Certain TV shows took some time to reach their highest quality,and for many, season 4 was where they peaked. Some ofthe best TV shows of all timewere at their best in season 4, but there were many varied reasons for this. For a lot of shows, their respective writers needed to develop the characters more, which resulted in earlier seasons being less popular.TV show seasons weren’t always so short, but sometimes, too many episodes made storylines overly confusing or even boring.
Multiple titles in TV history found themselves peaking right in the middle of their initial runs, depending on the overall length of the TV show. The fourth installment of a show was oftenan ideal place for writers to best understand what audiences loved and hatedabout their characters and plots. While not every TV show peaked with season 4, the amount of titles that did was wild and rather coincidental.
11Game Of Thrones
A Heartbreaking Season For Westeros
Game of Thronesseason 4 was the peak of the show because of the powerhouse performances.Peter Dinklage as Tyrion was a brilliant figurein theGame of Thronescastanyway, but his portrayal of his renowned character was simply amazing. It was no surprise that Dinklage was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series, especially considering how impactful he was in the trial scene.
Game Of Thrones
Cast
Based on George R. R. Martin’s ongoing A Song of Ice and Fire novel series, Game of Thrones is a fantasy drama set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos. It follows noble families like the Starks, Lannisters, and Targaryen vying for control of the Iron Throne while a rising threat from the undead looms in the North. The series received significant critical success and amassed a loyal fan base due to its high production values, sprawling sets, iconic characters, and shocking twists.
Oberyn’s visit to Tyrion’s cell was another profound scene and amoment inGame of Thronesthat made fans cry. Overall,Game of Thronesseason 4 was so goodbecause of the generally solid pacing of each episode and its memorable scenes.
There were so manyiconic moments inGame of Thronesseason 4, some of which were drastic to the story of the show in general. For example, the Night King was first revealed in “Oathkeeper,” and Arya abandoned the Hound after an entire season of traveling, both of which were groundbreaking instances inGame of Thrones.
10The Simpsons
The Show Truly Found Its Feet
The Simpsonsseason 4 was a standout for several reasons. Some ofthe best episodes ofThe Simpsonswere a part of season 4, and the storylines were hilarious and engaging. For example,Marge’s stint in jail, the cancellation of Krusty the Klown’s show, and Lisa’s awkward Valentine’s Day with Ralphwere all memorable moments that were iconic references for years after it was released.
Although season 4 aired in 1993,The Simpsonsmanaged to nail down its style and sense of humor well. Surprisingly,The Simpsonsseason 4 was only nominated for two Primetime Emmy Awards.
The Simpsons
The Simpsons is an animated series set in the fictional town of Springfield, following the daily lives of the Simpson family—Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. Premiering in 1989, the show is renowned for its satirical commentary on politics, media, and American culture, featuring numerous celebrity guest appearances.
Homer Simpson actor Dan Castellaneta won an Emmy for Outstanding Voice-Over Performance, specifically for the episode “Mr. Plow,” another legendary piece of loreThe Simpsonsestablished across its long run. While there were many other brilliant seasons ofThe Simpsonsafter this, plus some banned episodes, season 4 was a notable installment because of how memorable the episodes were.
9Breaking Bad
Gus Fring’s Tyranny At Its Finest
Breaking Badseason 4 contained some of the most dramatic plot points in the entire show. Walt and Jesse’s quest to keep off of the DEA’s radar became even more tense from the first episode, especially as Gale’s death meant that they were in trouble with both law enforcement and Gus Fring.
Breaking Badseason 4 truly cemented Walt’s role in the world of drug dealing and established that there was no going back for the former chemistry teacher.
The back-and-forth between Walt and Gus was intriguing anyway, butseason 4 spent significant time delving into the kingpin’s motivationsand how his empire came about in the first place. However, the most shocking and noteworthy moment was easily Gus’ death.Breaking Badseason 4 truly cemented Walt’s role in the world of drug dealing and established that there was no going back for the former chemistry teacher.
Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad, created by Vince Gilligan, follows a chemistry teacher turned drug kingpin named Walter White (Bryan Cranston) as he attempts to provide for his family following a fatal diagnosis. With nothing left to fear, White ascends to power in the world of drugs and crime, transforming the simple family man into someone known only as Heisenberg.
