mash-concerns-of-the-deadPretty fascinating discussion going on over at MetaFilter right now, prompted by this question:

What are the most depressing sitcom episodes ever? I’m looking for specific eps please, not a snarky blanket statement like “Every episode of (insert unfunny sitcom name here).” Also, I’m not talking about serious episodes (a/k/a Very Special Episodes), as those are usually trying to teach a lesson and rely more on gravity than pathos. I’m looking for tearjerker episodes of shows that are usually humorous.

Neat question. What comes to mind for me are:

  • Several episodes of M*A*S*H, including the one with the clock in the corner of the screen, and the one where the dead soldier’s ghost meets up with his colleagues at the end and only Klinger can see him.
  • The WKRP in Cincinnati episode that was centered around the 1979 tragedy at a Who concert.
  • The episode of Archie Bunker’s Place that takes place right after Edith has passed away.

What comes to mind for you?