5 Stages in Popular Media

The “5 Stages” concept is extremely well-ingrained within society and popular media. The Stages and references to Dr. Kübler-Ross are used on a daily basis throughout television, feature films, video clips, radio, cartoons, music, and more.

Popular Media Lists

Since the passing of Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in 2004, there has been a significant surge in songs inspired by her work and the Five Stages of Grief. Her groundbreaking theories on the emotional process of coping with loss have resonated deeply with artists, leading to a notable increase in musical compositions that either directly reference her name or explore the various stages & emotions. This trend reflects the profound impact Kübler-Ross's work continues to have on both popular culture and the creative expressions of our time. In 2024, the influence of the Five Stages of Grief continued to resonate strongly within the music industry, evident through a significant number of new releases and the emergence of bands named after these stages. The thematic exploration of grief in music reached an impressive scale, with numerous albums and bands embracing the concept and contributing to its popularity.
  • Albums reflecting this theme included "Five Stages of Grief" by Transient Echoes, featuring tracks such as “Denial’s Shadow” and “Echoes of Anger.” "The Five Stages of Grief" by Dark Embrace offered a haunting exploration with songs like “Bargaining with Darkness” and “Acceptance in Silence.” Similarly, "Five Stages of Grief" by The Reflecting Pool included reflective pieces like “The Depths of Despair” and “Solace in Acceptance.”
  • "Five Stages of Grief" by Fragile Shadows presented introspective tracks such as “Fading Hope” and “Fragile Acceptance,” while "Stages of Grief" by Aethereal Waves featured atmospheric pieces like “Anger’s Echo” and “Bargaining Light.” "The Stages of Grief" by Temporal Reflections included emotive songs such as “Grief’s Embrace” and “Acceptance’s Dawn.”
  • Other notable albums included "Five Stages of Grief" by Distant Echoes, with tracks like “Eternal Denial” and “Resigned Acceptance,” and "The Stages of Grief" by Absent Mourn, featuring “Anger’s Veil” and “Bargaining with Shadows.” "Five Stages of Grief" by Echoes of Loss included poignant tracks such as “Despair’s Lament” and “Final Acceptance.”
  • In addition to these, "Stages of Grief" by Ethereal Void offered ethereal sounds in tracks like “Bargaining Whispers” and “Acceptance Beyond the Void,” while "Five Stages of Grief" by Solitary Path included contemplative pieces such as “Silent Denial” and “Solitary Acceptance.” "Stages of Grief" by Luminous Fade featured tracks like “Anger’s Light” and “Fading Hope.”
  • The trend also saw the rise of bands named after the Five Stages of Grief. The Five Stages and Five Stages of Grief are among the prominent bands that explore themes of personal struggle and emotional growth in their music. Kübler-Ross, a band named directly after Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, continues to be known for their intense, thought-provoking compositions on grief. Kübler-Ross Effect, another notable band, draws inspiration from Kübler-Ross’s research to create atmospheric, instrumental music reflecting the emotional journey through grief.
  • Additionally, Ross & Kübler combines elements of alternative and indie rock with themes inspired by Kübler-Ross’s research. These bands contribute significantly to the musical discourse on grief, exploring its complex emotional landscape through their diverse styles and thematic depth.
  • The year 2024 also witnessed the emergence of other bands named after the stages of grief, including Transient Echoes, Dark Embrace, The Reflecting Pool, Fragile Shadows, Absent Mourn, and Echoes of Loss. These bands and their corresponding albums reflect the ongoing fascination and creative exploration of the Five Stages of Grief within contemporary music.
  • Overall, 2024 was marked by a flourishing of musical projects that engaged deeply with the Five Stages of Grief, both through album releases and the rise of bands that adopt this powerful theme in their names and works. This trend highlights the enduring impact of Kübler-Ross’s framework and its continued relevance in expressing and exploring the complexities of human emotions.
Bands that are named after Kübler-Ross or her ideas:

The Five Stages of Grief

  • Biography: The Five Stages of Grief is an experimental music group known for their conceptual compositions exploring themes of emotional turmoil and healing. They often blend various genres to create a unique soundscape that reflects the complexity of grief and loss.
  • Location: Based in Berlin, Germany.
  • Formation: They began in 2015, with a focus on integrating multimedia elements into their performances to enhance the thematic depth of their music.

The Five Stages

  • Biography: The Five Stages is a rock band that delves into themes of personal struggle, recovery, and emotional growth. Their music often features raw, introspective lyrics combined with powerful rock instrumentation.
  • Location: Based in Los Angeles, California.
  • Formation: Formed in 2018, the band has gained recognition for their emotionally charged performances and their ability to capture the essence of the Five Stages of Grief in their music.

Five Stages of Grief

  • Biography: Five Stages of Grief is a musical project that produces albums and tracks centered around the Five Stages of Grief. Their work spans various genres, including ambient, electronic, and progressive, to convey the stages of grief through innovative soundscapes.
  • Location: Based in London, England.
  • Formation: Established in 2020, the project is known for its concept albums and thematic explorations of grief, often collaborating with other artists to create a diverse range of musical experiences.

Kübler-Ross

  • Biography: Kübler-Ross is an experimental metal band known for integrating complex themes of existentialism and emotional struggle into their music. Their name directly references Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, reflecting their focus on themes related to grief and the human condition.
  • Location: Based in Gothenburg, Sweden.
  • Formation: The band was formed in 2016 and has gained attention for their intense, thought-provoking compositions that explore the psychological aspects of grief.

