9-1-1: The 15 Best Episodes Ever

The best 9-1-1 episodes make it easy to see why the series from Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Tim Minear is one of the most popular emergency service procedurals currently on TV. From the moment 9-1-1 first debuted in 2018, it has been full of drama, action, romance, and plenty of high-stakes danger. Every episode of 9-1-1 is exciting, heart-pounding, and challenging, and emotions always run high for the characters when their lives are on the line. However, the very best stand above the others when it comes to nailbiting edge-of-your-seat viewing from start to finish.

9-1-1 features a stellar cast, starring Angela Bassett, Peter Krause, and Aisha Hinds. Some characters have come and gone, such as Connie Britton's 911 operator Abby Clark or the season 2 addition of Jennifer Love Hewitt's Maddie Buckley. What makes the series so unique is that the characters aren't just connected through their careers, but also their personal lives as Patrol Sargeant Athena (Bassett) and station Captain Nash (Krause) are husband and wife, Maddie (Hewitt) and Buck (Oliver Stark) are siblings, and the children of these responders are often involved. The best 9-1-1 episodes contain high-stakes disasters, a bit of family drama, and plenty of heroism from its cast.

15Ocean’s 9-1-1

9-1-1 Season 2, Episode 15

Many of the best 9-1-1 episodes are in season 2 of the show, including the exciting heist-themed episode "Ocean's 9-1-1". The fire department is brought in when a bank manager’s going-away party turns into an emergency medical situation - and a mysterious chemical agent is the culprit. Hen is trapped in a vault with a dying man and no medical supplies to really amp up the excitement. Meanwhile, things go off the rails when the first responders are accused of trying to pull off a daring heist, à la Ocean’s 11. Highlights of the installment include a clever plot involving an armored vehicle and various heist movie callbacks.

"Ocean's 9-1-1" stands out as one of the best 9-1-1 episodes due to its unique plot and high-stakes scenarios. The blending of crime drama with emergency response elements keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The character development, especially Hen's relationship dynamics, adds emotional weight to the episode. The intricate plot and intense action sequences contribute to its acclaim among fans and critics alike, as do the many nods to various heist movies such as Ocean's 11.

14Broken

9-1-1 Season 2, Episode 14

One of the highlights of 9-1-1 is watching first responders from different lines of work come together to solve a problem as a team. In season 2's “Broken”, firefighters and dispatchers come together to solve a particularly tricky puzzle, making it one of the best episodes of 9-1-1. The call center deals with a system-wide power outage and a firefighter solves the problem with old-school tactics. Meanwhile, the firefighters are dealing with explosions in multiple homes in a subdivision. It leads to a bunch of schoolchildren being stuck at the firehouse. But the most touching part of the episode is probably the difficult baby delivery, and Hen’s heartwarming reaction.

Directed by John J. Gray, "Broken" explores themes of vulnerability and resilience, and it's the exploration of personal and professional challenges that makes it one of the best 9-1-1 episodes. The intertwining of intense rescue missions with the characters' emotional journeys offers a balanced narrative, which is made to feel all the deeper thanks to the incredible cast performances, particularly Angela Bassett's portrayal of Athena's internal conflict. "Broken"'s ability to humanize the heroes resonates with viewers, solidifying its place among the most memorable installments of the show.

13New Beginnings

9-1-1 Season 2, Episode 11

The best 9-1-1 episodes have over-the-top emergencies, and "New Beginnings" goes full-throttle from start to finish. Athena suspects something more might be going on in a distressing 911 call. The LA Fire Department first responders must help out a man who has gotten his arm stuck in the jaws of a shark. Meanwhile, Bobby meets Athena’s parents for the first time. Athena’s mother stirs up some trouble and Athena must make the future very clear for her family. There’s also some heartwarming conversation between Maddie and Buck as they spar in a boxing ring. It's the perfect blend of family drama and action, which is what makes 9-1-1 so great.

In particular, it's the focus of "New Beginnings" on personal growth and new chapters that makes it one of the best 9-1-1 episodes. The narrative addresses themes of forgiveness, acceptance, and moving forwardm all of which are expored with nuance and authenticity. The blend of high-octane emergencies and heartfelt moments offers viewers a well-rounded and engaging experience, which is a credit to the episode's director, Bradley Bueker.

