best episodes of Desperate Housewives poster

Looking down on her friends and family isn't a way of life for Mary Alice Young... it's a way of death. One day, in her perfect house, in the loveliest of suburbs, Mary Alice ended it all. Now she's taking us into the lives of her family, friends and neighbors, commenting from her elevated P.O.V.

8 Seasons
179 Episodes
Ended
Mystery Drama Comedy
episode image Bang
9.5/10 (2239 votes)

#1 Bang

S3:E7
Nov 5, 2006

Everyone's lives on Wisteria Lane are forever changed when Carolyn Bigsby holds shoppers hostage at a local supermarket. Meanwhile, Gabrielle and Carlos finish dividing their assets: Gabrielle gets the house, and Carlos gets everything in it. Susan is preparing to go to Paris with Ian.

episode image Something's Coming
9.2/10 (1361 votes)

#2 Something's Coming

S4:E9
Dec 2, 2007

A tornado comes to Wisteria Lane, forcing residents into basements, cellars and safe rooms, and destroying homes and lives. Meanwhile, Susan ends up at the hospital after falling down the stairs.

episode image The Best Thing That Ever Could Have Happened
9.2/10 (1735 votes)

#3 The Best Thing That Ever Could Have Happened

S5:E13
Jan 18, 2009

When Eli Scruggs (Beau Bridges), the neighborhood handyman, passes away, the residents of Wisteria Lane realize how much he affected their lives.

episode image Finishing the Hat
9.1/10 (1139 votes)

#4 Finishing the Hat

S8:E23
May 13, 2012

Everything that begins must eventually end. This episode of beginnings and endings walks us both backwards and forwards as we take our final stroll down Wisteria Lane.

episode image Down the Block There's a Riot
8.9/10 (902 votes)

#5 Down the Block There's a Riot

S7:E10
Dec 12, 2010

Paul's nefarious plan for Wisteria Lane is put into full effect. Juanita discovers that she isn't Gabrielle's biological daughter, and Bree invites Keith (guest star Brian Austin Green) to move in with her, whilst Tom is confronted about his past indiscretion with Renee.

episode image Free
8.8/10 (939 votes)

#6 Free

S4:E17
May 18, 2008

Susan and Mike try to name their son. Lynette is arrested for supposedly attacking Kayla, and Tom must do what he can to save his family. Bree is being stalked by Orson, and when she meets with Reverend Green, the reverend tries to hit on her. In the meantime, Gabrielle is still helping the police trying to detain Ellie for dealing drugs. Finally, Katherine is visited by her ex-husband, Wayne.

episode image Give Me the Blame
8.8/10 (793 votes)

#7 Give Me the Blame

S8:E22
May 13, 2012

Bree's trial finally comes to an end with a surprise confession. Tom takes steps to finalize his divorce.

episode image One Wonderful Day
8.7/10 (991 votes)

#8 One Wonderful Day

S1:E23
May 22, 2005

Bree confides that she feels guilty because she and Rex were having a fight when he had his heart attack and that now he needs a pacemaker. Lynette's marriage takes a dramatic turn after an upset Tom vows that it is now her turn to go back to work and he'll be staying home with the kids. Carlos finally learns that John and Gabrielle have been lovers for a while, and vows revenge as he is carted off to jail. Mike takes Paul out to a deserted quarry, intending to shoot him.

episode image Look Into Their Eyes and You See What They Know
8.7/10 (875 votes)

#9 Look Into Their Eyes and You See What They Know

S5:E19
Apr 19, 2009

Edie becomes the subject as the other housewives reminisce about her: with Susan recalling the first time they met; Lynnette remembers an unforgettable night; Gaby remembers an evening of friendly competition; and Bree remembers how thoughtful she was towards Orson.

episode image The Little Things You Do Together
8.6/10 (813 votes)

#10 The Little Things You Do Together

S3:E15
Feb 18, 2007

All of Wisteria Lane gathers at Pizzeria Scavo for the grand opening event, while one resident meets an untimely fate and another accepts a marriage proposal.

episode image Getting Married Today
8.6/10 (845 votes)

