Have you ever had a moment while watching TV that just ripped your heart out and left you in tears? You know that gut-wrenching scene that stays with you for days, tugging at your emotions?
Well, get ready for a roller coaster of feels as I take you through the 11 most tear-jerking TV episodes.
From soul-stirring farewells to spine-tingling twists, these episodes have left an indelible mark on viewers around the world. They prove that sometimes, the most powerful stories are the ones that make us cry, think, and feel at the same time.
1. “The Body” – Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Season 5, Episode 16)
Talk about a brother’s legacy!
This episode deals with the sudden death of a beloved character and explores the raw emotions of death and grief.
Here is what a viewer on Reddit had to say about the episode:
“Buffy the Vampire Slayer had an episode called “The Body,” which had the most significant emotional effect on me. It had an immense impact and made a deep, lasting impression on me. The episode portrayed the raw and devastating reality of death, capturing the pain and grief in a way that resonated deeply with viewers. The absence of background music and the use of long, uninterrupted shots added to the rawness of the episode, making it feel even more authentic. The performances by the cast were exceptional, conveying the complex emotions of loss and mourning with such honesty and vulnerability. The episode’s exploration of grief and its portrayal of the characters’ different coping mechanisms made it a truly poignant and unforgettable viewing experience.”
2. “Whenever You’re Ready” – The Good Place (Series Finale)
The series finale of this TV show gives a bittersweet taste of the afterlife and challenges the audience’s perception of morality. Its ending poses questions about the nature of existence, love, and the ultimate reckoning.
By the end of the episode, you’ll be a tearful mess, pondering about life and your own ethical choices.
3. “The Inner Light” – Star Trek: The Next Generation (Season 5, Episode 25)
If you’re an oldie like me, you’ll agree that the “inner light” messes you up (in a good way) for a long time.
In this episode, the haunting melody of a single flute becomes a symphony of emotions as you walk through a lifetime in Picard’s shoes.
Kamin’s flute symbolizes the deep emotions it evokes, making it one of the Star Trek franchise’s most memorable and heartbreaking episodes.
4. “San Junipero” – Black Mirror (Season 3, Episode 4)
“Black Mirror” “San Junipero” raises profound questions about digital immortality.
In the dark depths of this TV show, San Unipero shines like a beacon of hope. It tells a love story that spans decades, bridging the gap between reality and a simulated afterlife.
This tale, despite its luminosity, leaves us with many questions unanswered. It sparks contemplation on the intricate boundaries that define our very essence.
5. “Everyone’s Waiting” – Six Feet Under (Series Finale)
“Saying goodbye” took on a new meaning in the series finale of “Six Feet Under.” With a blend of melancholy and acceptance, this episode turned a funeral home into a sanctuary of closure, reminding us that life goes on, even after death.
I can’t even begin to tell you how much emotion this episode evokes. I choked up writing this.
6. “Vincent and the Doctor” – Doctor Who (Season 5, Episode 10)
“Doctor Who” takes us on an emotional journey with “Vincent and the Doctor.” Through the eyes of the Doctor and his companion, we witness the artist’s tormented soul, bridging the gap between past and present.
There is a blend of heartache and inspiration in this episode that will stay with you for a long time.
7. “Closure” – The X-Files (Season 7, Episode 11)
Experiencing ‘Closure’ was like an emotional whirlwind for me.
Mulder’s relentless search for the truth about his sister unearthed layers of heartache and longing that hit home.
With poignant revelations and bittersweet acceptance, the episode tugs at your heartstrings, leaving you with a lump in your throat. Even as the screen fades, the pain of Mulder’s journey stays with you – a testament to the power of storytelling that resonates deep within.
8. “Tales of Ba Sing Se” – Avatar: The Last Airbender (Season 2, Episode 15)
“Iroh crying was deeply disheartening on another level.”
Yeap! That sums it up.
9. “The Grove”-The Walking Dead (Season 4, Episode 14)
Carol shoots Lizzie after telling her to look at the flowers…
This Reddit viewer said, “The episode left me absolutely speechless. All I could do was stare at the TV for a few minutes while I recovered”. We all seem to have the same reaction to this scene.
10. “Embracing Change” – Love My Way (Episode 8)
Considered one of the most harrowing moments in Australian TV history, this episode of Love My Way depicts the pain of losing a child.
Lou’s death broke her parents.
The rawness of grief, captured through their shattered world, offers a relentless portrayal of pain and healing. This episode provides a devastating exploration of loss.
11. “The Mountain and the Viper” – Game of Thrones (Season 4, Episode 8)
There is just something so soul-crashing about this entire episode of GOT.
The mountain grabbing Oberyn, gouging out his eyes, and crushing his skull was so shocking and cruel. The brutality and suddenness of that scene will have you sobbing/shrieking in horror.
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