12This Life We Chose

9-1-1 Season 2, Episode 18

The season 2 finale, "This Life We Chose" is one of the best episodes of 9-1-1 due to its high-stakes drama and emotional depth. In this installment, a serial bomber is on the loose, sending packages through the mail until he ups the ante. The first responders try to take care of it, but are thwarted at every turn. Buck suddenly faces a terrifying life-or-death situation when the firetruck he was driving exploded. Meanwhile, cake tasting turns emotional as Athena and Bobby try to plan their wedding and one of the kids have something to say about their plans. The installment provides insight into Athena and Bobby's complex relationship and provides the high-stakes action that the series is famous for.

Directed by Bradley Buecker, this 9-1-1 season 2 episode intricately weaves personal stakes with professional duties, culminating in intense rescue operations. The narrative of "This Life We Chose" masterfully balances the adrenaline-pumping action of disaster response with poignant character developments, particularly highlighting Hen's personal journey. The episode's ability to intertwine large-scale emergencies with intimate storytelling resonates with viewers, solidifying its status as a standout in the series.

11Merry Ex-Mas

9-1-1 Season 2, Episode 10

Just as in real life, the holidays are a busy and dangerous time for first responders. This is apparent in season 2's "Merry Ex-Mas", one of the best 9-1-1 episodes, as it skillfully balances lighthearted holiday scenarios with intense personal drama. "Merry Ex-Mas" brings holiday cheer and chaos as the 118 team responds to festive emergencies, including a shopper crushed by a Christmas tree, while the others help a man trapped in a present, a mistletoe stunt gone awry, and a neighborhood Christmas light showdown. The team also sits down for a lovely holiday dinner together, Chimney tries to cheer up Maddie, and Bobby contemplates his future with Athena.

The festive backdrop in "Merry Ex-Mas" contrasts with the serious themes of abuse and family, providing depth to the characters' experiences. The performances, especially Jennifer Love Hewitt's portrayal of Maddie's turmoil, enhance the episode's emotional impact. The blend of holiday spirit and gripping storytelling resonates with fans of 9-1-1 to this day, solidifying its place among the show's best episodes.

10Worst Day Ever

9-1-1 Season 1, Episode 4

First seasons are notoriously difficult while a show first finds its footing. And yet, the fourth episode from season one is still one of the best 9-1-1 episodes. In "Worst Day Ever", a deadly plane crash just off the beach leaves the team scrambling to try to evacuate all the passengers before the plane sinks completely. They face water covered with flaming jet fuel, terrible injuries, and not enough boats to get them all back to the beach. Meanwhile, Athena Grant has to try to keep things at the airport from devolving into absolute chaos. 9-1-1 truly set the width of its scope with "Worst Day Ever" and it’s heart-stopping and anxiety-inducing.

A plane crash makes for an awe-inspiring big-budget setpiece, and this is partly why "Worst Day Ever" will always be considered one of the best 9-1-1 episodes. However, as well as its high-intensity emergencies, it also features plenty of character development too. The realistic portrayal of large-scale disasters and the emotional toll on the first responders made for highly emotionally impactful viewing. The intense situations tested the skills and composure of more-or-less every character, highlighting the unpredictable nature of their profession.

9Heartbreaker

9-1-1 Season 1, Episode 6

Another holiday-themed season 1 installment turned out to be one of the best episodes of 9-1-1. The episode primarily covers a string of 9-1-1 couples romances going wrong, and it's a refreshing and comical break from all the intensity. Buck and Abby have a disastrous date ending in a tracheotomy and a man tries to propose to his girlfriend on a plane to deadly results. However, Athena has the most eventful Valentine's Day, as she ends up in both a high-speed chase and is confronted by a serial killer. "Heartbreaker" sees some of Ryan Murphy's personal brand of humor, and it's one of the most entertaining episodes of 9-1-1.

"Heartbreaker" stands out as one of the best 9-1-1 episodes thanks to its seamless blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and emotional depth. The episode captures how love and heartbreak can affect both the victims and the first responders, and was pivotal in further humanizing many of the characters (for example Buck and Abby, whose budding romance is explored further). The mix of engaging emergencies and meaningful personal arcs makes this episode a fan favorite, solidifying its status as one of the show's most memorable installments.