#11 Getting Married Today

S3:E23
May 20, 2007

As Gabrielle prepares for her fairy tale wedding, Bree returns to Fairview with a surprise. Meanwhile, Lynette's mother Stella pays her a visit after finding out Lynette has cancer. Finally, Susan and Mike tie the knot in an unexpected location.

episode image City on Fire
8.6/10 (736 votes)

#12 City on Fire

S5:E8
Nov 16, 2008

Susan's daughter Julie comes to visit with her surprising new boyfriend. Gabrielle learns that Mrs. Hildebrand has made her and Carlos heirs of her entire fortune. A reporter looks to expose Bree's imperfections. Lynette learns Porter and Anne Schilling plan to leave Fairview and disappear. Finally, everyone has gathered at a club to see the guys play in the annual "Battle of the Bands" when a fire erupts, threatening the lives of those in attendance. Some will fall as a hero will rise.

episode image Come on Over for Dinner
8.6/10 (661 votes)

#13 Come on Over for Dinner

S7:E23
May 15, 2011

The Wisteria Lane residents each enjoy a progressive dinner; Renee begins a short-lived relationship with a bartender; Bree sees a connection with Chuck; the housewives cover up a fatal accident.

episode image Pilot
8.5/10 (1685 votes)

#14 Pilot

S1:E1
Oct 3, 2004

Looking down on her friends and family isn't a way of life for Mary Alice Young. It's a way of death. One day, in her perfect house, in the loveliest of suburbs, Mary Alice ended it all. Now she's taking us into the lives of her family, friends and neighbors, commenting from her elevated POV. Her husband's acting suspicious, the neighbors are talking, and her girlfriends are wondering why one of their own would do something so rash… and so messy.

episode image Remember
8.5/10 (797 votes)

#15 Remember

S2:E23
May 21, 2006

Flashbacks take us back to to moving-in day on Wisteria Lane for Bree, Lynette, Susan and Gabrielle and how Mary Alice brought them all together. Back in the present, Bree gets some frightening news. Susan moves into a trailer after her house was burnt down. Lynette and the kids are staying at a hotel. After seeing a report on the news, Gabrielle believes Carlos died. Paul begs Zach to get him a good lawyer via Noah.

episode image Welcome to Kanagawa
8.5/10 (801 votes)

#16 Welcome to Kanagawa

S4:E10
Jan 6, 2008

In the aftermath of the tornado, the residents of Wisteria Lane try to rebuild their lives. Katherine discovers someone may know her secret while Lynette faces the possibility of her family's fate.

episode image Boom Crunch
8.5/10 (744 votes)

#17 Boom Crunch

S6:E10
Dec 6, 2009

Gabrielle and Lynette's friendship is on the brink of collapse, whereas Bree and Orson come to an agreement about their marriage. Meanwhile, Susan hatches a plan to help an irrational Katherine, and Danny's vital mistake might cost Angie her freedom. In the meantime, Christmas cheer is curtailed when disaster strikes, as a plane crashes down on Wisteria Lane, putting lives in peril.

episode image I Guess This Is Goodbye
8.5/10 (724 votes)

#18 I Guess This Is Goodbye

S6:E23
May 16, 2010

Gaby risks her safety to help Angie; Lynette's fate and that of her unborn child lie in the hands of Eddie; Susan comes to grips with her financial woes; Bree considers confessing a secret she's harbored for years; and Angie must submit to Patrick's demands in order to protect her son.

episode image Guilty
8.4/10 (971 votes)

#19 Guilty

S1:E8
Nov 28, 2004

In the aftermath of tragedy with Bree's son Andrew running over Carlos' mother Juanita Solis, the residents of Wisteria Lane take stock of their lives. Meanwhile, Susan grows suspicious of Mike's real reason for moving to the street. Lynette reaches the breaking point in her addiction to the twins' ADD medication as she tries other measures like acupuncture to release her stress. The mysterious Mr. Shaw gets down to business as he develops a relationship with Edie. Lastly, Gabrielle confesses her adulterous affair to a priest while Carlos' mother Juanita is in the hospital.

episode image Now You Know
8.4/10 (887 votes)

