The West Wing Top 10- Jed Bartlet Scenes

[@cholman4248]

My very favorite Bartlet moment is in Two Cathedrals. His monologue in the church was powerful. Sheen speaks Latin and was nice to see him stretching his muscles. I cannot imagine this cast being full of anyone else in these roles and Martin Sheen cast as the President was perfect. From the first episode I was hooked. Still am. One of the all time best written shows ever.

[@kdjohnson1998]

What did he say ib Latin? DO you know?

[@missyquill5709]

Can you imagine Trump speaking in Latin?

[@anonnameless7799]

@@kdjohnson1998 Thank you, Lord./// Am I to believe these things from a righteous God, a just God, a wise God?/// To hell with your punishments![punishments of Jesus', crucifixion]/// I was your servant, your messenger on the earth; I did my duty.///To hell with your punishments! And to hell with you![to you the punishments and crucifixion of Jesus]

[@ugnsotsm57]

"You get Hoynes" (Puts cigarette out with feet and walks off)...EPIC

[@ericmiller93]

For real.

[@kathryncainmadsen5850]

Those were the days when we watched it as it aired. There was no binging. I remember one time when my husband and I were down the street at his grandmother’s house when we suddenly remembered we had 2 minutes to the West Wing. We ran. As fast as we could down stairs, down the street, up the stairs and skidded to a halt turning on the tv to hear that music. We couldn’t get our breath for the first 10 minutes. We didn’t want to miss a minute. Aaron Sorkin. Thank you.

[@temporarystranger95]

The ensemble cast was truly remarkable, but none of it works without the brilliant writing of Sorkin. The dialogues contained within each episode have never been topped by another television series.

[@Meme-di9ei]

😂😂😂😂😂👏👏👍

[@lone982]

I used to ban my flat mates from talking while it was on. You couldn't miss a word in the fast pace....

[@SlimThrull]

Don't get me wrong, I love Martin Sheen in this role. But John Spencer also hits it out of the park in those dialogues.

[@robertchandler5055]

I LOVE THIS SHOW BUT I CANT GET PAST JOHN SPENCER'S DISCOUNT DEFENSE LAWYER FROM L.A. LAW...sorry

[@cynthiaennis3107]

I totally agree!

[@ffryan]

The chemistry between Sheen and Spender was something special. It was hard to tell that they were not 30 year friends in real life because they did it so well.

[@2b16p]

I like Leo's line "Then we'll blow them up again, we're getting really good at it!" You can't kill evil, you just have to keep fighting and fighting it.

[@chrisg9796]

John Spencer's Leo was the central hub and the heart of the show. The value of his role to this show was incalculable. RIP Mr. Spencer. RIP Leo.

[@crimdell]

The scene in which Bartlet gives Charlie the Paul Revere knife should be here. One of the greatest relationships in this amazing show was theirs.

[@BlackDiamond2718]

Man that was insanely heartwarming and I love how Charlie is the equivalent of his son.

[@roguesquadron521]

@@BlackDiamond2718 Potential son in law if he ended up marrying Zoe! Honestly I think Charlie is the only man President Bartlett would approve of.

[@BlackDiamond2718]

@@roguesquadron521 there is always the person that fears the dad versus the one that doesnt. Which would you choose?

[@roguesquadron521]

@@BlackDiamond2718 Not sure as Im not a father to a daughter (yet, hopefully...). Id have to experience both (because messing with the fearful ones sounds fun, yet I dont want my future daughter dating a complete wuss either. Also dont want one that has no respect as that can be problematic too).

[@lancer525]

"There's bullet-proof glass in the windows. If you want to kill me, you're going to have to do it from inside the building."

[@TBro278]

I still love the “two cathedrals” that shit is a masterpiece

[@joecook5689]

Ha, he lights a smoke in the cathedral and steps on it. A small gesture of being not pleased with the almighty.

[@danieldiver11]

@@joecook5689 no, I'd say it was a massive gesture. He takes one puff and discards it and stamps on it, as if to say 'Eff you, God. You're not even worth me smoking the whole thing'.

[@phillyphan1994]

“I am the lord, your God,” what an absolute genius way for the writers to introduce the president to the audience in the first episode 😂

[@dansmodacct]

All hail!

[@tinasiegel2869]

Man, that didn't even click until you mentioned it! A whole new level! 😀

[@marcboss6]

I don’t think potus was supposed to be a regular character but Sheen was so good in that tiny bit of the pilot they couldn’t keep him out of the show.

[@Zeuseus6609]

​@@marcboss6yep, Sam was supposed to be the focus character, at least for season one

[@jaredconnell2059]

Rip John spencer. So many of these moments wouldn't have been the same without him

[@vijaysinger6034]

My crying for you John Spencer rip to miss you so much

[@Wootie90]

True story

[@MrGruffteddybear]

Margaret, please call the editor of the New York Times crossword and tell him that Khaddafi is spelled with an H and two D's and isn't a seven-letter word for anything.

[@thebacons5943]

Leo really was the main thing that made the show work by the end

[@graceanneocallaghan1638]

When he says "watch this" just before Bartlett speaks in Two Cathedral.

[@ChristopherJones-qm2nw]

Boy, I miss this show. At it's best, it was THE best TV show ever made.

[@daphnethurlow5388]

Christopher Jones ...It was...never bettered.

[@unwreckem2665]

If you like this, try out Sorkin's othershow Newsroom. The dialogue is faster paced then West Wing, though not as long and ultimately not as good (but still a satisfying watch, and the characters for the most part are likeable). Newsroom feels a lot more liberal than West Wing does though.

