1. M*A*S*H – “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen” (1983)
M*A*S*H‘s series finale, “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen,” aired on February 28, 1983, and became a television milestone. With a runtime of two and a half hours, it remains the most-watched scripted television episode in U.S. history, drawing over 125 million viewers. The episode delves into the emotional and psychological toll of war, as the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital prepares to close. The characters face personal farewells, reflecting on their experiences and the impact of the Korean War.
The finale’s poignant storytelling and character development left a lasting impression on audiences. It balanced humor and drama, staying true to the show’s tone throughout its 11-season run. The episode’s success highlighted the show’s ability to tackle serious themes while maintaining its comedic roots. “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen” is often cited as a benchmark for series finales, setting a high standard for emotional and narrative closure in television history.
2. All in the Family – “Too Good Edith” (1979)
“Too Good Edith,” the final episode of All in the Family, aired on April 8, 1979. The episode centers on Edith Bunker, who is faced with a life-threatening medical condition. The storyline explores themes of mortality and the impact of sudden illness on a family. Edith’s condition brings the Bunker family together, highlighting their love and support for each other.
The episode is notable for its emotional depth and the way it handles serious subject matter within the context of a sitcom. It marked the end of a groundbreaking series that had addressed social issues with humor and sensitivity. “Too Good Edith” is remembered for its heartfelt portrayal of a family’s response to crisis. The episode’s success demonstrated the show’s ability to evolve and tackle complex topics while maintaining its comedic essence.
3. The Mary Tyler Moore Show – “The Last Show” (1977)
“The Last Show,” the series finale of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, aired on March 19, 1977. The episode depicts the closure of the WJM-TV newsroom, where Mary Richards and her colleagues face the end of an era. The characters’ reactions to the impending shutdown reflect their personal growth and the bonds they’ve formed over the years. The finale is marked by a poignant group hug and a collective march to the tissue box, symbolizing their shared emotions.
The episode is celebrated for its emotional resonance and the way it encapsulates the show’s themes of friendship and professional integrity. It serves as a fitting conclusion to a series that had redefined the portrayal of women in the workplace. “The Last Show” is often cited as one of the most memorable and impactful series finales in television history. Its blend of humor and heartfelt moments left a lasting legacy.
4. The Odd Couple – “The Odd Couple: Together Again” (1975)
“The Odd Couple: Together Again,” the final episode of The Odd Couple, aired on March 7, 1975. The episode reunites Felix Unger and Oscar Madison after a period of separation. Their reunion highlights the enduring nature of their friendship, despite their contrasting personalities. The storyline explores themes of reconciliation and the complexities of close relationships.
The episode is notable for its humor and the way it brings closure to the characters’ journey. It reflects the series’ ability to blend comedy with insightful character development. “The Odd Couple: Together Again” is remembered for its heartwarming portrayal of friendship and the challenges that come with it. The finale serves as a testament to the show’s enduring appeal and its impact on television comedy.
5. The Rockford Files – “The Countess” (1980)
“The Countess,” the final episode of The Rockford Files, aired on January 10, 1980. The episode features private investigator Jim Rockford being hired to find a missing woman, leading to a complex case involving art forgery and deception. The storyline showcases Rockford’s investigative skills and his ability to navigate intricate situations. The episode’s blend of mystery and character-driven drama provides a satisfying conclusion to the series.
The finale is praised for its engaging plot and the way it encapsulates the essence of the show. It offers a fitting send-off for a character who had become a staple of television detective stories. “The Countess” is remembered for its clever writing and the depth it adds to Rockford’s character. The episode stands as a strong example of how to conclude a series with both intrigue and emotional depth.
6. The Waltons – “The Revelations” (1981)
“The Revelations,” the final episode of The Waltons, aired on May 4, 1981. The episode focuses on the Walton family’s experiences during World War II, highlighting the challenges and sacrifices faced by each member. The storyline delves into themes of duty, love, and the impact of war on families. The episode’s emotional depth and character development provide a poignant conclusion to the series.
The finale is celebrated for its heartfelt portrayal of family bonds and the resilience of the human spirit. It reflects the show’s commitment to depicting the complexities of life during a tumultuous period in American history. “The Revelations” is remembered for its powerful storytelling and the way it encapsulates the series’ themes. The episode serves as a fitting tribute to the Walton family’s journey.
