When it comes to political dramas, few shows have captured the hearts and minds of viewers quite like “The West Wing.” The series, which aired from 1999 to 2006, offered a captivating glimpse into the inner workings of the White House and the lives of the people who worked there. While every episode of “The West Wing” had its own unique charm, a few stand out as truly unforgettable.
One of the most beloved episodes is “The Supremes.” In this episode, the Supreme Court hears a case that could overturn Roe v. Wade. The episode is a powerful examination of the abortion debate, and it features some of the show’s most memorable speeches. Another standout episode is “Two Cathedrals.” This episode follows the aftermath of a school shooting, and it explores the themes of faith, hope, and redemption. The episode is both heartbreaking and hopeful, and it is sure to stay with you long after you watch it.
Of course, no discussion of the best “West Wing” episodes would be complete without mentioning “Requiem.” This episode is the series finale, and it is a fitting end to one of the greatest political dramas of all time. The episode is full of emotion, and it features some of the show’s most iconic moments. If you’re only going to watch a few episodes of “The West Wing,” make sure to include these three on your list.
The Cathedral
The Reckoning
This Season 2 episode is a masterclass in political intrigue and moral dilemmas. The episode centers around a papal visit to Washington, D.C., and the West Wing staff’s efforts to ensure a successful visit while navigating the complexities of U.S.-Vatican relations. Through intense negotiations and unexpected twists, the episode explores the tension between faith and politics, the limits of compromise, and the weight of responsibility.
| Highlights: |
|---|
| – A gripping and thought-provoking examination of the intersection of religion and politics. |
| -Stellar performances by Martin Sheen, Stockard Channing, and John Spencer. |
| – A deeply resonant and emotionally charged storyline that stays with viewers long after the credits roll. |
In Excelsis Deo
The episode focuses on the aftermath of President Bartlet’s heart attack and the subsequent transition of power to Vice President John Hoynes. Hoynes, a conservative Republican, finds himself at odds with Bartlet’s liberal agenda and must navigate a complex political landscape in order to avoid a constitutional crisis.
The Transition of Power
The transition of power from Bartlet to Hoynes is fraught with political and ideological tension. Hoynes, a devout Catholic, is opposed to many of Bartlet’s policies, including his stance on abortion rights and his handling of the Middle East conflict. Bartlet, on the other hand, is determined to maintain his legacy and ensure that his agenda is carried out, even in his absence.
The episode highlights the challenges of governing in a divided political climate. Hoynes is pressured by his party to roll back Bartlet’s policies, while Bartlet’s supporters demand that he remain true to his convictions. The episode explores the complex balancing act that Hoynes must perform in order to maintain the stability of the nation while also fulfilling his own political agenda.
| Character | Role |
|---|---|
| President Bartlet | Outgoing President |
| Vice President John Hoynes | Incoming President |
| Leo McGarry | Chief of Staff |
| C.J. Cregg | White House Press Secretary |
| Josh Lyman | Deputy Chief of Staff |
Bartlet for America
“The Long Goodbye”
This two-part episode, airing at the start of Season 2, follows Bartlet’s reelection campaign as he faces a tight race against Republican challenger Governor Robert Ritchie. The episode showcases the political maneuvering and campaign strategies employed by both sides, with a particular focus on the personal and emotional toll the campaign takes on Bartlet and those around him.
“Celestial Navigation”
Aired in Season 3, this episode centers on the aftermath of a plane crash that leaves Bartlet seriously injured. While he recovers in the hospital, Sam Seaborn is tasked with navigating the political crisis and maintaining the country’s stability. The episode explores themes of leadership, courage, and the importance of human connection.
“Isaac and Ishmael”
This pivotal Season 4 episode delves into the complex relationship between Bartlet and his political rival and friend, Congressman Robert “Isaac” Russell. As they debate a controversial bill on campaign finance reform, their idealogical differences and personal histories collide. The episode raises questions about political loyalty, friendship, and the limits of compromise.
“The Women of Qumar”
Aired in Season 5, this episode follows Bartlet’s efforts to secure the release of three female aid workers who have been taken hostage in the fictional Middle Eastern country of Qumar. The episode highlights the President’s use of diplomacy, negotiations, and military force to address international crises, as well as the moral dilemmas he faces in the process.
