Ranking the Top 40 Episodes of Futurama

Welcome back to the world of tomorrow… once more! Just like its protagonist, Philip J. Fry, who awakens in New New York in the year 3000 after a thousand years of cryogenic slumber, Futurama has endured its own frozen periods. However, Hulu is reviving the beloved animated sitcom, created by Matt Groening, with a fresh order of 20 new episodes. This marks the third revival of Futurama, a series that has experienced a rollercoaster of cancellations and resurrections.

Initially canceled by Fox in 2003, the show was brought back in the form of direct-to-DVD movies, which were later adapted into the fifth season in the following decade. Comedy Central picked up the series in 2010, granting three more years of adventures for Fry, Leela, Bender, and the rest of the Planet Express crew. And now, after a decade since we last saw them, Hulu brings them back to life.

With all these revivals, Futurama has accumulated a vast collection of episodes, totaling 140 half-hours (excluding the new Hulu episodes premiering today). Fear not, fellow fans, for we are here to rank the top 40 episodes of this beloved series. Futurama, at its best, delivers a delightful blend of humor and emotion, allowing us to genuinely care about characters like a delivery boy, a one-eyed mutant, and an alcoholic robot. These top episodes will not only make you laugh but also warm your heart. As for the remaining 100 episodes that didn’t make the cut? Well, they can bite my shiny metal ass.

Number 40 on the list is “Law and Oracle” from Season 6, Episode 16.

Despite the numerous revivals of Futurama, the episodes following its initial cancellation generally fall short in comparison to the excellence displayed in the first four seasons. Unlike The Simpsons, where the decline in quality is more gradual and indistinct, this distinction in Groening’s show is clearly demarcated. It’s challenging to pinpoint precisely what is lacking in these episodes. While most are decently executed, they tend to rely heavily on self-referential humor, often settling for clever premises without fully exploring them or giving enough depth to the characters. Consequently, the characters sometimes feel like mere caricatures of themselves, rather than fully fleshed-out beings living in the vibrant world of the 31st century.

However, not all post-cancellation episodes fall short; some are true gems and considered among the best in the entire series (with one exceptional episode soon to be revealed). “Law and Oracle” follows a typical animated-sitcom trope where the main character takes on a new job for a single episode. Fry’s stint as an agent in the New New York Police Department provides a delightful twist inspired by the movie Minority Report. The episode showcases Chief O’Manahan, a clever and comical gender-swapped version of the stereotypical, tough police captain. While jokes about gender may not always be Futurama’s strong suit, this time they are executed with just the right touch of parody, resulting in an enjoyable and entertaining experience.

At number 39, we have “When Aliens Attack” from Season 1, Episode 12.

In “When Aliens Attack,” the show pleasantly pays homage to alien-invasion movies like Independence Day, opting for broader genre references, such as the humorous destruction of monuments arranged on Monument Beach. Instead of burdening the episode with overly specific references, it cleverly includes a spot-on parody of Ally McBeal with “Single Female Lawyer.” The primary focus of the episode is introducing the memorable character, Lrrr, the ruler of Omicron Persei 8, to the series.

In addition to the amusing alien invasion plot, the episode contains one of the most relatable lines, especially for those who have experienced the struggle of writing for a living: “It took an hour to write; I thought it would take an hour to read.” This quote resonates with many of us who have faced similar time-constraint dilemmas.

At number 38, we have “The Series Has Landed” from Season 1, Episode 2.

Fittingly titled, Futurama’s second episode picks up right where the pilot left off, with the main characters and Dr. Farnsworth embarking on their space journey. Landing on the moon, they discover it has been transformed into a tacky theme park. This follow-up episode, “The Series Has Landed,” proves that the success of the pilot was no mere stroke of luck.

“The Series Has Landed” introduces us to the B-squad characters: Dr. John A. Zoidberg, Amy Wong, and Hermes Conrad. It also adds a layer of early pathos to the central concept. Despite the excitement of exploring the future, there’s a tinge of sadness in witnessing one’s wildest dreams commodified. Futurama skillfully incorporates this inherent bittersweetness into the show, even amidst its humorous elements like robot hookers.

