10 Best Schitt’s Creek Episodes, Ranked
Schitt’s Creek has a lot of episodes worth rewatching, but a few of them do something special. Some make you laugh until you can barely breathe. Others sneak up on you with a moment of real tenderness.
The trouble is that with 80 episodes across six seasons, it can be hard to know where to start. You want a clear list of the episodes that show what the show does best.
This ranking gives you ten standout episodes, from the early days of David and Patrick to the series finale. You will find big comedy, quiet heart and a few moments that will have you reaching for a tissue. Each entry explains the setup, why the episode works and why it earns its place in this order.
So what makes a Schitt’s Creek episode great? For me, it starts with the characters. The best episodes put the Roses and the town under pressure and let you see who they really are.
The second thing I look for is the balance of laughs and feeling. A great episode can make you laugh in one scene and feel something in the next. The third is payoff. The strongest episodes set up something small early on and deliver it perfectly.
It is also worth saying that every episode here has its own fans. Some people love the chaos of the early seasons, others prefer the warmer later episodes. I have tried to explain each ranking clearly, so you can see the reasoning and decide for yourself whether you agree.
Ranking episodes is always personal, and you may have a different order in your head. What you will get here is a clear explanation for every position, so you can see why each episode sits where it does.
Each entry starts with the setup, so you know what happens before you read my opinion. After that comes the reasoning behind its ranking, followed by who will enjoy it most. Think of it as a friend who has rewatched the show more times than they will admit and wants to point you to the episodes that matter most.
One practical tip before you start. If you are new to the show, begin with the first season and work your way through. If you are rewatching, these episodes make an excellent starting point for a comfort-binge night. Either way, the right episode is the one that makes you want to keep watching.
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10. Finding David — Season 2, Episode 1
The season two premiere opens with the Roses in a panic, because David has vanished. The family is still living in Schitt’s Creek after the town sale fell through, and they set out to find him. The episode follows their search and reveals where David has gone. The conflict is the family’s desperation to bring David home against their own stubborn habits, and the stakes are David's wellbeing and the family's fragile unity.
The episode works because it puts the whole family together and lets each of them react in their own way. Eugene Levy and Catherine O'Hara are reliably funny, and Dan Levy's David is at the centre of the emotional beats. It is a strong reintroduction to the show, and it sets up the season's themes of belonging and family.
Why it ranks here: It sits at number 10 because it is an effective season opener, but its story is mostly setup. It beats the bottom of the list because it establishes the family's bond, while it falls behind the nine episodes above it because its payoffs are less dramatic.
Who should watch: Viewers who want to see the Roses' family dynamic at its most tender and chaotic.
Where to watch: Check Netflix or your preferred streaming service for the current listing.
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9. Merry Christmas, Johnny Rose — Season 4, Episode 13
Johnny has a dream about the lavish Christmases of the Rose family's past, and he decides to bring back a traditional Rose Christmas party. The problem is that nobody else is particularly keen, and the family has to be talked round at the last minute. The episode is the show's only Christmas episode, and it includes Hanukkah as well. The conflict is Johnny's nostalgia against the family's reluctance, and the stakes are the family's sense of togetherness at the holidays.
The episode captures the season's blend of warm comedy and family drama. The party scenes are funny, and the episode's flashbacks are charming. It is a festive episode that feels distinct from the rest of the season, which is a big part of why fans remember it.
Why it ranks here: It sits at number 9 because it is warm and funny, but its story is less emotionally charged than the episodes above. It beats the bottom of the list because its festive energy is memorable, while it falls behind the top eight because its emotional stakes are lighter.
Who should watch: Anyone looking for a cosy holiday episode and fans who enjoy a family story told with plenty of warmth.
Where to watch: Check Netflix or your preferred streaming service for the current listing.
8. The Olive Branch — Season 4, Episode 9
David is trying to win back Patrick after a period of distance between them. He is also dealing with the awkward reality of making things right, and the episode builds to a gesture that is both romantic and very David. Meanwhile, Moira pitches a singles event for Town Hall. The conflict is David's pride against his need to make things right, and the stakes are his relationship with Patrick.
The episode is romantic and playful, with a warm central plot that feels earned. Dan Levy is excellent, and the apology gifts are a funny running gag. Patrick's reaction is perfectly judged, and the final gesture lands with real charm.
Why it ranks here: It sits at number 8 because its romantic core is charming and well executed, but it is less ambitious than the episodes above it. It beats the bottom of the list because its romance is so warm, while it falls behind the top seven because its emotional payoff is smaller in scale.
Who should watch: Fans of David and Patrick's romance and viewers who enjoy a romantic comedy with a sharp sense of humour.
Where to watch: Check Netflix or your preferred streaming service for the current listing.