Gus’ demise, the “I am the one who knocks” scene, and the beginning of Walt’s descent into madness madeBreaking Badseason 4 an incredible watch.Every season ofBreaking Badhad audiences on the edge of their seats, but season 4 was a total game-changer for all the characters involved.
Don Draper’s Life After Marriage
Mad Menseason 4 was substantially better than previous installments of the show because of the increase in story quality. Don Draper’s post-divorce escapades were wild, and while his job performance was at an all-time high, his personal life was falling apart.
Mad Menhas won numerous prestigious awards, including 16 Primetime Emmy Awards, 5 Golden Globe Awards, and a Peabody Award, among others.
Draper’s character development was stellar inMad Menseason 4,so it was no surprise when the show was nominated for 19 Primetime Emmy nominations and won the award for Outstanding Drama Series. A large chunk of the cast was also celebrated for their performances at the Emmys,including nominations for Jon Hamm for Outstanding Lead in a Drama Series and John Slattery for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.
Mad Men
Mad Men is a drama series set in 1960s New York, focusing on the lives of competitive men and women working in Madison Avenue’s advertising industry. The show explores the social mores and cultural dynamics of the era while delving into the personal and professional challenges faced by its characters.
BothHamm and Elisabeth were applauded for their performancesand characters’ story arcs, and the dynamic between Draper and Betty post-divorce was fascinating. Season 4 also included the episode “The Suitcase,” which wasJon Hamm’s favorite episode ofMad Menand an overall incredible story in the show.
7The Americans
Elizabeth & Philip Reflected On Their Pasts And Relationships
WhileThe Americans’ later seasons had slow pacing at times, season 4 flipped the show altogether. The spy drama TV show spent the first few seasons focusing on Philip and Elizabeth’s attempts to keep their secret lives as KGB officers under wraps, but season 4 kicked off with the fallout of their daughter Paige’s reveal.
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Paige shared her parent’s identities with their Pastor, which raised the stakes hugely, especially when she started to regret her actions. There were many significantly developed characters inThe Americansseason 4. The contrast of Elizabeth’s relationship with Paige to the one she shared with her own mother was profound,and Philip’s struggles with his confidence were just as powerful.
The Americans
The Americans is a television series set during the 1980s Cold War, focusing on Soviet KGB officers Elizabeth and Philip Jennings. They pose as an American couple in suburban Washington, D.C., balancing their covert operations while Stan Beeman, an FBI Counterintelligence agent, lives next door.
Even the opening scene of the first episode, which revealed that Philip had gorily murdered a child when he was younger, was a standout.The Americanswon Program of the Year at the American Film Institute Awards multiple times, but season 4’s success was absolutely warranted.
6BoJack Horseman
Hollyhock Showed BoJack What Mattered In Life
Even thoughevery season ofBoJack Horsemanwas as emotional and intelligent as the one before, season 4 included some astonishingly important pieces of lore for the show.Season 4 delved into the pasts of the show’s characters more than ever before.
The backstories of Mr. Peanutbutter and BoJack’s parents were specifically developed, which allowed audiences to gain a better understanding of why the titular character was the way he was in the present day. There were also several new characters introduced who were rather impactful.
BoJack Horseman
Once the famous star of a hit sitcom, BoJack Horseman has fallen on tough times. Stuck in a major career slump and longing to relive his glory days, BoJack attempts to once more become relevant in an industry that has long since turned its back on him. With a few dysfunctional friends at his side, BoJack begins his long-overdue career comeback.
The arrival of BoJack’s sister Hollyhock, Todd’s discovery of his asexuality, and Princess Carolyn’s quest to become a mother all contributed to his integral character development.BoJack’s relationship with Hollyhock, most importantly, made him reevaluate his prioritiesand reflect on his past massively. WhileBoJack Horsemanhad a highly-rated ending in season 5, it wouldn’t have been anywhere near as prominent without the efforts of season 4.
5The Wire
Highlighted The Importance Of Baltimore’s School Children
It was unfortunate thatThe Wireseason 5 was much worse than the rest, but season 4 was easily the best.Season 4 was praised for including familiar elements of the show while also boldly implementing new charactersand storylines. The focus was on Baltimore’s public school system and the children who attended the local institutes.
What was so important about these stories, however, was how the system worked in very different ways for each child. However, the plotlines that continued from season 3 were also endearing. Carcetti’s campaign to become Mayor, for example, built up a lot of tension.