“Twenty Five”
This Season 6 episode commemorates the 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which provides for the transfer of power in the event of a President’s incapacitation. As Bartlet undergoes a routine medical procedure, Vice President John Hoynes is briefly sworn in as acting president. The episode examines the constitutional implications of the 25th Amendment and its potential impact on the balance of power within the government.
“The Supremes”
In this Season 7 episode, Bartlet nominates a controversial candidate to the Supreme Court, prompting intense debate and political maneuvering. The episode highlights the President’s role in shaping the nation’s legal system and the importance of judicial independence. It also explores the political and ideological battles that accompany such appointments.
| Episode Title | Season | Episode Number |
|---|---|---|
| “The Long Goodbye” | 2 | 1-2 |
| “Celestial Navigation” | 3 | 16 |
| “Isaac and Ishmael” | 4 | 10 |
| “The Women of Qumar” | 5 | 10 |
| “Twenty Five” | 6 | 10 |
| “The Supremes” | 7 | 9 |
Two Cathedrals
Introduction: The season 2 finale “Two Cathedrals” is a pivotal episode in The West Wing’s history. It marks the departure of several key characters, including Sam Seaborn and Mandy Hampton, and sets the stage for the show’s future seasons.
Two Cathedrals and the Failure of Incrementalism
One of the episode’s most significant themes is the failure of incrementalism, the belief that progress can be made through gradual, step-by-step changes. The episode shows how even small changes, like the banning of smoking in the White House, can be met with fierce resistance from those who fear any departure from the status quo.
The Moral Crisis of Josiah Bartlet
Another central theme of “Two Cathedrals” is the moral crisis faced by President Josiah Bartlet. After the death of his daughter Zoey, Bartlet must grapple with his faith and the meaning of life. The episode culminates in a powerful scene where Bartlet confronts God in a cathedral, questioning his existence and the fairness of his world.
Leaving and Saying Goodbye
The departure of Sam Seaborn and Mandy Hampton is a major turning point for The West Wing. Sam, a passionate idealist, leaves to run for Congress, while Mandy, a pragmatist, chooses to move on to a new challenge. Their departures symbolize the changing nature of the Bartlet administration and the challenges that lie ahead.
The New West Wing Staff
The episode also introduces several new characters who will become mainstays in future seasons. Among them are Will Bailey (Joshua Malina), a young and ambitious deputy communications director; Annabeth Schott (Kristin Chenoweth), a sharp-tongued press secretary; and Toby Ziegler (Richard Schiff), a cynical but brilliant communications director. These characters will bring new perspectives and dynamics to the show, shaping its direction in the years to come.
| Departing Character | Reason for Departure |
|---|---|
| Sam Seaborn | Running for Congress |
| Mandy Hampton | New challenge |
The Supremes
The episode “The Supremes” focuses on the Supreme Court nomination of Judge Roberto Mendoza, a moderate conservative who is initially supported by the White House. However, after a leaked memo reveals that Mendoza has previously expressed some controversial views, the President and his staff begin to have second thoughts about his nomination. The episode explores the complex process of judicial nominations and the political pressures that can influence them.
5. The Mandy-Leo dynamic
Mandy is the President’s communication director, while Leo is his chief of staff. They have a close working relationship, but they often clash on policy and strategy. In “The Supremes,” Mandy and Leo disagree about how to handle the Mendoza nomination. Mandy believes that the White House should stick by Mendoza, while Leo believes that they need to distance themselves from him.
| Character | Position | Role in the episode |
|---|---|---|
| Mandy | Communication Director |
She believes that the White House should stick by Mendoza. |
| Leo | Chief of Staff |
He believes that the White House needs to distance themselves from Mendoza. |
What Kind of Day Has It Been
Viewed through the lens of the West Wing writers, “What Kind of Day Has It Been” is the most important episode in the show’s seven-season run. This tour de force episode is an hour of nearly uninterrupted dialogue in the immediate wake of a school shooting. It follows the senior staff of the Bartlet administration as they attempt to craft a public response to this unthinkable tragedy.
The Fallout
The episode begins in the immediate aftermath of the shooting, with the senior staff reeling from the news. They are all deeply affected by the tragedy, and they struggle to find the words to express their grief and anger.