[@Loveoldies50]

Landon Aaron TV I like the Sopranos, but West Wing tops it by light years!

[@journeyer58]

I too miss 'The West Wing.' I would love to have seen the way that they wrote the scripts and directed for President Santos, and Josh as Chief of Staff, and how how his relationship developed with Donna. That would have been one helluva' ride. Josh as Chief of Staff would have made for exciting tv. I would have continued watching for as long as that new West Wing was being produced and broadcast. There is a dearth of truly magnificent tv on the broadcast channels now. It seems that real tv has and is migrating to streaming tv now and people who either cannot get streaming tv or cannot afford streaming tv are left out in the cold as far as news, weather, sports, movies, entertainment, good tv shows, and of course opinion shows, cannot be accessed without high speed internet access or cable access, either of which in the US costs an arm and a leg to obtain. And if you live in a rural area or a semirural area of this nation, the possibility of getting either cable or fios high speed internet access is nonexistent. And that is the problem that plagues most of the people of this nation. Because most people do not want to live in a suburban or highly populated city. They are satisfied with the quality of life in a rural or semirural area.

[@laurafriday4834]

Watch it again. I’ve seen it at least 3x probably time again. Amazing cast and writing

[@blaine5750]

The final two minutes of Two Cathedrals is the best moment in the entire series. When Leo turns and says "Watch this!"" I still get shivers.

[@genegottloeb7281]

Best Acting, story line and Ending , next to the Searchers

[@geoprof6993]

No. It's not.

[@Blaine10024]

@@geoprof6993 This guy voted for Hoynes.

[@jamielatty5740]

Yeah for sure. Leo's line just tips the edge of that whole scene, along with the perfect music.

[@rmatene]

@@Blaine10024 lmao!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@JustSomeCanadianGuy]

Martin Sheen’s so good he turned what was supposed to be a guest star role into the lead character.

[@randommthrfkr6568]

Is that true?

[@DOGMA1138]

@@randommthrfkr6568 Yes and one of the reasons Rob Lowe quit, the show was supposed to be focused far more on the WH staff rather than the president. Sam was the focus of the first Season, he was the first character to be introduced and the main season plot revolved around him and his relationship with a call girl that not only became a lawyer but also apparently a hospital administrator. Lowe had top billing for the first season but as the show progressed the focus quickly shifted from him towards other characters and specifically the president. Martin Sheen was intended to be mainly a guest star for the pilot as well as a "recurring" character, however his performance shifted the entire premise of the show and many plots that focused around the president were then developed. Rob went from being top billing to pretty much a secondary character by the end of Season 2. To be fair TWW had seen A LOT of pay disputed from others such as Bradley Whitford, Allison Janney and John Spencer these included "walkouts" during production.

[@randommthrfkr6568]

@@DOGMA1138 wow, what an incredible review, I just started watching it since last week. Thank you for that.

[@jimnasium452]

@@DOGMA1138 Can you imagine a show titled the West Wing about the White House and the Presidency in which the character of the actual president is only an occasional cameo? It would be like Scooby Doo without the dog.

[@KenS1267]

@@jimnasium452 Aaron Sorkin was working with actual former West Wing staffers and they had told him that they rarely saw the president. The show was supposed to center on characters working a step below the people who saw the president on a daily basis so Sheen was supposed to only appear occasionally. That's also why it wasn't until quite late in the first season that Stockard Channing makes her first appearance as Abby Bartlett. I'm not even sure she had been cast when the show started. But Lowe didn't exactly wow audiences and Sheen did.

[@Rich_622]

#1 Yelling at God. When he talks about Josh and says "...that was my son" for many reasons, that chokes me up every time. Mr. Sheen, God bless you.

[@davidchormann496]

Not bragging no never bragging.... but when my high school sweetheart bride passed away from a heart attack at 39, I had a "conversation" like that with God, in my churchin private.... just God and I. 3 years later He (God) allows me to meet and to marry, and have the daughter that I always wanted. Three sons from first marriage, but never got... till my age 40. The marriage lasted 3 years..... the daughter 17 now, lives with me, and I could not ask for one better..... smart, pretty, respectful, tender hearted, a real girly girl. God is the BEST!!!

[@daphnethurlow5388]

David Chormann .....i am happy for you and your good life now. fate is a strange thing, right.

[@princessoffire1107]

@eddiewinehosen Just because you don't believe in something, do you have to chit on others for feeling the way they do? Why the hatred enough to reply in the way that you did ? Can't you just roll your eyes and move on or something?

[@Drigger95]

@eddiewinehosen what is a genetic lottery? What is chance? What is decision? You make up words and then say 'God didn't do shit'. God is the only real cause in the universe. Nothing happens without His permission or direct action.

[@volodymyrboitchouk]

@@Drigger95 if nothing happens without his permission, then he has a great deal to answer for.

[@michaelreidperry3256]

President Bartlett is one of television’s greatest characters ever. Sheen plays him superbly.

[@eolafan100]

In my humble opinion, this was the very best television show I have ever had the privilege of viewing…without a shadow of a doubt! 🇺🇸

[@PHOTOGRAPHYBYDEREK1]

Jed's outburst at God has to be one of the most heartfelt and plainspoken scenes ever filmed - on the small screen or the big one.

[@KurtAustin2448]

"Plainspoken" The sharpest words are all in Latin my dude.

[@wildearthwoman]

English translation?