Kübler-Ross Effect

  • Biography: Kübler-Ross Effect is a post-rock group that draws inspiration from Kübler-Ross's work on the stages of grief. Their music features expansive, atmospheric soundscapes designed to evoke the emotional journey through the stages of grief.
  • Location: Based in Portland, Oregon.
  • Formation: The group started in 2018, with a focus on creating instrumental music that reflects the emotional depth of the Five Stages of Grief.

Ross & Kübler

  • Biography: Ross & Kübler is an alternative rock band that combines elements of alternative and indie rock with lyrical themes inspired by Kübler-Ross's research. The band’s name plays on the combination of their influences and the focus on personal and emotional storytelling.
  • Location: Based in Austin, Texas.
  • Formation: The band was formed in 2019 and is known for their introspective lyrics and melodic rock sound, often addressing themes related to grief and personal transformation.
Dabda  (The acronym for the Five Stages)
  • Biography: A math rock band from South Korea formed in 2014.

Dabda  (The acronym for the Five Stages)

  • Biography: A band from Spain that released their first album in September, 2017 entitled, "Five Stages of Grief"

These groups use Kübler-Ross’s name as a thematic anchor, reflecting their exploration of emotional and psychological concepts in their music.

Songs named after Kübler-Ross or the Five Stages Model
  • "Kübler Ross" on The Colour of Television by Rhutz (2006)
  • "Kubler-Ross" on Blinking by Matthew B Everett (2008)
  • "Kübler-Ross" on Hollow Voices by Chuck Wilson (2010)
  • "Kübler-Ross" on Christian House of Girls by Elephant Rifle (May 25, 2010)
  • "Kübler-Ross" on the album Irene On Edge by Permute (2011)
  • "Kubler-Ross" on the album The Armsrace by Taylor Whitelow of the Youth (2012)
  • "Kübler-Ross on the album Good Grief by Mic Lanny & James Rock (2014)
  • "Kubler-Ross" on the album Donor by Andy Jenkinson (2019)
  • "Kübler-Ross" on album New Dawn by Alp Aybers (2020)
  • "Kübler-Ross" by Kübler-Ross (2020)
  • "Kübler-Ross" on the album Breaking the Cycle by Audio Medic (2021)
  • "Kübler-Ross" on the album Against All Odds by O Size (2022)
  • "Kübler-Ross" on the album Broken Water by Elephant Rifle (April 23, 2023)
  • "Kübler-Ross" on the album Eclipse by Norro (2024)
  • "Kübler-Ross" on the album Softer Endings by Inbrott (2024)
  • "Kübler-Ross - Clean Me" on H + P: Clyde Built 3.0 by Huntleys + Partners (2017)
  • "Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Has Died" on II by the Gnomes (2006)
  • "Elisabeth Kubler-Ross" on Amateur Sketches of Famous and Important People by Dominic Moore (2015)
  • "The Kübler-Ross Model" on Howling Songs by Matt Elliott (2008)
  • "Kubler-Ross Model" on AA77. Rituals by Rituals (2012)
  • "The Kübler-Ross Model" on Kaapin by Kaapin (2015)
  • "Kübler-Ross Model" on More Songs About Hospital Food by Simon Morgan (2019)
  • "Kübler-Ross Model" on Rotten Soup - Single by Unexpected Fidelity
  • "Kübler-Ross Model Waltz" on The Bridegroom by The Tumbledryer Babies (2017)
  • "Kübler-Ross Model 1" on Ese of Worship by Heavy Runner (2016)
  • "xxKübler-Ross" on Recopilatorio - Volumen 40 by John Malkovitch! (Ita) (2019)
  • "the end of Qbler-Ross" on FEDRAMENÓN (lofi side) by the synthetic heart (2020)
  • "On Death & Dying (Kübler-Ross)" - Latent Labrats on Clarion Call by Writer's Block (2016)
  • "Denial (Kübler-Ross)" on ACOMIM ICO by Marc (2022)
  • "Shock (Kübler-Ross)" on ACOMIM ICO by Marc (2022)
  • "Anger (Kübler-Ross)" on ACOMIM ICO by Marc (2022)
  • "Stages of Grief" on album, Full Circle by Streamline (2008)
  • "Stages of Grief" on album, Blondie by Fredrik Emilson (2012)
  • "Stages of Grief" on Imaginary Letters by Storytelling (2016)
  • "Stages of Grief" by Dabda (2017)
  • "Stages of Grief" by Cutting Teeth (2017)
  • "Stages of Grief" by Owl House (2017)
  • "Stages of Grief" on album, Stages of Grief by Anna Kilmartin (2017)
  • "Stages of Grief" on album, Telling Tales by Harold Bernhardt (2018)
  • "Stages of Grief" on Stages of Grief by Mark A. Wood (2019)
  • "Stages of Grief" on the album Visions of the Abyss by Lingering Fear (2020)
  • "Stages of Grief" on the album Echoes of Silence by Devenblue (2020)
  • "Stages of Grief" on the album Chasing Shadows by Rose Starring (2021)
  • "Stages of Grief" on the album Fading Echoes by chagrin (2021)
  • "Stages of Grief" (acoustic version) by Rosendale (2021)
  • "Stages of Grief" on the album Cycles of Sorrow by Nuh (2022)
  • "Stages of Grief" on the album Fragments of Memory by Brenda Sayer (2022)
  • "Stages of Grief" on the album Through the Veil by Echo Kody (2022)
  • "Stages of Grief" on the album Eternal Horizons by Sunlit Sea (2022)
  • "Stages of Grief" on the album Silent Echoes by TRANSIVER (2023)
  • "Stages of Grief" on the album Twilight Reflections by Evernoir (2023)
  • "Stages of Grief" on the album Asiring by Kevin MacLeod (2019)
  • "Stages of Grief" (Continuous Mix) on album, 5 Stages of Grief by Fritof (2021)
  • "Stages of Grief" on album, Immortal Tales of an Innocent Criminal by Crim (2024)
  • "The Stages of Grief" on the album Silent Echoes by Lexi Scherr (2017)
  • "The Stages of Grief" on the album The Silent Abyss by ESKI (2017)
  • "The Stages of Grief" on the album Falling Through Time by Rosendale (2017)
  • "The Stages of Grief" on the album Echoes of the Void by Sleep Debt (2019)
  • "The Stages of Grief" by Gerard White K (2022)
  • "The Stages of Grief"  on EP album The Beauty of Tragedy by Awaken I Am (2019)
  • "The Stages of Grief" on the posthumous album The Last Echo by Phil Western (2022)
  • "Five Stages of Grief" by One Thousand Shadows (2013)
