All 9 Seasons Of Suits, Ranked Worst To Best

Let us take you on the legal journey of Pearson Hardman that changes to Pearson Specter, Pearson Specter Litt, Zane Specter Litt, and then finally Zane Specter Litt Wheeler Williams, as we dive through to learn what happened along the lines. It has indeed been a rollercoaster of emotions, legal drama, wit, and tension.

Join us as we revisit the highs and lows in the lives of our characters and rank the nine seasons from worst to best. Prepare for all that the show has offered us, and for many spoilers, this is an excellent time to stop reading unless you want to discover what made the show one of the best legal dramas. 

However, before we begin learning about the best and worst seasons, here’s a little insight into the show and its specifics. 

Suits

Suits follows the corporate world of New York City’s prestigious law firm through the eyes of an unlicensed ‘lawyer’ Mike Ross. After an accidental encounter with the city’s best closer, Harvey Specter, he lands a job despite having a Harvard law degree. Together, they navigate through complex legal cases while hiding Mike’s identity. Come along as Mike Harvey and other employees go through a series of ups and downs. Follow up on the lives of New York’s legal elite!

Suits Cast

  • Patrick Adams
  • Gabriel Macht
  • Meghan Markle
  • Sarah Rafferty
  • Rick Hoffman
  • Amanda Schull
  • Dule Hill
  • Katherine Heigl

Suits Release Date:

The show was released on June 23, 2011. 

Number of Seasons

There are nine seasons of the legal drama show. 

Streaming Platforms Where You Can Watch the Show:

You can watch the show on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Peacock. 

Suits Seasons Ranked from Worst to Best

1. Season 7 

Season 7 
  • Episodes: 16 
  • Duration: 2017-2018
  • Release date: July 12, 2017
  • Where to watch: Vudu, Peacock, Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV
  • Rotten Tomatoes: 86%

A beginning to end would be the right way to describe this season! 

Season 7 kickstarts with Pearson Specter Litt facing one of its most significant tidal waves of change! Jessica Pearson chooses herself to pursue new opportunities in Chicago, leaving Harvey Specter in a sticky situation. He takes the reigns of PSL in his hands as the new managing partner. Harvey’s panic episodes begin with the absence of a mentor that he feels. Meanwhile, Louis finds himself in a grave situation after a break-up with Tara, which leads him to gain authority over his associates. 

Donna makes a bold move by demanding a seat at the table after continuous and rigorous service of 12 years. Harvey appoints her as the COO of Pearson Specter Litt, marking a significant milestone in her career. Harvey’s decisions are scrutinized when he hires Alex Williams from Bratton Gould, triggering a battle that threatens the firm’s stability.

Mike is torn between his loyalty to the clinic and PSL. Harvey ends up striking a deal with Mike, allowing him to take pro bono cases only if he returns to the firm. But that’s when Mike discovers a prison cover-up by a major client and risks everything to protect the firm’s integrity. 

Jessica starts a new journey in Chicago after being confronted with injustice. However, she is disbarred from New York and Illinois, forcing her to test the waters of Chicago’s landscape. As the season comes to an end, PSL is gunned down as a former senior partner conspires against Louis and Harvey. But with the help of Zane and the team, they came up with Zane Specter Litt. 

Between all this stress, Rachel and Mike decide to leave New York and settle in Seattle. As panic-inducing as this is for Harvey, he and Donna stand by their side as they make the vows, ending an era of our favorite paralegal and associate. 

Season 7 truly delivers emotional resonance with stakes as high as the sky. The season captivates the audience from the start to the end!

2. Season 8

Season 8
  • Episodes: 16 
  • Duration: 2019-2019
  • Release date: July 18, 2018
  • Where to watch: Vudu, Peacock, Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV
  • Rotten Tomatoes: 74% 

Season 8 starts with a bang, as Pearson Specter Litt goes through a massive transformation. As Jessica Pearson paves her way through Chicago, Rachel and Mike leave for their journey in Seattle. (Meghan Markle, playing Rachel, gets married to Prince Harry, so there is no chance of her returning!)

