5 Best TV Pilots in History, Ranked
These five episodes served as a perfect introduction to their series and immediately piqued the interest of viewers.
The first episode, or "pilot," is the most important part of any TV series, because if the creators fail to grab the viewer's attention, it is usually game over for them.
And these five TV series did a masterful job of capturing fans' interest and leaving them wanting more.
5. House, M.D.
Also known as Everybody Lies, the debut episode of the acclaimed medical drama TV series was a beautiful amalgamation of the key elements of the show that viewers have come to know and love.
Featuring Hugh Laurie's brilliant performance as the titular Dr. Gregory House, which would become the cherry on top of every episode to come, it also introduced the supporting cast as well as the general concept of "medical mystery" accompanied by House's unorthodox treatment methods.
4. Westworld
While the later seasons were less and less convincing, the debut episode of the first season was, according to some fans, the highlight of the whole series.
With its intriguing story and compelling characters, it could have easily been a full-length feature film, which would definitely have been a hit.
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Another example of a series that started off strong, only to suffer a massive drop in quality as it progressed. However, the pilot episode "Days Gone Bye" was absolutely stunning and perfectly introduced viewers to the world of the show.
It is so great that it works completely on its own, as a kind of short movie, and it is all the more unfortunate that the series did not end when it should have.
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2. Twin Peaks
The debut episode of this David Lynch TV series works even better on its own than The Walking Dead, because it is a complete story with an open ending.
It also perfectly sets up several elements for the next episodes to explore and has that signature Twin Peaks atmosphere from the start.
1. Lost
Split into two parts, the pilot episode of this truly legendary show is arguably the best in all of television history.
Aside from an unforgettable plane crash scene, it introduced the characters and immediately hooked viewers on its mysterious plot, making them want to watch the rest of the season.