At number 37, we have “A Head in the Polls” from Season 2, Episode 3.

While Futurama may not have offered us episodes as politically insightful as The Simpsons’ memorable ones, it has its own unique charm. In this early season-two episode, we are introduced to Richard Nixon’s jowly severed head, a recurring character with a brilliantly absurd twist. The show cleverly plays on the technicality that nobody can be elected president for a third term, making way for Nixon’s head to join the eccentric cast of historical heads in the series.

Ranked at number 36, we have “Overclockwise” from Season 6, Episode 25.

“One of the many near-series finales of Futurama, “Overclockwise” was written in anticipation of Comedy Central not renewing the show for another season. In this episode, Bender becomes a hypercomputer, gaining near-omnipotent abilities. The story includes entertaining courtroom shenanigans, but it is most remembered for its heartfelt conclusion. As the would-be finale, it beautifully portrays a tender moment when Fry and Leela read Bender’s prediction for their future, leaving the audience with only their genuine reactions. It’s a poignant way to address the lingering “will-they-won’t-they” dynamic, a recurring element that successive revivals occasionally left the show uncertain about how to sustain.”

At number 35, we have “Murder on the Planet Express” from Season 7, Episode 24.

Initially, “Murder on the Planet Express” appears to fall into the trap of common elements that hinder many post-cancellation episodes. Characters find themselves in conflict for seemingly arbitrary reasons, merely to facilitate a team-building exercise that humorously parodies Alien. However, the episode takes an unexpected turn in its third act, transforming into a clever homage to The Thing. It delivers a series of hilarious and ingenious revelations, where one character after another is unveiled as the shape-shifting monster in increasingly surprising ways.

At number 34, we have “The Farnsworth Parabox” from Season 4, Episode 15.

“The Farnsworth Parabox,” originally aired in 2003, was ahead of its time, exploring the concept of multiverses long before it became a tired trope. This season-four episode skillfully avoids excessive meta humor, instead utilizing alternate versions of the Planet Express crew to deliver clever jokes and advance character development. In this intriguing twist, a coin flip in one universe leads to Fry and Leela being married in another reality. This intelligent approach allows for the progression of their relationship without disrupting the show’s established status quo.

Ranked at number 33, we have “Mars University” from Season 1, Episode 11.

At times, an episode-long parody of a single movie may seem lazy, with the show merely rehashing the original’s moments without adding its own unique touch. While Futurama has occasionally fallen into this trap, “Mars University” takes a different approach. The episode parodies the classic film Animal House, which itself is a comedic gem. The framework of Animal House provides the perfect backdrop to send the Futurama gang to college, where Fry finds himself engaged in humorous antics with his highly intelligent monkey roommate, and Bender indulges in Robot House fraternity shenanigans, much to the disapproval of the dean. The result is a delightful and entertaining twist on the college experience, as only Futurama can deliver.

Ranked at number 32, we have “Where No Fan Has Gone Before” from Season 4, Episode 11.

The creators of Futurama are undeniably passionate geeks, and their Trekkie inclinations come as no surprise. However, what sets this episode apart is that it goes beyond simple fan service. Featuring voice-acting talents from the surviving Original Series stars (with a humorous replacement for Scotty), it becomes a testament to the rich world that Futurama has built. The appearance of the USS Enterprise crew feels not only natural but long-awaited, a nod to the geeky writers who have crafted an intricate and immersive universe.

At the 31st spot, we have “The Problem With Popplers” from Season 2, Episode 15.

In a remarkable display, Futurama adeptly juggles two truths: the ethical dilemmas surrounding meat consumption and the satirical portrayal of PETA as being rather annoying. In “The Problem With Popplers,” the Planet Express crew discovers a new fast-food sensation, rivaling even the famed Popeyes chicken sandwich. However, the downside is that they unknowingly consume billions of Omicronian young, leading to a humorous yet thought-provoking situation where Lrrr seeks revenge by wanting to eat humanity in return.