[@ltmundy1164]

Sheen is/remains devoutly catholic. Old enough to have been raised in the tridentine (Latin) mass prior to 1962 Vatican II.

[@heronpage3883]

@@ltmundy1164 I lived in Santa Monica California for a few years and went to church at St.onica's. What an absolute thrill it was to discover that Martin Sheen was one of the parishioners! One Sunday he actually wound up coming and sitting next to me in my pew. When I turned to look at him and saw it was MARTIN SHEEN he smiled and said good morning, how are you? Day made! One of my best memories.

[@hanscombe72]

I’m pretty sure that screened the night of 9/11 Sydney Australian time. After the episode there was breaking news of a plane crash in New York.

[@slbain9000]

Let Bartlet be Bartlet is hands down my favorite episode of the series, and that's saying a lot. The scene here between Sheen and Spencer is some of the best acting I have ever seen.

[@psychothof]

Leo’s speech in “Let Bartlett Be Bartlett” is some of the best writing in the entirety of the show. Powerful af

[@geofffleming12]

...but you better start with ME! Because I will raise up an army against you...

[@darylgould8923]

Bartlet

[@juliebruni6907]

His speech in "proportional response" is my favorite

[@madeleineprice9645]

@@darylgould8923- YESSSSSS 👏👏👏👏

[@AndreAFirenze]

Martin Sheen probably set a model for an actor playing Potus that will be not improved for many years. From the "fat ass out from my white house" speech to "tomorrow", he's been the best fictional president in the story (and better than many many real president)

[@carasmussen27]

I know he was so good. I am glad that Aaron Sorkin made it about the entire staff not just Senior staff with cameos of POTUS. It was suppose to mainly be about Sam Seaborn

[@xypaddy1]

Sorkin was responsible for the story :D The writers did a fabulous job...Sheen showed up and did what he was told...it was a team success !

[@sablebasilisk7998]

Oh the scene when he wishes he could pummel Leo’s Ass with a baseball bat!!!! and when he pops too many painkillers!!!!! cuddling up to Toby,,,,,

[@emeraldcity789]

@A smile on my face but a Demon inside I'm ready for that now.

[@zvimur]

About 16 years earlier, he played possibly the worst fictional would be president (Stilson in The Dead Zone). Also played JFK same year.

[@christhompson9819]

The greatest series in the history of television. From episode one series one you are totally mesmerised. The way the cast develops and comes together over the series as they unfold is just amazing.

[@navycpo5168]

If only politics was this way. This is like watching Star Wars, fantastical and amazing but not feasible in our current time. I love this series though. I would vote for Bartlett :)

[@adipsous]

So thankful to Aaron Sorkin for giving this show to us.

[@hanssvineklev648]

@adipsous. Sorkin is genius as a writer, and I appreciate the high drama he creates with this show. But I mourn that it could have been so much more. Instead of pretending to be even handed, it could have BEEN even handed! Instead, again and again and again, the floor is littered with straw men and non sequiturs….

[@jenmcjen]

I know it's already been said but they missed the number one when he quoted the bible at that rude AF woman who didn't stand up

[@calliestephen]

One of my all time favourite scenes of television!!!

[@66voldemort]

That is what I’m here looking for. Thanks for not letting me waste 18 minutes. Moving on...

[@BlackDiamond2718]

I found it extremely stupid when they use religion as a defense for policies. It is as if they never read the Constitution or studied U.S. History.

[@Akihito007]

Obviously you never have since the Founding Fathers quoted the Bible religiously and clearly stated our Republican form of government could only work under a society ruled by Christian morality and values.

[@Akihito007]

More like Sorkin showing his utter IGNORANCE of the OT and NT by having his fake president quote Bible verses out of their context in order to attack the Biblical of homosexuality. Our Founding Fathers would have run that fake president or any other politician out of America for how he twisted those Bible verses.

[@bethfiori4708]

Martin Sheen's portrayal and the writing on this show still give me goosebumps.

[@surferpam1]

Look at those two men: Sheen and Spencer... Giants. Aaron Sorkin's BEST work.

[@VtRD]

Miss John Spencer so much. Glad we have these films.

[@scaryplague]

My mother met him once on the set of L.A. Law. Went up to her and introduced himself. Very gracious.

[@caseykain7708]

We need West Wing Wisdom now more than ever!!!!

[@oyster3joy]

You think you have problems? My country is divorcing Europe ... and you know how messy divorces can be. I wonder if Alan Sorkin could be persuaded to write some of our Prime Minister's speeches ... and give some of the key characters more backbone. I want more of the 'throwing of the caps over the wall' speeches too because we jolly well have to do it now.

[@noelsplectrum9]

Aaron

[@captainsplifford]

Huge props to the Washington National Cathedral for allowing that last clip to even be filmed! It was so powerful and thought-provoking.

[@shoutbasil6277]

I vaguely remember reading that they stopped letting people film there because of the cigarette.

[@captainsplifford]

@@shoutbasil6277 Yup. The production team didn't disclose that part to the Cathedral staff, because it *never* would have been allowed.

[@ScootsFromNewCastle]

@@captainsplifford they probably didn’t disclose it because knowing Aaron Sorkin he only added that part 3 minutes before he lit the cigarette lol

[@barbarawalsh2875]

When that particular scene was over, Martin Sheen left and went to confession. He knew he had to do that part. He knew it was crucial to the show to his character, but he couldn’t square it with God, so he went to confession.