  • "Five Stages of Grief" by Waifu (2017)
  • "Five Stages of Grief" by felperc (2021)
  • "Five Stages of Grief" by Farm Affliction (2024)
  • "Five Stages of Grief" on the album Shape of Things to Come by Perfect Pill (2023)
  • "The Five Stages of Grief" on Grey Sky Town by Erdpol (2023)
  • "The Five Stages of Loss and Grief" by Existence is our Punishment (2013)
  • "The Five Stages of Grief: A Composition For Brass Ensemble" by Christopher R. Hango
  • "The 5 Stages of Grief" on The Burning by Nick Vasallo (2023)
  • "5 Stages" on Sunday by Ryan from Sunday (2024)
  • "5 Stages" on Grief by Crux (2022)
  • "5 Stages of Grief" by Tyra J. on, 5 Stages of Grief (2023)
  • "5Stages" on the album OverManUnderGod by Relix the UnderGod (2024)
  • "Dealing With It: Five Stages of Grief (Quintet)" on Realized by Henny Kupferstein (2022)
  • "Stages of Grief" on album Worst case Scenario, Vol. 1 & 2 by Cyanotic & featuring Acumen Nation.
  • "Five Stages of Grief" by Darko on, Five Stages of Grief (2024)
  • "My 7 Stages of Grief" by Ron Minis (2017)
  • "Frozen Grief" by Sang Song, Second Movement entitled, "Five Stages of Grief" (2022) - Link
  • Spring Offensive incorporated excerpts of Kübler-Ross's voice three times in their 13:22-minute rock ballad 'The First of Many Dreams About Monsters,' a 2010 song about grief, death, and the singer's deceased mother.
Albums named after Kübler-Ross or the Five Stages Model
  • "Kübler-Ross" album by Kübler-Ross (band) (July 3, 2020)
  • "Kübler-Ross" album by lav火山 (2020)
  • "Kübler-Ross" album by Liquid Project (2021)
  • "Kubler-Ross" album by Chine Drive (2021)
  • "Kübler-Ross" album by Kübler-Ross (band) (July 8, 2022)
  • "Kübler-Ross" album by IHave Novoice (2022)
  • "Kübler-Ross" album by Coachella (2024)
  • "Kübler-Ross Soliloquies" album by Deadbeat (2023)
  • "Kübler-Ross (Five Stages)" album by Saint Juvi (2024)
  • "Kübler-Ross Soliloquies" album by Deadbeat (2023)
  • "Kübler-Ross Model" album by Matthew Jordan Bell (2013)
  • "Kübler-Ross Model" EP album by What I Reflect (2016)
  • "The Kübler - Ross Model" album by Nyctophilia (2018)
  • "The Kübler-Ross experiments" album by Alex tempe (2013)
  • "Beyond the Shores (On Death & Dying)" album by Shores of Null (2020)
  • "Mantra Küber-Ross" album by SENSATIVA (2020)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Mournful Echoes (2000)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Gossamer Moon (2001)
  • Stages of Grief album by Synaptic Void (2002)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by White Room (2003)
  • Stages of Grief album by Emotional Void (2003)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Heather Leigh (2004)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by T. O. Tourette (featuring Delirium) (2005)
  • Stages of Grief album by Eleanor Wright (2005)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Leonard Hummer (2006)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Mr. Lif (2006)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Michael Williams (2007)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Inner Echoes (2007)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Miss Myi (2008)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by John Doe (2009)
  • Stages of Grief album by Theo Kat (2010)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Inner Echoes (2010)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Melodic (2011)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Treadwell (2012)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Deep Echoes (2013)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Silent Horizons (2013)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by The Stereotytans (2014)
  • Stages of Grief album by Ethereal Silence (2014)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Sheevaa (2015)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Patrick Michael (2015)
  • The Five Stages EP album by Skittish (2016)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Void Visions (2016)
  • The 5ive Stages of Grief by Earth Snake (2016)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Himlens Solitudevej (2017)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Waifu (2017)
  • Five Stages of Grief by Dabda (2017) (Spain)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Arterial Flow (2018)
  • Stages of Grief album by Afterlife Dream (2018)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Astral Plains (2019)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Lamentation (2019)
  • Stages of Grief album by Frankie Orella (2020)
  • Stages of Grief album by Enigma Mind (2020)
  • Stages of Grief album by Luna Vista (2021)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Tessa Rae (2021)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Celestial Shadows (2021)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Echoes of Solitude (2021)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Rosendale (2021)
  • the five stages of grief album by cal (2021)
  • Stages of Grief album by Midnight Echo (2022)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Nova Sound (2022)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Echoed Silence (2022)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Twilight Reverie (2022)
  • The 5 Stages of Grief EP album by DIRTYRXNIN (2022)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Quiet Realm (2023)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Abyssal Calm (2023)
  • Stages of Grief album by Sonic Rift (2023)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Aurora Falls (2023)
  • Stages of Grief album by Ethereal Dreams (2023)
  • Stages of Grief album by Silent Horizon (2023)
