High Emotions: 20 Series with the Best Endings + 2 Extras!

Did you know that more than 50% of viewers say that a good series finale is key to defining their experience with the show? According to a Statista survey, many fans believe that the conclusion of a story is what truly gives meaning to the entire plot. A good ending is more than just a conclusion; it has the power to transform the entire journey, leaving a lasting impression long after the episodes are over.

And who doesn't love that finale that stirs a mix of emotions, right? Whether through surprise, emotion, or the satisfaction of seeing everything come together, a great ending can be the cherry on top of a season you spent days or even weeks binge-watching. In this article, we will explore the best series finales, which stand out for leaving fans wanting more and making a huge impact.

Let's get to the list!

The Good Place (2016-2020)

Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video

Episodes: 4 seasons, 53 episodes

The Good Place follows Eleanor Shellstrop, a woman who, after her death, discovers she has been mistakenly sent to "The Good Place," a paradise for those who lived virtuous lives. Alongside mentor Michael and other residents, Eleanor tries to become a better person and uncover how to reach true redemption.

The finale of The Good Place is a lesson in life, philosophy, and friendship. Eleanor and her friends embark on a journey of self-discovery, leading to an emotional conclusion about the purpose of life and death. With a mix of humor and depth, the series delivers an ending that touches viewers' hearts and wraps up with a message of peace and acceptance.

Mad Men (2007-2015)

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu

Episodes: 7 seasons, 92 episodes

Mad Men follows the life of Don Draper, a New York advertising executive in the 1960s, exploring the complexities of marketing, personal life, and the social and cultural changes of the era. The series delves into themes of identity, desire, and the emptiness of modern life.

The finale of Mad Men is a deep and reflective conclusion. Don Draper finds a form of self-acceptance, while other characters deal with their own resolutions and transformations. The ending is ambiguous but provides an emotional sense of closure, offering insight into personal growth and the search for meaning.

Breaking Bad (2008-2013)

Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video

Episodes: 5 seasons, 62 episodes

Breaking Bad follows Walter White, a chemistry teacher who turns to meth production after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. Alongside his former student Jesse Pinkman, Walter enters the dangerous world of crime while dealing with the consequences of his choices and the shifts in his morality.

The finale of Breaking Bad is a breathtaking conclusion where Walter finally confronts the repercussions of his actions. The series ends with closure for the main characters, featuring an emotional twist and a mix of redemption and tragedy. Fans were moved by the complexity of the characters and how the story reaches its climax, balancing justice and despair.

Succession (2018-2023)

Where to Watch: HBO Max

Episodes: 4 seasons, 39 episodes

Succession follows the tumultuous life of the Roy family, who control a global media conglomerate. Patriarch Logan Roy and his children compete for control of the company while dealing with loyalty, power struggles, and betrayal. The series is a family drama with a strong focus on power dynamics.

The finale of Succession is packed with tension and resolution, with a crucial choice defining the future of the company and the Roy family. The conclusion unfolds intensely, delivering a satisfying yet unexpected end for the characters, while addressing the complexities of inheritance and power within a family dynasty.

Six Feet Under (2001-2005)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video

Episodes: 5 seasons, 63 episodes

Six Feet Under centers on the Fisher family, who run a funeral home in Los Angeles. The series follows each family member's life as they navigate death, life, and complex family dynamics.

The ending of Six Feet Under is one of the most memorable in television history. It provides a deep and emotional conclusion for the characters, with each finding their own way to deal with death and their lives. The final episode is stunning, offering a heartfelt closure that reflects on the cycle of life and death.

Better Call Saul (2015-2022)

Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video

Episodes: 6 seasons, 63 episodes

Better Call Saul is the prequel to Breaking Bad, focusing on the transformation of Jimmy McGill, a struggling lawyer, into Saul Goodman, the criminal lawyer who later becomes involved with Walter White. The series explores Jimmy's complex moral choices and his evolution into the anti-hero we know from Breaking Bad.

The ending of Better Call Saul is a well-crafted conclusion that offers a final reflection on morality and fate. Jimmy finally faces the consequences of his actions throughout the series, leading to a sad but fair resolution. The ending provides a satisfying closure to his character arc and is perfect for fans who followed his transformation.

Twin Peaks (1990-1991, 2017)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Peacock

Episodes: 3 seasons, 30 episodes

Twin Peaks is a surreal mystery that follows the murder of Laura Palmer, a young woman from a small town in the United States. FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper investigates the case as the series blends elements of drama, suspense, supernatural themes, and mystery, creating a unique atmosphere.

