5. The Death & Rise Of Shane (S2E12 "Better Angels")
Even if you never read the comics, everyone knew that Shane was eventually going to bite the dust. His self-centered attitude, constant clashing with other members and his overall personality did not fit with the groups dynamic. Narrowly escaping death at the school and surviving his recent fight with Rick all alluded to Shanes inevitable doom. After losing Randall Rick, Daryl, and Shane go into the woods and try to find him. They all split up, but Shane ends up following Rick with the intention on killing him. Shane points his gun at Rick and tells him that he would be a better provider and father to Carl and Lori. Rick tries to reason with him and asks him to put down the gun and they could talk about this back at the farm. The entire scene was very moving as you see these once great friends and partners turn into enemies. The scene takes a very intimate and sad turn when Carl shows up pointing his gun towards his father. It isnt until we see the reincarnated Shane, that the audience sees that Carl was pointing his weapon at Shane and shoots him to protect Rick. It was the moment fans have been waiting for. It was also when the group finally found out that they are all infected.