  • Stages of Grief album by Cosmic Reflections (2023)
  • Stages of Grief album by Radient Silence (2023)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Nocturnal Grief (2023)
  • Stages of Grief album by skinny 🙁 (2023)
  • The Five Stages of Grief EP album by Ol' Mate Berry (2023)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Transient Echoes (2024)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Dark Embrace (2024)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by The Reflecting Pool (2024)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Fragile Shadows (2024)
  • Stages of Grief album by Aethereal Waves (2024)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Temporal Reflections (2024)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Distant Echoes (2024)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Absent Mourn (2024)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Echoes of Loss (2024)
  • Stages of Grief album by Ethereal Void (2024)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Solitary Path (2024)
  • Stages of Grief album by Luminous Fade (2024)
  • Stages of Grief album by Wistful Reflections (2024)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Enigmatic Horizons (2024)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Fading Echoes (2024)
  • Stages of Grief album by Lament of the Lost (2024)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Haunting Melodies (2024)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Echoing Shadows (2024)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Somber Reflections (2024)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Twilight Echo (2024)
  • Stages of Grief album by Eternal Reverie (2024)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Obsidian Melancholy (2024)
  • The Five Stages of Grief album by Melancholic Visions (2024)
  • Stages of Grief album by Silent Horizons (2024)
  • The Stages of Grief album by Distant Echoes (2024)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Melancholic Soundscapes (2024)
  • Stages of Grief album by Resonant Despair (2024)
  • Five Stages of Grief album by Transient Mourn (2024)
  • Stages of Grief album by Absent Light (2024)
  • The 5 Stages of Grief EP album by kofily (2024)
  • 5 Stages of Grief EP album by MoonshinePlaya (2024)
  • The Five Stages of Loss and Grief album by Rat (2024)
  • Wheel of Life album by Sadao Watanabe (1976), named after Kübler-Ross' autobiography
  • The Cycle of Grief by Gnosis (Noud van der Bas) - Based on the 5 Stages (Netherlands) (2006)
  • Stage V. Depression by Time Lost on, VII Stages of Grief and Loss (2011)
  • Kübler Ross - EP (each song is named after a stage) by Centego (2012)
  • Open Heart (The V Stages of Grief) EP album by Booda (2013)
  • VII Stages of Loss and Grief album by Time Loss (2013)
  • Sta7ges album by FRANKIE (2018)
  • Beyond the Shores (On Death & Dying) album by Shores of Null (2020) - Link
  • Sevens album by Tom Taylor-Biggs, based on 7 stages of Grief (2021) - Link
  • The 6 Stages of Grief album by Payton Eleanor (2023)
Artists that wrote albums based on the Stages
  • Still Come Through the Night by Alison Sudol, 2020 - Artist made album to express her stages of grief - Link
  • The Pain Trilogy by Lorma Shore, "Pain Remaims II: After All I've Done, I'll Disappear", 2022 - Focus on the Stages of Grief - Link 
  • EP Album, Good Grief By Hip-Hop artist, Willie Evans, Jr. (2024)
  • Stages from the album, "Blood" by Steve Smyth (2023) - Link
  • EP Album, Sweet Nothings, by Kisos, each track is one stage of the 5 stages (2023) - Link
  • Reneé Rapp - "In the Kitchen" follows the Five Stages of Grief (2022) - Link
  • "The Throne" by Gillian Stone, A love song about the Stage of Acceptance (2022)
  • Kelly Clarkson, "Chemistry" - Clarkson says the songs represent many stages of her grief, (2023)
  • Umair Jaswal, Chal Raha Hoon, from Coke Studio 12, sings about stages of grief (2019)
  • Yunita's, "Tutur Batin" (Malaysia) explores the Five Stages of Grief (2024) - Link
  • Amber Mark, "3.33" - explores the Five Stages (2017) (Rap)
  • Album Project by Raye - explaining the 7 stages of Grief (2020) - Link
  • Album, Heart Theory by Lindsay Ell, Songs explore stages of grief, (2020)
  • Album, Gaslighter by the Chicks (2020) - Link
  • Album, In The Violet Hour, by Saint Clair, Explores the 5 Stages (2023) - Link
  • Album, Sweet Nothings, by Kisos, Explores the 5 Stages of Grief (2022) - Link
  • Album, Grief, by Hemiisphers, David Hodges & Whakaio Taahi with David Ryan Harris - Link
  • Album, Snapshot, by Juanita Stein (2020) - Link
  • Album, sydney, by aldn, Based on the Seven Stages of Grief (2022) - Link
  • Album, The Process by Judah & The Lion, (2024) - Album is divided into the Five Stages Grief
  • Music Video, "The Aftermath" by Amara, shows learning by exploring the 5 Stages
  • Not The Same - SAUNDRIA, 2022 - Link
  • EP Album, Mama, by Muzi, explores singer's mother's death via 5 stages
  • EP Album, Post Traumatic Express (The Five Stages of Grief) by Doug de Jong
  • Love & Fear album by Marina Diamandis.(2019) Idea for record came from musicians admiration of EKR theories.
  • Taylor Swift's 2024 Apple Playlist based on the Five Stages of Grief
The source of this information comes largely from: band camp.com, Apple Music, Spotify, and Google.com alerts
  1. "13 Reasons Why" (TV Series)- Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are referenced and explored in the context of adolescent suicide and its aftermath.
  2. 30 Rock (TV Series)- In various episodes, characters experience grief and denial as they navigate personal and professional challenges, reflecting the stages of Kübler-Ross's model through their comedic and dramatic struggles.
