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The Worst Episodes of Once Upon a Time

Every episode of Once Upon a Time ranked from worst to best. Explore the Worst Episodes of Once Upon a Time!

Worst episode
S7E1 Hyperion Heights
6.41,673 votes
Best episode
S3E22 There's No Place Like Home
9.22,880 votes
Top season
Season 3
8.3avg
Binge time
4d 17h
156 episodes
BestEpisodes
WorstEpisodes
BestSeasons
AllEpisodes

Seasons7

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Episode Rankings

  1. #1 Worst Episode
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    Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 1 - Hyperion Heights
    6.4/10(1673 votes)

    S7:E1

    Henry leaves Storybrooke in search of his own story. Years later in another realm, he encounters a troubled Cinderella, changing the trajectory of his quest forever. When Cinderella's evil step-mother, Lady Tremaine, poses a threat, Henry discovers that following his heart will require him to make more difficult choices than he ever could have imagined. Years later, a young Lucy finds a disillusioned Henry at his home in Seattle, determined to make him remember his true self in order to defeat the curse afflicting the fairytale characters of "Hyperion Heights."

    Director:Ralph Hemecker
    Writers:Adam Horowitz, Edward Kitsis

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  2. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 3 - The Garden of Forking Paths
    6.6/10(1239 votes)

    S7:E3

    Cinderella joins forces with a new friend; Jacinda tries to protect Lucy's community garden; Lucy tries to convince Henry that Victoria is after more than just a plot of land; Victoria makes a discovery that could alter everyone's fate.

    Director:Ron Underwood
    Writers:David H. Goodman, Brigitte Hales

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  3. Once Upon a Time Season 5 Episode 18 - Ruby Slippers
    6.9/10(1670 votes)

    S5:E18

    In flashbacks, Ruby and Mulan find themselves in Oz, where they meet Dorothy. After the three witness Zelena’s return to Oz, they look for a way to defeat her once and for all. However, Dorothy mysteriously disappears, and Ruby’s search for her new friend lands her in the Underworld. Reunited with the heroes, Ruby teams up with Emma, Regina and Snow to continue looking for Dorothy. Meanwhile, Snow and David struggle with not being able to be with their son, Neal, and devise a plan so that one of them can escape the Underworld.

    Director:Eriq La Salle
    Writers:Andrew Chambliss, Bill Wolkoff

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  4. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 5 - Greenbacks
    6.9/10(1162 votes)

    S7:E5

    Tana seeks help from a traveling soothsayer, the iconic Dr. Facilier, in an attempt to save her kingdom. But when it’s revealed that he has an ulterior motive she’s forced to take matters into her own hands. In Hyperion Heights, Sabine and Jacinda take on a risky business venture, but the strength of their friendship is tested when Victoria interferes with their plans. Meanwhile, Ivy recruits Henry to investigate Victoria, and Roni makes a discovery that could change her relationship with Henry forever. Rogers uncovers a crucial clue in his search for Eloise Gardener.

    Director:Geofrey Hildrew
    Writers:Christopher Hollier, Adam J. Karp

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  5. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 12 - A Taste of the Heights
    6.8/10(688 votes)

    S7:E12

    On the day of Tiana’s coronation, a confrontation with Dr. Facilier compels her to take a trip through the Bayou, where a surprising encounter changes her life and the hunt for an alligator takes a dark turn. In Hyperion Heights, Sabine reconnects with an old friend whose plans could jeopardize her culinary dreams. Meanwhile, Rogers and Weaver investigate a Blind Witch, leading them to a shocking discovery about The Coven.

    Director:Nina Lopez-Corrado
    Writers:David H. Goodman, Brigitte Hales

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  6. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 8 - Pretty in Blue
    7.2/10(1091 votes)

    S7:E8

    In an attempt to prevent a distressed Alice from running away, Henry and Ella follow her into Wonderland. Once there, Henry realizes that Ella has a surprising connection to this strange world. In Hyperion Heights, Jacinda reconnects with an old friend in a last ditch effort to regain custody of Lucy, but her decision to enlist outside help could put a strain on her burgeoning relationship with Henry.

    Director:Ralph Hemecker
    Writers:Dana Horgan, Leah Fong

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  7. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 13 - Knightfall
    7.1/10(685 votes)

    S7:E13

    Rogers strikes a deal with Eloise despite Tilly’s fair warning, while Ivy struggles to find herself after Victoria’s death. Meanwhile, in a faraway realm, Hook confronts Captain Ahab over a legendary magical talisman which can free Alice, only to learn that his quest may have unintended consequences.

    Director:Steve Miner
    Writers:Jerome Schwartz, Miguel Raya

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  8. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 2 - A Pirate's Life
    7.3/10(1351 votes)

    S7:E2

    Henry’s Storybrooke family help him search for Cinderella, and Hook encounters an unexpected foe who threatens the group’s success. Meanwhile, in Hyperion Heights, Jacinda searches for a way to see Lucy with some unwelcome assistance from Henry.