[@katebc9148]

This program was THE best ever written. It it timely, it hits the nail on the head nearly every single time, and the emotion written in the scenes is powerful. I still get chills when I rewatch the clips. Lest I forget, the acting was phenomenal.

[@grahamhaspassedaway4580]

"Why don't we all sit down-" "No, let's not C.J. These people won't be staying that long." Love that moment.

[@shashiemoser5445]

"Get their fat asses outta my White House!"

[@susansurles3776]

Not my favorite series but that is a great moment.

[@AnIdiotAboard_]

In this building when the presidents stands...... Best one for me

[@shashiemoser5445]

@@AnIdiotAboard_ That scene is one of my top 5 favorites. Another one is when he chastised Amy after figuring out that she was using Abby (without her knowledge) to get what she wanted. I never really liked her because she thought she was smarter than everyone else. Also, she's totally arrogant. Josh told her she looked good and she said "yes, I know" 🙄🤢

[@akizeta]

"I'm the President of the United States, not the President of those who agree with me." Words to remember, and quote back at certain representatives.

[@LGranthamsHeir]

And to our current President.

[@ScottL08]

And our past president!

[@ScottL08]

Hilary Clinton come to mind?

[@Macca-95]

@@LGranthamsHeir Pretty sure calling half the country deplorable is worse than anything that Trump has said about citizens.

[@marcusa.cummingsforstatere6639]

@@Macca-95 you must be delusional

[@kengreenberg]

While “The Two Cathedrals” rightly ranks as among the most affecting episodes in television history, it’s the coda, Dire Straits’ “Brothers in Arms,” that transforms Sheen’s performance and, for me, elevates the entire series.

[@coyotesayswhat]

If only we could have Bartlett for POTUS irl. How far we have strayed.

[@ffryan]

West Wing was phenomenal at using music so well to elevate the emotions of important scenes. probably the best I have ever seen on tv

[@VolrinSeth]

The part of the dialogue between bartlett and Ms. Landighams ghost was beautiful too.

[@thebacons5943]

Probably the best episode of all time, and that song makes it

[@fayesouthall6604]

Agreed

[@noelsplectrum9]

Martin Sheen and John Spencer have given 2 of the great performances,timeless.

[@carolinehopkins1197]

The best writing in a series ever! My opinion, I don't think I'm alone on this.

[@jeffreyhaas540]

I watch In Excelsis Deo (S1E10) every December. It gets me into the Christmas spirit every time...

[@mikeh720]

Damn I miss this show. Yelling at God has got to be one of the most powerful scenes I've ever seen on TV. And the Let Bartlett Be Bartlett scene, wow...that one was all John Spencer (RIP)

[@tomshea8382]

I didn't like how inconsistent Sorkin made Leo. It's as if his character was only interested in bravado or a grand gesture half the time. Most egregiously in "Shibboleth," when he reflexively rejects his sister's appointment because...why, then scolds her for "strutting," saying no one in the Bartlet WH ever struts, conveniently forgetting Josh Lyman exists.

[@jeffreyhaas540]

President Bartlet wasn't originally meant to play a big role in the show. I'm so glad that changed...

[@fiona-lyons]

It certainly was meant to be a minor role with the focus on the west wing team but Martin Sheehan was just that good.

[@Big-guy1981]

Most US presidents have been at least 6" tall. Martin Sheen is too short.

[@ScorpiusZA.]

@@Big-guy1981 Dynamite comes in small packages.

[@tiffanycarter5432]

You can't minor role Martin Sheen.

[@tiffanycarter5432]

@@Big-guy1981 John Adams was 5'7", James Madison was 5'4", Truman was 5'8", Carter was 5'8", Coolidge was 5'10". Try getting some facts before making yourself sound stupid.

[@betsykeller9096]

I think my personal favorite is when he is outside having a cigarette during that long opera and James Brolin walks out, and he says something along the lines of, "Just so you know, 'crime hoo boy', that's when I decided to kick your ass." Not quite perfect recall on the line, but that scene just slays me every time.

[@gregmichael8473]

Was it: Crime gee I don't know"?

[@pcf9909]

@@gregmichael8473 "Crime, Boy I dont know"

[@frododoodle1859]

Everybody has differing opinions, but you missed the boat by leaving out season2, episode 3. It's his speech to Dr. Jenna Jacobs about taking everything in the Old Testament literally and ends by saying she "might be mistaking this for her monthly meeting of the tight ass club but when the President stands, NOBODY sits." Bartlet personified.

[@danaanthereal3687]

"I wanted to ask you a couple of questions while I had you here. I’m interested in selling my youngest daughter into slavery as sanctioned in Exodus 21:7. She’s a Georgetown sophomore, speaks fluent Italian, always cleared the table when it was her turn. What would a good price for her be? While thinking about that, can I ask another? My Chief of Staff Leo McGarry insists on working on the Sabbath. Exodus 35:2 clearly says he should be put to death. Am I morally obligated to kill him myself, or is it okay to call the police? Here’s one that’s really important ’cause we’ve got a lot of sports fans in this town: Touching the skin of a dead pig makes one unclean. Leviticus 11:7. If they promise to wear gloves, can the Washington Redskins still play football? Can Notre Dame? Can West Point? Does the whole town really have to be together to stone my brother John for planting different crops side by side? Can I burn my mother in a small family gathering for wearing garments made from two different threads?" One of the best illustrations of the hypocritical usage of bible passages I have ever heard.

[@cynthiaennis3107]

@@danaanthereal3687 Nice recall!

