Grey's Anatomy

10 Best Episodes of Grey's Anatomy

Grey's Anatomy has been a fan favorite since its debut in 2005. The show follows the personal and professional lives of a group of doctors at Seattle’s Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital, delivering drama, romance, and heartbreak in equal measure. With 22 seasons under its belt, the show has had its fair share of standout moments and fan-favorite episodes.

To celebrate the show's success, we've compiled a list of the best episodes ranked by viewers. From shocking twists to heartwarming moments, these episodes are sure to leave you on the edge of your seat. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, these episodes are a must-watch for any Grey's Anatomy enthusiast.

So sit back, grab some popcorn, and get ready to relive some of the most iconic moments from Grey's Anatomy. With its gripping storylines, talented cast, and unforgettable characters, it's no wonder the show has remained a staple of primetime TV for over 15 years.

Written by Sophie and last updated on apr 24, 2024.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

Advertisement
Grey's Anatomy - S2E25

#15 - 17 Seconds (Season 2 - Episode 25)

In this episode of Grey's Anatomy titled "17 Seconds," George and Derek find themselves working together, while Denny remains in need of a heart transplant. Meanwhile, Meredith is paired with Callie, leading to unexpected dynamics in the hospital. Tragedy strikes when a 12-week pregnant patient passes away during surgery, leaving her parents desperate to save the baby's life. This heartbreaking situation creates tension between Derek and Addison. As the episode unfolds, the actions of one doctor bring together two quarreling patients, highlighting the power of compassion amidst chaos. Additionally, Finn continues to provide medical care for Doc, his trusted furry companion.

The comments about this episode are quite polarizing. Some viewers express frustration with Izzie's actions, calling her "dumb" and one of the most annoying characters on television. Others criticize the overall professionalism of the characters, particularly Alex's behavior and the actions of the "psychopathic" women. It seems that the bomb episode was already difficult to digest for some viewers, and the ending of this episode has left them stunned.

Despite the mixed reactions, "17 Seconds" presents a compelling storyline filled with emotional moments and unexpected twists that will keep viewers hooked until the very end. It's another gripping installment of Grey's Anatomy that tackles both medical and personal challenges, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating what comes next.

The episode was rated 8.18 from 791 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S4E17

#14 - Freedom (2) (Season 4 - Episode 17)

Advertisement

In the latest episode of Grey's Anatomy, titled "Freedom (2)", a couple takes a leap of faith as they undergo a life-changing surgery. Meanwhile, Derek and Meredith's clinical trial receives a glimmer of hope when a new patient decides to join their groundbreaking research. And amidst the chaos, Izzie steps up to lend a helping hand to Alex. Will this unexpected act of kindness reignite their complicated relationship?

But that's not all – things heat up in the romance department as McSteamy finds himself entangled with someone new. Will this steamy affair lead to a lasting connection or just another fleeting encounter?

As emotions run high and relationships become even more tangled, viewers can't help but share their thoughts. Some are tired of Alex's behavior and are hoping for a drastic change, while others are overjoyed to see Meredith and Derek finally finding their way back to each other. But amidst all the drama, one burning question remains: where did all those candles come from? Stay tuned to find out!

The episode was rated 8.21 from 584 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S2E26

#13 - Deterioration of the Fight or Flight Response (Season 2 - Episode 26)

In this intense episode of Grey's Anatomy, titled "Deterioration of the Fight or Flight Response," the lives of several beloved characters hang in the balance. Denny, a patient in desperate need of a heart transplant, sends Izzie and George into a frenzy as they do everything they can to find a donor. Meanwhile, Derek faces a life-or-death situation as he operates on Burke, who was shot. However, due to Denny's deteriorating condition, Burke is unable to perform the heart transplant, leading to a dire situation. As if that wasn't enough, Cristina finds herself in charge of the ER, all while carrying the weight of her concern for Burke.