#20 Now You Know

S4:E1
Sep 30, 2007

Susan learns that she is expecting a child while Bree continues to fake her own pregnancy. Gabrielle begins an affair with her ex-husband, Carlos and Lynette tries to conceal her cancer from her friends and children. The episode also introduces Katherine Mayfair, Susan's old friend who returns to the neighborhood after being away for 12 years.

episode image Now I Know, Don’t Be Scared
8.4/10 (782 votes)

#21 Now I Know, Don’t Be Scared

S4:E6
Nov 4, 2007

This is the show's first Halloween episode. Edie Britt's biggest fear comes true when Carlos walks out on their relationship. Susan finds Mike's father, who was supposedly dead. Danielle goes into labor right in the middle of the Halloween party... and somebody has to deliver the baby.

episode image If It's Only in Your Head
8.4/10 (705 votes)

#22 If It's Only in Your Head

S5:E24
May 17, 2009

Lynette adapts to Tom's decision to go back to school, Orson takes a beating that Bree cannot comprehend, Gabrielle's niece moves to Wisteria Lane, and Susan and MJ's lives are in grave danger at the hands of Dave.

episode image That's Good, That's Bad
8.3/10 (754 votes)

#23 That's Good, That's Bad

S2:E9
Nov 27, 2005

George stalks Bree, despite her efforts to break up with him. Lynette takes charge of office politics. Carlos is paroled from prison and returns a new man, and Gabrielle is jealous of his new 'holier-than-thou' confidante. Susan meets her birth father and tries to begin a relationship with him.

episode image A Spark. To Pierce the Dark.
8.3/10 (664 votes)

#24 A Spark. To Pierce the Dark.

S5:E18
Mar 22, 2009

Bree contemplates selling her business in order to revive her marriage. Meanwhile, Lynette is threatened at work; Katherine is caught in an unforseen circumstance; and Edie's worst fear begins to come true.

episode image Lovely
8.3/10 (646 votes)

#25 Lovely

S6:E15
Feb 21, 2010

Former exotic dancer Robin will have a profound effect on Susan's friends with three teenage boys at home, Lynette will keep a watchful eye; Bree picks up a few tricks to engage Orson; Gaby looks for help with troublesome niece Ana; and Katherine will find a friendly companion.

episode image Putting It Together
8.3/10 (583 votes)

#26 Putting It Together

S8:E9
Dec 4, 2011

Gabrielle, thinking the worst, goes on a frenzied search for Carlos after he unexpectedly checks out of rehab. Meanwhile, a desolate Bree goes on a drinking binge and finds herself in a desperate situation.

episode image I Know Things Now
8.2/10 (732 votes)

#27 I Know Things Now

S2:E21
May 7, 2006

Bree and Andrew finally reach an impasse in their relationship as tension has finally reached a critical point. Meanwhile, Ed finally fires Tom with the pressure from his wife. Lastly, Edie's private detective begins to uncover numerous details of Karl and Susan's relationship as of recently. Gabrielle is having a tough time keeping her servant in the country.

episode image No One Is Alone
8.2/10 (731 votes)

#28 No One Is Alone

S2:E22
May 14, 2006

Reaching the end of her rope, Bree checks herself into the Fairview psychiatric hospital. Lynette suspects that Tom is cheating on her, so she follows him to Atlantic City. Susan must start over. Felicia Tilman has more in store for Paul Young, resulting in their war reaching its final battle. Gaby and Carlos get Xiao-Mei pregnant.

episode image The Game
8.2/10 (750 votes)

#29 The Game

S4:E3
Oct 14, 2007

Bree informs the housewives of what she overheard in the Mayfair house. Stella makes some special brownies to help Lynette through chemotherapy. Susan throws a charades party for the whole neighborhood.

episode image The Gun Song
8.2/10 (701 votes)

#30 The Gun Song

S4:E16
May 18, 2008

"The Gun Song" is the 86th episode of the ABC television series, Desperate Housewives. It is the sixteenth episode of the show's fourth season, and the first half of the two-hour season finale. It aired on May 18, 2008 in the United States.

episode image Mirror, Mirror
8.2/10 (683 votes)