The ending of Twin Peaks is both mysterious and open to interpretation. The series concludes with an enigmatic finale that leaves many questions unanswered while also providing some resolution to the major mysteries. Fans were left intrigued and moved by the complexity of the narrative, which blends the surreal with the psychological.

Sex and the City (1998-2004)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Hulu

Episodes: 6 seasons, 94 episodes

Sex and the City follows the lives of four independent women in New York as they navigate relationships, careers, and the complexities of modern life. The series focuses on friendships and the ups and downs of single life, marriage, and love.

The ending of Sex and the City delivers an emotional conclusion to the protagonists' journeys. Carrie Bradshaw finds true love, while her friends also experience significant changes. The finale is filled with romance, reconciliations, and the affirmation that true friendship can overcome any challenge.

The Americans (2013-2018)

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu

Episodes: 6 seasons, 75 episodes

The Americans follows a pair of Russian spies living in the United States during the Cold War, disguised as an ordinary American family. The series explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the impact of deception on personal and professional life.

The ending of The Americans is tense and emotional. After years of espionage, the main characters face the difficult choice between loyalty to their homeland and their family. The conclusion is dramatic, dealing with sacrifice and the consequences of living a lie, resulting in an ending that blends pain and acceptance.

Hannibal (2013-2015)

Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu

Episodes: 3 seasons, 39 episodes

Hannibal follows the complex relationship between psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter and his patient, FBI agent Will Graham, as they become entangled in a series of disturbing crimes. The series blends psychological thriller with horror, exploring the human psyche and the dark forces of crime.

The ending of Hannibal is a spectacle of tension and mystery. The series concludes with an epic battle between Hannibal and Will as they confront their respective identities and fates. The ending is ambiguous, leaving viewers with a sense of unease and reflection on the nature of morality and madness.

Fleabag (2016-2019)

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

Episodes: 2 seasons, 12 episodes

Fleabag follows the life of a young and chaotic woman dealing with the death of her best friend, troubled relationships, and the struggles of modern life. The series blends comedy and drama, offering a raw and hilarious perspective on the human experience.

The ending of Fleabag is powerful and cathartic. The protagonist reaches a moment of deep reflection on her life and the relationships that have shaped her journey. The conclusion is touching, providing a sense of closure and acceptance while leaving an emotional impact on the audience.

Friends (1994-2004)

Where to Watch: Netflix, HBO Max

Episodes: 10 seasons, 236 episodes

Friends is one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time, centered on six friends living in New York. The series follows their romantic, personal, and professional lives as they navigate the comedies and dramas of adulthood.

The finale of Friends is emotionally satisfying, with each character finding happiness in their personal and professional lives. The series concludes with a heartfelt farewell, reflecting on the characters' growth and their friendship. The final episode is nostalgic and provides a sense of closure as fans say goodbye to their favorite characters.

Peaky Blinders (2013-2022)

Where to Watch: Netflix

Episodes: 6 seasons, 36 episodes

Peaky Blinders follows the story of the Shelby family, led by Thomas Shelby, as they build and expand their criminal empire after World War I. The series combines drama, action, and power struggles as the characters navigate alliances and betrayals.

The ending of Peaky Blinders is epic and action-packed. The series concludes with a major confrontation between the Shelby family and their enemies, and Thomas Shelby faces a complex fate. The finale is intense but provides a meaningful closure to the story, offering insight into the family's legacy.

Dark (2017-2020)

Where to Watch: Netflix

Episodes: 3 seasons, 26 episodes

Dark is a German mystery and science fiction series that explores time travel, family connections, and destiny. The story begins with the disappearance of a child in a small town, triggering a complex series of events that affect multiple generations.

The ending of Dark is incredibly complex and leaves fans with a mix of bewilderment and satisfaction. The time travel plot resolves with a profound conclusion that explains the cycles and paradoxes presented throughout the series, offering a philosophically and emotionally powerful resolution.

The Sopranos (1999-2007)

Where to Watch: HBO Max

Episodes: 6 seasons, 86 episodes

The Sopranos follows the life of Tony Soprano, a mafia boss trying to balance his family life with the tensions of his criminal organization. The series blends drama with crime elements, exploring themes of power, morality, and mental health.

The ending of The Sopranos is widely debated and leaves viewers with a sense of ambiguity. The final episode delivers an enigmatic conclusion that suggests Tony's fate is left open-ended, creating a memorable ending that reflects the tensions and uncertainties present throughout the series.