The emotional rollercoaster continues as fans weigh in on the events of this episode. Some viewers express frustration with Izzie's decision-making, criticizing her for letting her emotions cloud her judgment. Others share their heartbreak over the apparent end of the love story between Izzie and Denny, mourning the loss of a beloved character. However, there are also those who question the writing choices, calling for a better storyline and hoping for improvement in the next season. With so much at stake, the anticipation for what comes next in Grey's Anatomy is palpable.

The episode was rated 8.22 from 741 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S10E12

#12 - Get Up, Stand Up (Season 10 - Episode 12)

Advertisement

In the Grey's Anatomy episode "Get Up, Stand Up," the day of April's wedding is anything but smooth sailing for the doctors at Grey Sloan Memorial. While April prepares to say "I do," the rest of the staff is consumed by their own personal dramas. Meredith and Cristina, once inseparable, find themselves clashing over their research and career paths. The tension between them reaches new heights, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.

Meanwhile, Bailey finds herself in a difficult position as she confesses her feelings to Ben about his decision to move back to Seattle. Will their relationship withstand the strain of this revelation? And then there's Shane, who puts himself in a risky situation that threatens his future at the hospital. Will his guilt catch up to him and lead to his downfall?

As if that wasn't enough, Derek receives a life-changing phone call that promises to shake up his world. With major plot developments and emotional turmoil for most of the couples, this episode is bound to leave fans buzzing. Brace yourself for the fallout from Mer and Cristina's explosive fight, and keep an eye out for poor Alex, who finds himself brokenhearted. "Get Up, Stand Up" is a rollercoaster ride of emotions that you won't want to miss.

The episode was rated 8.24 from 1063 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S8E10

#11 - Suddenly (Season 8 - Episode 10)

In the latest episode of Grey's Anatomy titled "Suddenly," the ER is thrown into chaos after a devastating car crash involving an entire family. With lives on the line, the doctors find themselves in an all-hands-on situation. But amidst the chaos, the eldest daughter is faced with an agonizing decision that will change her life forever.

Meanwhile, Teddy remains unaware of Henry's tragic death and turns to Cristina for help with her patient in the operating room. As the drama unfolds, Lexie finds herself working alongside Mark's new girlfriend, Julia, during a high-stakes eye surgery. Will their professional dynamic be put to the test?

But some fans are left scratching their heads as Meredith and Alex seemingly ignore their own well-being to tend to the patients. Viewers can't help but wonder why they aren't taking the necessary precautions and getting themselves checked out. Will their dedication to their work put them in harm's way? And why does Derek back down when Meredith insists she's fine? Find out in this gripping episode of Grey's Anatomy.

The episode was rated 8.26 from 701 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S5E22

#10 - What a Difference a Day Makes (Season 5 - Episode 22)

Advertisement

In the Grey's Anatomy episode "What a Difference a Day Makes," the anticipation for Meredith and Derek's wedding is mounting. However, the focus shifts when a group of college students involved in a devastating car crash are rushed to the ER. It's a race against time to save their lives and attend to their injuries. Amidst the chaos, Izzie is filled with fear as she starts experiencing familiar symptoms, leaving us all wondering what could be wrong.

Despite the numerous heart-wrenching deaths throughout the series, "What a Difference a Day Makes" stands out as one of the most beloved episodes. The wedding that was initially meant to be about Meredith and Derek takes an unexpected turn, offering a refreshing twist. Fans are ecstatic to witness the union of Izzie and Alex as husband and wife, bringing a sense of joy and hope amidst the turmoil.

Viewers couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for Izzie as she faces yet another challenge. The unexpected turn of events tugs at our heartstrings, leaving us rooting for her recovery. Izzie's resilience shines through as she proves that the perfect wedding is not always about the grandeur, but rather the love and strength that can be found even in the face of adversity. Let's hope that she overcomes her battle with cancer and finds the happiness she deserves.

The episode was rated 8.27 from 671 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S3E16

#9 - Drowning on Dry Land (Season 3 - Episode 16)

In the Grey's Anatomy episode, "Drowning on Dry Land," Meredith finds herself in a dangerous situation. Despite being underwater, nobody seems to notice her worsening condition. As Derek frantically searches for her, a shocking discovery leads him to believe that she may be in the water. With time running out, Derek must save Meredith before it's too late. The suspense builds as Meredith's fate hangs in the balance.