#31 Mirror, Mirror

S5:E5
Oct 26, 2008

Driven by a hidden agenda, Dave convinces Susan to throw Mrs. McCluskey a surprise party for her 70th birthday. Jackson wants to take his relationship with Susan to the next level. Gabrielle's concerned she might be pregnant. Tom tells Lynette he's sold the pizzeria. A startling reason for the bond between Bree and Katherine is revealed. And finally, an outraged Mrs. McCluskey has the entire neighborhood questioning her sanity.

episode image Epiphany
8.2/10 (652 votes)

#32 Epiphany

S6:E20
Apr 25, 2010

The Fairview strangler has been living among the women of Wisteria Lane. He once caught Gabrielle and Carlos in an intimate moment. Bree offered him a job and some dating advice. Susan encouraged his passion for art. Lynette will show him kindness and generosity. But... who is he?

episode image And Lots of Security...
8.2/10 (551 votes)

#33 And Lots of Security...

S7:E22
May 15, 2011

A progressive dinner party thrown for Susan to celebrate her move back onto the lane leads to a shocking murder. Meanwhile, Gaby is stunned to learn the identity of the mysterious man who has been stalking her; Lynette and Tom attempt to put the spark back into their marriage by spending a few days alone together at a romantic Bed & Breakfast; after being placed under arrest for allegedly poisoning Paul, Susan must convince the police that she was being framed for the deed by Felicia; Bree begins to suspect that her new boyfriend may be gay.

episode image Secrets That I Never Want to Know
8.2/10 (714 votes)

#34 Secrets That I Never Want to Know

S8:E1
Sep 25, 2011

While Bree gives Chuck a ride, a smell becomes noticeable; Gabrielle seeks out a priest in order to help Carlos with his problem; Ben Faulkner, a new neighbor, meets Renee; Susan withdraws from her friends because of what happened to Alejandro.

episode image Women and Death
8.2/10 (661 votes)

#35 Women and Death

S8:E17
Mar 18, 2012

On the day of a beloved Wisteria Lane resident's funeral, each of the housewives recalls the effect this person had on her life. Meanwhile, Bree is stunned when she's called in for questioning about the murder of Gaby's stepfather, Alejandro.

episode image Anything You Can Do
8.1/10 (939 votes)

#36 Anything You Can Do

S1:E7
Nov 21, 2004

Susan and Edie decide to follow Mike and his houseguest Kendra on their night out together. Lynette becomes steadily more dependent on the twins' ADD medication. In the meantime Gabrielle becomes jealous of the "other" woman in John's life. And Bree's kids mutiny when they learn their dad has moved out. Tom is not happy when Lynette tries to take over his concept of new "Spotless Scrubs" to his clients.

episode image Goodbye for Now
8.1/10 (825 votes)

#37 Goodbye for Now

S1:E22
May 15, 2005

Susan and Mike decide to move in together, much to Edie's displeasure. Meanwhile, Lynette takes steps to make sure Annabel doesn't come between her and Tom. Also, Bree comes to a realization about her "buddy" George the pharmacist who continues to interfere in her and Rex's lives. Carlos' legal problems take a turn for the worse, when Gabrielle decides to leave him. Mrs. Huber's journal reveals some secrets. Lastly, two new faces arrive on Wisteria Lane.

episode image One More Kiss
8.1/10 (737 votes)

#38 One More Kiss

S2:E11
Jan 8, 2006

Gabrielle kisses Tom and Lynette is not happy and drives a wedge in her friendship with Gabrielle. Paul attacks Mike. The housewives become more suspicious of Betty and her family. Andrew is trying to blackmail Bree, but Bree gets some assistance from Susan's ex, Karl.

episode image It Wasn't Meant to Happen
8.1/10 (770 votes)

#39 It Wasn't Meant to Happen

S2:E20
Apr 30, 2006

Gabrielle and Carlos are shocked when the father of their baby shows up to take the baby back. Cops and a lawyer arrive to a house on Wisteria Lane. Lynette tries to help Ed heat up his sex life. Meanwhile, Karl decides to break up with Edie, as Edie has no idea that Susan is the "other woman." Edie causes a fight to break out in a bar, after she trips a waitress. Lastly, Bree is taken a step forward to help Peter when she finds out how bad his other addiction is.

episode image Listen to the Rain on the Roof
8.1/10 (868 votes)

#40 Listen to the Rain on the Roof

S3:E1
Sep 24, 2006

It is raining on Wisteria Lane, six months after Mike was run over. He is now in a coma, with Susan by his side. Bree gets engaged to Orson. Gabrielle and Carlos are getting divorced, but they are briefly reunited when their 8½ months pregnant surrogate Xiao-Mei runs away. While adjusting to having another child around the house, Lynette realizes that the girl's mother, Nora, is more than she can handle.

