12 Saddest Bojack Horseman Episodes

How can an animated show about a horse be so damn emotional?

Bojack Horseman
Netflix

There is some stiff competition, but BoJack Horseman may be the best original series Netflix has ever produced, and is certainly not what you would typically expect from an animated show based on a talking bipedal horse.

Of course there are funny moments in the show, with the likes of Todd and Mr. Peanutbutter guaranteeing laughs in almost every episode, but where the show stands out is its emotion and heart. It has never shied away from dark storylines or tackling real issues like mental health struggles, and this often results in truly heart breaking moments.

The writers of BoJack Horseman were so good at crafting a story to make us cry that almost all of the best episodes are the emotional rollercoasters, usually ending on a depressing note. There is real substance to these kinds of stories, and they always exploit the connections we have made to the characters.

From shocking deaths and dealing with tragic losses, to the way certain characters think and feel about themselves, the series boasts many, many episodes that left us in tears, and unsure whether we were emotionally stable enough to click that 'continue watching' button. Though incredible, these particular episodes aren't always the easiest to watch.

12. The Telescope - S1E8

Bojack Horseman
Netflix

After just seven previous episodes of BoJack Horseman, by the time The Telescope was seen we had no idea just how emotionally powerful the show would ultimately become. This was the first real sad episode, and was centered around the titular character's relationship, or lack thereof, with Herb Kazzaz.

After not seeing him for the 20 years after stabbing him in the back, BoJack went to see his former friend who was dying from cancer. Initially they seemed to be on amiable terms at the very least, but BoJack just had to go back in and try to apologise.

Herb however, simply wouldn't give him the closure he felt his former friend didn't deserve. Instead, he launched into a vicious attack, calling BoJack a selfish coward who doesn't care about who he hurts. The saddest part about this was just how true it was.

As if this wasn't bad enough, on the way home BoJack stopped the car and tried to kiss Diane, the woman he knew was already going out with Mr. Peanutbutter. This changed their relationship, what could have been the healthiest he had ever had, forever.

Contributor
Contributor

This standard nerd combines the looks of Shaggy with the brains of Scooby, has an unhealthy obsession with the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and is a firm believer that Alter Bridge are the greatest band in the world.