The Debate
As the staff tries to come to terms with what has happened, they begin to debate how to respond. Some, like Leo McGarry (John Spencer), believe that the president should address the nation immediately. Others, like C.J. Cregg (Allison Janney), believe that they need to take more time to consider their options.
The Speech
In the end, President Bartlet (Martin Sheen) decides to give a speech to the nation. He delivers a powerful and moving address, in which he expresses his condolences to the victims’ families and calls for a moment of silence. He also vows to do everything in his power to prevent such a tragedy from happening again.
The Aftermath
The episode ends with the staff still struggling to come to terms with what has happened. They are all deeply affected by the tragedy, and they know that they will never be the same.
The Legacy
“What Kind of Day Has It Been” is a powerful and moving episode that explores the human cost of violence. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, we must never give up hope.
The Staff’s Reactions to the Shooting
| Character | Reaction |
|---|---|
| Leo McGarry | He is furious and wants to take immediate action. |
| C.J. Cregg | She is in shock and disbelief. |
| Josh Lyman | He is heartbroken and feels guilty for not being able to do more to prevent the tragedy. |
| Toby Ziegler | He is withdrawn and distant. |
| Sam Seaborn | He is angry and wants to find a way to hold the perpetrators accountable. |
The West Wing’s 100th Episode
The West Wing’s 100th episode, “20 Hours in America”, is widely regarded as one of the show’s most memorable and impactful episodes. It aired on February 27, 2002, during the show’s third season.
The Plot
The episode follows the events of a single day in the life of the White House staff as they grapple with a series of national and international crises. The President and his team face an impending war with China, a terrorist attack in an American embassy, and a high-stakes hostage situation.
The Cast
The episode features the show’s main cast, including Martin Sheen as President Jed Bartlet, John Spencer as Chief of Staff Leo McGarry, Bradley Whitford as Deputy Chief of Staff Josh Lyman, Allison Janney as Press Secretary C.J. Cregg, and Richard Schiff as Communications Director Toby Ziegler.
The Impact
“20 Hours in America” was a critical and commercial success. It received widespread praise for its gripping storyline, strong performances, and insightful commentary on politics and international relations.
The Awards
The episode won three Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series (Aaron Sorkin), and Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series (Thomas Schlamme).
The Critical Reception
“20 Hours in America” is often cited as one of the best episodes of The West Wing. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of the pressures and challenges faced by the White House staff, its nuanced character development, and its thought-provoking exploration of complex issues.
The Rebroadcast
In 2018, “20 Hours in America” was rebroadcast on NBC as a special event to mark the show’s 20th anniversary. The rebroadcast featured a special introduction by Aaron Sorkin and interviews with the cast and crew.
Harpers Ferry
The Setup
In “Harpers Ferry”, half of a Republican ticket threatens to steal the election with a secessionist message of “Southern values.” President Bartlet fights back with a defiant speech comparing the current political climate to the abolitionist uprising at Harpers Ferry.
The Speech
Bartlet’s speech is a tour-de-force, weaving history, passion, and personal conviction. He invokes the courage of John Brown, the abolitionist who led the raid on Harpers Ferry, and challenges the modern-day equivalents of slavery: poverty, ignorance, and inequality.
The Impact
Bartlet’s speech resonates deeply with the nation. It inspires a surge of voter turnout and helps to secure the election for the Democratic ticket. It also serves as a wake-up call to American voters, reminding them of the importance of tolerance and equality.
Notable Quotes
| Quote | Speaker |
|---|---|
| “What the hell is wrong with us that we don’t get basic justice right?” | President Bartlet |
| “We weren’t going to be quiet anymore. We weren’t going to let our votes be suppressed. We weren’t going to let our voices be silenced.” | Hannah Jordan, DCCC Director |
Isaac and Ishmael
The opening scene explores the religious tensions between Judaism and Islam through the unlikely friendship between Isaac, a Jewish rabbi, and Ishmael, a Palestinian Muslim teacher, who meet for secret talks. Meanwhile, President Bartlet is confronted by a Christian conservative senator who challenges his knowledge of the Bible.
