Emotional Rollercoasters: 16 TV Shows with Unforgettable Sad Endings That Capture Hearts
Diving Into the Depths of TV Finales: 16 Shows with Unhappy Endings That Still Strike a Chord
Following our exploration of movies with melancholic conclusions, let's turn our attention to TV shows! Drawing from insights shared by the BuzzFeed Community, here's a curated selection of series finales that, despite their bittersweet nature, continue to captivate audiences. Beware, spoilers ahead!
• Better Call Saul
"We always knew it wouldn't end well, but they managed to balance an ending that punished Jimmy for the events of Breaking Bad while also restoring the humanity of the character we loved." —kkat22
• The Sopranos
"It was a brilliant ending although it left me scratching my head in that moment." —clumsycactus61
• One Day
"Such an amazing show, but incredibly tragic. It took me a while to get over it, and I don't even usually like romantic shows." —corpseflowerbaby
• The Americans
"Everyone had a tragic ending, yet this was probably the ONLY episode in the entire series where nobody died." —California
• Hannibal
"Even though the ending wasn't the one we wanted for Hannibal and Will, it made sense." —30, Brazil
• Fleabag
—J, 36 Ontario *You can read more about the final episode, here.
• The Good Place
"The best show I have ever watched. I can't even put into words how good it is. The ending makes me cry EVERY SINGLE TIME." —Anonymous, California
• 24: Live Another Day
"I was a big fan of 24, from the very beginning. I liked how the series ended. But then they did 24: Live Another Day, a half-season in London. That ending wasn't nearly as satisfying, but I understood it. Jack Bauer agreed to go with the Russians, who wanted justice for his actions, in exchange for Chloe O'Brien's life." —thephilliefan1
• Quantum Leap
"That small post in the credits saying that he never made it back home was heartbreaking." —majorh
For those who don’t know, after the last episode, they just displayed a title card that read 'Dr. Sam Becket never returned home.' The character’s name for the past five seasons was Sam Beckett. Not only was there no actual ending, they spelled the main character’s name wrong." —u/Wookiees_get_Cookies
• Doctor Who
"Every series always ends tragically, but it’s still such a good show." —aurablaze
• How I Met Your Mother
—29, Florida *You can read more about the final episode, here.
• Bojack Horseman
—23, London UK *You can read more about the final episode, here.
• Killing Eve
—Kristy, North Carolina
"David and Donna got married and Kelly and Dylan got back together. This show started with the Walsh family transitioning to life in Beverly Hills and should’ve ended with either Brandon and Kelly or Brenda and Dylan getting married complete with Jim and Cindy plus Jackie present. Still a cute ending for the series." —smellytortoise841
• New Amsterdam
"One of the BEST medical dramas I’ve ever watched, but terrible ending. (Spoilers) Leaving Lauren alone and still kind of heartbroken, having Iggy go back into an unhappy marriage, having Max to LEAVE the hospital he changed forever, and leaving Elizabeth and Max’s relationship… somewhere?? Like wtf were the writers thinking?" —Stella, 19, Minnesota
• The Shield
"Vic Mackey being forced to work in an office cubicle for three years, while his family is put into witness protection away from him — plus Lem and Shane are dead and Ronny is in prison (because of him) — is the perfect punishment. The most satisfying ending to a series, EVER!" —oddkid73
What's your favorite TV show that doesn't have a "happy" ending? Let me know in the comments below! Some responses have been edited for length and/or clarity.
In the realm of television, endings can leave lasting impressions, whether they're tinged with sadness, ambiguity, or a mix of emotions. The shows mentioned here remind us that closure doesn't always come neatly wrapped in happiness, yet they continue to resonate with audiences long after the final credits roll. As we reflect on these bittersweet finales, we're reminded of the power of storytelling to evoke emotion, provoke thought, and spark conversations that endure beyond the screen. So, whether it's a tearful goodbye or a lingering question, these TV shows remind us that sometimes, the journey is as impactful as the destination.