8The One That Got Away

9-1-1 Season 3, Episode 16

Buck is one of the most likable characters on 9-1-1, so it was great to see an episode where he got to be front and center. Season 3 saw Buck make an unexpected friend in Red, and their friendship causes him to question a lot of his life and decisions, fearing he'll become just as bitter. In one of the best 9-1-1 episodes, season 3's "The One That Got Away", he does something to try and make Red's final moments better. He brings a group of firefighters to the hospital to salute Red on his way out, as he's allowed to ride in a fire truck one last time. This episode of 9-1-1 isn't action-focused, but Buck's development as a character is worth the center-stage role that it takes.

It's this character-driven perspective that cements "The One That Got Away" as one of the best 9-1-1 episodes, as few match it when it comes to emotional and grounded storytelling. The episode showcases the personal growth of key characters while maintaining the signature high-intensity emergency calls that define the show. However, "The One That Got Away" isn't all nuanced exploration of past regrets and second chances either, as there's plenty of action mixed in too.

7Chimney Begins

9-1-1 Season 2, Episode 12

Flashback episodes can be hit or miss, but this one about Howie ‘Chimney’ Han’s decision to join the LA Fire Department is incredibly heartwarming and one of the best episodes of 9-1-1. He relives a moment when he saves a woman’s life after her clothes caught on fire in a bar, setting him on a path to becoming a firefighter and paramedic. Meanwhile, in real-time, he calms a man down who is having a panic attack. Many people loved seeing actor Kenneth Choi’s range and thought he deserved an Emmy for this episode. The acting is great throughout "Chimney Begins", the pacing is perfect, and the episode is an all-around success.

Directed by John J. Gray, "Chimney Begins" follows Chimney’s early days at the firehouse, his personal hardships, and his determination to prove himself. The flashback sequences effectively highlight how Chimney developed his resilience and dedication to saving lives, making his character arc even more compelling. 9-1-1 is known for its thrilling emergencies, but episodes like this remind viewers that the first responders have rich, complex histories that shape who they are. Chimney's perseverance in the face of adversity is inspiring, and the episode provides valuable insight into one of the show's most beloved characters.

67.1

9-1-1 Season 2, Episode 2

Any emergency response show set in LA must do an earthquake episode. It’s practically a rite of passage. Luckily, 9-1-1 does it really well, and it turned out to be one of the best 9-1-1 episodes. The first responders rush to a high-rise hotel that is crumbling after an earthquake. Naturally, phones are dead and the widespread damage means first responders are spread really thinly. While the LA Fire Department is at the hotel, Athena helps a man whose car flipped when the earthquake destroyed a highway overpass collapse. No show does a natural disaster quite like 9-1-1, and this episode will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

The sheer scale of destruction and the nonstop action make "7.1" one of the best 9-1-1 episodes. The earthquake storyline sets the stage for a multi-episode arc, with the 118 team thrust into a scenario that feels more akin to a Hollywood blockbuster than a small-screen procedural. The emotional weight of the rescues, combined with the team's determination to stay strong in the face of disaster, showcases what makes 9-1-1 such a gripping and heartfelt series.

5Under Pressure

9-1-1 Season 2, Episode 1

The premiere of season 2 saw a lot of changes for the first responders, but even in a time of transition it still ended up being one of the best episodes of 9-1-1. The installment features some truly unhinged emergency calls setting expectations for the season high, such as a tour bus driving off a cliff and an electric worker's severed arm landing in a nearby pool. In equal measure, personal tensions are also tight as Buck fears Eddie will take his job and Athena is insecure about going public with her relationship. Somehow, 9-1-1 manages to force heart-pounding action and heart-wrenching drama all in one 45-minute runtime.

The adrenaline-fueled pace and dynamic storytelling make "Under Pressure" a memorable season premiere, and the combination of thrilling emergencies and strong character development secure its place as one of the best 9-1-1 episodes. The intense heatwave adds a unique layer of difficulty to the rescues, pushing the team to their limits. Additionally, the episode sets up key storylines for the season, including Buck's journey toward maturity and Athena’s evolving role in both her personal and professional life.

