For an impressive total of 11 seasons and more than 200 episodes, along with two feature films, the iconic FBI agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny), a passionate believer in the paranormal, and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson), a logical skeptic, delved into the bureau’s most bizarre cases in the groundbreaking series The X-Files, a unique blend of science fiction and police procedural. The series made its debut on Fox in 1993, running for nine seasons before being revived in 2016 for two additional seasons. Created by Chris Carter, it stands as one of the longest-running science fiction shows in television history, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture. Given its enduring popularity, it is no surprise that another X-Files reboot is currently in development by Ryan Coogler.
The X-Files is renowned for its gripping episodes that explore government conspiracies and intriguing monsters of the week. However, it also navigated profound themes of heartbreak and humanity throughout its run. Despite its focus on the supernatural, the narratives often showcased deeply human stories, demonstrating that even a monster-of-the-week episode could possess surprising depth and layers of melancholy.
10
“Conduit” – A Haunting Tale of Abduction
Season 1, Episode 4 (1993)
In the gripping episode “Conduit,” Agent Mulder becomes personally invested in the harrowing case of a teenage girl named Ruby (Taunya Dee), who is believed to have been abducted by aliens during a camping trip with her mother and younger brother, Kevin (Joel Palmer). Kevin allegedly witnessed the abduction and may possess the ability to receive satellite transmissions. This case resonates deeply with Mulder, as it mirrors the traumatic abduction of his sister, Samantha, during their childhood, and he harbors hope that this investigation might shed light on her mysterious disappearance.
The abduction of Samantha is a pivotal aspect of Mulder’s character—it serves as his driving force for becoming an FBI agent and dedicating his life to the X-Files. He relentlessly pursues answers about her fate. The episode “Conduit” serves as a poignant reminder of Samantha’s abduction, and Mulder’s identification with Kevin intensifies the emotional stakes of the case. This episode provides profound insights into Mulder’s character, illustrating the lasting impact of Samantha’s disappearance on his psyche.
9
“Oubliette” – A Psychic Connection to Trauma
Season 3, Episode 8 (1995)
In the emotionally charged episode “Oubliette,” Mulder investigates a distressing kidnapping case and enlists the help of Lucy (Tracey Ellis), a woman who had been kidnapped by the same perpetrator years ago. Lucy possesses a mysterious psychic connection to the current victim, experiencing physical symptoms such as nosebleeds, scratches, and even temporary blindness. When the kidnapped girl is found unresponsive, Lucy makes the ultimate sacrifice, choosing to give her life for the young girl’s survival. The case resonates with Mulder, as it reminds him of his sister’s abduction from their childhood.
Many of the most poignant episodes of The X-Files explore the personal lives and losses of Mulder and Scully, and “Oubliette” stands out as a particularly devastating illustration of this theme. Mulder’s personal connection to the case draws him in, but it is Lucy’s selfless sacrifice that truly renders the episode heart-wrenching. The bittersweet conclusion, coupled with Ellis’s remarkable guest performance, solidifies this episode as a memorable entry in the series.
8
“Beyond the Sea” – A Grief-Driven Investigation
Season 1, Episode 13 (1994)
In the poignant episode “Beyond the Sea,” Scully experiences a profound moment when she awakens to see her father, William (Don Davis), sitting quietly beside her, only to receive a phone call from her mother moments later, revealing that he had passed away an hour earlier. Concurrently, death-row inmate Luther Lee Boggs (Brad Dourif) claims to possess psychic abilities and offers to lead Mulder to a serial killer in exchange for a reduced sentence, claiming he has a message from Scully’s deceased father. In a noteworthy twist, Scully, typically the skeptic, finds herself believing Boggs’ assertions.
The dynamic between Mulder and Scully as the believer and skeptic, respectively, is a central theme in The X-Files. However, “Beyond the Sea” challenges those roles, showcasing Scully as the believer for the first time, driven by grief and the desire to trust that Boggs is revealing the truth. Anderson’s performance shines in this episode, complemented by Dourif’s unsettling portrayal of Boggs, making this episode not only heart-wrenching but also one of the most memorable in the series.
7
“Memento Mori” – Confronting Mortality and Sacrifice
Season 4, Episode 14 (1997)
In the emotionally charged episode “Memento Mori,” Scully receives a devastating diagnosis of an inoperable cancerous tumor, prompting Mulder to refuse to accept that her fate is sealed. Determined to help her, he collaborates with the Lone Gunmen to investigate her abduction, seeking any means to aid in her recovery. Their investigation leads them to a fertility clinic with records indicating that Scully and other abducted women had supposedly received treatment, despite never having visited the facility. Meanwhile, the doctor handling her case appears to lack genuine interest in saving her life.
As both Mulder and Scully confront the harsh reality of her diagnosis in “Memento Mori,” the episode offers some of the most heartbreaking moments of the series, particularly through Scully’s intimate journal entries as she grapples with her condition. The deep bond between Mulder and Scully is beautifully portrayed, highlighting their mutual care and support for one another. Above all, Anderson’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary, earning her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress.
6
“Christmas Carol” – A Tale of Loss and Longing
Season 5, Episode 6 (1997)
During the Christmas holiday, while surrounded by her family, Scully receives a phone call that seems to come from her deceased sister, Melissa, in the emotionally charged episode “Christmas Carol,” which marks the beginning of a two-part narrative arc. Following the discovery of a woman who appears to have taken her own life in a bathtub, Scully becomes convinced that the woman’s daughter, Emily (Lauren Diewold), bears a striking resemblance to her late sister and might be Melissa’s secret child. Driven by her instincts, Scully wishes to adopt Emily, but her demanding and dangerous career poses a significant obstacle.