    Director:Tara Nicole Weyr
    Writers:Jane Espenson, Jerome Schwartz

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  9. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 11 - Secret Garden
    7.2/10(719 votes)

    S7:E11

    Eager to harness her burgeoning magical skills, Robin engages in a risky relationship with Mother Gothel. Meanwhile in Hyperion Heights, Roni and Kelly strike a deal with Eloise, desperate to save Lucy from her mysterious illness. But nothing comes without a price. As things finally come to a head between Victoria and Ivy, someone may have to pay with their life.

    Director:Mick Garris
    Writers:Adam Horowitz, Edward Kitsis

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  10. Once Upon a Time Season 6 Episode 6 - Dark Waters
    7.3/10(1095 votes)

    S6:E6

    Emma tries to convince Aladdin to work with Jasmine to help Agrabah, while Regina teams up with Snow and David to free Archie from Zelena. Meanwhile, in the past, Hook finds himself kidnapped by the mysterious Captain Nemo and held captive aboard his submarine, the Nautilus.

    Director:Rob Duncan
    Writers:Andrew Chambliss, Brigitte Hales

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  11. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 16 - Breadcrumbs
    7.2/10(658 votes)

    S7:E16

    Henry grapples with an important decision when a job prospect in New York threatens to take him away from Jacinda and Lucy, but a revelation in the case of The Candy Killer could make it even harder to leave Hyperion Heights. Meanwhile, Margot confides in Tilly, and in a flashback, Hook helps Henry find a way to prove himself to Ella.

    Director:Ron Underwood
    Writers:Jane Espenson, Jerome Schwartz

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  12. Once Upon a Time Season 6 Episode 15 - A Wondrous Place
    7.3/10(939 votes)

    S6:E15

    When Hook finds himself trapped in another realm along with the Nautilus and her crew, he races to return to Emma before Gideon can execute the rest of his plan. In Storybrooke, Regina and Snow take Emma out to get her mind off Hook's disappearance. And in a flashback to Agrabah, Jasmine befriends Ariel, and together they set out to locate Prince Eric as the threat from Jafar intensifies.

    Director:Steve Pearlman
    Writers:Jane Espenson, Jerome Schwartz

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  13. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 7 - Eloise Gardener
    7.4/10(1129 votes)

    S7:E7

    In pursuit of revenge, Hook seeks a dark and powerful magic, but an encounter with Rapunzel could alter his fate forever. Meanwhile, in Hyperion Heights, Ivy’s plot to take down Victoria intensifies and has unexpected consequences for Jacinda and Lucy. Rogers enlists Henry and Tilly’s help in his ongoing quest to find the missing Eloise Gardner, but what he discovers isn’t what meets the eye.

    Director:Alex Kalymnios
    Writers:David H. Goodman, Brigitte Hales

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  14. Once Upon a Time Season 6 Episode 5 - Street Rats
    7.4/10(1091 votes)

    S6:E5

    Princess Jasmine recruits Aladdin to help her recover a secret weapon capable of breaking Jafar's hold on the Sultan and saving the city from ruin. In Storybrooke, the Evil Queen tricks Hook and the Charmings and forces Emma to reveal her secret in an effort to divide the family.

    Director:Norman Buckley
    Writers:Adam Horowitz, Edward Kitsis

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  15. Once Upon a Time Season 6 Episode 13 - Ill-Boding Patterns
    7.4/10(944 votes)

    S6:E13

    When Gideon resumes his mission to kill Emma and become the Savior, Gold steps in to ensure that the use of dark magic does not poison his son. Meanwhile, Robin proves willing to ally himself with anyone offering the possibility of escape from Regina and Storybrooke. Hook gathers the courage to come clean to Emma, but not before she discovers he's been keeping a secret.

    Director:Ron Underwood
    Writers:Andrew Chambliss, Dana Horgan

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  16. Once Upon a Time Season 2 Episode 12 - In the Name of the Brother
    7.5/10(1840 votes)

    S2:E12

    A stranger may be a threat to the true identity of the townspeople; Cora tries to reunite with Regina.

    Director:Milan Cheylov
    Writer:Jane Espenson

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  17. Once Upon a Time Season 5 Episode 15 - The Brothers Jones
    7.5/10(1235 votes)

    S5:E15

    In Underbrooke, Hook questions whether he is worthy of forgiveness after meeting his brother Liam. In the past, Liam makes a deal of his own to save himself and his brother... at the cost of a ship's worth of men. Meanwhile, Henry meets the Apprentice and learns of his true power.

    Director:Eagle Egilsson
    Writers:David H. Goodman, Jerome Schwartz

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  18. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 15 - Sisterhood
    7.4/10(663 votes)

    S7:E15

    When the Candy Killer attacks, Ivy will have to risk what remains of her family, while Jacinda and Henry grow closer and Roni questions her relationship with Samdi. Meanwhile, Drizella faces an unthinkable challenge in her attempt to join the Witch's Coven.