Taking the 30th spot, we have “Three Hundred Big Boys” from Season 4, Episode 16.

Futurama’s version of the iconic Simpsons episode “22 Short Films About Springfield” may not match the vast array of supporting characters found in its yellow-skinned counterpart. Nonetheless, this nontraditional installment holds its own charm. Rather than featuring a central plot, the episode follows the core characters as they contemplate how to spend their $300 government rebate. With a laid-back and low-stakes vibe, it evokes a delightful “hangout” atmosphere—a well-deserved treat for Futurama as it nears the end of its original run. Notably, I’m personally captivated by Fry’s caffeine-induced nirvana, achieved through his 300th cup of coffee.

At the 29th position, we have “Meanwhile” from Season 7, Episode 26.

Before the Hulu pickup, “Meanwhile” was intended to be Futurama’s definitive final finale. Now, it stands as season seven, episode 26. However, the episode never presents itself as the absolute end; rather, it embraces the cyclical theme of the show, hinting at the possibility of another go-around. In this installment, the Professor invents a time-rewinding machine capable of reversing ten seconds. However, when Fry gains control of it, he becomes ensnared in a death loop and eventually finds himself outside of time, accompanied by Leela. Together, they embrace a frozen world, growing old happily until an opportunity to start anew arises (courtesy of the Hulu streaming platform).

Securing the 28th spot, we have “Lethal Inspection” from Season 6, Episode 6.

As a series progresses, it tends to explore scenarios where certain characters haven’t been paired up before, sparking intrigue in the potential dynamic. In “Lethal Inspection,” we witness the unconventional pairing of Bender and Hermes, and the outcome is surprisingly impactful. The episode’s highlight comes with the revelation that a young Hermes once broke the rules, enabling a defective baby Bender to escape the production line. This unexpected connection brings depth to their interactions. Notably, “Lethal Inspection” concludes with one of the most heartwarming endings in any Futurama episode, leaving a lasting impression of wholesomeness.

Claiming the 27th position, we have “A Fishful of Dollars” from Season 1, Episode 6.

Within the wackiness of Futurama lies a poignant undercurrent. Fry’s life in 1999 may not have been extraordinary, but leaving it all behind after falling into a cryogenic freezer carries a sense of sadness. Many of the show’s most touching episodes revisit the year 1999 and the profound loss Fry experienced when he journeyed to the future. Though not as tear-inducing as certain episodes [side glances at “Jurassic Bark”], “A Fishful of Dollars” serves as an early series reminder of this inherent melancholy. As Fry utilizes his $4.3 billion worth of accrued interest to recreate 1999, it brings forth a bittersweet nostalgia, including the sought-after pizza topping of anchovies—a connection to a past long gone, yet not entirely forgotten.

Securing the 26th position is “Xmas Story” from Season 2, Episode 4.

When it comes to “animated comedies that originally aired on Fox,” American Dad may take the crown for the best Christmas (or shall we say “Xmas”) episodes. However, Futurama holds a commendable second place. It earns this spot with a delightfully cynical yet clever celebration of the season through a murderous Santa Claus robot, determined to eliminate anyone deemed “naughty.” This dark twist on the holiday spirit adds a unique and memorable touch to Futurama’s take on Christmas.

“25. “The Day the Earth Stood Stupid” (Season 3, Episode 7)

The Day the Earth Stood Stupid” serves as a pivotal episode in Futurama’s long-term narrative, laying the groundwork for significant developments like Nibbler’s intelligence, Fry’s missing brain wave due to the Grandfather Paradox, and his special status (which is revealed in “The Why of Fry” in the following season). While it’s impressive to witness the patient world-building in this animated sitcom, especially during a time when such shows were less lore-dense, this episode also delivers plenty of humor. Notably, it gives Fry the chance to be the smart one for once, albeit with some humorous struggles. Katey Sagal’s fantastic line-reading during a scene involving a dumbed-down Leela adds an extra layer of comedic brilliance.