7. The Bob Newhart Show – “Happy Trails to You” (1978)
“Happy Trails to You,” the final episode of The Bob Newhart Show, aired on April 1, 1978. The episode depicts Dr. Bob Hartley deciding to leave his practice and move to Oregon with his wife, Emily. The storyline explores themes of change and the next chapters in life. The episode is marked by a heartfelt farewell between Bob and his colleagues, reflecting the deep connections formed over the years.
The finale is notable for its emotional resonance and the way it addresses the challenges of transitions. It offers a satisfying conclusion to a series that had balanced humor with insightful character studies. “Happy Trails to You” is remembered for its warmth and the genuine affection displayed among the characters. The episode stands as a testament to the show’s enduring charm and its impact on television comedy.
8. The Partridge Family – “The Partridge Family: A Partridge Family Christmas” (1974)
“The Partridge Family: A Partridge Family Christmas,” the final episode of The Partridge Family, aired on December 25, 1974. The episode centers on the Partridge family preparing for their first Christmas without their late father. The storyline explores themes of grief, family unity, and the healing power of music. The episode’s emotional depth and festive spirit provide a touching conclusion to the series.
The finale is celebrated for its heartfelt portrayal of the family’s journey through loss and the importance of supporting each other. It reflects the show’s ability to address serious topics within the context of a family-friendly series. “The Partridge Family: A Partridge Family Christmas” is remembered for its warmth and the way it encapsulates the series’ themes of love and togetherness. The episode serves as a fitting send-off for the beloved family.
9. Good Times – “The End of the Rainbow” (1979)
“The End of the Rainbow,” the final episode of Good Times, aired on August 1, 1979. The episode focuses on the Evans family’s experiences as they face new challenges and opportunities. The storyline delves into themes of perseverance, hope, and the pursuit of dreams. The episode’s emotional depth and character development provide a poignant conclusion to the series.
The finale is notable for its portrayal of the family’s resilience and the importance of community. It reflects the show’s commitment to depicting the realities of urban life while highlighting the strength of familial bonds. “The End of the Rainbow” is remembered for its uplifting message and the way it encapsulates the series’ themes. The episode serves as a fitting tribute to the Evans family’s journey.
10. The Brady Bunch – “The Brady Bunch Hour” (1979)
“The Brady Bunch Hour,” the final episode of The Brady Bunch, aired on November 30, 1979. The episode features the Brady family embarking on a new adventure, showcasing their enduring spirit and unity. The storyline explores themes of change and the excitement of new beginnings. The episode’s lighthearted tone and character interactions provide a cheerful conclusion to the series.
The finale is celebrated for its nostalgic appeal and the way it brings closure to the characters’ journey. It reflects the show’s ability to evolve and adapt to new formats while maintaining its core values. “The Brady Bunch Hour” is remembered for its fun-filled moments and the way it encapsulates the series’ themes of family and togetherness. The episode serves as a fitting send-off for the beloved family.
11. One Day at a Time – “One Day at a Time: The Last Day” (1979)
“One Day at a Time: The Last Day,” the final episode of One Day at a Time, aired on May 28, 1979. The episode centers on the Romano family as they face significant life changes. The storyline delves into themes of independence, personal growth, and the challenges of moving forward. The episode’s emotional depth and character development provide a fitting conclusion to the series.
The finale is notable for its honest portrayal of life’s transitions and the strength required to navigate them. It reflects the show’s commitment to addressing real-life issues with sensitivity and humor. “One Day at a Time: The Last Day” is remembered for its heartfelt moments and the way it encapsulates the series’ themes. The episode serves as a testament to the characters’ journeys and the show’s impact on television.
12. The Mod Squad – “The Mod Squad: The Final Chapter” (1973)
“The Mod Squad: The Final Chapter,” the final episode of The Mod Squad, aired on January 16, 1973. The episode features the trio of undercover cops—Pete, Linc, and Julie—facing their final case together. The storyline explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the complexities of undercover work. The episode’s action-packed sequences and emotional moments provide a thrilling conclusion to the series.
The finale is celebrated for its dynamic storytelling and the way it brings closure to the characters’ arcs. It reflects the show’s innovative approach to depicting law enforcement and its impact on television dramas. “The Mod Squad: The Final Chapter” is remembered for its engaging plot and the way it encapsulates the series’ themes. The episode serves as a fitting send-off for the iconic trio.
