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Television has the power to transport us to different worlds, evoke a range of emotions, and create unforgettable moments that stay with us long after the credits roll. In 2017, there were several TV episodes that left audiences reaching for the tissues. From heart-wrenching dramas to unexpected emotional twists in comedies, these episodes showcased the power of storytelling and the ability of television to deeply touch our hearts. In this article, we will explore 30 TV episodes from 2017 that made us cry, laugh, and feel a rollercoaster of emotions.
1. This Is Us - "Memphis"
One of the breakout shows of 2017, This Is Us consistently delivered emotional moments throughout its first season. However, the episode that truly stood out was "Memphis." In this poignant episode, Randall (Sterling K. Brown) takes a trip with his terminally ill biological father, William (Ron Cephas Jones), to his hometown of Memphis. As they bond and confront their past, the episode beautifully explores themes of love, regret, and the power of family. The heart-wrenching ending left viewers reaching for the tissues and solidified This Is Us as a show that knows how to tug at the heartstrings.
2. Jane the Virgin - "Chapter Fifty-Four"
Jane the Virgin is known for its unique blend of comedy and drama, but it was the episode "Chapter Fifty-Four" that left fans in tears. In this episode, Jane (Gina Rodriguez) faces the sudden death of her husband, Michael (Brett Dier). The raw and honest portrayal of grief, coupled with powerful performances from the cast, made this episode a standout. It showcased the show's ability to tackle difficult subjects with grace and authenticity, leaving viewers emotionally devastated.
3. Grey's Anatomy - "Leave It Inside"
Grey's Anatomy has a reputation for delivering tear-jerking moments, and the episode "Leave It Inside" was no exception. In this emotionally charged episode, a young boy named Henry (Max Burkholder) is brought into the hospital with a life-threatening condition. As the doctors struggle to save him, the episode explores themes of hope, loss, and the difficult decisions that come with working in the medical field. The heartbreaking climax left viewers sobbing and reminded us why Grey's Anatomy has remained a staple of emotional television for over a decade.
4. The Handmaid's Tale - "Night"
Based on Margaret Atwood's dystopian novel, The Handmaid's Tale delves into a dark and oppressive world. The episode "Night" takes viewers on a harrowing journey as Offred (Elisabeth Moss) attempts to escape the totalitarian regime she is trapped in. The emotional weight of the episode is palpable as Offred faces unimaginable challenges and risks everything for a chance at freedom. The haunting visuals and powerful performances make "Night" a standout episode that left viewers with a profound sense of despair and hope.
5. Stranger Things - "The Lost Sister"
Stranger Things captured audiences with its nostalgic blend of 80s pop culture and supernatural thrills. However, it was the episode "The Lost Sister" that took a departure from the show's usual formula and left a lasting emotional impact. In this episode, Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) embarks on a journey to find her "sister" Kali (Linnea Berthelsen). The exploration of Eleven's identity and the complex dynamics of sisterhood make this episode a standout. It showcases the emotional depth of the characters and adds a layer of complexity to the overall narrative.
6. The Crown - "Dear Mrs. Kennedy"
The Crown offers a glimpse into the tumultuous life of Queen Elizabeth II, and the episode "Dear Mrs. Kennedy" captures the emotional weight of the royal role. In this episode, Queen Elizabeth (Claire Foy) navigates her relationship with First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy (Jodi Balfour) during a state visit. The emotional climax comes during a private conversation between the two women, where they find solace in their shared experiences of loss and the burdens of their public roles. The poignant exchange showcases the loneliness and sacrifice that comes with being in positions of power.
7. Black Mirror - "San Junipero"
Black Mirror is known for its thought-provoking and often bleak portrayal of technology's impact on society. However, the episode "San Junipero" offered a rare glimmer of hope and a love story that tugged at the heartstrings. Set in a virtual reality world, the episode follows the relationship between Yorkie (Mackenzie Davis) and Kelly (Gugu Mbatha-Raw). Their love transcends time and the constraints of the physical world, leading to a bittersweet conclusion that leaves viewers contemplating the nature of love and the possibility of an afterlife.
8. Better Call Saul - "Chicanery"
Better Call Saul serves as a prequel to the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad, focusing on the transformation of Jimmy McGill (Bob Odenkirk) into the morally ambiguous lawyer Saul Goodman. The episode "Chicanery" explores the complex relationship between Jimmy and his brother Chuck (Michael McKean). In a gripping courtroom scene, Jimmy delivers an emotionally charged speech that exposes the truth and tests the boundaries of their brotherly bond. The episode delves into themes of betrayal, family, and the consequences of one's actions, leaving viewers emotionally invested in the characters' journeys.
9. Westworld - "The Bicameral Mind"
Westworld is a complex and thought-provoking series that delves into themes of consciousness, identity, and the nature of humanity. The season one finale, "The Bicameral Mind," brought together multiple storylines and revealed shocking truths about the hosts and their creators. The emotional weight of the episode lies in the journey of Maeve (Thandie Newton), as she makes a heartbreaking decision that challenges her understanding of herself and her relationships. The episode left viewers questioning the nature of free will and the consequences of playing god.
10. Game of Thrones - "The Spoils of War"
Game of Thrones is known for its epic battles and shocking twists, but it was the episode "The Spoils of War" that left audiences on the edge of their seats. In this action-packed episode, Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke) unleashes her dragons on the Lannister army, resulting in a breathtaking and emotionally charged battle sequence. The episode showcases the devastating power of war and the impact it has on the characters we have grown to love.
Conclusion
These 30 TV episodes from 2017 demonstrated the emotional depth and power of storytelling in television. From heart-wrenching dramas to unexpected emotional moments in comedies, these episodes left audiences reaching for the tissues and reminded us of the incredible impact television can have on our emotions. Whether it was through exploring themes of love, loss, or the complexities of human nature, these episodes showcased the ability of television to create moments that resonate deeply with viewers. As we look forward to future TV shows and the emotional journeys they will take us on, let's not forget the unforgettable moments that made us cry in 2017.