“Criminal Minds” is a riveting police procedural series that has captured the hearts of viewers around the world. Over its 15-season run, the show offered a window into the complex world of criminal profiling and the psychological underpinnings of crime. From intense storylines to thought-provoking character development, “Criminal Minds” had it all. Here’s a look at the 24 best episodes that fans still talk about today.

1. “Riding the Lightning” (Season 1, Episode 14)

2. “The Fisher King, Part 1” (Season 1, Episode 22)

3. “The Fisher King, Part 2” (Season 2, Episode 1)

4. “Revelations” (Season 2, Episode 15)

5. “North Mammon” (Season 2, Episode 7)

6. “Open Season” (Season 2, Episode 21)

7. “In Name and Blood” (Season 3, Episode 2)

8. “Seven Seconds” (Season 3, Episode 5)

9. “100” (Season 5, Episode 9)

10. “Mosley Lane” (Season 5, Episode 16)

11. “…A Thousand Words” (Season 5, Episode 20)

12. “The Uncanny Valley” (Season 5, Episode 12)

13. “Lauren” (Season 6, Episode 18)

14. “Into the Woods” (Season 6, Episode 9)

15. “Hanley Waters” (Season 6, Episode 20)

16. “Hit” (Season 7, Episode23)

17. “Run” (Season7, Episode24)

18. “Zugzwang” (Season8,Episode12)

19. “200”( Season9 ,Episode14 )

20. “Angels”( Season9 ,Episode23 )

21. “Demons”( Season9 ,Episode24 )

22. “Mr.Scratch”( Season10 ,Episode21 )

23. “Entropy”( Season11 ,Episode11 )

24. “Spencer”( Season12 ,Episode13 )

These episodes highlight the best of what made “Criminal Minds” a fan favorite: intricate plotting, dynamic character interactions and a deep dive into the psychology of crime. Whether it’s facing personal demons or confronting terrifying unsubs who challenge the BAU team at every turn, these episodes represent peak storytelling in a series that often went much deeper than your average procedural drama.

From Gideon’s intense face-off with a serial killer couple in “Riding the Lightning,” to the emotionally charged storyline of Hotch’s nemesis in both “100” and “200,” these selections are sure to thrill long-time fans and new viewers alike who are looking for quality television that goes beyond simple whodunits.

Indeed, each episode on this list epitomizes what loyal viewers have come to expect from this storied show: suspenseful storylines backed by comprehensive character studies that explore what drives some individuals to commit heinous acts—and what it takes to bring them to justice.

If you’re looking to revisit the excellence of this beloved series or discovering it for the first time—these top-tier episodes are an absolute must-watch!