The Seinfeld Finale (1998)

The Seinfeld finale in 1998 captivated an estimated 76 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched sitcom endings in history as America collectively stayed home, causing record revenue losses at bars and restaurants nationwide. This moment outperforms #4 The Red Wedding in total viewership, with 76 million viewers being 25% higher than the latter's peak audience, and it remains the second-most-watched series finale in U.S. television history, trailing only M*A*S*H's 106 million in 1983.