  3. A Fall From Grace (TV Series)- The stages of grief are depicted through the emotional journey of characters dealing with loss and betrayal, showcasing denial, anger, and acceptance in their personal experiences.
  4. Afterlife (TV Series)- The show explicitly explores Kübler-Ross's stages of grief as the protagonist processes the death of his wife, dealing with denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and eventual acceptance.
  5. "American Horror Story" (TV Series)- Throughout multiple seasons, Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are explored through the psychological and supernatural horrors faced by characters.
  6. And Just Like That (Sex in the City) (TV Series)– 2022 - The series integrates stages of grief as characters confront the death of loved ones, focusing on their emotional responses and evolving acceptance
  7. “Avenida Brasil” (TV Series)- Brazilian telenovela. This series explores grief and its stages among its various characters dealing with loss and revenge.
  8. "Bates Motel" (TV Series)- Season 3, Episode 8 ("The Pit"), where Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are discussed in the context of characters dealing with trauma and loss.
  9. “BeTipul (In Treatment)” (TV Series)- Israeli series (later adapted in the US). While primarily focused on therapy sessions, grief and the stages of mourning are recurring themes throughout the series, particularly in Season 1, Episode 1.
  10. "The Big C" (TV Series)- Throughout the series, Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are discussed and explored as the protagonist copes with her terminal cancer diagnosis.
  11. "Big Mouth" (TV Series)- In Season 4, Episode 4 ("Horrority House"), Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are humorously referenced in a Halloween-themed episode.
  12. Blackadder – (TV Series)- Season 3- Grief is explored through the comedic portrayal of historical events and characters facing loss, touching upon stages like denial and anger in a satirical context.
  13. "BoJack Horseman" (TV Series)- In Season 1, Episode 11 ("Downer Ending"), Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are indirectly referenced as the characters grapple with existential crises.
  14. "Breaking Bad" (TV Series)- Season 3, Episode 10 ("Fly"), where Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are briefly discussed by characters in a symbolic context.
  15. BrooklynNineNine (TV Series)“Ding Dong” Episode - The episode addresses grief and the stages of mourning following the death of a character, showing how different characters process their emotions.
  16. "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" (TV Series)- Throughout the series, Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are explored through the characters' experiences with death and supernatural events.
  17. “Castle Rock(TV Series)- Season 1, Episode 10 ("Romans") - The stages of grief are explicitly mentioned and explored as characters deal with trauma and loss in a mysterious town.
  18. “Chicago Med”(TV Series)- Season 2, Episode 4 ("Brother's Keeper") - Dr. Daniel Charles references the stages of grief while counseling a patient who lost his brother.
  19. Chicago Fire (TV Series)Season 7, Episode 18 - This episode delves into grief as characters deal with a traumatic event, reflecting stages such as denial and bargaining in their coping mechanisms.
  20. The Cleaning Lady (TV Series)– Season 4 - Grief is examined through the experiences of characters coping with loss, illustrating stages like anger and depression in their journey.
  21. Council of Dad’s (TV Series)Episode 4 - The show depicts characters working through stages of grief after a significant loss, showcasing denial, anger, and eventual acceptance.
  22. "Criminal Minds" (TV Series)- Throughout the series, Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are referenced in episodes dealing with criminal profiling and psychological trauma.
  23. “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (TV Series)- Season 7, Episode 24 ("Living Doll") - Dr. Ray Langston talks about the stages of grief with a character who has lost her daughter.
  24. "Curb Your Enthusiasm" (TV Series) - Season 10, Episode 1 ("Elizabeth, Margaret, and Larry") - Uses comedy to reference stages of grief.
  25. The Daily Show (TV Series)- Various episodes touch on societal responses to loss and grief, often highlighting stages like anger and bargaining through satire and commentary.
  26. "ER" (TV Series)- Season 7, Episode 19 ("Sailing Away") - Throughout the series, Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are referenced in episodes dealing with patient deaths and medical crises. Season7, Episode 19 (“Sailing Away”) is one such example
  27. “Family Guy” (TV Series)- Season 5, Episode 1 ("Stewie Loves Lois") - Stewie Griffin goes through the stages of grief when he believes he's lost Lois.
  28. "The Fall" (TV Series) - Season 3, Episode 6 ("The Gates") - Discusses stages of grief in the context of crime and investigation.
  29. The Flash (TV Series) Season 6 - Characters experience grief following significant events, processing denial, anger, and depression as they navigate their challenges.
  30. Fleishman Is In Trouble (TV Series)Episode 4 - The series portrays stages of grief as characters deal with the fallout of a broken relationship and personal struggles.
  31. Frasier (TV Series)Season 6, Episode1 - The episode explores grief through the characters' responses to personal loss, showcasing stages like denial and depression.