Friday Night Lights (2006-2011)

Where to Watch: Peacock, Hulu

Episodes: 5 seasons, 76 episodes

Friday Night Lights is a drama series that follows the life of a high school football team in a small Texas town. The series sensitively and realistically portrays the pressures of adolescence, sports life, and personal relationships.

The ending of Friday Night Lights is emotional and satisfying. The series concludes with the main characters, including coach Eric Taylor, facing significant changes in their lives. The finale is inspiring and celebrates the importance of human relationships and the impact of community on each individual.

The Leftovers (2014-2017)

Where to Watch: HBO Max

Episodes: 3 seasons, 28 episodes

The Leftovers explores the lives of those left behind after an unexplained event causes 2% of the world's population to mysteriously disappear. The series deals with themes of loss, faith, and the meaning of life as the survivors struggle with grief and uncertainty.

The ending of The Leftovers is emotionally impactful and offers a profound closure. The series concludes with a reflection on love, loss, and redemption, providing a meaningful resolution for the main characters while leaving a sense of closure despite unanswered existential questions.

House MD (2004-2012)

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Peacock

Episodes: 8 seasons, 177 episodes

House MD follows Dr. Gregory House, a brilliant but unethical and emotionally complicated doctor who solves complex medical cases with his team. The series blends medical mystery with personal drama, as House faces challenges in both his profession and personal life.

The ending of House MD is an emotional and introspective conclusion. House faces the consequences of his actions, and in the final episode, he makes a difficult choice that changes his life forever. The series ends with a resolution on House's fate and personal growth, concluding his journey with a mix of tragedy and hope.

The Office (US) (2005-2013)

Where to Watch: Peacock, Netflix

Episodes: 9 seasons, 201 episodes

Just hearing the opening theme already makes me emotional!

The Office is a comedy about the employees of Dunder Mifflin's office, following their daily lives and workplace dynamics in a documentary-style format. The series mixes humor with emotional moments, exploring character relationships and workplace challenges.

The ending of The Office is sweet and nostalgic, providing a satisfying conclusion to the story of Dunder Mifflin’s employees. The finale brings closure to fans, showing characters at new stages in their lives. It’s an emotional farewell to the series, concluding with a sense of joy and fulfillment.

Sons of Anarchy (2008-2014)

Where to Watch: Hulu, FX Now

Episodes: 7 seasons, 92 episodes

Sons of Anarchy follows a motorcycle club in a small California town, exploring power dynamics, loyalty, and crime within the club and its relationship with the community. The series tackles themes of family, morality, and the cost of a life of crime.

The ending of Sons of Anarchy is intense and dramatic. The series concludes with a tragic resolution for protagonist Jax Teller, who seeks to break the cycle of violence and protect his family. The finale is dark and provides a definitive closure to the club’s story, ending a journey of sacrifice, loyalty, and consequences.

Gravity Falls (2012-2016)

Where to Watch: Disney+, Hulu

Episodes: 2 seasons, 40 episodes

Gravity Falls follows twins Dipper and Mabel Pines, who spend the summer with their great-uncle Stan in a town filled with mysteries and supernatural creatures. The series is a mix of comedy, mystery, and adventure, packed with fun and emotion.

The ending of Gravity Falls is surprising and highly satisfying. The series wraps up the mysteries surrounding Gravity Falls with a major showdown against villains. The finale is emotional, concluding with a reflection on family and the characters' growth.

BoJack Horseman (2014-2020)

Where to Watch: Netflix

Episodes: 6 seasons, 77 episodes

BoJack Horseman follows former TV star BoJack as he deals with the highs and lows of his life, addiction issues, and dysfunctional relationships. The series blends comedy and drama, tackling deep themes like depression, redemption, and identity.

The ending of BoJack Horseman is emotionally powerful and profound. The series concludes with a reflection on BoJack’s past and future, offering closure that is both melancholic and filled with self-acceptance and learning. It is one of the most thought-provoking and impactful endings in television.

Series finales have an undeniable power to leave a lasting impression. They’re not just the conclusion of a story, but the closing of an emotional journey we’ve shared with the characters. It’s no surprise that fans around the world take to social media to share their thoughts and feelings about the most impactful endings, sparking discussions that can go on for days.

Well-crafted finales bring a sense of fulfillment, making the entire viewing experience feel worthwhile. They remind us that the time spent watching was truly meaningful. So, the next time you start binge-watching a series, keep in mind: the ending might be what makes the whole journey unforgettable.

Why not enjoy not just the beginning but also prepare yourself for a finale that will stay with you?

See you in the next article!