    Director:Ellen S. Pressman
    Writers:Christopher Hollier, Adam J. Karp

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  19. Once Upon a Time Season 5 Episode 17 - Her Handsome Hero
    7.5/10(1169 votes)

    S5:E17

    Belle turns to Rumplestiltskin with hope of finding a way to protect their child from Hades. However, they disagree over whether to use dark magic, as Belle forbids Rumplestiltskin from using his powers for evil. Meanwhile, Hades secretly meets with Gaston in the Underworld and encourages him to seek revenge on Rumplestiltskin. As the heroes try to find a way to defeat Hades, Emma has a terrifying nightmare that she realizes is beginning to come true. And in flashbacks, Belle and Gaston meet for the first time, but their blossoming romance comes to a halt on the eve of the Ogre wars.

    Director:Romeo Tirone
    Writer:Jerome Schwartz

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  20. Once Upon a Time Season 6 Episode 2 - A Bitter Draught
    7.5/10(1164 votes)

    S6:E2

    When a mysterious man from the Land of Untold Stories, who has a past with the Evil Queen, arrives in Storybrooke, David and Snow work together with Regina to neutralize the threat. Belle seeks Hook's help finding a safe place to hide away from her husband, Mr. Gold. The Evil Queen continues to try to win Zelena over to her side, while Emma resumes her therapy sessions with Archie and shares her terrifying vision of the future.

    Director:Ron Underwood
    Writers:Andrew Chambliss, Dana Horgan

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  21. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 14 - The Girl in the Tower
    7.5/10(719 votes)

    S7:E14

    Rogers works to prove Tilly’s innocence in the case of the Blind Baker’s death, while Ivy attempts to make amends with Anastasia, and Samdi makes a revealing confession to Roni. Meanwhile, in a faraway realm, Alice forms an unbreakable bond.

    Director:Antonio Negret
    Writers:Dana Horgan, Leah Fong

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  22. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 18 - The Guardian
    7.5/10(681 votes)

    S7:E18

    Following Nick's death, Weaver discovers the Dark One Dagger has been taken and sets out to get it back, even if it means betraying Roni's trust. Meanwhile, Margot takes Tilly on a date, but their time together takes an unexpected twist. In a flashback, Rumple, desperate to be reunited with Belle, pays Alice a visit.

    Director:Geofrey Hildrew
    Writers:David H. Goodman, Brigitte Hales

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  23. Once Upon a Time Season 7 Episode 19 - Flower Child
    7.5/10(677 votes)

    S7:E19

    Tilly and Rogers find themselves in danger after an encounter with Eloise, forcing Tilly to make a life-altering decision when Rogers’ life is threatened. Meanwhile, Henry and Jacinda’s relationship takes a step forward, but despite Lucy’s efforts, their union doesn’t provide the answers she’s seeking. In a flashback, young Gothel seeks revenge after her home is destroyed

    Director:Tessa Blake
    Writers:Adam Horowitz, Edward Kitsis

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  24. Once Upon a Time Season 5 Episode 9 - The Bear King
    7.6/10(1457 votes)

    S5:E9

    Zelena and Arthur journey to DunBroch on a mission to retrieve an enchanted relic that will provide the advantage they need to vanquish Emma and our heroes. Their path will cross with Merida’s, who is on a journey of her own to pay a debt that her father, King Fergus, owed to the Witch when he died. Merida enlists the help of two friends, Mulan and Ruby, but, in order to satisfy the Witch and save DunBroch, she first must discover the identity of the knight who killed her father. In flashbacks, Merida learns about bravery and honor as she trains for combat and rides alongside Fergus into the infamous battle that claims his life.

    Director:Geofrey Hildrew
    Writer:Andrew Chambliss

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  25. Once Upon a Time Season 6 Episode 1 - The Savior
    7.6/10(1276 votes)

    S6:E1

    As our heroes set out to stop Hyde, Emma develops a mysterious side effect, and Storybrooke becomes a haven for refugees from the Land of Untold Stories. Meanwhile, Regina and Zelena embrace their newfound sisterhood by becoming roommates, while Rumple tries to free Belle from the sleeping Curse with the help of a stranger. In flashback, Jafar confronts an afflicted Aladdin in Agrabah, and a secret about the Savior is revealed.

    Director:Eagle Egilsson
    Writers:Adam Horowitz, Edward Kitsis

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Worst Episodes Summary

"Hyperion Heights" is the worst rated episode of Once Upon a Time. It scored 6.4/10 from 1,673 votes. Directed by Ralph Hemecker and written by Adam Horowitz, Edward Kitsis, it aired on October 6, 2017. This episode scored 0.2 points lower than the second lowest rated, "The Garden of Forking Paths".

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