Top 10 TV Episodes That Were So Good They Were a Cultural Reset
#10: “The Last Show” “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” (1970-77)
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This groundbreaking series was a bastion for second-wave feminism, as we watched Mary Richards unapologetically choose her career over marriage. As the show concluded its iconic run, fans wondered how it would end. And it didn't disappoint. The news program's low ratings lead to firings, and unfortunately, Mary loses her job while the one responsible, Ted, gets off scot-free. Sound familiar? The episode's memorable climax features a heartfelt and hilarious group hug that has left a lasting impact. Not just that, its incredible writing has influenced countless works. It even inspired "Friends"’ own series finale. Given its perfect balance of sentimentality while avoiding corniness, we can see why.
#9: "Dinner Party" “The Office” (2005-13)
With its mockumentary style, “The Office” brilliantly captures the mundane monotony of the average nine-to-five job, delivering endless hilarious moments. Michael, the lovable (but often clueless) boss for most of the show’s run, is relentless in getting his staff on board with his ridiculous antics. In this episode, he invites other office couples to a dinner party with his girlfriend and former boss Jan. As the evening progresses, Jan and Michael's dysfunctional dynamics unravel before our eyes. Many have pointed out that the bizarre tension is reminiscent of “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?,” and we have to agree. Adding to the fun is the fact that a lot of improvisation took place. This extra layer of authenticity adds to the comedic brilliance of this dinner party from hell.
#8: "Previously On" “WandaVision” (2021)
This buzz-worthy series breaks away from the typical MCU formats, as Wanda and Vision navigate life and their powers in Westview, in the 1950s and beyond. The episodes take on different characteristics of various sitcom eras. Naturally, we soon learn that there’s more to this seemingly perfect world than meets the eye, and that it’s actually all Wanda’s doing. In this pivotal episode, the veil is lifted, as MCU fans get official confirmation of Wanda's identity as the Scarlet Witch. Through a clever use of the "clip show" trope, glimpses of Wanda's origins provide deeper insight into her character, making her feel layered. By the same token, many remaining story blanks are filled in. Is it any wonder the episode was an MCU-defining moment?
#7: “Sammy's Visit” “All in the Family” (1971-79)
This show follows a working-class family in Queens dealing with intergenerational tensions. The dad, Archie, is known for his unwavering prejudice. In this episode, fate grants him the privilege of taxi-ing Sammy Davis Jr., who mistakenly forgets his briefcase. Archie then boasts about his encounter, before Davis Jr. drops in to pick up his belongings. During the visit, he hears Archie’s bigotry bubbling to the surface. When the pair get set to take a photo, Davis Jr. takes the opportunity to give Archie a peck on the cheek. This episode deftly explores race relations in the ‘70s, confronting bigoted views through an adored public figure. It's a comedic masterclass that skillfully balances sensitive dynamics and delivers thought-provoking storytelling.
#6: “Episode 6” “Fleabag” (2016-19)
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Armed with her razor-sharp wit, the show's titular character navigates the absurdity of existence. In the series finale, her relationship with the hot priest reaches critical mass. When he catches her breaking the fourth wall earlier in the season, the boundaries between fiction and reality delightfully blur. Eventually, the narrative device, previously used for character development, comes to signify the end of Fleabag’s detachment. In the end, things don’t work out between her and the priest, but they also don’t work out between us and her. As Fleabag bids us farewell, we can’t help but get emotional. However, this poignant moment empowers her to seek a genuine connection with someone who understands her. It's a powerful conclusion that leaves viewers simultaneously yearning and inspired.
