The Quarterback (Glee)

"The Quarterback" is the third episode of the fifth season of the American musical television series Glee, and the 100th episode overall. It originally aired on Fox in the United States on October 10, 2013. The episode serves as a memorial to the character Finn Hudson and actor Cory Monteith, who died on July 13, 2013, from a mixed drug toxicity.

The episode deals with the aftermath of Finn's sudden death and the grieving process experienced by his friends, family, and former classmates. It features appearances from several recurring cast members, including Dianna Agron, Amber Riley, Mark Salling, Harry Shum Jr., and Mike O'Malley. The episode centers around the McKinley High Glee Club members and their reactions to Finn's passing, with storylines addressing how each individual copes with the loss.

Musical performances in "The Quarterback" are primarily elegies and tributes to Finn. Songs performed include "Seasons of Love" from Rent, "I'll Stand by You" by The Pretenders, "Fire and Rain" by James Taylor, "If I Die Young" by The Band Perry, "No Surrender" by Bruce Springsteen, and "Make You Feel My Love" by Bob Dylan. These songs were selected to reflect the themes of grief, remembrance, and the enduring impact of Finn's life.

"The Quarterback" received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the episode's emotional depth and the cast's performances. However, some criticized the episode's handling of grief and its lack of explicit explanation regarding the cause of Finn's death (only referencing a "sudden death"). The episode garnered significant attention and viewership due to its sensitive subject matter and the real-life tragedy it addressed. Proceeds from the sales of the episode's music were donated to a charity established in Cory Monteith's name.