Series finales are crucial, and some TV shows have delivered truly memorable endings that continue to resonate with viewers. Just as the first episode should establish a compelling world and characters, the final episode needs to provide a satisfying resolution and a glimpse into the characters’ futures.
Creating a satisfying series finale is always a challenge – it needs to give fans what they want while also serving the story. That’s why the final episode of Stranger Things season 5 is so important. Looking back at past show endings, we can see some series really nailed it.
Gilmore Girls (2000-2007)
The final episode of Gilmore Girls season 7, “Bon Voyage,” is full of heartfelt moments. After watching Rory (Alexis Bledel) come of age and getting to know her wonderful, witty, and one-of-a-kind mother, Lorelai (Lauren Graham), this is the emotional conclusion fans were hoping for.
Rory’s farewell party brings together all the familiar faces from Stars Hollow, and a touching moment where Richard tells Lorelai he’s proud of her finally resolves years of family tension. But the most significant part of the Gilmore Girls finale is how it comes full circle: it ends just like it began, with Rory and Lorelai having a fast-paced conversation at a table in Luke’s Diner, reminding us that their bond will always be strong.
Parks And Recreation (2009-2015)
It’s common for TV shows to have characters move on when the series ends, even if fans would prefer they all stay together. The finale of Parks and Recreation does both: it assures us that Leslie Knope and her friends will remain connected, while also giving us a glimpse into what their futures hold.
It’s really inspiring to see Leslie become governor. The show doesn’t reveal whether Leslie or Ben Wyatt ultimately becomes president, which is a nice little surprise that keeps things interesting.
The final episode of Parks and Recreation beautifully wraps up the stories of all the main characters. We see Ron Swanson (Nick Offerman) taking a job at the Pawnee National Park, and fan favorites Andy Dwyer (Chris Pratt) and April Ludgate (Aubrey Plaza) starting a family. It’s a feel-good ending where everyone gets their happy ending – exactly what viewers hoped for.
The Office (2005-2013)
The final episode of The Office, featuring everything from Michael Scott’s return to Pam and Jim’s departure from Dunder Mifflin, perfectly balances funny moments with heartfelt emotion.
The episode includes a classic sitcom wedding, but it remains enjoyable and original. Dwight Schrute and Angela Martin’s wedding is both heartwarming and funny, largely because of several playful pranks.
Desperate Housewives (2004-2012)
The season 8 finale of Desperate Housewives, titled “Finishing the Hat,” is a surprisingly gentle and emotional episode, a departure from the show’s usual dramatic mysteries. This quieter approach is effective, as audiences had already seen eight seasons filled with shocking twists, betrayals, and crimes – another sensational plot would have felt excessive.
The last moments with the newest neighbor facing a disturbing mystery really highlight the hidden dangers of Wisteria Lane. It’s sad to see Mary Alice’s (Brenda Strong) friends leave, but it’s nice to remember how they supported each other during tough times. And the appearances of past characters who have died feel genuinely touching, not overly sentimental.
Parenthood (2010-2015)
The TV show Parenthood is known for being very emotional, and the series finale is no different. While it’s lovely to watch Hank and Sarah get married, the most touching part of the episode is definitely the montage at the very end.
The show catches up with each family member, revealing Amber’s new romance and Camille’s journey back to Paris to remember her late husband, Zeek. A family baseball game is a fitting touch, as it’s always been important to their story.
12 Monkeys (2015-2018)
The TV series based on the 1995 film 12 Monkeys successfully resolves its time travel plot. The finale is satisfying and easy to follow, which is a real achievement.
Despite being a compelling science fiction show, the heart of 12 Monkeys lies in the connection between Cassie Railly (Amanda Schull) and James Cole (Aaron Stanford). It was incredibly satisfying to see them finally together in the series finale, considering everything they endured. Though their future remains uncertain, it’s hopeful to imagine they’ve found some peace.
Cheers (1982-1993)
NBC
As a lifelong fan, the final episode of Cheers always gets to me – it finally wraps up the will-they-won’t-they romance between Sam and Diane. Honestly, part of me always hoped they’d end up together, but I really appreciate that the show gave them a proper, conclusive ending to their incredible story.
The most touching moment in the final episode is watching Sam finally achieve his dream of owning the bar and being surrounded by the people he cares about. Instead of a predictable, overly sentimental ending, Cheers offers a beautiful message about finding contentment and happiness right where you are.
Better Call Saul (2015-2022)
The finale of Better Call Saul is just as powerful as the ending of Breaking Bad. Similar to how many viewers expected Walter White (Bryan Cranston) to die in the original series’ final episode, we probably anticipated that Saul Goodman (Bob Odenkirk) would be found out in this smart and captivating prequel.
Seeing Saul visit Kim Wexler (Rhea Seehorn) in prison is a powerful moment, and their scene together is both lovely and understated. Despite their complicated history, it doesn’t feel like a forced or overly sentimental ending. It’s believable that Kim would want to reconnect with him, and both characters seem to find a sense of peace.
BoJack Horseman (2004-2020)
It was always expected that the acclaimed Netflix animated series would end on a somber note, consistent with its overall tone, and it doesn’t disappoint. However, the finale also manages to leave viewers with a sense of hope. The highlight is a beautifully written and moving final scene featuring Diane Nguyen (Alison Brie) and BoJack Horseman (Will Arnett) having a frank conversation about life and death.
Sex And The City (1998-2004)
The final episode of Sex and the City, “An American Girl in Paris,” wraps up the romance between Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker) and Big (Chris Noth), but importantly, it also highlights that the heart of the show was always the strong bond between Carrie and her close friends.
It’s understandable why Carrie would move back to New York after living in Paris. Even though it can be annoying to watch Big’s behavior towards Carrie on Sex and the City, he does seem to improve by the end, and we can be sure Carrie’s vibrant life in New York will go on.
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2025-10-27 12:03