Pearson Specter Litt has now become Zane Specter Litt! Harvey struggles with his new role; meanwhile, alliances are tested, and the season is filled with drama and unexpected loyalties. Harvey quickly gives away his managing partner position to Robert Zane, and things become even more tense because of a promise of name partner as promotion to Samantha Wheeler and Alex Williams. But things take a different turn, all thanks to Louis Litt and his antiques. Samantha and Alex pave their way through their newfound status, and the firm braces themselves for the upcoming challenges. 

However, trouble doesn’t leave the firm as another conflict of interest knocks on their door, threatening to uncover everything. Harvey’s client makes a deal with Alex’s client, putting relationships and reputations on the line. Having caught part of the crossfire, the firm faces one of its biggest challenges. 

Enter Hardman, who is hell-bent on taking revenge with his eyes on Harvey Specter. The firm and the few people left must cooperate to protect their own. Robert Zane makes a shocking twist, making the sacrifice to save the firm, leaving the viewer’s jaw wide open and on the edge of their seats. But amidst all that’s happening, Harvey and Donna (finally!) confront their feelings and are ready to go on a new chapter in their love. Darvey fans get to rejoice with the slow burn worth of 8 seasons!

Season 8 delivers a compelling mix of heartfelt moments and sacrifices, but the show really gives it away that there might be nothing more left to show as everything that was spread out is now coming down towards one way. As the characters go through their own emotions, we can finally agree on one thing: some of the most significant battles aren’t fought in the courtroom but lived through in the heart and the mind. 

3. Season 9 

Season 9 
  • Episodes: 10
  • Duration: 2019-2019
  • Release date: July 17, 2019
  • Where to watch: Vudu, Peacock, Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV
  • Rotten Tomatoes: 81% 

Biggest spoiler: A Darvey favourite! 

In Season 9 of Suits, the final chapter of one of the most favorite legal dramas, the characters face their most forbidding challenges as they navigate the complexities of both the personal and corporate law worlds. 

The season kicks off with the consequences of Robert Zane’s disbarment, which leaves Zane Specter Litt Wheeler Williams in a sticky situation. The firm struggles to maintain its reputation amidst the fallout they are facing. With Harvey Specter as the new managing partner, they must rally their troops and work towards restoring confidence. 

Faye Richardson, a tough and no-nonsense comes causing commotion, is tasked with cleaning up the firm’s ethics and ensuring everything is run under compliance. Faye’s strict commitment to rules creates tension amongst all the partners, forcing them to confront their past indiscretions and adapt to her standards. 

Meanwhile, Wheeler has proven herself a forbiddable force while confronting her past demons that threaten to end her career. As she works towards redemption and fixes things with her father, her journey brings her to make difficult decisions, testing her respect and loyalty.

Louis embarks on a journey of fatherhood, confronting his fears, and navigates through the hurdles of adoption and surrogacy with his partner, Sheila. He finds himself to become an emphatic leader after facing his fears and insecurities once and for all. 

Harvey and Donna Paulsen must confront their feelings and decide the next step in their relationship. They must work through the challenges of working together in a high-stakes environment. As the season progresses,  old enemies resurface, adding more external threats to the firm and its fate. Each character must come together to overcome the obstacles laid in their path. 

The show ends with a celebration of love between Louis and Sheila as they unexpectedly run to the hospital. At the same time, Harvey and Donna finally decide to make it official and marry at the same wedding after a quick proposal. The couple comes together under the surveillance of their loving team and Mike!

Season 9 is the perfect farewell, delivering unforgettable moments and a happy ending to all the characters. 

4. Season 2

Season 2
  • Episodes: 16 
  • Duration: 2012-2013 
  • Release date: June 14, 2012 
  • Where to watch: Vudu, Peacock, Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV
  • Rotten Tomatoes: 94% 

Season 2 dives deeper into the legal world of Pearson Hardman and its employees. The show picks up where season 1 left off: alliances are tested, the stakes rise, and the drama that unfolds is truly off the peak. Come along as you see Jessica and Harvey safeguarding the future of the firm, Mike protecting himself, and some old flames coming back to shake things a bit. With some nail-biting and frightening courtroom scenes, complex characters, and a gripping storyline, the show is indeed a rollercoaster until the end. 