Meanwhile, Izzie is faced with a challenging case. She must perform brain surgery on a man trapped between cars, who is experiencing seizures. With quick thinking and determination, Izzie drills holes into his head, ultimately saving his life. Her heroic actions showcase her skills and dedication as a doctor.

As the episode unfolds, George finds himself in a difficult situation. To secure a surgery, he resorts to lying to a woman whose son he had been searching for. Despite his efforts, George still struggles to locate the missing child. The emotional toll of this situation weighs heavy on him.

Amidst the chaos, Alex tries to find hope for a pregnant patient, Jane Doe, as she undergoes surgery. However, his search for her family proves to be fruitless. The interns, learning about Meredith's predicament, feel a sense of hopelessness. The episode takes a poignant turn as Meredith wakes up in what appears to be limbo and encounters her deceased acquaintances.

"Drowning on Dry Land" is a gripping episode of Grey's Anatomy that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. From Meredith's perilous situation to Izzie's heroic actions and the emotional struggles of the other characters, this episode delivers both suspense and heartfelt moments. The spiritualist ending adds an intriguing twist, leaving audiences eager for more.

The episode was rated 8.27 from 768 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S10E24

#8 - Fear (of the Unknown) (Season 10 - Episode 24)

Advertisement

In the Grey's Anatomy episode titled "Fear (of the Unknown)," viewers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster as the doctors of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital say goodbye to the beloved Cristina Yang. Fans of the show are left wondering what the future holds without her. But that's not all - chaos ensues at the hospital when a possible act of terrorism rocks Seattle. The tension is palpable as the doctors try to navigate through this unexpected crisis.

Amidst the chaos, Meredith, one of the show's central characters, makes a life-changing decision. What could it be? Viewers are left on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the revelation. And if that wasn't enough, one doctor receives shocking news that will surely have a ripple effect on the lives of those around them. The episode leaves us with more questions than answers, ensuring that fans will be eagerly anticipating the next installment.

While some viewers express their emotional wreck over Cristina's departure, others contemplate whether they will continue watching the show. However, despite the mixed reactions, it's hard to deny that this episode packs a punch. From the intense storyline to the unexpected twists, Grey's Anatomy delivers yet again, proving why it has remained a fan favorite for so many years. So, buckle up and get ready for a thrilling and emotional ride in "Fear (of the Unknown)."

The episode was rated 8.30 from 1069 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S9E24

#7 - Perfect Storm (Season 9 - Episode 24)

In the gripping Grey's Anatomy episode titled "Perfect Storm," Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital finds itself in the midst of chaos as a raging storm wreaks havoc on its operations. With resources becoming scarce and patients flooding in by the busload, the hospital staff is pushed to their limits and forced to enter crisis mode. The intensity of the situation is palpable, as the doctors and nurses race against time to provide life-saving care amidst the turmoil.

However, amidst the storm's fury, one of the doctors finds themselves fighting for their own life. This unexpected twist adds an extra layer of suspense and tension to an already gripping episode. As viewers, we are left on the edge of our seats, eagerly awaiting the outcome and hoping for a miraculous recovery.

The writers of Grey's Anatomy have truly outdone themselves with "Perfect Storm." This powerful end-of-season episode pulls no punches, delivering an intense and emotionally charged storyline that will leave fans of the show eagerly anticipating what comes next. It's a testament to the show's ability to captivate and engage viewers, even after multiple seasons.

The episode was rated 8.38 from 968 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S6E23

#6 - Sanctuary (Season 6 - Episode 23)

Advertisement

In this heart-stopping episode of Grey's Anatomy titled "Sanctuary," Seattle Grace Hospital is thrown into a crisis like never before. Brace yourself for an intense rollercoaster ride of emotions as the hospital faces a purge that rivals even Game of Thrones' reputation for killing off characters. Shonda Rhimes, the mastermind behind the show, takes no prisoners in this devastating turn of events.