4Fight or Flight

9-1-1 Season 2, Episode 13

9-1-1 took a surprising twist in season 2 when first responder Maddie goes missing. Audiences have heard of her abusive ex in the past, and watched her slowly heal as she works through her trauma and begins dating Chimney. Even though they can’t work together professionally on this case, the crew must rally together to find Maddie in the woods. Jennifer Love Hewitt delivers an amazing performance as Maddie in one of the best 9-1-1 episodes. Viewers gush over this episode’s deft and considerate handling of a story of domestic abuse. It’s an inspiring story of how to fight back when being threatened, and the redemptive power of love.

The tension and raw emotion in "Fight or Flight" were palpable throughout. However, 9-1-1 never fell into the trap of damaging or dangerous clichés or sensationalism. Maddie's storyline is handled with sensitivity and realism, portraying the terrifying reality of domestic abuse. The suspenseful climax keeps viewers on edge, and the resolution is both cathartic and heartbreaking. "Fight or Flight" is truly a testament to the show's ability to balance action, drama, and deeply personal narratives, making it a standout episode of 9-1-1.

3Sink or Swim

9-1-1 Season 3, Episode 2

For a show set in Los Angeles, there were surprisingly few beach-themed worries for the first responders to contend with in early 9-1-1 seasons. That all goes away in the nail-biting season 3 installment "Sink or Swim" - one of the best episodes of 9-1-1. A massive tsunami hits the Santa Monica pier, placing Buck and Chris’s lives in danger while also doing devastating damage to the coastal city. It's one of those installments that really hits home the scope of the series and what tragedies real-life first responders occasionally must deal with. Audiences especially praised the amazing effects - the image of the Ferris wheel half-sunk in seawater looked disturbingly real.

The tsunami storyline is one of the most ambitious the show has tackled, and it delivers both action and heartfelt character moments. Buck's determination and the team's relentless efforts to save lives highlight the bravery that defines 9-1-1, make the episode even more unforgettable than it already would be. The scale of destruction and the emotional weight of Buck's mission to protect Christopher make "Sink or Swim" one of the best 9-1-1 episodes - and it once again proves that the show is delivering disaster scenes on a par with any feature film.

2Defend In Place

9-1-1 Season 5, Episode 8

Proof of 9-1-1's longevity is that the episodes have only gotten better the longer the series has gone on, and the season 5 installment "Defend in Place" is one of the best 9-1-1 episodes. The episode sees hundreds of lives in danger, along with characters related to 9-1-1's cast that audiences have come to know and love, such as Michael's boyfriend David. It all starts with a hospital fire that leads to the evacuation of newborns and a cancer survivor sacrificing himself for one of his nurses. It's a tear-inducing high-stakes installment that culminates in a moving prayer session between Michael, Athena, and a woman whose boyfriend is in surgery.

The emotional weight of Hen's leadership and quick thinking is some of the best character development in the entirety of 9-1-1, and it's this that ensures "Defend In Place" is still considered one of the best 9-1-1 episodes. The high-stakes hospital fire adds to the urgency, while Hen’s internal struggle provides a powerful narrative. The episode showcases her growth as a leader and highlights the sacrifices first responders make every day. It’s a gripping, heartfelt installment that exemplifies what makes 9-1-1 such a compelling series. 

1Desperate Times

9-1-1 Season 5, Episode 2

One of the very best 9-1-1 episodes is the season 5 installment "Desperate Times," which features generous amounts of chaos and heartbreak from start to finish. Athena and Henry's son Harry is kidnapped by a sociopath, Maddie is struggling with post-partum depression, Bobby and Hen face a rabid alpaca, and May comes up with a brilliant plan involving solar power to save a young boy's life whose ventilator has run out of batteries. 9-1-1 is such an incredible show because it doesn't hold back in terms of its action while seamlessly blending in its relational drama. "Desperate Times" is the prime example of 9-1-1's successful formula put to use.

This season 5 episode contains a little bit of everything that makes the best episodes of 9-1-1 great, though it stans out for its own reasons too. In particular, it's the sense of urgency and unpredictability in "Desperate Times" that makes it one of the best 9-1-1 episodes. The team must rely on their instincts and resourcefulness, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to saving lives even in the darkest moments. Every character is put through a personal test at some point, and "Desperate Times" showcases better than any other episode exactly why 9-1-1 has become so beloved.