The two-part arc encompassing “Christmas Carol” and “Emily” brings forth profound emotional turmoil for Scully, intensifying her trauma. After learning that her cancer diagnosis has rendered her unable to conceive, these episodes provide a glimpse into the potential joys and heartaches of motherhood. Particularly, “Christmas Carol” delves into the grief surrounding Melissa’s loss, showcasing Anderson’s remarkable ability to convey deep emotion through her performance.
5
“Emily” – A Heartbreaking Revelation
Season 5, Episode 7 (1997)
Continuing the emotional narrative from “Christmas Carol,” the episode “Emily” reveals a shocking twist. Scully meets a young girl named Emily, whom she believes to be the secret daughter of her late sister, Melissa. However, she soon discovers that Emily is biologically her own child, conceived using Scully’s ovum taken during her abduction. As Scully navigates her desire to adopt Emily, the little girl’s health deteriorates, revealing that her blood is green, suggesting she is an alien-human hybrid.
“Emily” escalates the emotional stakes even higher than its predecessor, “Christmas Carol.” Scully’s hopes for motherhood are abruptly shattered, paralleling the heart-wrenching experiences of both her and Emily throughout the two-part arc. The scenes depicting Emily’s illness are agonizingly difficult to watch, culminating in a devastating funeral that leaves a lasting impact on the audience.
4
“William” – A Mother’s Heartbreaking Choice
Season 9, Episode 16 (2002)
In the gripping episode “William,” a man with extensive scarring breaks into the X-Files office, claiming to possess critical information regarding a new alien conspiracy. Genetic testing reveals he shares DNA with Mulder, suggesting a shocking connection. Ultimately, he is identified as Jeffrey Spender (Chris Owens), and he reveals information pertinent to Scully’s infant son, William. Faced with the undeniable danger posed to her child, Scully makes the heart-wrenching decision to give him up to protect him.
Mirroring the emotional weight of “Christmas Carol” and “Emily,” “William” illustrates Scully’s profound love for her child—ultimately leading her to make the most difficult choice for his safety, reflecting her selflessness as a mother. Despite being a voluntary choice, the emotional impact remains profound, particularly in scenes portraying William with his adoptive family, which are bittersweet and highlight the hope for a safer future.
3
“This Is Not Happening” – A Desperate Search for Truth
Season 8, Episode 14 (2001)
In the suspenseful episode “This Is Not Happening,” Theresa Hoese, the woman abducted the night before Mulder, is discovered in a critical state, prompting Scully and Doggett to consider a link between her case and Mulder’s mysterious disappearance. Doggett brings in his former colleague, Monica Reyes (Annabeth Gish), to assist in the investigation. Eventually, Mulder is found, seemingly lifeless. As Scully rushes to seek assistance from a man believed to possess healing powers, a mysterious beam of light appears, and Mulder vanishes.
Filled with intense emotional scenes, “This Is Not Happening” culminates in a heart-wrenching finale. Scully’s reaction to discovering Mulder’s body and realizing his chance for survival has slipped away is profoundly devastating. Anderson delivers an exceptional performance throughout this chilling episode, but it’s the closing moments that resonate most deeply, as she powerfully conveys Scully’s anguish and fury, particularly after a fleeting moment of hope.
2
“One Breath” – The Depth of Love and Fear
Season 2, Episode 8 (1994)
In the gripping episode “One Breath,” Scully mysteriously reappears in a Washington hospital following her abduction, but while she is alive, she remains in a coma and is critically ill. Mulder, driven by love and determination, is resolute in discovering the truth behind her abduction. His informant, X, provides some answers, leading him to confront the notorious Cigarette Smoking Man (William B. Davis). Meanwhile, Scully experiences haunting visions of her loved ones, including her deceased father, and a mysterious nurse.
The chemistry between Mulder and Scully is a cornerstone of The X-Files, and “One Breath” encapsulates the depth of their connection, showcasing Mulder’s unwavering concern for Scully. His emotional turmoil and devotion are both heartwarming and heartbreaking, with some of the most powerful moments derived from his fear of losing her. Additionally, the episode delves into Scully’s struggle with faith amidst uncertainty.
1
“Closure” – The Search for Answers and Resolution
Season 7, Episode 11 (2000)
In the emotionally charged episode “Closure,” Mulder uncovers a mass grave filled with the remains of numerous children, leading him to encounter a man who claims to have visions of other children who remain unaccounted for. This revelation brings Mulder face-to-face with the truth regarding his sister Samantha’s fate, uncovering that she was abducted as part of a sinister agreement between alien Colonists and the Syndicate, ultimately leading to her tragic demise. In the poignant closing moments, Mulder has a vision of Samantha and the other children.
Throughout The X-Files, Mulder’s relentless pursuit of answers regarding Samantha’s disappearance serves as a driving narrative. While he has always speculated that her abduction was connected to aliens, “Closure” delves into a more grounded exploration of the possibility of kidnapping. This episode is regarded as one of the most heartbreaking in the series, with the final moments delivering an emotional gut-punch, heightened by the haunting melody of “My Weakness” by Moby.