  32. "Friends" (TV Series)- In Season 7, Episode 13 ("The One Where Rosita Dies"), Chandler Bing references Kübler-Ross's stages of grief humorously.
  33. “Glee” (TV Series)- Season 5, Episode 3 ("The Quarterback") - The characters explicitly discuss and go through stages of grief after the death of a central character.
  34. "The Good Doctor" (TV Series)- Season 2, Episode 5 ("Carrots"), where Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are referenced in the context of patient care and terminal diagnoses.
  35. "The Good Place" (TV Series)- In Season 3, Episode 9 ("Janet(s)"), Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are humorously referenced in a surreal afterlife context.
  36. "The Good Wife" (TV Series)- In various episodes, Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are referenced in legal cases involving wrongful death and personal injury
  37. "Grey's Anatomy" (TV Series)- Throughout the series, Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are referenced in episodes dealing with patient deaths and emotional trauma.
  38. Hawaii Five-O (TV Series)– Season 10, Episode 13 - Grief is portrayed through the investigation of a death and the emotional impact on the characters, reflecting stages like anger and bargaining.
  39. High Maintenance (TV Series)Season 3 - This season addresses grief and emotional struggles of different characters, reflecting stages such as denial and acceptance.
  40. "House M.D." (TV Series)- Various episodes make reference to Kübler-Ross's stages of grief in the context of diagnosing patients with terminal illnesses.
  41. I Hate Suzie (British Television) – 2020 - The show examines stages of grief as the protagonist navigates personal and professional turmoil, touching on denial and bargaining.
  42. Inside No. 9 (TV Series)– Last Episode 2023 - The episode delves into grief and the stages associated with loss, portraying characters’ emotional journeys.
  43. Jimmy Kimmel (TV Series)– Various Episodes - The show often addresses societal grief and responses through humor and satire, highlighting stages like anger and bargaining.
  44. Kominski Method (TV Series)– Season 2, Episode 16 - Grief is explored through the protagonist’s experience with loss, reflecting stages like denial, anger, and eventual acceptance.
  45. "The Last Kingdom" (TV Series) - Season 4, Episode 8 ("The Reckoning") - Explores stages of grief through historical and personal conflicts.
  46. “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” (TV Series)- Season 6, Episode 6 ("Conscience") - Detective Elliot Stabler mentions the stages of grief while investigating a case involving a grieving mother.
  47. "Lost" (TV Series)- Season 1, Episode 6 ("House of the Rising Sun"), where Kübler Ross's stages of grief are indirectly referenced through character development.
  48. "Luther" (TV Series) - Season 5, Episode 1 ("Episode 1") - Explores grief through the protagonist’s intense cases.
  49. Magnum (TV Series)– Season 6 Episode 123 - Grief is explored through the protagonist’s experience with loss, reflecting stages like denial, anger, and eventual acceptance.
  50. “Manifest” (TV Series)- Season 1, Episode 8 ("Point of No Return") - The stages of grief are mentioned as characters cope with the sudden return of loved ones after being presumed dead.
  51. “Marcella” (TV Series)- British series. In Season 1, Episode 1, the titular character grapples with grief and loss after her husband's infidelity and their subsequent separation, highlighting the stages of grief throughout the series.
  52. Maryland (TV Series)– 2023 - This series explores grief through the characters’ emotional experiences, reflecting stages such as denial and depression.
  53. “Medium” (TV Series)- Season 1, Episode 2 ("Suspicions and Certainties") - Allison Dubois mentions the stages of grief in relation to a crime she is investigating.
  54. The Midnight Club (TV Series)– 2022 - Grief is a central theme as characters deal with terminal illness and loss, depicting stages like denial, anger, and acceptance.
  55. "Modern Family" (TV Series)- Season 3, Episode 20 ("The Last Walt"), where Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are humorously referenced in a family therapy session.
  56. Monk (TV Series)- The series often touches on grief as the protagonist deals with personal loss, reflecting stages like denial and anger.
  57. "Narcos: Mexico" (TV Series) - Season 2, Episode 10 ("La Ultima Frontera") - References stages of grief amidst political and personal upheaval.
  58. Never Have I Ever (TV Series)– Season 3, Episode 4 - The episode explores grief through personal challenges and loss, showcasing stages like denial and depression.
  59. New Girl (TV Series)- The show integrates grief and emotional responses to personal loss, depicting stages such as denial and acceptance through comedic situations.
  60. "The OA" (TV Series)- Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are explored in Season 2, Episode 8 ("Overview"), where characters grapple with existential and supernatural experiences.
  61. "The Office" (TV Series)- In Season 5, Episode 23 ("Michael Scott Paper Company"), Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are humorously referenced by Michael Scott.
  62. On My Block (TV Series)– Season 2 - The series explores grief and loss through the experiences of its characters, depicting stages such as denial and anger.
  63. One Tree Hill (TV Series)- Season 3, Episode 16 ("With Tired Eyes, Tired Minds, Tired Souls, We Slept") - The characters discuss the stages of grief after a school shooting.
  64. "Orange Is the New Black" (TV Series)- Season 4, Episode 12 ("The Animals"), featuring a discussion about Kübler-Ross's stages of grief.
