Top 5 Stan Against Evil Episodes for John C. McGinley and Horror Fans: A Must-Watch List (Seasons 1-3)

Stan Against Evil, starring John C. McGinley, has become a cult favorite among horror-comedy fans, blending supernatural scares with sharp humor. Set in the cursed town of Willard’s Mill, this IFC series ran for three seasons (2016-2018) and follows the cantankerous former sheriff Stan Miller, played by McGinley, as he battles evil forces alongside Sheriff Evie Barret. If you’re a fan of McGinley or love horror with a comedic twist, here are the top five episodes from Stan Against Evil, showcasing the best of the series.

1. Season 1, Episode 1: “Dig Me Up, Dig Me Down”

The series premiere is an essential watch, setting the tone for the supernatural hijinks to come. After his wife’s sudden death, Stan is forced into early retirement, but he soon discovers that she was secretly battling evil forces in their small town. John C. McGinley’s perfect portrayal of the grumpy, no-nonsense Stan Miller makes this episode a great introduction to the character and the show’s blend of horror and humor. The opening moments are filled with laugh-out-loud moments and genuine frights, making it one of the strongest premieres in the horror-comedy genre.

2. Season 2, Episode 8: “A Hard Day’s Night”

In this thrilling and hilarious season 2 finale, Stan and Evie are thrust into a time loop, forced to relive the same night over and over while being hunted by a demonic creature. This episode delivers on both horror and humor, showcasing McGinley’s comedic timing as his character’s frustration grows with each repeated event. It’s a highlight in terms of pacing and creativity, with eerie atmosphere and a fun twist on time-travel horror.

3. Season 3, Episode 3: “Larva My Life”

A fan favorite, this episode combines body horror with humor as Stan gets infested with a parasitic demon larva. McGinley’s physical comedy and exaggerated reactions make this episode especially fun to watch. The creature design and practical effects are top-notch, making it a standout for horror enthusiasts who appreciate grotesque transformations. The episode manages to balance humor with gross-out horror, a signature of Stan Against Evil.

4. Season 1, Episode 8: “Level Boss”

The season 1 finale is one of the most intense episodes, pitting Stan and Evie against a powerful witch who seeks vengeance on the town. Filled with action, tension, and dark humor, this episode ups the stakes for our heroes. McGinley shines in moments of both vulnerability and anger, proving that his character is more than just a curmudgeonly sheriff—he’s a reluctant but determined hero. The final showdown is a must-watch for fans of horror showdowns.

5. Season 3, Episode 7: “Intensive Scare Unit”

One of the creepiest episodes in the series, “Intensive Scare Unit” sees Evie and Stan trapped in a haunted hospital. The atmosphere is pure horror, with eerie hallways, ghostly doctors, and sinister patients. McGinley delivers some of his best deadpan humor as Stan faces off against terrifying spirits. The setting and scares in this episode make it a standout, and the mixture of horror tropes with Stan Against Evil’s unique comedic flair elevates it to one of the top episodes.

Why Horror Fans Love Stan Against Evil

John C. McGinley’s portrayal of Stan Miller is a large part of why Stan Against Evil resonates with fans. His gruff, curmudgeonly attitude, paired with moments of genuine vulnerability, brings depth to a show that could easily be just a horror-comedy romp. His comedic timing, honed from years on Scrubs, meshes perfectly with the show’s quirky tone. At the same time, the horror elements are not diluted—there are plenty of scares, creepy creatures, and dark magic to satisfy even the most hardcore horror fans.

“It’s like Scooby-Doo meets the Exorcist” says McGinley.

Whether you’re in it for the laughs, the scares, or John C. McGinley’s brilliant performance, Stan Against Evil is a must-watch series for horror fans. These five episodes represent the best of the show’s unique blend of supernatural horror and dark comedy. Binge these episodes for a perfect introduction to the world of Willard’s Mill, and get ready for a mix of laughs, frights, and one very cranky former sheriff.