24. “Anthology of Interest I” (Season 2, Episode 16)

The Anthology of Interest I” stands as Futurama’s best anthology episode, largely due to its playful approach to the “what if?” premise. It takes imaginative leaps, exploring scenarios like “What if Bender were 500 feet tall?” and “What if Leela were just a little bit more impulsive?” However, the final segment, featuring guests like Al Gore, Stephen Hawking, and Gary Gygax, brings a genuinely thought-provoking element. It humorously examines the implications of Fry never being frozen, culminating in a meta-dodge that cleverly defies expectations and continuity. The episode exemplifies how Futurama thrives when unburdened by conventional consequences.

23. “The Cryonic Woman” (Season 2, Episode 19)

In “The Cryonic Woman,” Futurama revisits the past, not only by delving into Fry’s ex-girlfriend, Michelle, from the 20th century but also by revisiting certain world-building elements, including “career chips.” Sarah Silverman provides the voice for Michelle, who gets unfrozen in the 31st century, showcasing her understandably shocked reaction to the future. This serves as a poignant reminder that, despite all the challenges Fry faced, he genuinely lucked out in his journey. The episode also playfully pokes fun at Los Angeles, adding an extra layer of humor for viewers.

22. “A Bicyclops Built for Two,” (Season 2, Episode 9)

Futurama’s revelation that Leela isn’t the last of an alien species but a mutant who escaped from the New New York City sewers remains one of the show’s most significant narrative twists. However, during the early seasons, the focus was on Leela’s struggle to find her place and fit in. “A Bicyclops Built for Two” explores this theme as a shape-shifter attempts to trap her in a life reminiscent of Married … with Children, humorously acknowledging the shared voice actress of Leela and Peg Bundy.

21. “War Is the H Word” (Season 2, Episode 17)

Drawing inspiration from Starship Troopers and the sci-fi war genre, “War Is the H Word” showcases Zapp Brannigan, one of the show’s standout characters. The episode cleverly parodies the genre, with a touch of MAS*H, while explicitly positioning Brannigan and Nixon as the antagonists in a war of conquest against an alien race of balls. The humorous subversion adds to the episode’s charm and wit, offering an entertaining and memorable installment of Futurama.

20. “Brannigan, Begin Again” (Season 2, Episode 2)

“An episode that paints Brannigan as pathetic and elevates Leela with a well-deserved dose of respect is always a winner, and “Brannigan, Begin Again” accomplishes both with finesse — particularly in making Brannigan’s ineptitude all the more evident. Placed here in the middle of the list as a nod to the Neutral Planet, which has endured Brannigan’s antics for far too long, this installment delivers an entertaining and satisfying portrayal of the show’s beloved characters.”

“19. “The Prisoner of Benda” (Season 6, Episode 10)”

It’s impressive that writer Ken Keeler, with his Ph.D. in mathematics, crafted a new theorem to tackle the conundrum presented in this episode he authored: a machine allowing body-switching, but no direct reversals. How many people are needed to restore everyone’s brains to their rightful bodies? Yet, “The Prisoner of Benda” offers more than just a mathematical puzzle; it proves to be a clever and witty episode. The humor is abundant, and the characters remain true to themselves, making their body-swapping antics genuinely amusing.

18. “Jurassic Bark” (Season 4, Episode 7)

“Here’s the thing about “Jurassic Bark,” which might surprise many readers to find in the middle of this ranking instead of closer to the top or at the very top: It’s a tear-jerker that leaves a lasting impact. However, some argue that it’s a bit of a cheat, relying heavily on emotional manipulation involving a dog to evoke strong reactions from the audience. While it’s undeniably effective and bold, the emotional impact overshadows the rest of the episode’s content. Despite this, it’s still commendable for the show to take such a daring approach, and “Jurassic Bark” has rightfully earned its reputation as a memorable and emotionally powerful episode. However, its position at the top of rankings is often attributed to the heart-wrenching fate of Seymour, Fry’s loyal and abandoned canine companion, which colors the entire viewing experience, making it an episode of intense emotional resonance.”