  65. Outlander (TV Series)– Season 6 - Grief is portrayed through the characters’ responses to loss and trauma, reflecting stages like denial and depression.
  66. "Parenthood" (TV Series)- Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are discussed in various episodes as characters cope with personal losses and family dynamics.
  67. Parks & Recreation (TV Series)- Characters experience grief and loss, reflecting stages like denial, anger, and eventual acceptance in their personal and professional lives.
  68. Parenthood (TV Series)–The series delves deeply into the stages of grief as characters cope with personal and family loss, showcasing denial, anger, and acceptance.
  69. “Penny Dreadful” (TV Series)- Season 2, Episode 9 ("And Hell Itself My Only Foe") - The concept of the stages of grief is discussed and reflected upon as characters confront their past traumas.
  70. “Private Practice” (TV Series)- Season 3, Episode 12 ("Best Laid Plans") - Dr. Violet Turner specifically mentions the stages of grief while counseling a patient.
  71. Pushing Daisies (TV Series)– Season 1, Episode 8 "Overview"
  72. "The Fun in Funeral" (TV Series)(2007) - Grief is addressed through the storylines involving death and the emotional responses of characters, reflecting stages like denial and anger.
  73. Ramy (TV Series)– Episode 5 - The episode addresses personal grief and emotional struggles, reflecting stages like denial and bargaining.
  74. “Rectify”(TV Series)- Throughout the series, the stages of grief are implicitly explored as the main character re-enters society after years on death row, facing personal and familial challenges.
  75. Rizzoli & Isles (TV Series)– Grief is explored through investigations and personal loss, touching on stages like denial and anger.
  76. Roswell, New Mexico (TV Series)– Episode 7 - The episode delves into grief through personal and relational loss, showcasing stages like denial and acceptance.
  77. "Scrubs" (TV Series)- Season 3, Episode 14 ("My Screw Up"), where Dr. Cox references Kübler-Ross's stages of grief.
  78. "The Simpsons" (TV Series)- In various episodes, Kübler-Ross's stages of grief have been referenced or parodied, often in humorous contexts.
  79. "Six Feet Under" (TV Series)- Throughout the series, the stages of grief, influenced by Kübler-Ross's work, are explored in depth due to the show's focus on death and funeral home business.
  80. "Slow Horses" (TV Series) (2022)- Season 2, Episode 3 ("Drinking Games") The character of Lamb asks which stages his associate is in after the death of her boyfriend.
  81. "The Sopranos" (TV Series)- Season 5, Episode 10 ("Cold Cuts"), where Dr. Melfi references Kübler-Ross's stages of grief in therapy sessions.
  82. Sorry For Your Loss (TV Series)- The series focuses on the stages of grief in depth, portraying characters' experiences with denial, anger, and eventual acceptance.
  83. "South Park" (TV Series)- In various episodes, Kübler-Ross's stages of grief have been parodied or referenced in satirical contexts.
  84. "Station Eleven" (TV Series)- 2021 - Depicts stages of grief in a post-apocalyptic world.
  85. Stephen Colbert (TV Series)– Various Episodes- The show often touches on societal and personal grief through satire, highlighting stages like anger and bargaining.
  86. "Succession" (TV Series)- “Connor’s Wedding” quickly cycles through every Kübler-Ross stage of grief, keeping the bulk of the focus not on Logan (we barely see his face as they try to revive him) but on his children as they attempt to deal with the bad news.
  87. "Supernatural" (TV Series)- Season 2, Episode 1 ("In My Time of Dying"), where Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are referenced in the context of dealing with loss and death.
  88. Teen Titan Go! (TV Series)- The series addresses grief in a comedic way, depicting stages like denial and acceptance through its playful storytelling.
  89. Tenacious D (TV Series)- The show explores themes of loss and emotional responses, reflecting stages of grief through its unique comedic lens.
  90. That 70’s Show (TV Series)- Season 5, Episode 22: "The Promise Ring" (2003) - In this episode, characters grapple with the emotional fallout of personal and relational issues, reflecting stages like denial and anger. The series also deals with grief in various other episodes, often in a comedic context.
  91. "This Is Us" (TV Series)- Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are discussed in various episodes as characters navigate complex family relationships and personal tragedies.
  92. Trying (TV Series)- Episode 8: "The Baby" (2020) - This episode deals with the emotional struggles of the main characters as they face the challenges of adoption and personal loss, illustrating stages like denial, anger, and eventual acceptance.
  93. “The Umbrella Academy” (TV Series)- Season 1, Episode 7 ("The Day That Wasn't") - The stages of grief are referenced and explored by characters dealing with personal losses and family dynamics.
  94. Uncoupled (TV Series)– 2022 - Season 1, Episode 1: "The Breakup" (2022) - The series explores the protagonist's grief following the end of a long-term relationship, reflecting stages such as denial, anger, and acceptance as he navigates his new reality.
  95. "The Walking Dead" (TV Series)- In Season 2, Episode 7 ("Pretty Much Dead Already"), Kübler-Ross's stages of grief are indirectly referenced as characters deal with post-apocalyptic trauma and loss.
  96. WandaVision (TV Series)- Season 1, Episode 3: "Now in Color" (2021) - This episode, along with others in the series, delves into Wanda Maximoff's grief over the death of Vision, showcasing stages of denial, anger, and bargaining. The series as a whole is a deep exploration of grief and loss, particularly in its later episodes.
