The Best TV Pilots Of All Time
From the very beginning, viewers were enthralled by this epic fantasy series' pilot, which set the tone with its brilliant storytelling and ruthless power struggles. The introduction to a myriad of complex characters and intricate plotlines had audiences desperately wanting more. It's no wonder that this series became a worldwide phenomenon, as the pilot episode's chilling climax left fans on the edge of their seats.
- Premiered: April 17, 2011
- 1Tyrion Lannister31,752 Votes
- 2Jon Snow28,963 Votes
- 3Arya Stark29,621 Votes
- 4Sandor "The Hound" Clegane20,923 Votes
This gripping pilot episode immerses viewers into a post-apocalyptic world where survival is anything but easy. With haunting visuals, heart-wrenching character development, and gut-wrenching suspense, it's hard not to get hooked on this thrilling zombie drama from the outset. The premiere masterfully sets up the dynamics between characters and leaves viewers yearning for more of their desperate fight for survival.
- Premiered: October 31, 2010
- 1Daryl Dixon35,747 Votes
- 2Glenn Rhee29,604 Votes
- 3Rick Grimes31,352 Votes
- 4Michonne27,943 Votes
One can't help but be captivated by this groundbreaking series' pilot episode as it introduces a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine cook. The transformation from an underachieving everyman to an unlikely criminal mastermind is nothing short of riveting. This darkly comedic opener expertly blends tension, humor, and raw emotion, setting the stage for one of television's greatest dramas.
- Premiered: January 20, 2008
- 1Saul Goodman4,153 Votes
- 2Jesse Pinkman3,997 Votes
- 3Mike Ehrmantraut3,689 Votes
- 4Gustavo Fring3,115 Votes
From the moment it begins, this mind-bending series' pilot episode leaves viewers on the edge of their seats with its breathtaking action and enigmatic storylines. The harrowing plane crash that strands a diverse group of survivors on a remote island sets the stage for a mesmerizing exploration of humanity and mystery. It's no wonder fans were instantly hooked – this unforgettable opener had audiences clamoring for answers.
- Premiered: September 22, 2004
- 1Desmond Hume6,087 Votes
- 2James "Sawyer" Ford6,504 Votes
- 3Hugo "Hurley" Reyes5,166 Votes
- 4John Locke5,725 Votes
In its debut episode, this beloved animated sitcom immediately captured hearts with its sharp wit and endearing family dynamic. The holiday-themed pilot showcased each character's distinct personality and hilariously relatable quirks while touching on issues relevant to many families. From that moment on, it was clear that this long-running series would become an integral part of pop culture history.
- Premiered: December 17, 1989
- 1'Nightmare on Evergreen Terrace' References 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' With Groundskeeper Willie As Freddy Krueger159 Votes
- 2'The Shinning' References 'The Shining' With Homer As Jack Torrance152 Votes
- 3'Bart Simpson's Dracula' References 'Bram Stoker's Dracula'118 Votes
- 4'Dial 'Z' For Zombies' References 'Night of the Living Dead'117 Votes
The unique blend of western and science fiction genres sets this beloved series apart from the start, as its pilot episode introduces viewers to a ragtag crew aboard the spaceship Serenity. The charming characters and witty dialogue create an instant rapport with audiences, who quickly become invested in their adventures in an unforgiving universe. It's no wonder fans still mourn the show's untimely cancellation.
- Premiered: September 20, 2002
- 1Nathan Fillion62 Votes
- 2Gina Torres54 Votes
- 3Summer Glau37 Votes
- 4Adam Baldwin34 Votes