The Most Upsetting TV Show Moments of All Time

Television has the unique ability to pull on the heartstrings of viewers, evoking a range of emotions from laughter to tears. In this article, we will explore some of the most emotionally charged and upsetting moments in TV history that have left viewers in tears. These heart-wrenching scenes have left a lasting impact on audiences, making them memorable long after the episode aired.

TV Moments That Left Viewers Bawling

One of the most iconic and emotionally draining moments in TV history is the scene from the Roots series when Kizzy, Kunta Kinte's daughter, was sold off to another slave master during slavery. This scene, which was part of the poignant storytelling in the influential series, is a testament to the harrowing experiences of the enslaved. It showcases how the TV series did not shy away from depicting the brutal realities of the past, drawing viewers into the intensity of the moment.

Other emotionally charged scenes include the death of Amber on House MD and the scene in All in the Family where Edith's character, who was played by Carroll O'Connor, appears to have passed away, and her husband, Archie Bunker, discovers her shoe under the bed. In another House MD episode titled "Autopsy," the raw and emotional aftermath of Amber’s death is incredibly moving.

Heart-Wrenching Moments in Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones is known for its intense and sometimes shocking storylines, and the show offers several upsetting scenes that have left viewers distraught. One of the most memorable is the death of Col. Blake in the series, which is significant for fans of the MASH franchise.

In one particularly heart-wrenching scene, a live football game was interrupted by a preemptive switch to a new animated movie. This moment is particularly poignant for older viewers who remember the time when such interruptions were a common occurrence during live broadcasts.

TV Moments That Are Guaranteed to Make Grown Men Cry

Some scenes in TV are guaranteed to bring a tear to the eye, even for those with the toughest of hearts. "Brian's Song," a 1971 film, is a classic example of a deeply emotional and heart-wrenching tale that has surely left its mark on the viewers who watched it.

The two-part finale of MASH in 1983 is another powerful moment. This episode, often credited for its highly emotional storytelling, has been watched and rewatched for its ability to tug at the heartstrings. Another memorable scene is when a film titled "Sometimes a Great Notion" was broadcast on TV in the early 1970s. This classic film's inclusion in a TV schedule underscores the impact of television in shaping and sharing cultural experiences.

Modern Upsetting Moments: LOST and MI5

Recent TV shows have also provided their share of emotionally charged moments. In LOST, the climactic scene where Keamy killed Ben's daughter remains one of the most upsetting moments, even for viewers who watched the show years ago. Similarly, in the British spy series MI5 (also known as Spooks in the United Kingdom), a main character suffered a disturbing and tragic fate in the first season, second episode, when her head was placed in boiling water, as part of a ritual sacrifice. This scene is notable for its disturbing and impactful portrayal of violence and death.

In conclusion, TV shows have the power to evoke strong emotions and create memorable and lasting impressions on viewers. The moments described here are just a few examples of the many emotionally charged scenes that have left a lasting impact on audiences, making them unforgettable and heart-wrenching in their own unique ways.