All “X-Files” fans—old and new—are sure to love this list of the top classic “X-Files” episodes. Created by Chris Carter and running for nine seasons on FOX, this iconic sci-fi series features paranormal investigations led by agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully. With a total of 202 episodes available, there are so many great episodes to choose from. Many of the series’ episodes stand out as exemplary examples of science fiction storytelling, while others delve into the dangers of technology, environmental disasters, and more. Here are the top classic episodes from “The X-Files.”
The Top Ten Classic X-Files Episodes
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“Squeeze” – This classic installment follows Mulder and Scully as they investigate a series of murders committed by an ancient creature known as Eugene Victor Tooms, a man with the ability to stretch and contort himself, allowing him to fit into small places that normal people couldn’t. This episode set the tone for the series and set up the dynamic between Mulder and Scully.
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“Home” – One of the most controversial episodes of all time, “Home” is set in an isolated Pennsylvania town where two violent inbred brothers are accused of kidnapping and killing a baby. This episode was too unsettling for FOX to give it an airing, and was later broadcast with a “viewer discretion advised” warning.
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“Clyde Bruckman’s Final Repose” – This installment follows Mulder and Scully as they investigate a murderer who is killing fortune-tellers. Actor Peter Boyle was awarded an Emmy for his performance as Clyde Bruckman, a scared psychic who helps the agents solve the case.
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“The Post-Modern Prometheus” – Widely regarded as one of the show’s most visually striking episodes, “The Post-Modern Prometheus” follows Mulder and Scully and their investigation into the case of a “monster” living in a rustic town.
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“Jose Chung’s From Outer Space” – The episode is narrated by an author investigating a mysterious abduction involving three teenagers. This installment features guest stars Jesse Ventura, Alex Trebek, and Brian Thompson.
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“Pusher” – This is an intense episode about a man named Robert Patrick Modell who uses mind control to make his victims commit suicide. Guest starring Robert Wisden and Robert Patrick, this is one of the best stand-alone episodes from the first season.
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“Bad Blood” – The episode follows Scully and Mulder as they investigate a series of murders caused by a mysterious creature. This installment’s humorous script and interesting plot twists also earned it an Emmy nomination.
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“Chinga” – Written by novelist Stephen King, this installment follows Mulder and Scully as they investigate a doll with the power to kill people. Featuring guest star Michael Gaston, the episode was controversial due to its violent content, which received numerous complaints.
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“War of the Coprophages” – This episode follows Mulder and Scully as they investigate a series of mysterious deaths. The episode also features performances by comedic actors Jay Leno and Kathy Griffin.
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“The Host” – This installment follows Mulder and Scully as they investigate a mysterious creature living in the sewers of New Jersey. The slimy “Flukeman” featured in this episode is still one of the most iconic aspects of the show.
These episodes are just a sample of what viewers could expect to get from “The X-Files”. Each episode is filled with inventive action sequences, thrilling suspense, and unexpected twists. For those looking to relive the excitement of the classic “X-Files” episodes, or to see what all the fuss is about, these are the top ten must-see classic episodes.