7. Grad Night — Season 3, Episode 13
Alexis announces that her high school graduation is on the same day as David's birthday, and the rest of the family completely forgets his birthday. The motel is fully booked, and the Roses have their own schedule clashes. Alexis hopes that someone in her family will show up for her, and the episode becomes an emotional test of their loyalty. The conflict is the family's busy lives against Alexis's need for them to be there, and the stakes are her sense of belonging.
The episode works because it hits a real emotional nerve. Annie Murphy is superb, and the episode's final moments are both funny and moving. It is a strong season finale that shows how far the family has come by the third season.
Why it ranks here: It sits at number 7 because its emotional payoff is strong, but its plot is more focused than the episodes above it. It beats the bottom six because its heart is clear, while it falls behind the top six because its stakes are narrower.
Who should watch: Fans of Alexis and anyone who enjoys a season finale built around family loyalty.
Where to watch: Check Netflix or your preferred streaming service for the current listing.
6. The Hike — Season 5, Episode 13
Patrick plans a romantic hike with David, and they end up at a moment that changes their relationship. Meanwhile, Johnny has a health scare that sends the family into a panic. The conflict is the romantic plan against a sudden family crisis, and the stakes are Johnny's health and the couple's future together.
Patrick's speech at the top of the mountain is one of the show's most heartfelt moments. The episode balances romance with genuine drama, and the health scare is handled with care. It is a warm, quieter episode that rewards a patient viewer.
Why it ranks here: It sits at number 6 because its romantic beats are beautiful, but its comedic energy is lower than the episodes above. It beats the bottom five because its emotional payoff is strong, while it falls behind the top five because its story is less surprising.
Who should watch: Viewers who love the Patrick and David romance and anyone who enjoys a quieter episode with real emotional weight.
Where to watch: Check Netflix or your preferred streaming service for the current listing.
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5. Singles Week — Season 4, Episode 12
Singles Week kicks off just as Jocelyn's baby is born, and the event is a chaotic mess of plans. Patrick, meanwhile, feels the need to tell David how he really feels. The conflict is the chaos of the event against Patrick's honesty, and the stakes are the relationship at the heart of the season.
The episode is a fine mix of farce and feeling, with the Singles Week setup giving the cast plenty of comic material. Patrick's confession is the emotional anchor, and it lands because the show has built the relationship so carefully. It is one of the strongest episodes of season four.
Why it ranks here: It sits at number 5 because its farce and romance work together well, but its ambition is a notch below the four episodes above. It beats the bottom five because its comedy and emotion are so balanced, while it falls behind the top four because its stakes are less dramatic.
Who should watch: Fans of ensemble comedy and anyone who enjoys a romantic confession inside a chaotic setup.
Where to watch: Check Netflix or your preferred streaming service for the current listing.
4. Life Is a Cabaret — Season 5, Episode 14
Patrick and Stevie perform in a local production of Cabaret, and the episode builds to its opening night. Moira is directing the show, and Alexis's audition plans complicate things. Patrick proposed to David the day before, and David plans to reveal the engagement to their friends that night. The conflict is the chaos of opening night against the couple's big news, and the stakes are the friendships and milestones that the episode builds toward.
The episode is a joyful finale, with big musical numbers and strong performances. Emily Hampshire is a standout as Stevie, and Patrick's relationship with David gives the episode its emotional core. The comedy lands, and the season ends on a high note.
Why it ranks here: It sits at number 4 because its musical finale is spectacular and emotionally satisfying, but it is less intimate than the episodes above it. It beats the bottom four because its ensemble is so strong, while it falls behind the top three because its emotional beats are less surprising.
Who should watch: Musical fans and viewers who enjoy a joyful season finale with a strong ensemble.
Where to watch: Check Netflix or your preferred streaming service for the current listing.
3. Meet the Parents — Season 5, Episode 11
Patrick's parents come to town for a surprise party David has planned, but they arrive with a surprise of their own. The episode centres on Patrick's concern about coming out to his parents and David's support in helping him be his authentic self. The conflict is Patrick's fear of his parents' reaction, and the stakes are his relationship with his family.
The episode is one of the most affecting in the series. Noah Reid gives Patrick a sensitive, vulnerable performance, and Dan Levy writes the emotional beats with care. The show treats the storyline with warmth and generosity, and viewers responded to its honesty. It is a rare episode that is both funny and deeply moving.
Why it ranks here: It sits at number 3 because its emotional story is powerful and its performances are strong. It nearly takes a higher spot, but Open Mic and Happy Ending have bigger emotional payoffs and a more complete arc.
Why critics admire it: Many critics praise the episode for its tender handling of a coming-out story and the warmth of its family scenes.
Who should watch: Viewers who love the show's heart and anyone who enjoys a storyline that handles family acceptance with real care.
