The Blacklist has captivated viewers for years, combining intrigue, suspense, and shocking plot twists in every season. Over the years, Raymond “Red” Reddington and Elizabeth Keen have navigated through dangerous criminals, complicated alliances, and life-altering revelations. But out of all the episodes, some stand out as unforgettable milestones in the show’s narrative. In this article, we’ll dive into the 15 best episodes of The Blacklist, ranked by their impact, intensity, and the emotional rollercoaster they deliver to fans.
The Criteria for Ranking the Best Episodes of The Blacklist
Before we jump into our rankings, let’s first take a look at what makes an episode of The Blacklist truly stand out:
1. Shocking Twists and Turns
One of The Blacklist‘s signature elements is its ability to deliver jaw-dropping twists. From unexpected character deaths to earth-shattering revelations about Red’s past, these plot twists are what keep fans coming back for more.
2. Character Development
The Blacklist isn’t just about crime-solving; it’s also about the evolving relationships between characters. The best episodes show significant growth, especially in the complex dynamics between Red and Liz.
3. Emotional Impact
Episodes that tug at your heartstrings or challenge the moral compass of characters are memorable. The emotional stakes make the show more than just a crime procedural.
4. Suspenseful Storytelling
A gripping story with constant tension is a hallmark of The Blacklist. The episodes that excel in keeping you on the edge of your seat are the ones that rank highest.
15 Best Episodes of The Blacklist, Ranked
15. “The Stewmaker” (Season 1, Episode 6)
In The Stewmaker, Red and Liz track down a horrific criminal known as “The Stewmaker,” who disposes of his victims by dissolving them in acid. This episode set the tone for the dark, gritty crime-solving the series would become known for. The tension between Red and Liz intensifies, showcasing their growing but complicated bond.
Why It’s Great: The dark criminal and high stakes make this one of the early standouts in the series. It sets the stage for the ethical gray areas that The Blacklist thrives on.
14. “Berlin” (Season 1, Episode 22)
The first season finale left fans on the edge of their seats, introducing one of the most dangerous figures in The Blacklist universe—Berlin. A ruthless criminal mastermind, Berlin is personal for Red, and the stakes are higher than ever.
Why It’s Great: This episode not only wraps up the season with intense action but also deepens the mystery of Red’s past, leaving viewers begging for more.
13. “Anslo Garrick” (Season 1, Episode 17)
In this episode, Red’s life is in danger when a former associate, Anslo Garrick, comes to take revenge. Red is trapped in a facility, with only Liz to help him escape. The tension is palpable, and the episode is filled with edge-of-your-seat action.
Why It’s Great: The cat-and-mouse chase, combined with Red’s vulnerability, makes this one of the most suspenseful episodes in the series.
12. “The Director” (Season 2, Episode 22)
The second season finale introduces the shadowy figure known only as “The Director” and reveals secrets about the people behind the secretive criminal network that Red has been fighting. This episode features a thrilling battle of wits and reveals Red’s deeper connection to the larger conspiracy.
Why It’s Great: This episode ties together multiple storylines, building on the larger mystery of the show while also delivering satisfying emotional moments.
11. “Cape May” (Season 3, Episode 10)
A standout episode, Cape May focuses primarily on Red and his emotional struggles. The episode feels more like a character study than a typical crime drama, diving deep into Red’s past and his heartbreak over a lost love.
Why It’s Great: Cape May is a rare, introspective episode that offers a glimpse into Red’s more vulnerable side, making it emotionally compelling and rich in character development.
10. “The Kingmaker” (Season 3, Episode 5)
In this episode, Red and Liz team up to take down a manipulative political fixer who has been pulling strings behind the scenes. The episode is filled with intrigue, as it reveals the intersection of politics and crime in the Blacklist universe.
Why It’s Great: The episode’s political intrigue and plot twists are a departure from the usual criminal focus, and it keeps viewers guessing until the very end.
9. “The Good Samaritan” (Season 1, Episode 20)
This episode takes a chilling look at a serial killer who kills people and leaves behind notes explaining the victim’s sins. The case forces Liz to confront her own demons, and Red’s influence over her grows. The moral dilemmas are intense and thought-provoking.
Why It’s Great: The episode challenges both Liz’s and Red’s ethical beliefs, creating an emotionally complex dynamic between the two characters.
8. “The Blacklist” (Season 1, Episode 1)
It’s hard to top the pilot episode of The Blacklist, which sets the stage for everything that follows. Red’s sudden surrender to the FBI and his offer to help capture dangerous criminals in exchange for immunity introduces the series’ high-concept premise.
Why It’s Great: This episode is a masterclass in setting up a show, introducing us to complex characters, and launching us into a world full of secrets and danger.
7. “Rassvet” (Season 7, Episode 6)
The episode Rassvet unravels one of the most emotional backstories in the series—Red’s relationship with Katarina Rostova, Liz’s mother. The episode focuses on their past and sheds light on some of the mysteries surrounding Red’s identity.
Why It’s Great: The exploration of Red’s past and his connection to Katarina gives fans much-needed answers while deepening the series’ emotional stakes.
6. “Katarina Rostova” (Season 7, Episode 19)
In Katarina Rostova, the truth behind Liz’s mother’s involvement in Red’s life is finally revealed, and the episode pulls no punches when it comes to emotional confrontations. This marks a pivotal moment in The Blacklist‘s ongoing mystery.
Why It’s Great: The emotional intensity and the long-awaited revelation about Katarina’s role in Red’s life make this a standout episode for both its character development and mystery.
5. “The Cryptobanker” (Season 6, Episode 14)
This episode features the introduction of a new villain, a mysterious cryptobanker involved in the dark web. Red’s pursuit of this villain becomes personal, leading to explosive action sequences and twists that turn everything upside down.
Why It’s Great: The stakes are higher than ever, with Red facing a formidable adversary in the digital age. The stakes are raised, and the plot twists hit hard.
4. “The Thrushes” (Season 4, Episode 12)
A great balance of action and character exploration, The Thrushes delves deeper into Liz’s emotional journey as she navigates her complex relationship with Red. Meanwhile, the criminal of the week presents an interesting moral dilemma.
Why It’s Great: This episode blends action with deep emotional moments, especially for Liz, making it an unforgettable experience.
3. “The Director” (Season 2, Episode 22)
This episode takes the stakes of the series to new heights as Red faces off against a mysterious figure from his past. The Director’s appearance sends shockwaves through the world of The Blacklist.
Why It’s Great: The suspense and dramatic tension make it one of the most thrilling episodes of the series, setting up a thrilling narrative arc.
2. “Luther Braxton: Conclusion” (Season 2, Episode 12)
This two-part finale wraps up the intense Luther Braxton storyline and leaves viewers gasping for breath. Red and Liz must face down a criminal mastermind while dealing with their complicated feelings toward each other.
Why It’s Great: The stakes are incredibly high, the action intense, and the character drama undeniable.
1. “Berlin: Conclusion” (Season 1, Episode 22)
The first season’s finale is nothing short of brilliant, as Red’s most dangerous enemy, Berlin, is introduced in full force. The episode reveals shocking twists, deepens the mystery of Red’s past, and leaves viewers with a cliffhanger that will haunt