[@davebartley1411]

I thought the same thing. I expected it to be number two behind the Cathedral scene. So many stellar moments in this series. The West Wing got me through some challenging times in my life and I often have my own little WW marathons. I've about worn out my DVD collection. It's like visiting an old friend. By the way, not for nothing but I'm a conservative. Don't let anyone ever make you think you have to only be one way, think only one way or believe only one way.

[@24sherbear]

@@davebartley1411 It’s on Netflix. I rewatch periodically.

[@eileenmcdonald1599]

This is not the only place for opinions regarding good scenes.

[@NickSquaredTV]

Also- "He was my son" has me in tears every time

[@MagisterErik]

Leo's and Jed's talk about power brings tears to my eyes. If only there were still leaders like them, statesmen, incorruptible.

[@asyd2905]

His monologues were magnificently delivered. Unparalleled acting.

[@daviddundas4140]

The main storylines are good enough to carry TWW, but its the side stories that add something special, Leo's big block of cheese day, CJ having a woot canal, Sam telling Mallory he slept with a call girl, Lemon Lyman, Charlie and the Paul Revere knife, Toby arranging a funeral for a homeless man, wonderful side stories

[@jeanninemurray6539]

The funeral for homeless man. Every word, every note was sheer perfection. That episode bypasses my rational awareness that it's all just fiction and I bawl at its beauty and poetry. Crying now dammit.

[@MrGruffteddybear]

Sam and Mallory’s interactions were so funny. Second only to Josh and Donna. Third best interactions for me was Oliver Babish and The First Lady. Christmas episode with the homeless vet’s funeral was must see TV.

[@nachtdrachen716]

I LOVE Oliver Babish... Almost every episode of TWW elicits a strong emotional response... This was my first tv show that I actively cheered for, yelled at, cried over... I wish we had gotten a chance to watch these in American Government in HS. 🤣

[@CWPTraining]

ACCIDENTALLY. He ACCIDENTALLY slept with a call girl.

[@daviddundas4140]

@@nachtdrachen716 "What kind of dates do you go on?" "I read Le Monde, was it in Le Monde?" Loved Oliver too

[@stuartmartin3408]

Ive lost count of the times i have watched the whole series of the West Wing and the Let Bartlet be Bartlet speech give me goosebumps every time

[@debbieward2220]

John Spencer, you were the absolute best. You are so missed.

[@salicemccool9268]

+Debbie Ward I agree, and just watched the clip in which Bartlet calls Leo "the Charlie Brown of missile defense."

[@colinmclaurin2673]

Second that! "The word you're looking are, oh good grief"

[@NGTGO]

Leo was always my favorite. "Which they'll rebuild in 6 months" "Then we'll blow'em up again in 6 months, we're getting good at it"

[@valvejob4215]

Dohn Joe that last bit cracks me up every time. Perfect.

[@matthewbennett9791]

John Spencer master class....

[@axucaroso]

Leo had that great scowl! That look always reminded people that he was a fighter pilot and the stakes in the 'games' he played were life and death. Also he wore the hell outta those double-breasted suits.

[@juliebruni6907]

I loved Leo!

[@pcf9909]

Then will blow it up again , were getting real good at it.

[@2legit64]

These are all worthy, however, the one where he crashes the staff meeting hopped up on pains meds is the absolute best. Decades later, it still makes me laugh.

[@heinleinreader]

That one is still one of my top ten Bartlet moments of the whole series. "Which one did you take, sir?" "I wasn't supposed to take them both?" Outrageous. Martin was a riot in that scene. As he was in others. I liked in the debate when he asked Governor Ritchie for the money Florida got from the federal government back. I liked the tie cutting scene at the debate, the one where Abigail cuts his tie to "help him prepare" for the debate, then he swats her ample fundament as he passes her onto the debate stage. Martin could do funny. Martin could do drama. He is one of very few people who have played the two most powerful people in the country, the president and chief of staff. He did that in The American President, another Aaron Sorkin work. However, this was not the first time Martin played the president. He was a candidate for president in The Dead Zone, and was the president in the vision that the main character foresaw, the president that led the country toward the end of the world. While it was as president in a vision and not the "reality" of the script, that still was him as president, sort of, at least potentially.

[@ltmundy1164]

@@heinleinreader: Missiles of October: MS played Jack Kennedy in mid 1970's TV program recounting the events leading up to/including the Cuban Missile crisis.

[@heinleinreader]

@@ltmundy1164 He also played a presidential candidate in the film The Dead Zone. He was the candidate that the main character saw in the future pushing the button that would end the world. He also played a Seargent Major of the prison camp where his son Charlie was sent in the film Cadence. Then there was Apocalypse Now. 'Nuff said about that one.

[@gwnorris6737]

Ever once in awhile we get great television shows and this was one of the best ever.

[@drewostaszewski3635]

I was in high school and college when this show originally aired, however thanks to Netflix I was able to view this amazing series, the smartest show ever, perfectly written, I was in awe.

[@temporarystranger95]

They actually got it right at the Emmies when this show was awarded best television drama four straight years. The acting, writing, directing, and producing was cinemaesque each week. It was like watching a movie.

[@madeleineprice9645]

@@temporarystranger95- Is it a coincidence, then, that Sorkin left after Season 4? Out of sheer devotion, I bought the box set (eight series) but I only ever rewatch 1 -4).

[@nascarkraz]

This series showcased the best of the best actors. I absolutely adored this ensemble. All of them are brilliant. It still irks me that Martin never did win an Emmy for his portrayal of POTUS though.