The Interrogation
Bartlet’s interrogation by the senator intensifies, revealing a nuanced portrayal of faith and its role in public life. The senator accuses Bartlet of misinterpreting the Bible’s teachings, dismissing them as “stories for children.” Bartlet’s response is both personal and assertive, demonstrating his belief in the power of religious tradition.
The Ethics of Diplomacy
Isaac and Ishmael’s talks uncover the complexities of diplomacy and the delicate balance between truth and compromise. Ishmael suggests that lying may be necessary for the greater good, while Isaac insists on absolute honesty. Their dialogue sheds light on the ethical dilemmas faced by diplomats and politicians.
Clash of Ideologies
The debate between Bartlet and the senator escalates, with both men refusing to concede. Bartlet argues that religious beliefs should not be imposed on others, while the senator insists on the supremacy of his own faith. The episode highlights the polarizing nature of religious dogma.
The Power of Words
Isaac and Ishmael’s conversations emphasize the significance of language. They use words not only to communicate but also to shape perceptions and bridge divides. Their words serve as a catalyst for understanding and progress.
The Role of Hope
Despite the challenges they face, Isaac and Ishmael remain steadfast in their hope for reconciliation. Their bond transcends their differences, offering a glimmer of hope that humanity can overcome religious barriers.
The Limits of Diplomacy
As the talks between Isaac and Ishmael reach an impasse, they recognize the limitations of diplomacy alone. They realize that true reconciliation requires more than just conversation; it demands a willingness to listen, understand, and compromise.
The Search for Common Ground
The episode culminates in an emotional exchange between Bartlet and the senator. Bartlet appeals to the senator’s humanity, reminding him of the common values they share as Americans, regardless of their religious beliefs.
| Character | Role |
| Isaac | Jewish rabbi |
| Ishmael | Palestinian Muslim teacher |
| President Bartlet | President of the United States |
Tomorrow
Aired on October 12, 2000
This episode takes place on a day of great significance in the White House as President Bartlet prepares for a televised debate with his Republican opponent, Governor Robert Ritchie. As the day progresses, the staff grapples with the pressures and expectations of the event, each facing their own personal and professional challenges.
Key Themes:
- The importance of preparation and execution
- The challenges of political communication
- The personal sacrifices made by those in power
Memorable Moments:
- Bartlet’s impassioned speech to Ritchie about the importance of bipartisanship
- Toby’s tense confrontation with Ritchie’s media advisor
- C.J.’s struggle to manage the press and protect the President
Critical Acclaim:
- “One of the most exciting and suspenseful episodes in the show’s history.” – The New York Times
- “A masterclass in political drama.” – The Washington Post
10. The debates and their impact
The debate between Bartlet and Ritchie is a central focus of the episode, with both sides clashing over policy and ideology. Bartlet’s performance is crucial to his campaign, as a strong showing could bolster his chances of re-election. However, Ritchie proves to be a formidable opponent, challenging Bartlet’s record and presenting his own policies as more effective.
The debate has a significant impact on the viewers, as it reveals the strengths and weaknesses of both candidates. Bartlet’s passion and intelligence impress many, while Ritchie’s charisma and populist message appeal to others. The episode leaves viewers with a sense of uncertainty about the outcome of the election and the future of the country.
| Candidate | Key Points | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| President Bartlet | – Emphasizes experience and bipartisanship | – Defends his record on the economy and social issues | |
| Governor Ritchie | – Criticises Bartlet’s policies as ineffective | – Promises tax cuts and deregulation | – Appeals to voters’ desire for change |
Best West Wing Episodes
The West Wing, a critically acclaimed political drama series, has produced numerous outstanding episodes that have left a lasting impact on viewers. Here are a few highly regarded episodes that showcase the show’s exceptional writing, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes:
- “Pilot” (Season 1): Introduces the main characters and establishes the show’s premise as a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the White House.
- “In the Shadow of Two Gunmen” (Season 2): A gripping two-part episode that explores the aftermath of a school shooting and the political fallout surrounding gun control.
- “Hartsfield’s Landing” (Season 3): A suspenseful episode that follows the President and his staff as they navigate a hostage crisis aboard Air Force One.
- “Twenty Five” (Season 5): A poignant episode that delves into the personal and political consequences of the President’s age and health.
- “The Supremes” (Season 7): A thought-provoking episode that examines the role of the Supreme Court and its impact on American society.
