unforgettable, despite some criticisms the episode received.

These episodes represent, in many cases, the best that television has to offer, with engaging narratives, brilliant performances, impeccable direction, and moments of total catharsis. Each one is a unique experience that leaves a lasting impression on viewers and redefines what a series can achieve.

Which of these episodes is your favorite? Or do you have others that deserve a spot on this list? Share your thoughts in the comments!