[@cynthiaennis3107]

Great point read MS!

[@temporarystranger95]

Agreed, but don’t forget what was written down on the printed page for them to bring to life. The writing of Aaron Sorkin was brilliant.

[@madeleineprice9645]

nascar - I’m convinced that’s because Martin Sheen is a politically active leftie and the Emmy people ……..aren’t👎👎👎👎👎👎

[@jeremiahbui5556]

Sometimes after I watch too much news...I have to watch west wing clips for a little while to put my soul back in order.

[@ladytenor9876]

This the finest television series to date. It's time we bring it back.

[@theoriginalbridgetconnors]

Heck, if they just reran it on network tv it would be in the top 10!

[@mikenapier5560]

With President Sam Seaborn, CoS Josh Lyman, Press Secretary Charlie Young and Veep CJ Cregg.

[@thomasstengel7356]

One of the very best shows ever to be made for American TV. And, it's as relevant today as it was when it first aired. R.I.P. John Spencer. The man was an absolute beast on The West Wing.

[@scribe56]

I first saw him in a movie where Harrison Ford was accused of murdering his ex. Girlfriend lover whatever.He was the private detective. I think who helped him. And he absolutely ran away with that movie. I loved him and everything. I saw him and even when he wasn't a good guy. But he usually was one. I cried so hard when I heard he had passed away. I felt like a member of my fmily. Maybe my favorite uncle had died. Network television is different than any other medium perit's even different than cable t v. It's open to everyone, and so we can all share it. We can won't watch it at the same time if it like. I sometimes wish that it wasn't so easy to watch a t v show at a different time because there was something meaningful about us all Seeing a show around the same time. Considering time differences in the country. we share those moments. that's been disrupted. By cable and all the other choices we have. it's nice having choices, but it's also nice knowing that you're. Aunt in off state new york is watching the same show you are. I think regular network television has had more to do with changing our attitudes than anything else, not even education compares. From the time the show Julia first premiered on television and showed a young black woman as a professional woman with a young child and a wonderful relationship with her boss. That was an incredible moment in history. Because we were seeing a black family as no different than us. I grew up on television. And I think it had a profound effect on my attitudes. I'm really glad. I grew up when I did.

[@iamlalapalooza]

Sorkin is a god. That said, you did a very nice job of compiling these so thank you!

[@JustSomeCanadianGuy]

The final minutes of Two Cathedrals will always be the highlight of the entire series for me.

[@lucaviggiani2189]

I must watch West Wing again. Brilliantly written. Perfectly executed.

[@callygolding3017]

It's wonderful that so many good scenes are with John Spencer. They were a terrific pair.

[@andrew3264]

It's amazing watching it back how many of the great scenes of the President are bounced off Spencer's acting!

[@Hitman1978]

They really don't make television like this anymore. Great Cast, Great Writing....one of the best shows of all time. Really wished they would have kept it going!!

[@tokyworld]

now the right would try to cancel it, call it wokeist garbage. See how the snowflakes react to a black mermaid story.

[@yolandahawkins526]

Started watching again during HLN’s mega-marathon during Thanksgiving. I loved and still love this show. Some of the finest acting, television or film, ever. It’s brilliant and aspirational. #TheWestWing

[@robertwilliams060]

@Hello there, how are you doing this blessed day?

[@djm4457]

Good Lord this show brings tears to my eyes, it's that good.

[@ianduckett6842]

One of the best TV series ever. Amazing actors and perfectly cast throughout its many series

[@mattcorvin6358]

10 great scenes. One other scene that deserves it is the one where Bartlet explains to Zoe that the nightmare scenario isn't him getting assassinated, but her getting kidnapped.

[@bobina05]

I recently finished watching the whole series for the first time and it was breathtaking and emotional. The writing was great but the acting was *chef's kiss*.

[@xypaddy1]

Personally, I liked the airport scene when Josh's dad died. Scolding Zoey when she complained about increased protection. Playing some pickup BBall. Walk to the hill after the shut down....

[@maiaadolphs7114]

WALK TO THE HILL

[@fayesouthall6604]

Airport Scene- the walk to the hill - two cathedrals, Josh and Donna, pre relationship. Almost every scene with John Spencer and Bradley Whitford !

[@fayesouthall6604]

Yes that’s a beautiful scene. Until that moment Josh was unsure of Bartlett as a candidate. He got it.

[@persgodiva]

Gosh how is this show still so freaking relevant?

[@amanchabra8947]

I am re-watching it again right now and wondering the same thing! My conclusion so far is that politics has never really changed all that much, but social media is exploiting and magnifying what is wrong (and sometimes right) with it. This show did that deep dive in its research and development process and brought it to light, and NOW appears ahead of its time. Either way, watching this show is a pleasure, mainly because it portrays an idealistic view of what the Presidency should be no matter which side of the aisle you support. I have read that when this show was airing originally, the left thought it was too centrist in its point of view, and the right thought it was too far left, even nicknaming it, "The Left Wing". That shows that even though Sorkin does lean left in his personal viewpoints, he at least did his homework when writing and producing this show, enough to at least show respect to the other side despite fundamental disagreements. I think that viewpoint and manner of living is what is missing in our culture today, especially on social media. I'll get off my soapbox now. LOL!

[@durkadurkadurka6071]

I believe there might be somebody who hasn't yet seen this show, but that really needs to see it now. Yes, we all know who it is.

[@mucho1966]

Could THAT be the current "occupant of the White House???"

