Top 10 Must-See Episodes of Mystery Science Theater 3000

In 1988, a cultural sensation emerged on KTMA, a local TV station, during Thanksgiving Day, setting off a chain reaction that would cement Mystery Science Theater 3000 in television history. Conceived by Joel Hodgson, who also starred as the show's host, alongside comedians Trace Beaulieu and Josh Weinstein, and producer Jim Mallon, the series followed Joel, a man stranded in space as part of a sinister experiment by mad scientists (played by Trace and Josh). His control panel was repurposed into two robot companions, Crow and Tom Servo. The trio, unwilling subjects of the evil doctors, endured watching awful films, using humor, witty remarks, and ongoing jokes to cope. The show quickly gained a loyal following.

As word of MST3K's unique charm spread, the Comedy Channel acquired the series in 1989, providing a modest budget boost. The show gained momentum, running until 1999 with several cast changes. Frank Conniff stepped in for Weinstein as Dr. Forrester's (Beaulieu) inept assistant, while Kevin Murphy took over voicing Tom Servo. Mike Nelson advanced to head writer and later, midway through the 1993 season on Comedy Central, succeeded Joel as host. The series eventually concluded its run on the SciFi Channel. Devoted fans worldwide, including myself, proudly celebrate MST3K, with many being members of its official fan club. Below are 10 standout episodes: 5 from Joel's era and 5 from Mike's.

10. Episode 102: The Robot Vs. The Aztec Mummy

This episode includes the debut of the short film: Radar Men From The Moon, featuring the beloved Commander Cody. The main attraction revolves around a scientist's greedy quest to plunder a mummy's treasure, aided by his iconic robotic invention.

A young man, burdened by neglectful and indifferent parents, recounts his life story to a judge in an effort to clear his name. He firmly believes his parents are to blame for his misfortunes.

Featuring Rondo Hatton and a blind woman, this episode delivers pure comedic brilliance.

A young boy stumbles upon and eventually adopts a massive, peculiar egg that hatches into a small alien-like creature resembling an elephant, which he names Trumpy. Truly fascinating.

This episode pairs the beloved short A Case of Spring Fever with a hilariously awful film about electrically charged worms terrorizing a town, a house, and even people’s faces. Absolutely thrilling!

This episode is notable for being the only time the crew skipped watching the entire movie beforehand. A shocking scene involving a brutal rape and murder, uncommon for such films, caught everyone off guard. Despite this, the episode remains incredibly humorous.

Featuring Tor Johnson and a botched kidnapping attempt, this episode is pure comedic brilliance! While there’s no video, here are some unforgettable quotes:

[Tor Johnson] ARRRRRR! [Mike] They really shouldn’t have allowed Tor to improvise.

[Kid] Thank you, Mr. Franklin. [Crow] For reminding us to laugh about love. [Mike] Benjamin Franklin faced stalking charges in the 8th circuit court. Stay tuned for the trial results.

[Servo] Kenneth Branagh’s Mary Shelley’s Bram Stoker’s Wes Craven’s Tim Burton’s Beast of Yucca Flats. A Francis Ford Coppola production.

A Satanic inn managed by the unforgettable Torgo, featured in what is arguably the worst film ever created… yet it’s hilariously entertaining. Go figure!

A scientist uses a Cessna airplane as a time machine to stop a corrupt corporation from exploiting his invention in the future. It’s as baffling as it is amusing.

In the show’s seventh season, the team partnered with Gramercy Productions to create a feature film. While some fans were surprised they chose a beloved sci-fi classic for their signature riffing, the majority found it absolutely hilarious. I personally watched it three times on its opening day—it’s that entertaining!