The Top 18 TV Episodes with the Highest IMDb Ratings

Exploring TV’s Pinnacle: The Episodic Masterpieces that Redefined Television

A quality television episode has the capacity to captivate and engage viewers, delivering narratives as compelling and absorbing as any other medium. Outstanding episodes often serve as climactic moments, elevating a show’s storyline to unforgettable heights and leaving an indelible mark on both dedicated fans and the broader cultural landscape.

From the gripping world of Breaking Bad to the exhilarating universe of Attack on Titan, only a select handful of series have managed to attain near-perfect ratings on IMDb. These elite TV episodes, regarded as the finest of all time, encompass a wide spectrum of emotions and experiences—excitement, pathos, humor—and frequently blend them seamlessly. These episodes stand as remarkable accomplishments, showcasing the immense storytelling potential that television wields.

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011-2014): “Zero × and × Rose”

Season 5: Episode 51 – 2014IMDb score: 9.8/10

Hunter x Hunter, a cherished anime series adapted from Yoshihiro Togashi’s enduring manga of the same name, continues to captivate audiences. The television version chronicles the endearing journey of a young protagonist, Gon Freecss, as he sets out to locate his father, Ging, a legendary “Hunter” presumed deceased.

Within the highest-rated episode of the series on IMDb, viewers are treated to an array of intense and dramatic sequences. These climactic battles are the kind that keep fans enthralled, featuring an impeccable blend of breathtaking animation and intricately crafted character development to complement the adrenaline-pumping action.

‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’ (2008-2020): “The Phantom Apprentice”

Season 7: Episode 10 – 2020

IMDb score: 9.8/10

The concluding segment of Star Wars: The Clone Wars is virtually impeccable, and within this final arc, “The Phantom Apprentice” stands out as a cherished gem among fans. This TV episode has garnered some of the highest ratings for a multitude of compelling reasons, offering an enthralling viewing experience that appeals to both ardent Star Wars enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

With its visually stunning presentation and the inclusion of one of the most remarkable lightsaber duels in the entire Star Wars television canon, “The Phantom Apprentice” has received acclaim from IMDb users. They commend its exceptional technical craftsmanship and its ability to elevate the Siege of Mandalore narrative to its climactic zenith.

‘Attack on Titan’ (2013-2023): “Perfect Game”

Season 3: Episode 16 – 2019

IMDb score: 9.8/10

This beloved episode of Attack on Titan, a standout in the realm of anime over the past decade, finds our main characters at a dire crossroads with seemingly no escape. It’s these high-stakes scenarios that have consistently defined the most exceptional episodes in the history of television.

With its shocking twists, emotional depth, immersive atmosphere, breathtaking visuals, and superb acting, “Perfect Game” is a true masterpiece. Some critics have even gone as far as to dub it the zenith of anime, and the episode’s lofty IMDb rating certainly reflects this sentiment. It delivers everything fans could have hoped for in such a pivotal moment.

‘Attack on Titan’ (2013-2023): “Hero”

Season 3: Episode 16 – 2019

IMDb score: 9.8/10

Another installment in Attack on Titan’s lineup of fan-favorite episodes, “Hero” follows closely on the heels of the gripping “Perfect Game.” This episode delivers some of the series’ most riveting action sequences and offers gratifying resolutions to ongoing plotlines.

“Hero” plays a significant role in solidifying Attack on Titan’s status as one of the premier animated shows in television history. Its grandeur, epic storytelling, and sheer exhilaration have earned it a well-deserved place among IMDb’s top-rated episodes. Fans have showered it with praise, particularly for its stunning visuals, compelling narrative, and captivating musical score.

‘Six Feet Under’ (2001-2005): “Everyone’s Waiting”

Season 5: Episode 12 – 2005IMDb score: 9.9/10

At times, laughter can be a powerful antidote to pain. HBO’s “Six Feet Under,” a show that brilliantly combines humor with the theme of grief, exemplifies this concept. In its fifth and ultimate season’s finale episode, titled “Everyone’s Waiting,” the series solidifies its position as one of the finest dark comedies ever televised.

“Everyone’s Waiting” stands out as a poignant conclusion, distinguished by its rarity in offering complete and heartfelt closure to both its characters and storylines. It also has its fair share of emotional moments, evoking tears from fans, as confirmed by IMDb reviews.

‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ (2005-2008): “Sozin’s Comet, Part 4: Avatar Aang”

Season 3: Episode 21 – 2008

IMDb score: 9.9/10

Avatar: The Last Airbender, the beloved Nickelodeon original series, has earned its place among the all-time greatest animated shows. Its final episode, “Sozin’s Comet, Part 4,” is often hailed as one of the finest series conclusions ever produced, and for good reason. In this climactic installment, every character confronts their most formidable challenge yet.