[@jackvelten7004]

I agree but president Brandon could not understand the words never mi d the meaning behind them

[@kyleerrington8004]

@@jackvelten7004 why are y’all such pussies you can’t just say “fuck Joe Biden”? Scared of some harsh language?

[@madeleineprice9645]

durkadurk - I can’t tell when you posted this Reply although it says ‘6yr ago’ so you’d have to name names…..

[@madeleineprice9645]

@@mucho1966- The date of your Reply isn’t clear. Who do you mean?

[@grovergarver3104]

Two of the top 3 being from the Episode "Two Cathedrals" -- that sounds about right.

[@chiaracosta8503]

Grover Garver hjtdtrr

[@Diogo_CF]

I was howling when yelling at God wasn't coming on in this. Wasn't disappointed at the end!

[@DanielBeyeler]

Best Season Finale ever of any TV show!

[@madeleineprice9645]

@@chiaracosta8503 - WHAT??????

[@larrysmith2638]

The 10 word answer was not only a great scene, but it's so true. There are way too many 10 word answers out there. Life is complicated. Politics is complicated. Problems are complicated. Yet most people want easy solutions that fit their often uninformed beliefs.

[@idolizing_Gibson]

What a series - I watch it entirely every winter. Totally agree on #1 Cathedral.

[@amandaclarke763]

You could have top 100 moments of West Wing. Jed Bartley was amazing because he was also not perfect he lied about his illness, he yelled at his wife, he didn’t tell his wife he was going to run again, he smoked, he felt pain, he was brilliantly smart and deeply religious, an Economics Noble prize winner, he yelled at his staff at different times, he was an intelligent intellectual elites who could use that and did so fo reduce an opponent at will.

[@robertwilliams060]

@Hello there, how are you doing this blessed day?

[@linzzyy]

I cannot express how much I love this show

[@christopherashford4194]

Charlie had the coolest 'low level staffer' job ever.

[@joannamcdee9061]

The best EVER on TV, in writing, relevance, acting and meaning... So good, it even applies today!

[@pdoylemi]

And the best President one could want - too bad he is fictional.

[@byggdaddyjayz]

the Two Cathedrals ... unbelievable performance. it still HITS to this day.

[@davidlamb1107]

I find it hilarious that his first entrance in the whole series is "I am the LORD thy God..." . It doesn't get to be more grandiose than that. No wonder they increased his role in the show.

[@temporarystranger95]

What was most brilliant about this show is that the issues that were newsworthy during its time (1999-2006) are still relevant today! Watch the presidential debate between Santos and Vinick, for example (that was actually broadcast live) and the issues debated are the same ones debated today! The show is timeless.

[@jamespace476]

Very well done. Two Cathedrals I think is prolly the best episode of any series ever made. *Goosebumps*

[@peglamphier4745]

Every time I get one of those one week flu bugs I rewatch West Wing. All of it. It's my go-to comfort watch because the world is fair and decent in there.

[@Ronsta229]

I think Stockard Channing plays a great part in this too. The first time I saw her was in a film called The Fish that saved Pittsburgh. Great film.

[@billterry5243]

She was in Grease also as Rizzo

[@madcapmagician3130]

I loved this series, intelligent dialogue and great acting. If only our politicians could be this good!

[@gerrynightingale9045]

*When we do get 'Politicians' that 'good'...they end full of BULLETS*

[@madeleineprice9645]

madcap - I see your Reply is dated before the IQ45 disaster. Would you like to expand or alter your views now? (And try to keep the cussing to a minimum, please!)

[@madcapmagician3130]

@@madeleineprice9645 I’m sorry is this an American reference? I’m not a native and have no idea what you are talking about.

[@angelicalicari8355]

"Then we'll blow them up again in 6 months, we're gettin really good at it!" 8:27 Had me cracking up! You know the acting is top-notch when they can pull off quality comedy and drama in the same scene.

[@theolamp5312]

A great collection of clips. I especially love the Brother's In Arms ending of Two Cathedrals. It's a perfect marriage of Video and Music. The scene brings together Jed, Mrs. Landingham and the entire White House Staff. When Leo says "Watch this", it emotionally gets me every time. Great job, Ted

[@randallbanks1589]

Two Cathedral's is easily one of the greatest cliff-hangers of all time.

[@jameshanscombe2530]

That episode screened in Sydney Australia on the night of September 11th, 2001. The News came on next to say that an Airliner had hit the World Trade Centre.

[@iantrembirth6918]

It wasn't a cliff-hanger. You know from earlier in the episode that when he puts his hands in his pockets, turns away and smiles that he's made up his mind he's going to do it.

[@abnzg]

The episode that screened in Sydney on 11 September 2001 was "18th and Potomac", not "Two Cathedrals", and it ran from 10:30-11:30pm, or from 6:30-7:30am in New York. The first plane hit at 8:46am. Yours, internet pedants anonymous

[@madeleineprice9645]

theolamp - Puzzled over that final word, racking my brains for a Ted or an Edward ….. Did you mean ‘Jed’? It’s a minor point but as a roaring WW maniac, I have to know!!!

[@angelorobledo1536]

i've watched this series a hundred times and i'll watch it a hundred more. best show ever

[@kenepperson904]

I loved the West Wing. I wish they could keep it going. Such a great show.

[@Loveoldies50]

Martin Sheen is one of the best actors of all time! I've been a fan since he, and I ,,were young! And, he gets better all the time! Thank you, Martin, for all the shows and movies you've given us. You were terrific as the President. I still watch the repeats, and I bought the complete series when it first came out. So, happy it's still streaming. No one should miss this show, AMAZING ACTING, AND WRITING.