Fans of the show were left stunned and speechless after witnessing the unimaginable. Some even wished that the annoying intern, April, had met her untimely demise instead of the beloved character Reed. Emotions ran high as viewers expressed their shock and disbelief, questioning why poor Reed had to meet such a tragic end.

If you thought the previous season's tragedy was hard to bear, this episode takes it to a whole new level. It's an emotional gut-punch that will leave you reaching for the tissues. However, amidst all the chaos and despair, some characters manage to keep their composure while others are pushed to the brink. Watch as Reed's death, Alex's life-threatening situation, Derek's frantic state, and April's mental breakdown unfold alongside Meredith and Cristina's seemingly unaffected demeanor.

Grey's Anatomy never fails to deliver gripping and emotional storylines, and "Sanctuary" is no exception. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable episode that will have you on the edge of your seat and craving more.

The episode was rated 8.42 from 746 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S5E24

#5 - Now or Never (Season 5 - Episode 24)

In the second part of Grey's Anatomy's two-hour season finale, emotions run high as shocking news is delivered and a beloved character fights for their life. George's announcement leaves Bailey and the entire hospital reeling, while Izzie's friends anxiously await her recovery from a life-changing surgery. The tension builds as Bailey's unexpected reaction to being accepted into the pediatric fellowship program adds another layer of drama. Amidst the chaos, a near-fatal traffic accident brings the talented doctors of Seattle Grace together, showcasing their skills and resilience. Brace yourself for the most heartbreaking episode yet.

The comments say it all. Viewers were left speechless and devastated by the events that unfolded in "Now or Never." From the shocking twists to the heart-wrenching moments, this episode left a lasting impact. Whether you were caught off guard or had an inkling of what was to come, the emotional rollercoaster was overwhelming. It's a testament to the show's ability to keep us on the edge of our seats, never knowing what's around the corner. Get ready to have your heart broken and your faith in the characters tested like never before.

"Um dos episódios mais tristes que eu já assisti na minha vida." This comment perfectly captures the sentiment shared by many. The sadness is palpable, and the impact of the episode lingers long after the credits roll. The writers and actors achieved something remarkable with "Now or Never" - they created an episode that will forever be etched in the memories of Grey's Anatomy fans. Prepare yourself for a powerful and unforgettable viewing experience that will leave you saying, "Well damn, I really wasn't expecting that... Jesus Christ..."

The episode was rated 8.45 from 689 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S2E16

#4 - It's the End of the World (Season 2 - Episode 16)

Advertisement

In the Grey's Anatomy episode "It's the End of the World," the tension at the hospital reaches a boiling point when an explosive case arrives in the operating room. This life-threatening situation forces Dr. Burke to declare a "Code Black," putting everyone's lives at risk. As the chaos unfolds, Bailey is faced with the worry of her husband's whereabouts while she is in labor. Meanwhile, sparks fly between Izzie and Alex, adding a layer of heat to an already intense situation.

This episode of Grey's Anatomy delivers a gripping storyline with actual medical cases, providing a refreshing break from the usual interpersonal drama. However, some viewers were left frustrated by Izzie's decision to once again get involved with Alex, leading to mixed reactions from fans. Despite this, the episode successfully keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, evoking a sense of stress and anticipation that Grey's Anatomy is known for. Brace yourself for an emotional rollercoaster as the hospital staff navigates through this life-and-death crisis in "It's the End of the World."

The episode was rated 8.46 from 907 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S2E17

#3 - As We Know It (Season 2 - Episode 17)

In the Grey's Anatomy episode titled "As We Know It," the tension and emotions run high as the doctors of Seattle Grace Hospital face a crisis. Derek, still in the middle of an operation, discovers the troubling news about Meredith's current situation. Meanwhile, Meredith herself is freaking out, overwhelmed by the circumstances surrounding her. Webber and Bailey, dealing with their own medical health issues, find themselves in a challenging position. And Cristina and Izzie, affected by Meredith's situation, grapple with their own personal problems. As the hospital remains under code black, the situation only worsens, leaving everyone on edge.