17. “The Why of Fry” (Season 4, Episode 10)

“Arguably the most lore-rich episode of the entire series, “The Why of Fry” brilliantly weaves together various unresolved threads and hidden references: Fry’s immunity to the Brain Spawn, as seen in “The Day the Earth Stood Stupid,” becomes a crucial element, and surprisingly, it is Fry himself who becomes the savior of the universe. What’s more significant is that Fry finally takes control of his destiny. His life in the 20th century was unremarkable, and his accidental cryogenic freezing only led him to a future as a delivery boy. In this episode, he is presented with a unique opportunity to travel back in time and consciously choose to go to the future. It’s an unexpectedly poignant moment that adds depth to his character. However, let’s not forget the essential truth: Scooty Puff Jr. really, really sucks.”

16. “Fry and the Slurm Factory” (Season 1, Episode 13)

In less than a year after Futurama’s clever parody of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, another animated show, occasionally compared to its Fox counterpart, took its own spin on the beloved film. While Family Guy attempted its riff, it’s hard not to acknowledge that Futurama did it more brilliantly. Rest in peace, Slurms MacKenzie. You were a fantastic worm who’s now partying in heaven.

15. “I, Roommate” (Season 1, Episode 3)

Futurama’s first three episodes showcase its strength in storytelling and humor, setting the stage for a thrilling journey in New New York. In “I, Roommate,” Fry and his loyal robot companion, Bender, search for an apartment, leading them through a hilarious series of unlivable options (including one technically in New Jersey). The episode deepens their bond while establishing a new setting, revealing Bender’s surprisingly spacious “closet” that becomes Fry’s new home.

14. “Parasites Lost” (Season 3, Episode 2)

Fry and Leela’s will-they-won’t-they relationship ranks among TV’s greatest, and “Parasites Lost” is a heartfelt yet comical exploration of their courtship. Determined to win Leela’s affection, Fry endeavors to make himself worthy, setting off a series of hilariously ironic twists. The episode’s touching conclusion, featuring Fry’s attempt to play the holophonor for Leela, balances humor and sincerity.

13. “Future Stock” (Season 3, Episode 21)

“One day, we will find a cure for terminal boneitis.”

12. “The Sting” (Season 4, Episode 12)

In “The Sting,” Futurama delves into an episode-long fever dream, taking viewers on a surreal and disorienting journey as Leela experiences hallucinations induced by giant space bee venom. The episode remains centered on Leela’s emotional state throughout, blending humor with emotional depth.

11. “Amazon Women in the Mood” (Season 3, Episode 1)

While later seasons attempt gender stereotype parodies, “Amazon Women in the Mood” stands out for its portrayal of Amy and Kif. The episode explores their relationship, offering a surprisingly full arc for secondary characters. It balances humor and heart as it introduces towering Amazonian aliens and the hilariously terrified yet intrigued reactions of Fry and Brannigan.

10. “Bender’s Big Score” (Season 5, Episodes 1–4)

The direct-to-DVD movies that revived Futurama vary in quality, but “Bender’s Big Score” stands out as a fantastic start. It takes viewers on a thrilling time-traveling adventure through history, maintaining a cohesive narrative while showcasing Futurama’s signature humor. The revelation about Lars adds depth to Fry and Leela’s dynamic.

9. “A Flight to Remember” (Season 1, Episode 10)

A delightful parody of the film Titanic, “A Flight to Remember” offers unexpected heartfelt moments amidst the humor. Fry, Leela, and Amy’s relationships deepen, and Bender gains a touch of humanity as they navigate the amusingly earnest take on the Titanic’s tale.

8. “The Devil’s Hands Are Idle Playthings” (Season 4, Episode 18)

Futurama’s first finale, “The Devil’s Hands Are Idle Playthings,” is a brilliant send-off. The episode revolves around Fry’s quest to master the holophonor to impress Leela, leading him to make a deal with the Robot Devil. With a hilarious and sweet opera finale, the episode bids farewell with a memorable conclusion.