The Wire
The Wire, debuting in 2002, is a series that explores the complex world of Baltimore’s narcotics scene, presenting perspectives from both law enforcement and their targets. It delves into how the war on drugs has evolved into a self-perpetuating institution, blurring moral boundaries between right and wrong.
The Wirewas famously underappreciated during the show’s original run, butseason 4 was a perfect presentationof why it worked so welland was one ofthe best HBO original series of all time. The constant battle between law enforcement and the city government was more apparent than ever inThe Wireseason 4, and each episode highlighted this through the struggles of the kids, which made it deeply moving to watch.
4Friends
Ross And Rachel’s Busiest Season
Friendsseason 4 was packed with drama and laughs from start to finish. It was a particularly enjoyable season for many reasons, butprimarily because of the rapid progressions inRoss and Rachel’s relationship inFriends.The pair began season 4 by rekindling their love story, but by the end, they’d split up again, and Ross was marrying someone else.
While there were several crucial plot points inFriendsseason 4 that impacted the rest of the show altogether, the smaller moments were still great.
The name mix-up at the altar was an iconic and memorable moment overall, but it was also one ofRoss and Rachel’s most frustrating moments inFriends. Season 4 also marked the beginning of Monica and Chandler’s relationship, which made them one of the best couples on the show.
Friends
Friends is a television sitcom that debuted in 1994, revolving around six young New Yorkers navigating the complexities of adulthood. The series highlights their friendship as they support each other through personal and professional challenges, encapsulating the ups and downs of life in a comedic and relatable manner.
While there wereseveral crucial plot points inFriendsseason 4 that impacted the rest of the showaltogether,the smaller moments were still great. For example, Joey’s search for knowledge via an encyclopedia, Phoebe’s singing improvements while sick, and Chandler’s Thanksgiving inside a crate were all hilarious stories inFriendsand proved itself as one ofthe best sitcoms of all time.
3The Office
The Shortest Season, But Full Of Important Storylines
The Officeseason 4 was the shortest of the show, but it also contained some amazingly comical moments. Some ofthe funniest episodes ofThe Officewere from season 4 and established several significant pieces of character development.It also saw the first appearance of Michael’s future wife, Holly Flax, in “Goodbye Toby.”
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Ryan’s promotion to corporate and Jan’s decline were important plot points in season 4, but the most notable was easily the beginning ofJim and Pam’s relationship inThe Office. After many seasons of the pair’s will-they-won’t-they connection being dragged out, it was a relief that they finally got together.
The Office
This mockumentary comedy series observes the mundane and humorous daily lives of employees at the Scranton branch of the fictional Dunder Mifflin Paper Company. It offers insights into office dynamics, personalities, and the eccentric behavior of both management and staff, depicting an ordinary workplace with extraordinary characters.
However, one ofThe Office’s cringiest episodesalso aired during season 4. “Dinner Party” was a staple inThe Officeand highlighted just how perfect Steve Carell’s casting as Michael Scott was. Even thoughThe Officeseason 4 only consisted of 19 episodesbecause of the 2007 to 2008 Writers Guild of America strike, the final product was extremely impressive, given the obstacles the writers faced.
2The Vampire Diaries
Elena’s Conversion & The Introduction Of The Originals
Elena’s transformation into a vampire inThe Vampire Diariesseason 4 was a vital moment throughout the show, but it wasn’t the only reason why the show peaked at that point. Elena’s swift and unhinged character development as she turned into a supernatural being resulted ina very interesting season overall, especially as she lost a lot of her humanity on her killing sprees and through the attitude she presented to those around her.
The Vampire Diaries
Based on the novels by L.J. Smith, The Vampire Diaries is a story about the developing love triangle between Elena Gilbert and two vampiric brothers, Stefan and Damon Salvatore. Set in the town of Mystic Falls, Virginia, the show follows the trio from high school through college as they battle for one another’s affection.
The rules ofThe Vampire Diaries’ world were also changed,as Elena and Damon learned that the possibility of sire bonds wasn’t as rare as previously thought. The Originals joinedThe Vampire Diariescastin season 4, which led to Klaus’ brutal hybrid army of werewolves and vampires, one of the show’s craziest storylines. It was disappointing that Klaus left in season 4, but he did so with good reason, as he then starred in the spinoffThe Originals.
