The end of 2025 has arrived, and with it comes the opportunity to reflect on the television episodes that left an indelible mark on audiences. From groundbreaking premieres to unexpected twists, this year’s standout episodes have captivated viewers and critics alike. Our team of critics has sifted through countless hours of television to bring you the most memorable episodes of the year. While some hail from shows on our best TV series list, others are hidden gems from series that flew under the radar. Here’s a look at the episodes that defined 2025.
Science Fiction and Thrillers: Breaking New Ground
Pluribus (Apple TV): We Is Us
Vince Gilligan, the mastermind behind Breaking Bad, returned with Pluribus, a science fiction series that kept audiences on the edge of their seats. The premiere episode, We Is Us, set a new standard for mystery and suspense. Rhea Seehorn delivered a masterful performance as Carol Sturka, a novelist caught in a world-changing event. The episode’s cold open and the menacing collective of choreographed crowds created an atmosphere of unstoppable momentum. Gilligan’s ability to weave a complex narrative left viewers both bewildered and enthralled.
Paradise (Disney+): The Day
From the creator of This Is Us, Dan Fogelman, Paradise offered a gripping conspiracy thriller set in an underground community. The Day, the penultimate episode of the first season, finally revealed the catastrophic event that loomed over the series. Sterling K. Brown shone as a Secret Service agent unraveling the murder of a US president. The episode’s focus on intimate reactions rather than digital effects made the apocalyptic scenario both brutal and poignant.
Comedy and Satire: Pushing Boundaries
The Righteous Gemstones (HBO Max): Prelude
Danny McBride’s The Righteous Gemstones returned for its fourth and final season with a surprising twist. Prelude took viewers back to 1862, revealing the origins of the Gemstone family’s biblical empire. Bradley Cooper’s portrayal of Elijah Gemstone, a rogue preacher, added depth to the family’s legacy. The episode’s historical setting and unique take on faith and hypocrisy provided a fresh perspective on the series’ themes.
South Park (Paramount+): Sermon on the Mount
South Park made headlines with its audacious satire of the second Trump presidency. Sermon on the Mount pushed boundaries with its depiction of Trump in an abusive relationship with Satan, reminiscent of the show’s portrayal of Saddam Hussein. The episode’s timely and fearless approach to political satire underscored the creators’ commitment to their craft, even in the face of controversy.
Dramas and Human Stories: Emotional Depth
The Last of Us (HBO Max): Through the Valley
The zombocalypse drama The Last of Us took a bold step by killing off a major character, Joel, in the second episode of its second season. Through the Valley handled the shocking event with grace, using a flashback structure to maintain Joel’s presence. The episode’s emotional impact and narrative bravery set it apart from other series in the genre.
Bump (Stan): Cinders
The penultimate episode of Bump’s final season, Cinders, delivered a heart-wrenching portrayal of a family grappling with terminal illness. Claudia Karvan’s performance as Angie, a mother facing her final days, was both unflinching and inspirational. The episode’s exploration of denial, hope, and acceptance offered a poignant reflection on life and death.
Innovative Storytelling: Breaking the Mold
Severance (Apple TV): Chikhai Bardo
Fans of Severance were rewarded with long-awaited revelations in Chikhai Bardo. The episode’s flashback-heavy narrative provided insights into the mysterious Lumon corporation and the lives of Mark and Gemma. Director Jessica Lee Gagne’s decision to shoot past scenes on 35mm film added a rich, nostalgic texture that contrasted sharply with the series’ clinical present-day setting.
The Studio (Apple TV): The Oner
The Studio offered a satirical look at Hollywood’s inner workings, with The Oner delivering slapstick comedy at its finest. Seth Rogen’s portrayal of studio boss Matt Remick navigating a chaotic film set was both hilarious and insightful. The episode’s single-take sunset shot exemplified the series’ commitment to technical precision and comedic timing.
As we close the chapter on 2025, these episodes stand out as testaments to the power of television storytelling. Whether through laughter, suspense, or emotional resonance, they have left an enduring impact on audiences worldwide. We invite you to share your favorite episodes in the comments below and look forward to another year of unforgettable television moments.
