We've all had that moment: we're binge watching our favorite comedy and then, in the midst of almost 15 minutes of humorous situations, there's one sad moment that hits us like a ton of bricks. You scream at your screen, asking them how they can screw with your feels like that. Days later, after you've finished binge watching the series, you distinctly remember the episode with that one sad moment and rewatch it over and over, in awe of how well they conquer sadness. This list is some of, what I think, are the best comedy episodes that cover tragedy
1. "Papa's Got A Brand New Excuse"--Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (Season 4, Episode 24)
The moment that was unscripted between Will and Uncle Phil after Will's dad, Lou, leaves him, makes all the feels happen...and the hug between Will and Uncle Phil...there isn't a dry eye in the house.
2) "Goodbye Paul, Parts 1 and 2"--8 Simple Rules (Season 2, Episode 4-5)
John Ritter, who played the father on "8 Simple Rules" died suddenly while filiming the series, and this poignant moment, where Cat (Katey Segal) reads his last article to her children, including a pre-"Big Bang Theory" Kaley Cuoco, goes to show the power of drama in comedy. Wow.
3) "Brave New World, Part 2"--Boy Meets World (Season 7, Episode 23)
Starting out humorous and then going to the heartfelt, the motley crew of Boy Meets World says goodbye to our favorite teacher, Mr. Feeny. "Believe in yourselves. Dream. Try. Do good". Those are truly words to live by.
4) "A, My Name is Alex"--Family Ties (Season 5, Episode 23)
Michael J. Fox's performance in this clip, after mourning the death of his friend, Greg, brought tears to my eyes as I was writing this little synopsis, so you know how moving it can be
5) "Jurassic Bark"--Futurama (Season 5, Episode 2)
You don't instantly think of the words "tender" and "heartfelt" when discussing Futurama, but the moment where Seymour waits for Fry after his death and Seymour finally closes his eyes is not only a beautiful moment, but beautiful animation as well. Good on you, Matt Groening
6) "Bad News"--How I Met Your Mother (Episode 6, Season 13)
In an episode that lives up to its name (Bad News), this moment where Marshall finds out from Lily that his father had a heart attack is one of the most powerful moments in the series. Using some good ol' TV magic, this scene was only shot in one take and without Jason Segal even knowing, so his reaction is quite real. That's acting for you, folks.
7) "The Quarterback"--Glee (Season 5, Episode 3)
"Have a good line!", is the last thing that Coach Beiste tells Noah Puckerman before he leaves to start his new life without his best friend. The entire episode, as a tribute to Cory Monteith, was full of tender moments and humor, but the interaction between both these characters made the episode one of the most memorable of the series.
8) "Goodbye, Michael"--The Office (Season 7, Episode 21)
Dwight getting choked up by Michael's recommendation letter is not only the truest epitome of "bromance", but it's also one of the best combinations of sadness and humor working in tandem to make beautiful moments, and Wilson nails the changing emotions.
9) "Episode 18.29"--Sesame Street
Sesame Street is one of those rare "happy" shows that cover such emotional topics. Who knew a puppet could convey those kinds of raw emotions, and the crew doesn't sugar coat it for Big Bird, making it a powerful television moment.
10) "The Last One, Part 2"--Friends (Season 10, Episode 18)
This scene can speak for itself, folks!