The Sopranos is one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed shows in television history. It follows the story of New Jersey-based Italian-American mobster Tony Soprano as he juggles the conflicting demands of his home life and the criminal organization he leads. With seven seasons and an abundance of memorable and captivating episodes, it can be hard to decide which ones are the best. Here we rank the best episodes of The Sopranos, available on HBO since it first aired in 1999, and discuss what makes them so great.
From the episode that kicks off the show’s iconic journey to its climactic finale, these are the episodes that have kept viewers coming back for more. Each episode is carefully crafted, combining suspenseful storylines with engaging characters and clever dialogue. From Tony's relationships with his family, friends, and associates, to his ongoing professional relationship with psychiatrist Jennifer Melfi, these are the episodes that stand out from the rest.
So, if you’re looking for the best of The Sopranos, here is our ranked list of the top episodes. Tune in and get ready for an unforgettable journey into Tony’s world.
Written by Sophie and last updated on dec 22, 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!
Tony has a disheartening experience when he tries to strike up new friendships in the civilian world. Christopher and Adriana try their hand in the music recording business, but their plans backfire in their faces.
The episode was rated 7.72 from 1290 votes.
Christopher and Brendan take some initiative in a truck hijacking, but their plan backfires when it angers Uncle Junior. Tony's crew does a favor for A.J.'s science teacher. After one too many accidents, Tony forces Livia to move into a nursing home against her will.
The episode was rated 7.73 from 1935 votes.
The Soprano crew begins to do some frantic house-cleaning as rumors of FBI indictments begin to surface. Christopher gets depressed when he isn't named on the list and it results in some poor decisions. Livia tells Junior about Tony's therapy.
The episode was rated 7.76 from 1366 votes.
After A.J. is suspended from school for drinking sacramental wine, Tony begins remembering his own childhood days when he learned of his father's unique lifestyle. Livia learns of her son's therapy during a visit from A.J.
The episode was rated 7.77 from 1383 votes.
Tony Soprano, a Capo in the Jersey mafia, begins seeing a therapist because he is stricken by panic attacks. During his session, Dr. Melfi learns of his two conflicted families. Tony is stressed by his unhappy wife, rebellious kids and his demanding mother. On the business side, Tony feels pressure from his willful nephew, while also engaging in a power struggle with his Uncle Junior.
The episode was rated 7.78 from 2656 votes.
Tony's crew is unhappy when Junior refuses to respect old arrangements. Junior shows reckless behavior by taxing long-time members and ordering hits on top earners. Tony brings in Johnny Sack from New York in hopes of tricking Junior into relenting. Carmela is frustrated when she learns that Tony's therapist is a woman. Her anger grows when Tony is rendered impotent by his medication.
The episode was rated 7.79 from 1443 votes.
Tony, Paulie and Sylvio enter into a new business deal with a Jewish hotel owner, while Tony struggles with the terminal illness of his long-time friend and current don, Jackie Aprile. Meadow asks Christopher for a favor that could get him in trouble. After consulting Livia, Junior has his triggerman, Mikey Palmice, send Christopher and Brendan a clear message.
The episode was rated 7.79 from 1729 votes.
When Jackie Aprile loses his battle with cancer, Tony and his crew agree to give Junior what he wants. However, they have ulterior motives. Christopher goes from fear to anger when he discovers Brendan's fate. Tony sends a cop on his payroll to investigate Dr. Melfi, while Carmela gives him an ultimatum about his therapy.
The episode was rated 7.84 from 1600 votes.
Tony and Sylvio plan drastic action when they hear some disturbing news about Meadow's soccer coach. Tony learns of a secret that Junior would rather keep under wraps. Tensions flare when they begin needling each other during a golf game. And this results in Junior giving up a long term relationship.
The episode was rated 7.86 from 1320 votes.
Tony takes Meadow to Maine on a college tour. While there, Tony stumbles across an ex-mobster who went into the witness protection program after ratting out several of Tony's old comrades. Tony and the mobster begin stalking each other while Tony does his best to hide his activities from his daughter. Carmela receives a visit from Father Phil and the two have a close encounter.
The episode was rated 7.88 from 1499 votes.
In the episode "Nobody Knows Anything" from The Sopranos, Tony is put in a difficult situation when he learns that his old friend, Big Pussy, may be a rat. Tony sends Paulie to investigate the suspicious behavior of Pussy. Meanwhile, Junior reaches his breaking point when he finds out that Tony has been working behind his back. He and Tony's mother, Livia, begin plotting against Tony.
The episode is filled with tension as the characters try to determine who Big Pussy is and what Junior and Livia's plans are. The audience is kept guessing as they are left with more questions than answers. The episode brings out the worst in Livia, who is already known as one of the most hated characters in the show. Her manipulation of Junior to take action against Tony demonstrates her cruelty and lack of morals even in a show where gangsters, corrupted cops and rats reign supreme.
The episode was rated 7.96 from 1249 votes.
In the episode "Isabella" of The Sopranos, Tony's depression deepens as he grapples with the disappearance of his friend Pussy. To cope, he turns to medication, which leads to unexpected hallucinations. He starts seeing a beautiful Italian girl living next door, blurring the lines between reality and his own mind's creation. This twist adds a fascinating layer to Tony's struggle and showcases the brilliance of the episode.
Meanwhile, Junior and Mikey conspire against Tony, sending two hit men after him. However, their plans don't go as smoothly as they anticipated. The tension builds as the execution looms, and the episode keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The combination of compelling storytelling and James Gandolfini's raw portrayal of depression make "Isabella" one of the series' standout episodes so far.
Fans of The Sopranos have praised "Isabella" as a genius and mind-blowing episode. The emotional impact hits hard, especially when Tony's family visits him in the hospital and Meadow's genuine concern is showcased. The empathy for Tony's zombified state and his daydreaming fantasy resonates deeply with viewers. Additionally, the complex dynamics between Tony, his mother, and Junior add another layer of intrigue to the episode. Overall, "Isabella" is a must-watch installment that leaves a lasting impression on fans of the show.
The episode was rated 7.98 from 1258 votes.
The episode "I Dream of Jeannie Cusamano" of The Sopranos is full of dramatic twists and turns that lead to a thrilling conclusion. Tony is stunned to learn that his mother and uncle were behind the attempt on his life, and he begins to retaliate. As Junior tries to escape, the Feds intervene before he can get away. Livia takes a last-ditch effort to save herself by pitting Artie against Tony. Carmela lays down the law with Father Phil.
The episode features some incredible performances, such as Galdofoni's bouts of rage, which are portrayed with such intensity. Livia's mental state is also a highlight, as she is a great antagonist who keeps the viewers questioning her motives. The episode also contains humorous moments, such as when Carmela described Father Phil eloquently and precisely. Despite some scenes being overly dramatic, the episode ends with a sweet conclusion that wraps up the season perfectly.
The episode was rated 8.14 from 1267 votes.
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