The season begins with Mike’s secret about his fraudulent past hanging by a thread. With the arrival of Zoe Lawford, things get tough for Mike as she suspects there’s more to him than what meets the eye. With the return of Daniel Hardman, Harvey has power struggles of his own as things become chaotic at the firm. It all comes down to Jessica and Harvey, who must walk through dangerous waters to protect their firm’s reputation and future by getting rid of enemies from within and outside. Mike becomes a part of the crossfire and faces his first loyalty test as he bears the consequences of his lies. 

The return of Dana Scott adds more flame to the fire; she and Harvey are both facing a challenging case and their complicated history. Meanwhile, Mike’s romance with Rachel progresses yet is confronted by obstacles of its own, which may or may not tear them apart. We will leave this as a cliffhanger because you can watch the show to find out more!

Midway through the season, you’ll be on the edge as each character faces a battle of their own. With the exposure of secrets and loyalties being questioned, Mike and Harvey must combine their wittiness and brilliance to emerge victorious. The season ends with a cliffhanger, making people want more. As opposed to the others, the season was happening yet laid the foundation for more drama in season 3. 

5. Season 4

Season 4
  • Episodes: 16 
  • Duration: 2014-2015
  • Release date: June 11, 2014 
  • Where to watch: Vudu, Peacock, Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV
  • Rotten Tomatoes: 93%

In Season 4 of Suits, the lawyers of one of New York’s most prestigious law firms return with a bam! There is a new name addition to the door: Litt. As the season begins in a fresh direction, Mike leaves the firm to pursue a career as an investment banker under the supervision of Jonathan Sidwell. This puts him in a clash with his former mentor and best friend, Harvey Specter. Their collision increases when a case pits them against each other, adding a new layer of drama and tension. 

This season promises more excitement within and outside the firm, especially with an introduction of challenges and new rivals. Tensions rise, and secrets are spilled in Pearson, Specter, and Litt as the focus shifts to each character’s relationships. Mike and Rachel face tension as Logan, Rachel’s ex, arrives as a client of the firm. 

Meanwhile, the romance between Harvey and Donna reaches a boiling point as they are forced to confront their feelings and redefine their relationship. Ah, this was much awaited! They navigate their connection, and as audiences, we keep wondering if they will acknowledge the chemistry between them or continue being the dynamic duo. 

Louis Lit finally returns his signature humor, his continuous efforts to make a big difference, and his drive to reach the top, above Harvey, to be precise. With new opportunities, he manipulates those around him. His antics are a relief, especially with the firm’s rise in stakes, keeping the viewers entertained. 

Jessica also surrounds herself with a new romance that adds another layer of confusion in her professional life. She struggles with her professional responsibilities and her struggles, with her consequences being seen throughout the series. With the threat of Mike’s secret, they are being investigated by Sean Cahill from the SEC. Rachel is considering attending law school, which will take a toll on her relationship with Mike. 

All of them handle cases that project how legally talented they are. In the finale, the investigation by the SEC reaches a climax, and the firm’s future remains unknown. 

Charles Forstman, another enemy, threatens to ruin the balance of power at Pearson, Specter, and Litt. Mike, Harvey, Louis, and everyone else must combine their knowledge and forces to overthrow the storm cloud on their firm and get rid of Cahill and Fortsman. 

The bromance between Harvey and Mike rises above the differences between them and reaches a partnership in the courtroom. Their bond grows stronger as they face an enemy and navigate challenges, eventually making them TV’s favorite duo!

With a compelling team of lawyers, witty exchanges, and a storyline that will keep you wanting more, season 4 was a hit! With every episode brings its own set of twists and turns, keeping audiences hooked. The end, though, has truly left fans in turmoil, as Donna announces that she’s leaving Harvey. It’s not the best move from her side, but we can surely expect reason in the upcoming season. 

The season was quite average in comparison to the drama that unfolded before, but it felt more like a bridge to the story that was coming. 

6. Season 3 

Season 3
  • Episodes: 16 
  • Duration: 2013-2014 
  • Release date: July 16, 2013 
  • Where to watch: Vudu, Peacock, Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV
  • Rotten Tomatoes: 91%

Season 3 keeps the legal drama alive, but some viewers might think it’s a repetition of the old themes and needs more punch. Mike and Harvey continue to fight cases at the law firm, but the season introduces some exciting storylines that only reach their full potential at the end. 

