9 Saddest TV Episodes of All Time

5. "My Philosophy" Scrubs

I have never been a huge fan of Scrubs if I am completely honest, but even I can't deny how great this episode was, particularly the last moments when the cast sings "Waiting for my Real Life to begin" as one of JD's favorite patients suddenly dies, and in a fantasy scene, leads the song which represents her passing, dressed in a stunning red dress. JD, wonderfully played by Zach Braff, powerfully acts this scene as he watches his friend pass away on the hospital bed in front of him. His face displays the great sadness of his incredibly difficult situation as a young doctor, and though he has witnessed many people pass away in hospital before, nothing before has really hit him as hard as this death did. Musicals are often a way to express emotions that simple television dramas can not, and as Scrubs was rich with serial imagery anyway, the choice to combine the two for this goodbye was truly inspired, and clearly not just shoved in because it was somewhat of a trend at the time. Also, like virtually every other pick on this list, songs played over moments of such pain really help to heighten the drama, and this particular choice of song, sung somewhat badly by the cast members expressed perfectly the raw emotion of the situation. The fact that the actors used their own poor singing voices helped to make the scene genuine, heartfelt, and real for many people. A great, heart breaking reminder of our own mortality.
 
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I am a recent Screenwriting for Film and Television graduate from the UK. I am an unashamed geek who loves everything Marvel, and anything Joss Whedon has ever touched (except for maybe Alien Resurrection and Titan A.E). My current favorite TV shows are Breaking Bad, Family Guy, House of Cards, Game of Thrones, American Horror Story, Homeland and Glee. I look forward to debating things with all of you in the future. (As of January 2013 I have had over 1 million views since joining WhatCulture in September 2012. You can reach me at danieljamesbowen@hotmail.co.uk)