Much like other exceptional series finales, “Avatar Aang” escalates the narrative tension to unprecedented levels, compelling the characters to tap into their full potential. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, packed with thrilling action, and serves as an indelible conclusion to one of television’s most remarkable stories, woven through the enchanting medium of animation.

‘Vinland Saga’ (2019-2023): “End of the Prologue”

Season 1: Episode 24 – 2019

IMDb rating: 9.9/10

Adapted from the beloved manga series, Vinland Saga proves to be an exceptional anime, exploring themes of revenge and honor. Its inaugural season has cemented its place among the top-rated television seasons on IMDb, and its captivating finale serves as the culmination of this remarkable introduction.

This episode emphatically underscores that what audiences have witnessed is merely the inception of the protagonist’s odyssey toward becoming a bona fide warrior. “End of the Prologue” stands as one of the most exceptional episodes in television history, offering a season finale experience unlike any other.

‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’ (2008-2020): “Victory and Death”

Season 7: Episode 12 – 2020

IMDb score: 9.9/10

The concluding installment of The Clone Wars, in which Ahsoka and Rex must rely on their intelligence and abilities to endure the onslaught of Order 66, provides a flawless conclusion to one of the most cherished elements of the Star Wars universe.

“Victory and Death” offers a last thrilling escapade within the Clone Wars narrative, faithfully maintaining the somber, ominous, and treacherous atmosphere intrinsic to the storyline. The episode showcases remarkable character growth, stunning visuals, compelling musical compositions, outstanding voice acting, and a profoundly moving final sequence.

‘BoJack Horseman’ (2014-2020) : “The View from Halfway Down”

Season 6: Episode 15 – 2020

IMDb score: 9.9/10

BoJack Horseman has a tradition of delivering standout penultimate episodes in each of its seasons, and Season 6, which marked the series’ conclusion, was no exception. “The View from Halfway Down” continues this trend, offering a deeply surreal character exploration as BoJack encounters figures from his past.

This episode serves as a compelling testament to why BoJack Horseman ranks among the greatest animated shows in television history. It presents a haunting and emotionally charged examination of life, death, and the meaning of existence. Such profound themes might not be anticipated from a series of this nature, making it all the more exceptional.

‘Mr. Robot’ (2015-2019): “407 Proxy Authentication Required”

Season 4: Episode 7 – 2019

IMDb score: 9.9/10

Throughout its four-season run on television, Mr. Robot consistently demonstrated itself as one of the most compelling dramatic thriller series ever created. The highest-rated episode of the show occurs midway through its final season, delivering an impactful experience.

Critics on the platform commended Sam Esmail’s exceptional direction, the stunning cinematography, and Rami Malek’s astounding performance. In an episode characterized by its claustrophobic five-act structure set in a single location, titled “407 Proxy Authentication Required,” it becomes evident that you can deliver extraordinary television content without the need for a substantial budget or an expansive narrative scope.

‘Succession’ (2018-2023): “Connor’s Wedding”

Season 4: Episode 3 – 2023

IMDb score: 9.9/10

From its inception to its conclusion, Succession has consistently lived up to the hype as one of the premier shows in contemporary television. “Connor’s Wedding” is a standout episode where the central characters grapple with a grim turn of events, reinforcing the notion that Succession’s acclaim is entirely justified.

This pivotal episode, “Connor’s Wedding,” serves as a prelude to what would become one of the most astonishing and captivating final seasons in the history of television. It achieves this through a narrative that is as enthralling as it is expertly crafted, acted, and directed. Additionally, it delivers one of the most memorable wedding scenes ever seen on television.

‘Better Call Saul’ (2015-2022): “Plan and Execution”

Season 6: Episode 7 – 2022

IMDb score: 9.9/10

Better Call Saul has always faced the daunting task of measuring up to the monumental success of Breaking Bad. Episodes like “Plan and Execution” consistently demonstrated the show’s ability to rise to this challenge. This installment is a masterclass in television, delivering thrills, humor, emotional depth, and audacity, making it an undeniable contender for one of the greatest TV episodes ever created.

“Plan and Execution” serves as a breathtaking embodiment of what sets this series apart. It marks a pivotal turning point for many of the characters, seamlessly blending the suspense and tension of the crime drama aspect with the clever wit found in its legal dramedy facet.

‘Breaking Bad’ (2008-2013): “Face Off”

Season 4: Episode 13 – 2011

IMDb rating: 9.9/10

Breaking Bad consistently delivered season-finale fireworks, and the conclusion to season four stands as a prime example of its brilliance. “Face Off” serves as the culmination of all the preceding plot points and story arcs, reaching a boiling point that’s impossible to ignore.