7. “Leela’s Homeworld” (Season 4, Episode 2)

In “Leela’s Homeworld,” the show reveals Leela’s mutant heritage, providing a poignant and touching reunion with her long-lost parents. The final montage captures the tender ways her parents continue to care for her despite giving her up for a better life.

6. “Space Pilot 3000” (Season 1, Episode 1)

Futurama’s pilot episode, “Space Pilot 3000,” introduces viewers to the wonders of New New York after Fry’s 1,000-year time jump. The show establishes its unique humor, satirizing the future’s oddities, including the darkly funny “suicide booth.” Ahead of its time, the episode sets the stage for the series’ extraordinary journey.

5. “Roswell That Ends Well” (Season 3, Episode 19)

“Roswell That Ends Well” brilliantly breaks Futurama’s self-imposed time travel rules with a humorous and chaotic trip to Roswell, New Mexico. The episode includes Fry becoming his own grandfather in a perfectly absurd yet essential plot twist, combining comedy and vital lore.

4. “The Late Philip J. Fry” (Season 6, Episode 7)

One of the best episodes of Futurama’s revival, “The Late Philip J. Fry,” cleverly bends time and space to craft a hilarious and emotionally rich narrative. Balancing absurdity and heartfelt themes, the episode showcases Fry and Leela’s longing, while providing a rewarding journey through the far future.

3. “Time Keeps on Slippin” (Season 3, Episode 14)

In “Time Keeps on Slippin,” the show invents the fantastic chronitons, which wreak havoc on time, resulting in a hilarious onslaught of setups and punch lines. The episode’s poignant ending and the Globetrotters’ introduction as basketball-loving aliens further elevate it to top-tier status.

2. “Godfellas” (Season 3, Episode 20)

“Godfellas” is more than just a deeply poignant exploration of religion and the existence of God; it’s a surprisingly dark and thought-provoking treatise that could easily become a classic, albeit a weighty one. However, what sets it apart is its clever infusion of humor, making it truly special. When Bender encounters the godlike entity in the vastness of space, the entity amusingly compares his “light touch” approach to godhood to insurance fraud with a witty remark (“if you make it look like an electrical thing”). The episode showcases Billy West’s exceptional voice acting, particularly in my personal favorite line reading ever, where Fry’s blithely ignorant yet sincere tone when he says, “I’ve not heard of them,” adds an extra layer of hilarity to the narrative. “Godfellas” strikes a perfect balance between depth and comedy, making it an outstanding episode of Futurama.

1. “The Luck of the Fryrish” (Season 3, Episode 10)

Futurama’s brilliance doesn’t solely rest on its retro-sci-fi setting, geeky references, or clever parodies. While these elements undoubtedly contribute to its humor, the true magic lies in the show’s focus on characters and their relationships. Through heartfelt storytelling, some of the best episodes manage to tap into the emotions within these connections.

The relationships portrayed in the series are diverse and rich with depth. From the blossoming romance between Fry and Leela to the tender bonds between Leela and her mutant parents, and even the endearing friendship between Fry and his loyal dog, Seymour, Futurama excels in capturing the human (and non-human) connections that resonate with viewers.

At the heart of the series’ finest episode, “The Luck of the Fryrish,” is the complex relationship between Fry and his older brother, Yancy. Amidst Fry’s perpetual misfortune, he harbors resentment towards Yancy for past childhood unkindness and believes his lucky seven-leaf clover was stolen along with his dreams and identity when he was frozen in the 31st century. However, a poignant revelation unfolds, revealing a heartfelt truth about Yancy’s actions.

The touching moment when Yancy names his son after Fry to honor his spirit brings warmth to the heart with a hint of melancholy. It is a testament to the show’s ability to explore profound emotional themes while still maintaining its comedic charm.

In essence, Futurama’s greatest strength is in its ability to strike an emotional chord with audiences, grounding its sci-fi adventures with genuine humanity. It’s no wonder that episodes like “The Luck of the Fryrish” continue to leave a lasting impact, earning their place as beloved classics in television history.