Top 10 Memorable Nickelodeon Series Finales

Tragically, the original “Invader Zim” never had a proper ending due to its cancelation, and fans were starving for more. Thankfully, their prayers were answered with the 2019 reunion movie, “Enter the Florpus”. After mysteriously disappearing for so long, Zim makes a comeback in a huge way with his most deadly world-conquering scheme to date. As usual, it’s up to Dib to stop him and save the world, but this time, he won’t have to do it alone. Even after so many years, the cast and crew successfully recapture the bizarre charm and style of the original show in this long-awaited continuation with an epic, hilarious conclusion to both Zim and Dib’s stories.

After years as a single parent, Lois Foutley - Ginger’s mother - is finally tying the knot. However, two things are standing in the way of a semi-perfect happily ever after – an underhanded, rigmarole scheme to sabotage the wedding, and Ginger confronting her issues with commitment –having divorced parents and an unsuccessful love life will do that to you. Thankfully, this crazy experience has a happy ending, and this three-part episode even includes a peek into the future where Ginger becomes a successful author –having published the diary she’s been writing since the very beginning. With that, Ginger Foutley’s story comes to a close, and we’re reminded how the challenges we face are signs that we’re living life to the fullest.

Kuvira’s conquest has begun. Her army and giant mecha are on the move to conquer Republic City in the name of the Earth Kingdom, and only Team Avatar stands in her way. Even by Avatar standards, Korra has faced more than her fair share of trials and tribulations – struggling to maintain balance, an identity crisis, and even being subjected to traumas we dare not mention. And yet, all that she’s endured shaped her into a better person, and her struggles are rewarded as she finally defeats her tyrannical counterpart for good. As a bonus treat, the final scene offers something Nickelodeon desperately needed – a little love for the LGBTQ+ community –talk about a perfect balance.

It’s almost prom night at Pacific Coast Academy and Zoey doesn’t have a date. She had a steady relationship with a nice guy for a while, but he just wasn’t the one for her. And who is the right guy for Zoey? None other than the clumsy, awkward, bushy-haired boy who’s loved her since the very beginning: Chase. And lucky for her, Chase makes a surprise return to PCA, just in time for the kiss fans have waited four long seasons for. But that’s not the only surprise the finale brings, as Quinn and Logan –two long-standing frenemies- publically announce their love for each other, showing how far they’ve grown since their introductions.

Frustrated and feeling unneeded, Danny gives up his ghost powers in order to protect his loved ones. Unfortunately, he calls it quits right when the Earth needs him most –all thanks to Vlad Plasmius. In this two-parter, Danny will need to regain his powers and team up with every one of his ghostly enemies in one final heroic move to save both the World and the Ghost Zone. His plan succeeds, but there was one part of it he didn’t count on – revealing his identity to the entire world. At long last, Danny can finally get the recognition he rightfully deserves for everything he’s done, and –best of all- finally start a relationship with Sam. It’s about time, if you ask us.

Tonight just may be the biggest night of Big Time Rush’s career – being nominated for and performing at the Tween Choice Awards. As it turns out, their big night may be in jeopardy thanks to a villainous mind-control plot behind the scenes –never a dull moment for the boys, is there? Fortunately, with a little help from Alexa Vega, they’re able to save the show and make everyone’s dreams come true –including their own. It’s really amazing when you think about it – when the series began, they were just four Minnesotan hockey players given an amazing opportunity. Now, they’re award-winning pop superstars who’ve saved the world - TWICE. At long last, the musical journey has come to an end.

Just to clear up some confusion – “Merry Christmas, Drake & Josh” is more of an epilogue special while this is the TRUE intended series finale. Drake has been given a chance to have his new song on TV, but his big day might be spoiled thanks to a big mistake caused by really big shrimp – now you see where the title comes from. Fortunately, Josh is able to set things right and is rightfully rewarded with the title of the Premiere’s new assistant manager –and getting back together with Mindy. The final scene pays homage to the boys’ time on “The Amanda Show”, and reminds us what truly made this series fantastic – the comedic chemistry between our titular doofuses.

Tragically, “Hey Arnold” originally ended with an unanswered question that fans were dying to know – what really happened to Arnold’s parents? Over a decade later, the burning question was finally answered in the 2017 reunion/continuation TV movie – “The Jungle Movie” - also intended to be the series finale. Arnold and his classmates travel to San Lorenzo for answers, only to run into trouble with greedy river pirates. Fortunately, this pulse-pounding adventure has a happy ending – which includes a tearful reunion between Arnold and his parents, and the confession we’ve been aching to see as far back as the ‘90s. As an added bonus, we FINALLY uncover the series’ biggest mystery of all – what IS Arnold’s last name?

Carly is depressed about missing out on a father-daughter dance, but her blues melt away when she receives a heartwarming surprise – her father, Colonel Shay, has finally come home… but the reunion is bittersweet. He asks Carly to come with him to Italy, which means she’d have to leave Spencer, her friends, and the web show behind. She agrees and departs after one last “iCarly” web show and a LOT of tearful goodbyes. The episode ends with a heartwarming montage highlighting all the best/most memorable moments of the series featuring the cast we’ve all come to love. If we didn’t get the 2020 revival announcement, this would’ve been a satisfying way to bid farewell to this critically acclaimed sitcom.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Paradise Regained,” “The Secret World of Alex Mack” (1994-98)
Alex Gets the Cure for Her Powers, but We Never See if She Uses It

“Field Trips, Permission Slips, Signs & Weasels,” “Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide” (2004-07)
After So Much Buildup, Ned & Moze Finally Hook Up

“The Thunder Games,” “The Thundermans” (2013-18)
Max & Phoebe Form Their Own Superhero Team

“The Fate of Danger: Parts I & II,” “Henry Danger” (2014-20)
Henry Leaves Captain Man to Become His Own Independent Hero

“Eliza Unplugged,” “The Wild Thornberrys” (1998-2004)
Just as Shane Leaves, He Gives Eliza Her First Kiss

Since the beginning, it’s been Aang’s mission as the Avatar to restore peace to the four nations. Finally, after three brutal seasons, it all comes down to one massive battle between the young Airbender and the tyrannical Fire Lord Ozai –and he may have to make a difficult decision for the greater good. Meanwhile, Zuko finally gets a chance to even the score with his maniacal sister, Azula, and knock her off her pedestal for good. This four-parter has been rightfully named one of the best series finales of all time thanks to the dazzling imagery, well-choreographed combat, and the emotionally satisfying conclusion to our heroes’ series-long journey –topped off with a long-awaited kiss.