This episode is an undeniable thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The skillful handling of character development, bringing each arc to its zenith, is commendable. The episode’s final minutes provide a textbook example of masterful storytelling, as the tension built throughout the series is released in a spectacular fashion.

‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019): “The Rains of Castamere”

Season 3: Episode 9 – 2013

IMDb rating: 9.9/10

Despite the widely criticized final season, Game of Thrones remains a benchmark for captivating fantasy television. Throughout its run, the series was renowned for its unexpected plot twists, yet few were as astonishing as those witnessed in the episode titled “The Rains of Castamere.”

This particular episode stands out not only as one of the series’ most powerful installments but also as one of the highest-rated episodes on IMDb. It masterfully delivers a tragic narrative that underscored the show’s reputation for unpredictability, leaving viewers consistently on edge from that moment onward.

‘Breaking Bad’ (2008-2013): “Felina”

Season 5: Episode 16 – 2013

IMDb score: 9.9/10

Regarded by numerous fans as the ultimate television masterpiece, Breaking Bad concluded its remarkable journey with the episode “Felina” – a conclusion that left an indelible mark. This exceptional series finale adeptly wraps up the narratives of its central characters, providing a smart and thought-provoking resolution that keeps both viewers and long-time enthusiasts engaged.

“Felina” serves as an impeccable finale, resonating with the consensus of IMDb users. It delivers a profoundly gratifying experience by skillfully tying up loose ends, all the while maintaining the poignant and tragic essence that has defined the show’s greatness.

‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019): “The Winds of Winter”

Season 6, Episode 10 – 2016

IMDb score: 9.9/10

After viewing the concluding episode of Game of Thrones’ sixth season, anyone who still doubts that they’re witnessing one of television’s greatest fantasy series has run out of reasons to do so. This episode exemplifies everything the series excels at, from its outstanding technical craftsmanship to its compelling narrative.

This episode served as the perfect conclusion to a season that had been consistently exceptional. It is a profoundly emotional and gratifying installment that skillfully manages the multitude of plot threads it has to unravel. Consequently, it could easily be regarded as the series’ finest season finale.

‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019): “Battle of the Bastards”

Season 6: Episode 9 – 2016

IMDb score: 9.9/10

One of the pivotal moments in Game of Thrones’ storyline, “The Battle of the Bastards” depicts the intense clash between Jon Snow and Ramsay Bolton for control of Winterfell.

Beyond its significance for the characters Jon and Ramsay, this episode shines in its ability to establish the high stakes and generate anticipation leading up to the climactic battle. When the long-awaited showdown finally unfolds, viewers are in for an unforgettable experience, leaving them awestruck. Every aspect of this sequence, from the script to the visual elements and the choreography, serves as a prime example of how to expertly portray a television battle.

‘Breaking Bad’ (2008-2013): “Ozymandias”

Season 5: Episode 14 – 2013

IMDb score: 10/10

It should come as no surprise that “Ozymandias,” an episode of Breaking Bad, boasts a flawless 10 out of 10 rating on IMDb. To have not heard it touted as one of the greatest television episodes of all time, you’d practically have to live under a rock.

This installment undeniably stands as a magnum opus in the realm of small-screen entertainment. It’s a relentless sequence of heart-pounding moments, all impeccably orchestrated by director Rian Johnson. Every scene is a meticulously crafted masterpiece, with a script so outstanding that it feels as if every narrative twist and character development throughout the series had been leading to this very climax. There is no question that “Ozymandias” more than lives up to its legendary reputation.

Quick summary

• Introduction The article introduces the concept of outstanding television episodes with near-perfect IMDb ratings. It emphasizes the lasting impact of these episodes on both dedicated fans and the broader cultural landscape, setting the stage for the discussion that follows.
• Selection of Exceptional Episodes The article highlights several TV series and their standout episodes, such as “Hunter x Hunter,” “Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” “Attack on Titan,” “Six Feet Under,” “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” “Vinland Saga,” “BoJack Horseman,” “Mr. Robot,” “Succession,” “Better Call Saul,” “Breaking Bad,” and “Game of Thrones.” These episodes are chosen based on their high IMDb ratings and unique qualities.
• Description of Noteworthy Episodes The article provides detailed descriptions of some of these exceptional episodes, discussing their storytelling prowess, character development, emotional depth, and technical craftsmanship. It highlights specific moments and elements that have contributed to their acclaim, offering readers insights into why these episodes are considered exceptional.
• Conclusion and Recap The article concludes by reiterating the enduring impact of these episodes on the television landscape and their status as some of the highest-rated episodes on IMDb. It emphasizes their role in elevating their respective series to new heights and leaving an indelible mark on viewers and pop culture as a whole.