<em>It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia</em> (IASIP) made its debut on FX in 2005, and now, with its impressive 16th season, it has secured its place as the longest-running live-action sitcom in history. With two additional seasons already confirmed, fans can expect this beloved show to continue delighting audiences for years to come. The series features an ensemble cast that includes Charlie Day, Glenn Howerton, Rob McElhenney, Kaitlin Olson, and Danny DeVito, who portray a group of self-absorbed friends frequently labeled as “the worst people in the world.” They own Paddy’s Pub, a bar struggling to find success in Philadelphia.

This group, affectionately known as “The Gang,” finds themselves in a plethora of outrageous situations, from engaging in elaborate scams to producing their own musicals. Regardless of the scenario, viewers can expect a blend of absurdity and humor, with many iconic moments from the show becoming widely recognized memes. The series is also known for its fearless approach to addressing contemporary issues, all delivered with its signature dark humor. With more than 100 episodes, many of which boast an IMDb rating of 9 or higher, fans are spoiled for choice when it comes to entertaining storylines from the best It’s Always Sunny episodes. As audiences savor each episode of the latest Season 17, it’s the perfect opportunity to revisit some fan-favorite episodes from previous seasons. The top-rated and most beloved episodes of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia serve as an ideal launchpad for binge-watching this hilarious sitcom.

30

“The Gang Buys a Boat” (Season 6, Episode 3)

IMDb Rating: 8.9/10

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia Season 6, Episode 3, titled “The Gang Buys a Boat,” delivers precisely what the name suggests. In this episode, the gang takes the plunge and purchases a boat, which inevitably leads to a series of absurd and comical misadventures as they navigate the seas. This episode stands out as it shifts away from the familiar bar setting that fans have come to love, offering a fresh perspective on the gang’s antics.

What enhances the hilarity is that none of the gang members possess any real knowledge or experience regarding boating or maritime activities. This lack of expertise amplifies the comedic elements throughout the episode, allowing the plot to unfold in unexpected and entertaining ways. True to the signature style of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, viewers are treated to surprising twists and turns that keep them engaged and laughing. —Eddie Possehl

29

“Paddy’s Pub: Home of the Original Kitten Mittens” (Season 5, Episode 8)

IMDb Rating: 8.9/10

When a convention rolls into Philadelphia, the gang rallies together to create a unique merchandising opportunity for Paddy’s Pub in their signature outrageous style. The hilariously memorable cold open of “Paddy’s Pub: Home of the Original Kitten Mittens” is undoubtedly one of the finest in the entire series.

This episode is a testament to the gang’s creativity and leads to a product that has audiences in stitches around the globe. The dynamics between the characters are as entertaining as ever, but it’s the iconic cold open that elevates this eighth episode of the fifth season and distinguishes it from the rest of Season 5. —Eddie Possehl

28

“Sweet Dee Has a Heart Attack” (Season 4, Episode 10)

IMDb Rating: 8.9/10

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia has generated a multitude of popular memes and jokes throughout its remarkable run. One particularly memorable meme originates from Season 4, Episode 10, titled “Sweet Dee Has a Heart Attack,” where Charlie becomes fixated on a conspiracy board filled with various theories while he and Mac try to secure health insurance for themselves.

As the title suggests, Dee suffers a heart attack, which prompts her to enlist Dennis’s help in pursuing a healthier lifestyle. However, this transition proves to be far more complicated than expected, as the gang invariably finds a way to complicate matters. The clever and rapid-fire comedy in this episode showcases not only the origin of a popular meme but also delivers a uniquely funny narrative. —Eddie Possehl

27

“The Gang Dances Their A Off” (Season 3, Episode 15)

IMDb Rating: 8.9/10

In a classic blunder, Charlie mistakenly enters Paddy’s Pub into a local dance competition, prompting Frank to rally the gang into participating. As expected, the gang resorts to their usual antics, attempting to cheat their fellow contestants in a frantic bid for victory. In their typical fashion, they end up cheating each other as well, leading to a chaotic and comedic showdown.

This Season 3 finale, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia Episode 15, titled “The Gang Dances Their A Off,” encapsulates everything that makes a finale successful while highlighting the best aspects of Season 3 and the series as a whole. It cleverly pays tribute to the defining traits of all major characters from that season, providing an engaging conclusion to their respective arcs. —Eddie Possehl

26

“The Gang Gets Held Hostage” (Season 3, Episode 4)

IMDb Rating: 8.9/10

As the ongoing feud between the gang and the McPoyle brothers and sister Margaret intensifies, the two factions find themselves in a precarious situation when the gang gets held hostage at Paddy’s Pub. This unexpected twist elevates the stakes to a new level, compelling the gang to adapt to a dire situation they have never faced before. Typically, they manipulate events from behind the scenes, but in this episode, they are thrust into an entirely different scenario—one that forces them out of their comfort zone and into uncharted territory. This conflict has evolved significantly over the course of the series, providing ample material for the writers to explore and create engaging storytelling. —Eddie Possehl

25

“The Gang Saves the Day” (Season 9, Episode 6)

IMDb Rating: 9.0/10

In a tense scenario, the Paddy’s Pub gang finds themselves trapped in a convenience store while an armed robber holds the cashier at gunpoint. As panic ensues, each member of the gang contemplates their escape strategy, though in reality, none of them are formulating a real plan. Instead, they indulge in daydreams about how they wish the situation would unfold.

