The BEST episodes of Special
Every episode of Special ever, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of Special!
A young gay man with cerebral palsy branches out from his insular existence in hopes of finally going after the life he wants.
#1 - Chapter Eight: Gay Gardens
Season 1 - Episode 8 - Aired 4/12/2019
Conflicted by how he’s being defined, Ryan decides to come clean at work and with his friends. But focusing on himself leaves Karen feeling left out.
#2 - Chapter Three: Free Scones
Season 1 - Episode 3 - Aired 4/12/2019
Karen reluctantly agrees to help Ryan find an apartment while Kim eagerly volunteers to help him check another big milestone off his list.
#3 - I Don’t Like It Like This
Season 2 - Episode 2 - Aired 5/20/2021
As Ryan and Kim try to unpack their respective romantic situations, Ryan’s gets an unexpected new wrinkle. Karen catches up with an old friend.
#4 - Chapter Five: Vagina Momologues
Season 1 - Episode 5 - Aired 4/12/2019
Karen’s shopping trip is cut short as she tends to pressing matters for her mother and Ryan, fueling frustrations with her role as dual-caregiver.
#5 - Chapter Six: Straight Potential
Season 1 - Episode 6 - Aired 4/12/2019
While Ryan attends a dudes’ poker night, Karen lets loose with Phil at home, basking in her affection for him -- and for grilled cheese.
#6 - That’s the Way the Boys Are
Season 2 - Episode 3 - Aired 5/20/2021
On the night of Kim’s birthday bash, she and Ryan find themselves at a crossroads. Karen bonds with Phil’s new flame, but things turn awkward quickly.
#7 - Ryan Joins the Crips
Season 2 - Episode 5 - Aired 5/20/2021
Ryan explores a new romantic opportunity but is caught off guard by a surprising dilemma. A destitute Kim is forced to move back in with her parents.
#8 - Death by a Thousand Cold Cuts
Season 2 - Episode 4 - Aired 5/20/2021
A big loss exposes bigger fissures in Ryan and Karen’s relationship and sends Karen seeking out some familiar comfort.
#9 - One Day Stand
Season 2 - Episode 1 - Aired 5/20/2021
A night out leads Ryan to an exciting but complicated new connection. As Karen longs for reconciliation with her son, Kim questions their dynamic.
#10 - Chapter Two: The Deep End
Season 1 - Episode 2 - Aired 4/12/2019
Kim encourages a daunted Ryan to be more comfortable with his body at Olivia’s pool party, where they both make some surprising new friends.
#11 - Here’s Where the Story Ends
Season 2 - Episode 8 - Aired 5/20/2021
As Olivia’s wedding arrives, Ryan, Kim and Karen find themselves facing tough changes — but also discovering opportunities that may be truly special.
#12 - Chapter Four: Housechilling Party
Season 1 - Episode 4 - Aired 4/12/2019
Ryan’s underwhelming attempt at a housewarming party leads to a bonding session with Kim. Karen’s nest doesn’t stay empty for long.
#13 - Chapter Seven: Blind Deaf Date
Season 1 - Episode 7 - Aired 4/12/2019
An unconventional blind date leads Ryan to examine his own biases and insecurities. Friction develops in Karen and Phil’s burgeoning romance.
#14 - Chapter One: Cerebral LOLzy
Season 1 - Episode 1 - Aired 4/12/2019
In the wake of being hit by a car, Ryan begins a coveted internship and finds an opportunity to redefine himself based on his recent run-in.
#15 - Prom Queens
Season 2 - Episode 6 - Aired 5/20/2021
Tensions simmer as Kim’s family celebrates Diwali, while things get super awkward at the “Crips Prom” between Ryan’s new friends and his date.
#16 - Why Is No One Ready?
Season 2 - Episode 7 - Aired 5/20/2021
A weekend getaway proves anything but relaxing for Ryan and Tanner, as Karen takes a long-overdue trip herself. Kim and Ravi examine their relationship.