How Many Episodes In Season 1 Of This Is Us

Okay, let's talk about something important. Something that plagued me for weeks. I'm talking about This Is Us, of course.
More specifically, how many episodes are in season one? It's a simple question, right? Google's there for you.
But stick with me. There's a twist.
Must Read
The "Official" Answer
The "official" answer is eighteen episodes. Eighteen! Sounds like a good number. A solid number.
Everyone seems to agree on this. Search results, fan wikis, even my Aunt Mildred. Eighteen is the golden number for season one of This Is Us.
But here's my unpopular opinion brewing...
My "Slightly Off" Opinion
Eighteen episodes feels…long. Don't get me wrong, I love the show.
The drama, the flashbacks, the feels! I live for it.

But somewhere around episode fifteen, I started to feel a little…tapped out. Maybe it's just me!
Hear Me Out!
Maybe the writers could have shaved off an episode or two? Trimmed the fat, as they say.
Perhaps consolidated some storylines? Kept the emotional punches coming, but with a bit more…economy?
I know, I know. Blasphemy!
The Emotional Rollercoaster
Each episode of This Is Us is like a tiny emotional rollercoaster. We're talking tears, laughter, and existential dread.

After a while, all those loop-de-loops can leave you feeling a little…carsick. Is that too strong?
I just think seventeen episodes might have been the perfect number. Snappy! Concise! Leaving you wanting more!
The Case for Less Is More
Think about it: We get introduced to the Big Three – Kate, Kevin, and Randall. We see their struggles.
We get to know Jack and Rebecca in all their complicated glory. The show explores tough topics.
Maybe by condensing a bit, the impact of those moments could have been even greater. Just a thought!

But Hey, Who Am I To Judge?
Okay, maybe I'm being dramatic. Eighteen episodes clearly worked for a lot of people.
The show became a massive hit! Awards were won! Tears were shed! All eighteen episodes were there.
And honestly, I watched every single minute. Probably multiple times.
The Real Question
Maybe the number of episodes isn't the real issue. Maybe it's the sheer emotional weight of each one.
This show tackles big themes: family, loss, identity. It does it well.

So, perhaps I wasn’t bored of the episodes, but rather, overwhelmed by the constant need to grab a tissue.
The Verdict
So, eighteen episodes it is. Officially. Undeniably. Forever.
But in my heart, a small part of me will always whisper, "Seventeen would have been chef's kiss."
What do you think? Am I totally off base? Let me know if you agree, or if you think I am crazy!
Perhaps the emotional rollercoaster of This Is Us is something we want and love, 18 episodes or more.
