Television shows can live or die based on their premiere episodes – so-called “pilots” designed to make a series take off with viewers and critics alike. A great first episode can almost instantly cement a show’s place in the television pantheon, and catapult a series into the cultural conversation. So join us as the Great Pop Culture Debate looks back at 16 of the most successful first episodes of all time as we attempt to name the Best TV Pilot Episode. Premiere episodes discussed include Breaking Bad, Lost, The West Wing, Six Feet Under, Schitt’s Creek, How to Get Away with Murder, Dexter, Friends, Glee, The Walking Dead, Pushing Daisies, Twin Peaks, Stranger Things, Game of Thrones, Desperate Housewives, E.R.

Join host Eric Rezsnyak and GPCD panelists Amma Marfo, Joelle Boedecker, and Karissa Kloss as they discuss 16 of TV’s most notable first episodes.

Play along at home by finding the listener bracket here. Make a copy for yourself, fill it out, and see if your picks match up with ours!

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Episode Credits

Host: Eric Rezsnyak

Panelists: Amma Marfo, Joelle Boedecker, Karissa Kloss

Producer: Derek Mekita

Editor: John Higgins

Theme Music: “Dance to My Tune” by Marc Torch

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