The Best 'Gotham' Seasons, Ranked

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Updated April 28, 2024 5 items
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Gotham, an origin story of the legendary characters in Batman's universe, offers an incredible variety within its five-season run. As the series follows Detective James Gordon through Gotham City's web of corruption, fans witness the evolution of villains such as The Penguin, The Riddler, and other infamous adversaries. Delving into some of the best Gotham seasons can provide an enlightening perspective on this show. 

A dive into the best seasons of Gotham reveals the role each season plays in shaping the overall narrative. From character development to plotlines, each season contributes to the show's complex portrait of Gotham City. It's no wonder that viewers find themselves thoroughly immersed in this television experience. 

For instance, Gotham - Season 4 stands out for its storytelling and intricate plot twists, while Season 2 explores villain origins.  Season 5 showcases character growth and provides an electrifying finale to this series. Although these examples highlight just a few notable instances within the show's entire run, they demonstrate why these seasons are considered some of the finest.

As one navigates through the narrative arc of the best Gotham seasons, it is evident that this crime drama will continue to attract viewers for years to come. By discovering how individual seasons have contributed to crafting the show's story arc, it becomes apparent why Gotham has garnered immense popularity over time. 

  • Gotham - Season 4
    Photo: Fox

    The fourth season of Gotham premiered on September 21, 2017, and contains 22 episodes. This season focuses on the Penguin's crime ring.

    This season contains several memorable episodes including: "Pax Penguina," "They Who Hide Behind Masks" and "Hog Day Afternoon."

    Memorable moments from Season 4 include:

    • The Riddler escapes.
    • Jeremiah joins forces with Ra's al Ghul.
    • Selina gets shot.
    237 votes
  • Gotham - Season 2
    Photo: Fox

    The second season of Gotham premiered on September 21, 2015, and contains 22 episodes. This season continues to focus on crime in the city.

    This season contains several memorable episodes including: "Knock, Knock," "Damned If You Do..." and "A Dead Man Feels No Cold."

    Memorable moments from Season 2 include:

    • The Galavans lead a breakout at the Arkham Asylum.
    • Professor Hugo Strange experiments on Theo Galavan.
    • Gordon prevents an explosion.

     

    209 votes
  •  Gotham - Season 5
    Photo: Fox

    The fifth season of Gotham premiered on January 3, 2019, and contains 12 episodes. This season still focuses on Gordon and Bruce's quest to rid the city of crime.

    This season contains several memorable episodes including: "Year Zero," "Trespassers" and "Penguin, Our Hero."

    Memorable moments from Season 5 include:

    • Bruce asks Ivy for help.
    • Barbara gives birth to Barbara Lee Gordon.
    • Bruce becomes Batman.
    193 votes
  • Gotham - Season 3
    Photo: Fox

    The third season of Gotham premiered on September 19, 2016, and contains 22 episodes. This season continues to focus on Bruce's search for answers.

    This season contains several memorable episodes including: "Better to Reign in Hell...," "The Executioner" and "Ghosts."

    Memorable moments from Season 3 include:

    • Gordon becomes a bounty hunter.
    • Bruce dates Selina.
    • Bruce becomes a vigilante.
    196 votes
  • Gotham - Season 1
    Photo: Fox

    The first season of Gotham premiered on September 22, 2014, and contains 22 episodes. This season focuses on James Gordan and Harvey Bullock's investigations.

    This season contains several memorable episodes including: "Pilot," "Selina Kyle" and "Rogues' Gallery."

    Memorable moments from Season 1 include:

    • Gordan makes a promise to Bruce Wayne.
    • Alfred gets stabbed.
    • Cobblepot rises in the crime ranks.
    233 votes