Cast & Chracters

character image Susan Mayer

Susan Mayer

Actor: Teri Hatcher

Susan Mayer, portrayed by Teri Hatcher, is a central character in 'Desperate Housewives.' A creative and endearing individual, Susan works as an illustrator for children's books. She is known for her clumsiness and quirky sense of humor, which often provide comic relief throughout the series. Susan's storylines frequently revolve around her romantic relationships, particularly with Mike Delfino, and her role as a devoted mother to her daughter, Julie Mayer. Her character embodies the 'girl next door' archetype, navigating the challenges of single parenthood and the complexities of life on Wisteria Lane.

character image Lynette Scavo

Lynette Scavo

Actor: Felicity Huffman

Lynette Scavo, played by Felicity Huffman, is a former high-powered advertising executive who becomes a stay-at-home mother to her four children. Known for her strong-willed and pragmatic nature, Lynette often struggles to balance her career ambitions with the demands of motherhood. Throughout the series, she faces various challenges, including her husband's career changes and her own return to the workforce. Lynette's character is marked by her resilience, sharp wit, and unwavering dedication to her family.

character image Bree Van de Kamp

Bree Van de Kamp

Actor: Marcia Cross

Bree Van de Kamp, portrayed by Marcia Cross, is the epitome of perfectionism and traditional values on Wisteria Lane. A meticulous homemaker and skilled cook, Bree strives to maintain an impeccable household and image. Her character grapples with personal issues such as her husband's infidelity, her children's rebellious behavior, and her own struggles with alcoholism. Bree's journey throughout the series highlights her attempts to uphold her ideals while confronting the imperfections in her life.

character image Gabrielle Solis

Gabrielle Solis

Actor: Eva Longoria

Gabrielle 'Gaby' Solis, played by Eva Longoria, is a former fashion model who enjoys a lavish lifestyle on Wisteria Lane. Initially portrayed as materialistic and self-centered, Gabrielle's character undergoes significant development as she faces various personal and familial challenges. Her relationships, particularly with her husband Carlos Solis, are central to her storyline. Gabrielle's journey from a superficial socialite to a devoted mother and friend adds depth to her character.

character image Carlos Solis

Carlos Solis

Actor: Ricardo Chavira

Carlos Solis, portrayed by Ricardo Antonio Chavira, is a successful businessman and the husband of Gabrielle Solis. His character is characterized by his ambition, strong-willed nature, and traditional views on marriage and family. Throughout the series, Carlos faces numerous challenges, including legal troubles and personal losses, which lead to significant growth and changes in his character. His relationship with Gabrielle is central to his storyline, showcasing the complexities of their marriage.

character image Tom Scavo

Tom Scavo

Actor: Doug Savant

Tom Scavo, played by Doug Savant, is the husband of Lynette Scavo and father to their five children. Initially working as an advertising executive, Tom's career path takes several turns, including opening a pizzeria and facing periods of unemployment. His character is depicted as loving and supportive, though he often struggles with feelings of inadequacy and the pressures of providing for his large family. Tom's relationship with Lynette is a focal point of his storyline, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of their marriage.

character image Mike Delfino

Mike Delfino

Actor: James Denton

Mike Delfino, portrayed by James Denton, is a mysterious and handsome plumber who moves to Wisteria Lane. His character is marked by a complex past and a deep sense of morality. Mike's relationship with Susan Mayer is a central element of his storyline, characterized by numerous ups and downs. Throughout the series, Mike's past secrets and his efforts to build a stable life on Wisteria Lane are explored, adding depth to his character.