This episode of Grey's Anatomy is nothing short of spectacular, delivering unforgettable drama and suspense. Viewers are left in shock, as unexpected events unfold, creating a terrifying and memorable experience. However, amidst all the chaos, it's worth noting that no main characters were harmed during the making of this episode. Some may wonder why the bomb squad members' fate wasn't given more attention, but the focus remains on the core characters and their personal struggles.

The ending of "As We Know It" is particularly poignant, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. While the bomb squad incident seemed to fade into the background, it's hard to ignore the sadness and shock that lingers. Additionally, the episode introduces a new complication in the form of a strained relationship between Izzie and Alex. The emotional rollercoaster continues as viewers root for Izzie to find someone who treats her better.

Overall, this episode of Grey's Anatomy pushes the boundaries of realism and captivates viewers with its intense storytelling. Brace yourself for a challenging and emotionally charged journey that will leave you reeling. Get ready for an episode that will make you say, "Ooff, that was a hard one!"

The episode was rated 8.48 from 871 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S6E24

#2 - Death and All His Friends (Season 6 - Episode 24)

Advertisement

In the gripping Grey's Anatomy episode, "Death and All His Friends," viewers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster as Cristina and Meredith face their toughest surgical challenge yet. The episode leaves no room for a break as these two strong-willed characters are pushed to their limits. Shonda Rhimes, the mastermind behind the show, delivers an epic and heart-wrenching season finale that will leave you breathless.

Fans were left reeling from the intensity of this episode. The comments flooded in, expressing the mix of emotions that viewers experienced. Some remarked that they didn't expect to feel so deeply, while others praised the episode as the most dramatic season finale yet. The devastating loss of George and the emotional aftermath had already shaken fans, but "Death and All His Friends" took it to a whole new level.

Prepare to have your heartstrings tugged as you witness the aftermath of this intense surgical challenge. The episode is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact that a TV show can have on its audience. Brace yourself for an unforgettable viewing experience as Grey's Anatomy continues to captivate and move its dedicated fanbase.

The episode was rated 8.54 from 756 votes.

Grey's Anatomy - S2E27

#1 - Losing My Religion (Season 2 - Episode 27)

In this intense episode of Grey's Anatomy, titled "Losing My Religion," the drama reaches its peak as secrets are revealed and emotions run high. Richard is determined to uncover the truth about a family member's condition and turns to Addison for answers. Meanwhile, Callie and George have a heart-to-heart conversation about their complicated feelings, adding a new layer of complexity to their relationship. And of course, Meredith and Derek have yet another conversation about their beloved dog, Doc. But will this talk finally bring them closer together or drive them further apart?

As with any Grey's Anatomy episode, the romantic relationships take center stage. However, some viewers have mixed feelings about the direction the show is taking. Many have grown tired of the predictable back-and-forth between Meredith and Derek, longing for a fresh perspective on their love story. And while the emotional impact of Denny and Izzie's relationship can't be denied, not everyone was a fan of their dynamic. The same goes for Burke and Christina, whose ongoing togetherness has left viewers wondering why they're still holding on. And let's not forget about Callie and George, whose desperate dynamic raises eyebrows.

Despite the mixed reviews, this episode manages to deliver some powerful moments. The departure of Izzie brings both sadness and relief, as viewers say goodbye to a character they may not have always liked. However, some fans question the realism of the storyline and the decisions made by the show's creators. The episode also leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, wondering what the consequences of Izzie's actions will be and how it will impact the future of the hospital. Love it or hate it, "Losing My Religion" is an episode that will keep you talking.

The episode was rated 8.55 from 716 votes.

Search for TV shows...

About Series with Sophie

Welcome to our community!

We are a community of women who are passionate about our favorite series and want to share that passion with others.

Our mission is to create a space where women can discover new content, connect with like-minded individuals, and engage in meaningful discussions about the series we love.

We believe that everyone should have access to reliable and trustworthy information about their favorite shows, and we strive to be the premier destination for women seeking that information. Whether you're looking for recaps, fan theories, or just want to connect with other fans, we've got you covered.

So join us and be a part of our growing community of series enthusiasts!