The Twilight Zone creator Rod Serling knew how to use parables and dramatic irony to often tell the best kind of science fiction stories, ones that often ended with a tragic twist, an unnerving final shot, or a gasp-worthy climax.

Serling didn't so much pull the rug out from under his audience as he forced upon them the uneasy revelation that their footing was never as solid as it seemed. In doing so, one of the best television shows ever was born, while popularizing the phrase "a Twilight Zone ending."

Before another TZ marathon begins on SYFY, we submit to you our ranking of the most memorable and shocking endings the show ever produced.

**Spoiler Warning: There are obviously spoilers for The Twilight Zone below**