character image Mary Alice Young

Mary Alice Young

Actor: Brenda Strong

Mary Alice Young, played by Brenda Strong, is the narrator of 'Desperate Housewives.' Her character's suicide in the pilot episode serves as the catalyst for the series, uncovering the hidden secrets of Wisteria Lane. Through her posthumous narration, Mary Alice provides insight into the lives of her friends and neighbors, offering a unique perspective on the events that unfold. Her mysterious past and the circumstances leading to her death are central to the show's overarching narrative.

character image Renee Perry

Renee Perry

Actor: Vanessa Williams

Renee Perry, portrayed by Vanessa Williams, is introduced in later seasons as a former college friend of Lynette Scavo. A glamorous and wealthy woman, Renee moves to Wisteria Lane following her divorce. Her character is known for her sharp wit, confidence, and penchant for luxury. Throughout the series, Renee's interactions with the other housewives and her own personal growth are explored, adding a new dynamic to the neighborhood's social landscape.

The highest rated episode of Desperate Housewives is "Bang" (S3E7) with a rating of 9.50.

This episode received 2,239 votes.

It aired on November 5, 2006.


The lowest rated episode is "Careful the Things You Say" (S6E7) with a rating of 7.50.

This episode received 578 votes.

It aired on November 8, 2009.

The highest rated episode is "One Wonderful Day" (S1E23) with a rating of 8.70.

This episode received 991 votes.

It aired on May 22, 2005.


The lowest rated episode is "Come In, Stranger" (S1E5) with a rating of 7.70.

This episode received 969 votes.

It aired on October 31, 2004.

The highest rated episode is "Remember" (S2E23) with a rating of 8.50.

This episode received 797 votes.

It aired on May 21, 2006.


The lowest rated episode is "You'll Never Get Away from Me" (S2E3) with a rating of 7.60.

This episode received 738 votes.

It aired on October 9, 2005.

The highest rated episode is "Bang" (S3E7) with a rating of 9.50.

This episode received 2,239 votes.

It aired on November 5, 2006.


The lowest rated episode is "Beautiful Girls" (S3E9) with a rating of 7.70.

This episode received 703 votes.

It aired on November 19, 2006.

The highest rated episode is "Something's Coming" (S4E9) with a rating of 9.20.

This episode received 1,361 votes.

It aired on December 2, 2007.


The lowest rated episode is "Sunday" (S4E11) with a rating of 7.80.

This episode received 691 votes.

It aired on April 13, 2008.

The highest rated episode is "The Best Thing That Ever Could Have Happened" (S5E13) with a rating of 9.20.

This episode received 1,735 votes.

It aired on January 18, 2009.


The lowest rated episode is "In a World Where the Kings are Employers" (S5E15) with a rating of 7.60.

This episode received 581 votes.

It aired on February 15, 2009.

The highest rated episode is "Boom Crunch" (S6E10) with a rating of 8.50.

This episode received 744 votes.

It aired on December 6, 2009.


The lowest rated episode is "Careful the Things You Say" (S6E7) with a rating of 7.50.

This episode received 578 votes.

It aired on November 8, 2009.

The highest rated episode is "Down the Block There's a Riot" (S7E10) with a rating of 8.90.

This episode received 902 votes.

It aired on December 12, 2010.


The lowest rated episode is "I'm Still Here" (S7E13) with a rating of 7.50.

This episode received 540 votes.

It aired on January 16, 2011.

The highest rated episode is "Finishing the Hat" (S8E23) with a rating of 9.10.

This episode received 1,139 votes.

It aired on May 13, 2012.


The lowest rated episode is "Watch While I Revise the World" (S8E3) with a rating of 7.50.

This episode received 547 votes.

It aired on October 9, 2011.

Name Department Job
Alexandra Cunningham Production Producer
Bob Daily Production Producer
Charles Pratt, Jr. Production Producer
Charles Skouras III Production Producer
Chris Black Production Producer
David Grossman Production Producer
George W. Perkins Production Producer
Joe Keenan Production Producer
Joey Murphy Production Producer
John Pardee Production Producer
Kevin Murphy Production Producer
Larry Shaw Production Producer
Marc Cherry Production Executive Producer
Michael Edelstein Production Executive Producer
Patty Lin Production Producer
Tom Spezialy Production Executive Producer
Tracey Stern Production Producer

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