The Best 'Scandal' Seasons, Ranked

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Updated April 28, 2024 5 items
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443 votes
179 voters

Political intrigue, high stakes, and captivating drama – this is the essence of Scandal. The Shonda Rhimes-created television series follows the life of Olivia Pope (played by Kerry Washington), a former White House Communications Director turned crisis-management expert. The gripping plotlines that unfold throughout the show's seven-season run have garnered praise from both viewers and critics alike. But what makes certain seasons stand out above others? It's time to dive into an analysis of the best Scandal seasons. 

The very idea of selecting the best seasons of Scandal may seem daunting at first; after all, each season contributed significantly to the overall story arc. Indeed, Scandal has continually pushed boundaries and captured viewers' attention with its twists and turns since its debut in 2012. However, some seasons have managed to surpass expectations even further, making them particularly noteworthy in the realm of political dramas. 

For instance, consider Scandal Season 2: a whirlwind journey that raised the stakes for our beloved characters. With storylines centered around election rigging and assassination attempts, it was no surprise that Season 2 left fans on edge every week. Then there's Scandal Season 3, which delved deeper into Olivia's personal life while never losing sight of its thrilling political backdrop - a delicate balance. Lastly, let's not forget where it all began: Scandal Season 1 laid the foundation for what would become an classic show while still maintaining a sense of freshness in each episode. 

When examining the best seasons of Scandal, it becomes clear how important each individual piece is in creating an intricate and compelling puzzle. From the first episode to the last, Scandal remains an unforgettable part of television history - a testament to the power of great storytelling. 

  • Scandal Season 2
    1
    88 VOTES

    Scandal Season 2

    First Aired: September 27, 2012
    Last Aired: May 16, 2013

    An assassination attempt against President Fitz Grant occurs, though he survives. It is revealed that election-rigging occurred in the past. Olivia and her team meanwhile find out what is causing an information leak from the White House. 

    Interesting episodes this season include "The Other Woman," "All Roads Lead to Fitz," and "Nobody Likes Babies." 

    Key moments this season:
    - A government official reveals that the government spies on people using "Thorngate"
    - President Grant is shot at an event
    - The woman who attempted the assassination on Grant reveals herself
    88 votes
  • Scandal Season 3
    2
    75 VOTES

    Scandal Season 3

    First Aired: October 3, 2013
    Last Aired: April 17, 2014

    Olivia works with Grant to help him get re-elected. Vice President Sally Langston decides to run for president against him. Meanwhile, Olivia learns that her mother, long thought dead, may be alive. The firm races to find her. 

    Major episodes this season include "Mrs. Smith Goes to Washington," "YOLO," and "No Sun on the Horizon." 

    Key moments in this season: 
    - Info on another of the President's mistresses leaks
    - Grant reveals his role in Operation Remington
    - Langston shoots her husband
    75 votes
  • Scandal Season 1
    3
    57 VOTES

    Scandal Season 1

    First Aired: April 5, 2012

    Former White House official Olivia Pope founds a public relations firm, with the US government as her client. The arrangement, however, has some complications owing to Pope's past relationship with President Fitzgerald Grant. Her job is filled with a lot of challenges that seem to come all at the same time. 

    Key episodes this season include "Sweet Baby," "Enemy of the State," and "Grant: For the People." 

    Memorable events this season include:
    - Amanda claiming she has the President's child
    - Olivia telling a gay officer to come out
    57 votes
  • Scandal Season 5
    • Photo:
    4
    47 VOTES

    Scandal Season 5

    First Aired: September 24, 2015

    The season starts with Olivia and Fitz again in a relationship. They and Olivia's team face a new set of challenges in their usual investigations and cover-ups. The hunt for Rowan continues.

    Sigificant episodes this season include "Dog-Whistle Politics," "Get Out of Jail, Free," and "Rasputin."  

    Key events in the season include:
    - More photos of Olivia and Fitz get leaked
    - Mellie finally signs divorce papers
    - Olivia and Fitz are presented with a plan that has them getting married
    47 votes
  • Scandal Season 4
    • Photo:
    5
    50 VOTES

    Scandal Season 4

    First Aired: September 12, 2014
    Last Aired: May 14, 2015

    After two months in hiding, with her firm dissolved, Olivia emerges to try to help Jake after he is made the fall guy for a murder. She and her crew move to take down the B613 organization, although they face a lot of hurdles. They also discover multiple moles set up by Rowan to foil attempts to catch B613. 

    Interesting episodes this season include "The State of the Union," "Like Father, Like Daughter," and "Where the Sun Don't Shine." 

    Memorable moments from this season:
    - The president's daughter has her own sex scandal to cover up 
    - Olivia's auction after being kidnapped
    - The confrontation with the former KGB agent and others
    50 votes