Let’s begin with how Louis found himself a match; that’s right, Sheila Szas is a beautiful woman working in the admissions department at Harvard. Curious, he checks Harvey and Mike’s records and discovers a grade that leaves him questioning everything. The revelation could have ignited various issues, primarily because Louis uses it as leverage, but it doesn’t play out as expected. 

Mike and Rachel’s relationship also feels strained as they struggle with the issues that continue to spill with their interactions. Rachel wants to study further to grow, and Mike is reluctant to let her go and doesn’t support her wholeheartedly, which leads to her resentment towards him. Seems entirely unnecessary rather than natural, so this is a drag!

Their lack of communication puts them in hot water and highlights their struggles with trusting each other and having mutual understanding. While the show portrays their problems as struggles in a relationship, they have the same arguments and issues. Fans needed more spice here! 

Despite the issues, Season 3 shows glimpses of the characters’ true potential and hints at a deeper conflict between characters. However, season 3 doesn’t explore the true potential and seems unexplored, leaving the season underwhelming. 

As fans, the show seemed more like a bridge, with a slower development in characters and plots. 

7. Season 6

Season 6
  • Episodes: 16 
  • Duration: 2016-2017 
  • Release date: July 13, 2016 
  • Where to watch: Vudu, Peacock, Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV
  • Rotten Tomatoes: 82% 

Spoiler alert for those who haven’t seen the show: Mike is finally out!  Suits Season 6 is one of the best because of the rollercoaster it takes audiences on with a blend of unexpected turns, legal drama, and personal uncertainties. The season has a total of 16 episodes, with ups and downs from the beginning of the season towards the end. Each episode in the season is focused on working on an interesting legal case that keeps the characters up and running. Mike returns to the show, which also reminds people of the duo! 

The season opens with a celebration between Harvey and Mike on a significant settlement. Still, it is short-lived because of a rude interruption by Anita Gibbs, who announces that she will be on the committee overseeing Mike’s character and fitness test. Hearing this irritates Harvey and Mike, which leads to Harvey putting in all the effort to discover dirt on Sampson. Sampson is a member of the Character and Fitness committee. 

The tensions rise as Mike’s career is hanging by a threat, all because of the threats of his arch-nemesis. As the hearing begins, the tensions peak, especially with Gibbs after Mike and Harvey, who are running around to find a way to turn the tables against her. But Mike brings in a speaker to testify on his behalf, which shakes the courtroom and sends shockwaves through the firm. 

Meanwhile, Louis struggles with his relationship troubles as his romance with Tara is tested after a Louis-word vomit involving harsh words. He navigates through his issues with trust and loyalty but finds himself drawn towards a battle that forces him to confront his consciousness and puts his skills to the test. 

Things take an exciting turn for Donna as she faces an identity crisis and desires to achieve something more meaningful. She struggles to navigate through challenges in her career and relationships. Donna’s journey is truly a fan favorite involving self-discovery and empowerment!

Throughout season 6, we can see that the cast delivers an impressive performance, bringing depth to their characters. Starting with Harvey’s loyalty to Mike and Rachel’s continuous support, each character goes through a significant transformation, keeping the audience emotionally invested in the journeys. 

Season 6 proves to be a ride with lots of thrills from beginning to end! As the season comes to an end, it is set for fresh challenges. Harvey and Mike are reunited at PSL, and Donna and Louis are uncertain about what’s to come. The stage has been set for more personal and legal drama! 

8. Season 5 

Season 5
  • Episodes: 16 
  • Duration: 2015-2016
  • Release date: June 24, 2015
  • Where to watch: Vudu, Peacock, Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV
  • Rotten Tomatoes: 91%

Season 5 shook the core of the show, but in a good way. It starts with an emotional premier that dives deep into the aftermath of Donna’s departure as Harvey’s secretary after she confessed to him. Harvey truly struggles with his faithful ally, leaving him to fend for himself (not really, but it’s what Harvey feels)

Harvey finds himself battling with panic attacks as his fear of abandonment has been triggered. Amongst all the changes, Rachel and Mike finally get engaged. After four seasons of waiting and assuming, they gave fans what they had hoped for. They begin planning their wedding amidst the doubts about Mike’s future and the impact it will have. 