#5: “Lucy Is Enceinte” “I Love Lucy” (1951-57)
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During a time when networks still clutched their pearls at showing married couples sharing a bed, this episode danced around a basic biological reality: pregnancy. When Lucy discovers she’s pregnant, breaking the news to Ricky becomes her comedic mission. However, the network reportedly didn’t even allow the show to utter the “P” word, for fear of upsetting audiences. Thus, the episode cleverly uses the French term for pregnant in its title. In the script, the characters adhere to the word “expecting” to dance around the restriction. Through it all though, they get the message across. The episode is, for one thing, a great watch. On top of that, its success signaled a leap towards authentically portraying the joys and challenges of family life.
#4: “Connor's Wedding” “Succession” (2018-23)
A mega-hit for HBO during its run, “Succession” depicts a family that owns a powerful media conglomerate and their struggles against each other for power. Throughout, we watch the Roy family plot and scheme to win favor from their father, Logan. However, on the oldest sibling’s wedding day, the patriarch passes away on a flight, and we see a family put aside snide remarks to begin mourning. Although they’re astronomically wealthy, the characters’ true desires are shown - their father’s love. Each actor delivers a standout performance, capturing the complex emotions that come with facing and ultimately accepting such a tremendous loss. These performances come together with a fantastic script to beautifully expose the fragile humanity beneath the surface of power and wealth.
#3: "Abyssinia, Henry" “M*A*S*H” (1972-83)
For years, the U.S. Mobile Army Surgical Hospital provided us with a mix of laughter and tears thanks to the show’s unique blend of comedy and drama. Set against the backdrop of the Korean War, “M*A*S*H” became renowned for its clever integration of humor and heartfelt storytelling. In the third season finale, Henry Blake tragically passes away during an attack off-screen. This stunned viewers and prompted many letters detailing their reactions. For context, before this point, American television shows didn’t kill series regulars when actors decided they wanted out. But that’s precisely what “M*A*S*H” did here. The creators seized a chance to touch on the horrible unpredictability of war, and the result speaks for itself.
#2: "College" “The Sopranos” (1999-2007)
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Although many cite "Pine Barrens" as their favorite, this episode takes the prize as “The Sopranos”’ best. When Tony takes his daughter to visit a prospective college, she asks him if he’s in the mob. We already know the answer is yes, but his denial tells us he’s afraid she’ll see him as a hardened criminal. Later on, he sees someone from his past who’s cooperated with the Feds. After Tony eliminates the guy, we don’t see him as his daughter does anymore. Sure, we knew what business he was in – but knowing and really seeing are two different things. Now, he’s not just the beloved family man – he’s a complex anti-hero who defies conventional notions of morality. This episode redefined our understanding of the character, and left an indelible mark on television history. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “Who Do You Kill?,” “East Side/West Side” (1963-64) A Gut-Wrenching Episode That Shines a Light on Racism & Classism in New York City "Vincent and the Doctor," “Doctor Who” (1963-89; 2005-) Even Non-Whovians Shed Tears at This Look at Vincent van Gogh’s Legacy “Plato's Stepchildren,” “Star Trek” (1966-69) This Interstellar Gem Gave Us One of Television’s First Interracial Kisses "407 Proxy Authentication Required," “Mr. Robot” (2015-19) Our Favorite Hacker Uncovers a Painfully Dark Secret from His Past "Remedial Chaos Theory," “Community” (2009-15) Seven Different Timelines Are Explored & It’s Seven Times the Fun
#1: "Ozymandias" “Breaking Bad” (2008-13)
Driven by the need to cover exorbitant medical expenses, Walter White harnesses his chemistry skills to construct a drug empire. As the narrative unfolds, we witness Walt's thirst for power gradually overshadowing his initial motivation to take care of his loved ones. Nowhere are the consequences of this transformation more brilliantly portrayed and explored than in "Ozymandias." As Walt witnesses the death of his brother-in-law Hank, his entire existence collapses. Director Rian Johnson ingeniously used dirtied puzzle pieces to magnify the impact of the deeply powerful shot. The episode was so emotionally intense that even Betsy Brandt, who portrayed Hank's wife, once said she couldn’t bring herself to watch it in its entirety.