Throughout this episode, viewers are granted an exclusive glimpse into the subconscious thoughts of the gang, revealing their most superficial desires as their lives hang in the balance. Mac becomes a heroic figure battling Yakuza, Dee dreams of marrying Josh Groban, Dennis imagines physical therapy with a voluptuous blonde, Frank visualizes himself devouring hotdogs, and Charlie envisions a whimsical life with rat kids reminiscent of a Ratatouille/Up-like fantasy. — Dyah Ayu Larasati

24

“Reynolds vs Reynolds: The Cereal Defense” (Season 8, Episode 10)

IMDb Rating: 9.0/10

Order in the court—well, at least at Paddy’s Pub. In this episode, Dennis and Frank find themselves embroiled in a heated argument following Frank’s reckless collision with Dennis’ car during a traffic stop, resulting in a mess of spilled food in the driver’s seat. Initially, the gang takes Dennis’ side due to Frank’s blatant negligence. However, when Dee, Mac, and Charlie discover that Dennis was indulging in cereal while driving, an act deemed just as outrageous, they decide to escalate the matter to court—albeit in a makeshift setting at the pub.

The “court” proceedings play out as a hilarious mock trial, with the gang role-playing in exaggerated roles (Dee as the attorney, Mac as the judge/bailiff). Amidst outrageous claims, such as referring to Frank as “donkey-brained,” contrasted with legitimate documents like a certificate from a mental institution, the hearing takes unexpected turns. The episode culminates in a chaotic debate led by Mac, who passionately critiques the logic of renowned figures like Aristotle, Galileo, and Isaac Newton as logical fallacies. — Dyah Ayu Larasati

23

“The Gang Gets Analyzed” (Season 8, Episode 5)

IMDb Rating: 9.0/10

When it comes to captivating entertainment, nothing compares to a dysfunctional group attending therapy. In this episode, the gang from Paddy’s Pub seeks the help of a psychologist, and as expected, their session spirals into absurdity. Mac finds himself shedding tears over his reverse body dysmorphia, Charlie surprisingly displays moments of self-awareness, Frank laments about a deceased lover, and Dennis attempts to outsmart the therapist, even trying to take control of the session. Dee, on the other hand, insists she was the first choice for The Notebook, a claim that is as exaggerated as it is humorous.

Having experienced eight seasons of the gang’s outrageous antics, it is refreshing to witness a professional’s perspective on their chaotic behavior. As the psychologist attempts to address each member individually, viewers observe her slow descent into despair as she tries to navigate their complex personalities. The episode culminates in the classic fashion of a fistfight, delivering an unforgettable closing to their therapy session. — Dyah Ayu Larasati

22

“Mac & Charlie Die: Part 1” (Season 4, Episode 5)

IMDb Rating: 9.0/10

In a hilarious turn of events, Mac and Charlie contrive a plan to fake their own deaths after their attempt to frame Mac’s father, Luther, at a parole hearing goes awry. Meanwhile, Dennis and Frank are preoccupied with a debate surrounding their newfound “glory hole” in the pub bathroom. This episode also features an “orgy,” which in reality, consists of a group of older individuals in masks, awkwardly feasting on questionable shrimp from a buffet table.

As the show’s quintessential duo, the not-so-bright Mac believes that a fake suicide pact will effectively divert Luther’s attention away from them. However, staging a mock death proves to be far more complex and challenging than anticipated. Before long, Mac finds himself dressed in a wedding gown, indulging in poppers, and accidentally shooting Dee’s car without hitting the gas tank. Meanwhile, Charlie experiences frequent breakdowns over minor inconveniences, adding to the episode’s comedic chaos. — Dyah Ayu Larasati

21

“Mac is a Serial Killer” (Season 3, Episode 10)

IMDb Rating: 9.0/10

When news breaks of a serial killer on the loose in Philadelphia, the gang immediately suspects that Mac could be the culprit. Upon his arrival at work, Mac displays suspicious scratches on his neck, and the gang notes his recent absence from his shifts. Despite his denials, the gang embarks on an episode-long stakeout to uncover the truth behind the allegations.

As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that Mac has been secretly dating Carmen, a trans woman, with whom he is embarrassed to be associated, thus hiding his true self due to his own struggles with sexuality. This episode also delves deeper into Dennis’s character, showcasing his psychopathic tendencies as he obsessively analyzes the mind of the potential killer, becoming overly enthusiastic at the thought of harming The Waitress.