Unforgettable TV Episodes of 2025: Six Must-See Standouts

Every year, a handful of television episodes rise above the rest, leaving a lasting impression on viewers and critics alike. While some series consistently deliver excellence, even the best shows have their peaks and valleys. Sometimes, a single episode can elevate an entire season or even stand alone as a masterpiece. Narrowing down the top episodes of 2025 was no easy feat, but these six entries captured the year’s most compelling storytelling and unforgettable performances.

Epic Journeys and Emotional Highs

"The Wheel of Time" reached new heights in its third season with episode four, "The Road to the Spear." Josha Stradowski’s portrayal of Rand, forced to relive his ancestors’ memories during a grueling Aiel trial, was nothing short of heartbreaking. As Rand uncovers the devastating role his lover Lanfear played in the world’s downfall, Rosamund Pike’s Moiraine is haunted by visions that suggest only a sacrifice can stop the Dark One. The episode’s sweeping visuals and high-stakes narrative delivered a fantasy experience at its most ambitious.

"Alien: Earth" episode five, "In Space, No One…," brought the iconic horror- sci-fi franchise back to its roots. The show’s exploration of what it means to be a monster—juxtaposing xenomorphs and synthetics—culminated in a gripping retelling of the xenomorph’s arrival on Earth. The episode’s chilling atmosphere and moral ambiguity echoed the spirit of the original 1979 film, reminding viewers why the franchise remains a genre staple.

Bold Openers and Terrifying Climaxes

"Pluribus " kicked off with "We is Us," a haunting introduction to novelist Carol Sturka, played by Rhea Seehorn. The episode’s nightmarish vision of humanity transformed overnight by an alien message set a chilling tone for the series. Written and directed by Vince Gilligan, it marked his return to science fiction with a confident, horror-tinged opener that reimagined classic invasion tales for a new era.

"It: Welcome to Derry " found its stride in episode seven, "The Black Spot." The penultimate chapter delivered the year’s most intense horror sequence, trapping viewers inside a burning speakeasy under siege. Amid the chaos, the episode carved out a deeply emotional moment as Rich sacrifices himself for Marge. The final jump scare, featuring a blood-soaked Pennywise emerging from a fridge, instantly became one of the year’s most memorable scenes.

Intimate Drama and Political Upheaval

"Severance " season two’s seventh episode, "Chikhai Bardo," directed by Jessica Lee Gagné, shifted the series’ tone from the sterile world of Lumon to a warm, nostalgic memory that quickly turned somber. The unraveling of Mark and Gemma’s marriage, especially the moment Mark leaves without saying “I love you,” was devastating. Dichen Lachman’s performance and the episode’s soft cinematography made it a standout in a season full of emotional gut punches.

"Andor " delivered its most powerful hour in season two, episode eight, "Who Are You?" The political powder keg on Ghorman finally exploded, and Kyle Soller’s portrayal of Syril—a man broken by a system that used him—anchored the episode. The tense, bleak atmosphere and the show’s exploration of power and hope set the stage for the rebellion that would ignite a galaxy-wide movement.

Honorable Mentions

Several other episodes nearly made the cut. "The Witcher" season four’s "The Joy of Cooking" blended musical interludes and animation for a surprising narrative twist. "The Last of Us" season two’s "Through the Valley" delivered a thrilling siege sequence that wasn’t in the original game. "Squid Game" season three’s "The Starry Night" put a fresh spin on hide and seek, while "Adolescence " episode three, "The Conversation," showcased a breakout performance from Owen Cooper.