A great TV series finale can leave an indelible mark on its audience, providing a satisfying conclusion to beloved characters and story arcs. Over the years, several shows have delivered finales that have been celebrated for their emotional impact, narrative resolution, and lasting legacy. Here’s a retrospective on some of the best TV series finales of all time.

“Breaking Bad,” which concluded in 2013, is often cited as one of the best TV finales ever. The episode “Felina” masterfully wrapped up the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned meth kingpin. Creator Vince Gilligan ensured that every loose end was tied up, providing a cathartic end to the intense, morally complex journey of its main character. The finale was praised for its meticulous plotting and emotional resonance, leaving fans both satisfied and awestruck.

“The Sopranos,” which ended in 2007, has one of the most debated finales in TV history. The episode “Made in America” cuts to black abruptly, leaving Tony Soprano’s fate ambiguous. This bold, unconventional ending sparked widespread discussion and analysis, with fans and critics interpreting the final moments in various ways. The finale’s impact lies in its audacity and the way it left a lasting impression, ensuring that the show remained a topic of conversation long after it ended.

“MAS*H,” which aired its finale in 1983, remains one of the most watched television events in history. The episode “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen” provided a poignant and emotional conclusion to the long-running series about a mobile army surgical hospital during the Korean War. The two-and-a-half-hour finale balanced humor and heartbreak, capturing the essence of the show and giving each character a fitting send-off. Its record-breaking viewership and critical acclaim underscore its significance in TV history.

“Friends,” which concluded in 2004, delivered a heartfelt and satisfying finale that resonated with fans. The episode “The Last One” saw the group of friends preparing to go their separate ways, with Monica and Chandler moving out of the iconic apartment. The finale balanced humor and sentimentality, providing closure to long-running storylines while celebrating the enduring bond between the characters. It remains a beloved conclusion to a show that defined a generation.

“Six Feet Under,” which ended in 2005, is often praised for having one of the most powerful and emotionally resonant finales. The episode “Everyone’s Waiting” provided a definitive ending by depicting the future deaths of each main character. This innovative approach gave viewers a sense of closure and highlighted the show’s central themes of mortality and family. The finale’s emotional depth and unique narrative structure have made it a standout in TV history.

“Lost,” which concluded in 2010, had a finale that divided fans but remains significant for its ambition and emotional weight. The episode “The End” provided answers to some of the show’s many mysteries while focusing on the characters’ emotional journeys and the concept of redemption. Despite its mixed reception, the finale succeeded in delivering an emotionally satisfying conclusion for many of its characters, reflecting the show’s complex and often enigmatic nature.

“Mad Men,” which ended in 2015, delivered a subtle and thought-provoking finale with “Person to Person.” The episode provided a fitting conclusion to the story of Don Draper and his colleagues in the advertising world of the 1960s and 1970s. The final scenes, particularly Don’s meditation and the iconic Coca-Cola ad, left viewers with much to ponder about the characters’ futures and the show’s deeper messages.

In conclusion, the best TV series finales are those that provide meaningful closure while staying true to the essence of the show. They balance emotional satisfaction with narrative resolution, ensuring that the end of the journey feels earned and impactful. These finales have left a lasting legacy, continuing to be celebrated and discussed by fans and critics alike.