[@claudedavy122]

I was too young to appreciate this Master Piece of Acting by Martin Sheen, I began to re-watch it , in its entirety! The writing, Acting was simply Brilliant Then and Now!

[@rexcraigo]

It's not "re-watching" if you're seeing it for the first time.

[@flayremoon]

I was a young kid when this was airing, and didn’t understand any of what was going on, but it was my favorite non-animated show. I wanted to be CJ when I grew up.

[@gojirra987]

I end up starting a binge of this show whenever the news really gets me depressed nowadays. I think I'm on my 12th viewing.

[@cynthiaennis3107]

Same here

[@valbrooks3215]

15th viewing here! I don’t know which is more depressing- watching the show time and again or the times we live in!

[@laurafriday4834]

I agree. It’s the way we’d like our leaders to behave. Camelot

[@larrysmith2638]

12, 15... Bunch of amateurs.

[@clackmannan]

I just finished watching all 7 seasons again, you got some good clips here!

[@jaredgreco2096]

I watched this show as it aired, and I've it in reruns and on streaming, AND I'll continue rewatching this show until I'm dead or theres no way I can watch it

[@Adj4ni]

the lighting in this series is still the best i've ever seen.

[@fishbone3333]

Leo McGarry's "Watch this...." is one of my favorite moments in TV history.

[@susanwang266]

the perfect storm where Aaron Sorkin and the writers provided fantastic material and the actors brought it to life

[@DolphinsPride17]

I watch this every couple months.. Love it.

[@allys744]

“That’s ok CJ. These people won’t be staying that long.” 🔥

[@MorningNapalm85]

John Spencer's "Then we'll blow them up again in six months! We're getting real good at it" will never fail to get shivers out of me.

[@007RenaissanceMan]

"Which they'll rebuild again in six months!" "Then we'll blow em up again in six months! We're getting really good at it!" this back and forth cracks me up *every*single*time* lol

[@JustSomeCanadianGuy]

How the HELL did Sheen not win an Emmy for this show? If The Sopranos came out 3 years later he would have won for the first 3 seasons for sure.

[@barbarawalsh2875]

I’ll never understand why.

[@madeleineprice9645]

@@barbarawalsh2875 - I suspect that Martin Sheen is a famous Hollywood leftie and the Emmy Selection Committee…. well …. isn’t 👿👿👿👿

[@macbuff81]

That's what a president looks like. Even though he just played one in TV, Sheen portrayed a deeply flawed character, but a character that did not shy away from taking responsibility. A character that was humbled by his failings and by doing so inspired others to find their own courage. Now we have a selfish narcistic who incapable of self-reflection and selfless acts. It is truly time that the level of discussion is raised in this country. Where stupidity and ignorance is replaced by rational thought and the will of the people to learn and hold their elected representatives to a standard worthy of the sacrifices other made to preserve timeless values such as honor and dignity.

[@madeleineprice9645]

macbuff - Well, that reply obviously comes from your heart because it’s so beautifully expressed. I’m a 🇬🇧 living in England but I concur and echo your sentiments about our respective politicians. But I do admire your President Biden for being not only the antithesis to He Who Shall Not Be Named, but for achieving so much for your country while cleaning up the mess his predecessor left behind. Now if we can only find one like him here 🇬🇧……

[@carlmlavallierejr9905]

This was a great show. I've watched the series twice, once on NBC the other NetFlixs. Best TV shows, TOS, DS9, TWD, SG1, TWW. Thanks

[@Jimbobfredthefirst]

TOS?

[@thehumblegamerguy]

@@Jimbobfredthefirst My guess would be "Star Trek: The Original Series" since Deep Space 9 comes next.

[@iconoclastic12007]

You forgot BTVS

[@mcnjr]

#3 was the best. The lead up of that whole show to that last scene - putting his hands in his pockets and looking over. Goosebumps.

[@barrvason5431]

It’s been long enough to watch it all again. My wife and I have been needing something new so while it’ll be a 2nd run for me, she’ll see it for the first time.

[@madeleineprice9645]

barry - In a way, I envy her, but I’m sure she’ll be riveted by it. You’ll have no one to talk to until she’s done watching…

[@moviegal6000]

"This is more important than reelection. I wanna speak now." GOD if only politicians actually thought like this. There are a few but not enough.

[@michaellidster1389]

It's why China is superior. When leaders are unconcerned by stupid elections, they can focus on the job at hand.

[@tylercorn6502]

Michael Lidster Oh okay. Righttt. China may be superior for now, but we both know that won’t last.

[@maryphelps7381]

SHOUT IT TO THE PEOPLE ! ! The BEST TV. SERIES I' VE EVER SEEN. SHOULD'VE BEEN INCLUDED IN SCHOOL CURRICULUM 'S .

[@temporarystranger95]

As a high school Civics teacher, I use to show it regularly to my students. So much to learn about government from watching it.

[@MrGruffteddybear]

So many favorite scenes involving all the cast members during the seven years of the show. The ending was beautiful with Jed and Abby on the plane and when Abby asks what he is thinking about and he responds, "tomorrow." I imagine every former President has similar thoughts about their life after the White House while heading home.

[@barbarawalsh2875]

I know it’s corny, but I kind of wish he would’ve said what’s next.

[@BigZ282]

Civis Romanus and the Cathedral scene are my two absolute favorites from a series full of amazing moments. They don't make TV like this anymore and it's sad.