Where to watch: Check Netflix or your preferred streaming service for the current listing.
2. Open Mic — Season 4, Episode 6
David and Patrick throw an open mic night to promote their shop, but when Patrick announces he will be performing, David gets nervous. Johnny and Alexis are busy rebranding the motel, and Stevie is worried they are overexpanding. The conflict is David's anxiety about Patrick's performance, and the stakes are their relationship and their business.
The episode is a perfect blend of comedy and feeling. Patrick's performance is tender, and David's nerves give the episode its warmth. The episode's subplots also work well, and the whole season feels confident. It is one of the most loved episodes in the show.
Why it ranks here: It sits at number 2 because its balance of comedy and romance is outstanding, and it nearly takes the top spot. Happy Ending is stronger because it carries the weight of the whole series.
Why critics admire it: Many fans and critics single out this episode for Patrick's performance and the warmth of its romance.
Who should watch: Fans of the David and Patrick romance and viewers who enjoy an episode that is both sweet and funny.
Where to watch: Check Netflix or your preferred streaming service for the current listing.
1. Happy Ending — Season 6, Episode 14
On the day of David and Patrick's wedding, a storm ruins the outdoor plans, and the family scrambles to save the day. Johnny and Moira prepare to leave town, while the rest of the family says goodbye to the place that has changed them. The episode is the series finale, and it brings the Roses' story to a close. The conflict is the wedding plans against the chaos of the day, and the stakes are the couple's future and the family's farewell to Schitt's Creek.
Happy Ending is the most complete episode in the series. The comedy lands with real precision, and every character gets a moment to shine. David's vows are a highlight, and the episode ends with Johnny's final look at the town. The episode won Emmys for its writing and direction, and it deserved every one of them.
Why it ranks here: It takes the number 1 spot because it combines the strongest comedy, the most complete character arcs and the most satisfying payoff on this list. Open Mic is a close second, but Happy Ending carries the weight of six seasons of love and growth, which is why it beats everything else here.
Why fans and critics love it: It is widely praised as one of the most satisfying series finales in television comedy, with a loyal following for its warmth and its emotional honesty.
Who should watch: Anyone who has followed the Roses from the beginning and wants an ending that honours the journey.
Where to watch: Check Netflix or your preferred streaming service for the current listing.
Before we reveal our No. 1 pick…
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Final Thoughts
Looking back over the list, a few patterns stand out. The strongest episodes put the Roses under pressure and let their love for one another show. Romance, family and the town recur across the list, and the best episodes find something warm in every storyline.
Different viewers will land on different favourites. If you want a romantic highlight, Open Mic and The Olive Branch are the places to start. For a quieter, emotional episode, Meet the Parents and The Hike are lovely. If you want a joyful holiday or musical episode, Merry Christmas, Johnny Rose and Life Is a Cabaret deliver.
Happy Ending stays at the top because it does nearly everything a series finale should. Its jokes land, its characters finish their arcs and its ending feels earned. It is the episode I would recommend first to anyone who has already fallen for the Roses.
Now I would love to hear from you. Which Schitt’s Creek episode is your favourite? Do you agree with the order, or would you move something up or down?
And if I missed an episode that deserves a higher place, tell me in the comments. I am always looking for the next episode to rewatch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Schitt's Creek episode?
Happy Ending is the top pick because it brings the whole series to a satisfying close. Open Mic is a close second for viewers who want a sweeter romantic episode with plenty of comedy.
Where should I start with Schitt's Creek?
Start with season one. The early episodes set up the Roses, the town and the central relationships. Finding David is a good early highlight once you reach season two.
Is Happy Ending the series finale?
Yes. Happy Ending is the fourteenth episode of season six and the series finale, which aired in April 2020.
How many episodes does Schitt's Creek have?
The show has six seasons and 80 episodes, plus a special. The episode count includes the series finale.
Which episode of Schitt's Creek is the only Christmas episode?
Merry Christmas, Johnny Rose, which is season four, episode thirteen. It is the only Christmas episode in the show.
Is Open Mic a good episode for newcomers?
It is best enjoyed after you have met the main characters, since it relies on the David and Patrick relationship. Newcomers may want to start with the early seasons first.
Where can I stream Schitt's Creek episodes?
Schitt's Creek is available on Netflix in many regions, but availability can change. Check your preferred streaming service before you plan a rewatch.
Are there episodes that deal with coming out?
Yes. Meet the Parents is season five, episode eleven, and it tells a coming-out story with warmth and care.
Which episodes are the funniest?
Many fans point to Singles Week and Merry Christmas, Johnny Rose for their comedy. Open Mic and Life Is a Cabaret also have strong comic moments.
Are there more episode lists on That Love Podcast?
Yes. That Love Podcast has several episode and comedy guides. The links in the You May Also Like section above are a good place to start.
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