In comes a new adversary, Jack Soloff, and the return of an old enemy, Daniel Hardman, adding fuel to the already lit fire. They both combine their forces and threaten to put an end to Pearson Specter Litt from within. As the firm is under siege, Harvey and his colleagues must unite to eliminate all the enemies to protect their firm.  

But amidst all the chaos, Mike’s secret comes out as he is arrested for fraud, sending an additional shock throughout the firm. Anita Gibbs and ADA launch a pursuit of justice against him, and the team must apply every trick under their sleeves to defend Mike and safeguard his reputation and the firm’s. The season climaxes at the courtroom showdown, as Mike, Harvey, and the rest of the firm face off against Gibbs in a legal battle. As time is running out, the odds are against them, leading to the firm’s future hanging in the balance. 

That’s not all! Mike decides to make a difficult choice; he pleads guilty and accepts the two-year prison sentence, sacrificing his freedom to protect all his colleagues, especially Harvey. He is ready to face the consequences of his actions, while Rachel struggles with the uncertainty of their fate and the love she has for Mike. 

On the other hand, Harvey also goes through a challenging time. As he begins dating his former therapist Paula, he has a massive crunch and heartbreak. This impacts his work and relationships, but with consistent support from Donna, he can navigate through the issues he’s currently facing. Overall, season 5 will keep you on the edge, and there is a sad season finale where Harvey escorts Mike to prison. The show truly has a dose of drama and panic, making you want more!

The outstanding performances of the cast, with intricate plotlines and amazing courtroom scenes, add more to the watching experience. This season will truly give you the answer to the question of why it remains the leading legal drama!

9. Season 1

  • Episodes: 12 
  • Duration: 2011-2011
  • Release date: June 23, 2011
  • Where to watch: Vudu, Peacock, Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV
  • Rotten Tomatoes: 89%

Nothing beats the inaugural season of Suits, which became a highlight with the legal drama that followed as Mike Ross and Harvey Specter combine forces to make everything ‘legit.’ They both are a force to be reckoned with, followed by the chemistry between Donna and Harvey, Louis and his constant battles to compete and beat Harvey, and the aura of Jessica. This season was a complete phenomenon, with no episodes needed for background information. It indeed set the tone and made the show a massive success. The goal of the pilot season is to reel audiences in for a long haul, and season 1 managed to do that. 

It introduces audiences to the fast-paced law world in New York City. The series revolves around Mike, an intelligent but unlicensed lawyer with a photogenic memory. His life takes a drastic turn when he finds himself running into the interview with Harvey Specter, who is one of the top lawyers and closer working in Pearson Hardman. 

Despite not having a law degree, Harvey is impressed by Mike and his intellect and hires him as an associate in the firm. Together, they work on high-profile cases while keeping their secret hidden from the firm’s managing partner, Jessica Pearson, and their colleagues. 

As the season progresses, it makes it very challenging for Mike to deal with his dual life, mainly because he starts developing a romantic interest within the firm. Meanwhile, Harvey is seen battling with his own personal and professional issues, including his relationship with Daniel Hardman, who is one of the name partners and a ruthless attorney in the firm. 

The firm uncovers the ambitions, ethics, and hard work needed to survive in the cutthroat world of corporate law. Harvey and Mike share a special bond, which truly becomes the heart of the series as they rely on each other, dealing with different obstacles while working to keep up with their legal facade. 

Bottom Line

Now you know all the shows ranked from worst to best; the characters had to go through emotional, personal, and professional to reach where they are in the end. The show truly is one of the best of its genre, showcasing the struggles and power battles that the people of Pearson Specter, now Zane Specter Litt Wheeler Williams, go through. Our ranking will provide insight into what makes each season the best, mediocre, or worst. 

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By Abdul Wahab

Abdul Wahab is a Software Engineer by profession and a Tech geek by nature. Having been associated with the tech industry for the last five years, he has covered a wide range of Tech topics and produced well-researched and engaging content. You will mostly find him reviewing tech products and writing blog posts. Binge-watching tech reviews and endlessly reading tech blogs are his favorite hobbies.

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