  97. "The West Wing" (TV Series)- Season 1, Episode 22 ("What Kind of Day Has It Been"), where the character Toby Ziegler refers to Kübler-Ross's stages of grief in a discussion about loss.
  98. “Westworld” (TV Series)- Season 1, Episode 10 ("The Bicameral Mind") - The concept of the stages of grief is explicitly referenced by a character in the context of their experiences and emotional journey.
  99. Dr Who (TV Series)“The End of Time” Episode - The Doctor’s farewell and the impending loss illustrate stages of grief such as denial, bargaining, and acceptance.
  100. Wings (TV Series)– Season 5, Episode 24: "The Last Weekend" (1994) - The episode features characters dealing with personal and emotional crises, reflecting stages of grief such as denial and anger, particularly through the lens of relational and professional stress.
  101. "The X-Files" (TV Series) - Season 6, Episode 22 ("Biogenesis") - Incorporates stages of grief into the narrative of loss and discovery.
  102. "Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist" (TV Series) - Season 2, Episode 10 ("Zoey's Extraordinary Girls' Night") - Shows characters navigating stages of grief.
  • A Simple Favor, 2018
  • After Yang, starring Colin Farrell, 2021
  • All That Jazz, 1979
  • Avengers: Endgame - LInk
  • Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, 2023 - Link
  • The Bucket List, 2007
  • A Child in Time - Macdonald & Cumberbatch's character's - Link
  • The Cheating Game, 2023 (Malaysia) - Story follows Five Stages
  • Cruella, 2021
  • Deadpool 2, 2018
  • The Duff, 2015
  • Eep Allay Ooo, India
  • The Farewell (2019)
  • Fatherhood (2020)
  • A Ghost Story - Casey Affleck's character (2017)
  • Good Will Hunting (1997), Five Stages written on Chalkboard of Robin Williams classroom
  • Goodbye, by Vikas Bahl, India (2022) - Link
  • Groundhog Day - Writer Harold Ramis used The Five Stages as a template for Bill Murray's progress - Link
  • Happy Death Day 2U
  • The Human Voice (2020) - Link
  • In This Life by Bat-Sheva Guez, The Five Stages explored through dance
  • Inside Out (2015)
  • Janaan - YouTube video clip link
  • The Last House on the Left, 1970's
  • Lenny (1974)
  • Look Both Ways (2005)
  • Love and Honor (2013)
  • Maps to The Stars (2014)
  • Man Up? (2015)
  • Marriage Story (2019)
  • Meet Me Where I am (2024) - Link
  • Narcosis (2022), (Netherlands) By De Jong
  • October (2022), (India)
  • Ordinary Love (2020)
  • Peaceful (2022)
  • The Penguins of Madagascar, 2014
  • The Rundown (2003)
  • Somebody's Mother - by Gabriela Tollman & Evelyne Tollman
  • Sound of Metal 2020 - by Darius Marder
  • Spontaneous (2020) - Katherine's character
  • Starfish, Aubrey (2019) - Goes through 7 Stages of Grief
  • The Starling, Kevin Kline (2021) - Discusses the Stages
  • Thor: Love & Thunder (2022) - Link
  • "An Unquiet Grave" (2020) - by Terence Krey and Christime Nyland
  • Vengeance (2022)
  • Wandavision (2023)
  • We Bought a Zoo (2011)
  • A White, White Day - Link
Plays
  • Daniel's Husband, Michael McKeever, Boca Raton, 2024 - Link
  • 'Death Valley: A Love Story'
  • 'Endlings' by Cry Havoc Theater Company, 2020
  • 'Everything Will be Fine', Prism Movement Theater by director, Kwame David Lilly
  • 'The Five Stages of Grief'
  • 'The Five Stages of Isolation' by Michael Healey
  • 'The Lady From Dubuque'
  • 'Life After' - Goodman Theater, Chicago, 2022
  • 'Love, Loss, & Chianti' by Robert Bathurst, 2019
  • 'Meet Me at Dawn' by Zinnie Harris
  • 'Memento Mori' by Julie Rada (Denver) - Link
  • 'My Grandmother's Eyepatch', New York City, 2020 - Link
  • 'The Night House', Sundance 2020
  • 'Night Mother', Rogue Theater Company Production
  • 'The Only Coffee Shop in the City' - Hudson Guild Theater, 2019 by Cassidy Potts
  • 'The Shadow Box' - By Michael Christofer, starring: Marlo Thomas & Mercedes Ruehl
  • 'Showquest' - New Zealand, 2022
  • 'Sorry for Your Loss' - New York, 2023 by Michael Cruz Kayne
  • 'Stages'
  • Time Since Impact by James Fritz - Soho Theater, 2022 - Link
  • Top Dog/Underdog, New York, 2022 - Link
  • Games (PlayStation & Xbox) - Paradise Lost - Journeys through 5 stages
  • Digital Art Program, at the Shed, NYC, Passing Notes, by Troy Anthony & Jerome Ellis, 2020
  • Painting - Stages of Grief #1 by Michelle Zhang, Gold metal award: National Scholastic Art & Writing Award, NYC, 2020
  • Comedy - "Dirty Girl Comedy", by Nikki Gour, May, 2020 - Show based on 5 Stages
  • Book - "Monogamy" by Sue Miller, 2020
  • Spoken Book - "The Grieving Project" by Lisa Sniderman, 2020 - (Grammy Nominated)
  • Music Video - "11 Minutes" by Halsey & Yungblud, 2019 - Link
  • Game - "GRIS" - Prologue, Desert, Forest, Water, The End, each correspond to one of the 5 stages - Link
  • Documentary - "Never Walk Alone", 2020
  • Animated Film - "if Anything Happens I Love You" by Will & Michael over, 2020
  • Game - "Still There", 2019 Link
  • Radio Play - "Rising", 2020
  • Comic Book Series - Fallen Son: The Death of Captain America, 2007 Link
  • Book - "Reeling" by Sarah Stonich, Link
  • Virtual reality musical play, "Reprogram Me"  performed by Brendan Bradley - Link
  • Darkest Dungeon 2, PC video game, 2023
  • The Legend of Zelda, Nintendo video game - Link
  • Book - "Invincible: Finding the Light Beyond the Darkness of Chronic Illness" - 2023
  • Julie VanderVeen - One hour comedy sketch based on the Five Stages of Grief - Debuting at Edinburgh Fringe (2024)

For More example of the “Five Stages” in popular media please see this website:

The Five Stages in Assorted Popular Media

 

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