Notable TV Series Finales That Sparked Conversations
The history of television is filled with notable finales — some brilliant, others not so much. This article examines a selection of memorable endings that left audiences captivated.
‘Two and a Half Men’
Ashton Kutcher, from left, creator/executive producer Chuck Lorre, and Jon Cryer all appeared in what many have called a downright bizarre series finale of “Two and a Half Men.” Some fans were unhappy that Charlie Sheen did not make an appearance.
‘True Blood’
When “True Blood” met its true death with its series finale, it had the nerve to drag one of its central characters with it. Fans were divided on the ending.
‘How I Met Your Mother’
“How I Met Your Mother” ended after nine seasons in March 2014, and fans still debate the finale. After spending so much time listening to Ted Mosby describe how he married the mother of his kids, some viewers were outraged that “the mother” isn’t the person he ends up with when the series concludes.
‘Breaking Bad’
The AMC drama “Breaking Bad,” about a former high-school chemistry teacher turned corrupt meth kingpin, aired its final episode in September 2013, and fans still haven’t stopped discussing it. Many seemed more upset that the series was over than about how it ended.
‘Seinfeld’
For “Seinfeld’s” final episode, co-creator Larry David returned to write the script. He apparently decided that the four main characters were beyond help, as they ended up in jail after a trial in which many of those they’d wronged testified.
‘Cheers’
For “Cheers,” having the characters just hang out at the bar for one last scene seemed an appropriate way to say goodbye. When a customer knocked on the door, Sam Malone — in the darkened bar — said, “Sorry, we’re closed.”
‘Freaks and Geeks’
The critically acclaimed but low-rated “Freaks and Geeks” shot its series finale early just in case it got canceled. The finale was poignant and touching, capturing everything fans loved about the show.
‘Roseanne’
After a bizarre final season, it turned out that the family did not win the lottery after all; it was just a story Roseanne made up after her husband Dan died. This ending left many feeling discontented.
‘Friends’
In “Friends,” everything was wrapped up neatly. Ross ended up with Rachel; Monica and Chandler moved out with their kids, and Phoebe was married off. Joey was off to L.A. for his own sure-to-be-successful spinoff. Still, it was a tidy sendoff after ten years.
‘The Cosby Show’
“The Cosby Show” finale came full circle as Theo graduated college. It was a heartfelt conclusion that resonated with the audience.
‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’
Capt. Jean-Luc Picard’s adventures and the last shot of the crew playing cards marked a fitting farewell for “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” The crew kept their legacy alive through four movies.
‘M*A*S*H’
A record audience watched the emotional finale of “M*A*S*H” in 1983, as the Korean War ended and everyone prepared to go their separate ways.
‘Lost’
“Lost” had one of the most controversial endings. With high expectations, the series finale concluded with Jack saving the day before dying, leaving some fans divided over its resolution.
‘Frasier’
In the finale of “Frasier,” Niles and Daphne had a baby, Martin married Ronee, and Dr. Frasier Crane left Seattle with a new love interest, marking a significant farewell after two decades.
‘X-Files’
Long after many viewers had lost interest, “X-Files” reunited Scully and Mulder. The narrative included apocalyptic themes, adding to its layered conclusion.
‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’
As Buffy and her friends fought to save the world one last time, the premise behind “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” reached its logical conclusion with the activation of every potential Slayer.
‘The Hills’
While “The Hills” was never a true reflection of reality, the revelation that it was shot on a movie studio left fans in shock. The symbolic final shot aimed to leave audiences contemplating authenticity.
‘ALF’
“ALF” concluded with an overly confident cliffhanger as the alien was captured by the military, leaving fans wondering about his fate until the series was later revived in a TV movie.
‘St. Elsewhere’
The surprising twist of “St. Elsewhere” revealed that everything at St. Eligius occurred in the mind of a boy with autism, leading many to question the entire series’ narrative value.
‘Dinosaurs’
“Dinosaurs,” featuring Jim Henson’s puppetry, ended with characters facing imminent doom from the Ice Age, a dark joke that drew mixed reactions.
‘The Fugitive’
In “The Fugitive,” Dr. Richard Kimble finally confronted the man who killed his wife, delivering a satisfying resolution to the dramatic arc that had captivated viewers.
‘Life on Mars’
Though “Life on Mars” lasted only a season on ABC, anticipation mounted for its finale. Ultimately, it turned out that the protagonist’s journey was a mental construct while he slept in suspended animation.
‘Smallville’
In “Smallville,” Lois and Clark’s marriage signified a fitting conclusion to their story, culminating in Clark finally donning the iconic red and blue suit.
‘The Office’
For “The Office,” Dwight’s wedding served as a poignant moment of closure where Michael Scott took on the role of best man, encapsulating the series’ themes perfectly.
‘Big Love’
In “Big Love,” a shocking moment occurred when Bill was gunned down, forcing the sister-wives to move on without him. Through flash-forwards, the strength of their bond remained evident.
‘Medium’
Psychic Allison DuBois faced great emotional turmoil on “Medium,” believing her husband was alive, only to uncover the heartbreak of his death. This was punctuated by a poignant reunion in the final moments.
