Friends, arguably one of the most iconic sitcoms ever, remains a timeless classic. It instantly became a hit with its comedic portrayal of an average, relatable lifestyle through six friends in New York City. If you love Friends, as much as we do, join us in revisiting the 10 best FRIENDS episodes.
Warning: If you haven’t finished the series, this list contains spoilers, so read with caution.
Season 1, Episode 5: The One With the East German Laundry Detergent
Although many believe Ross and Rachel shared their first kiss in The One Where Ross Finds Out episode (season 2, episode 7), they are mistaken! Ross and Rachel first kiss in the fifth episode of the show, way before any knowledge of feelings was in the air. Meanwhile, Joey tricks Monica into going on a double date with a woman and man who are supposedly siblings. However, things take a turn when the woman shares how great the man is in bed (spoiler: the man isn’t her brother but actually her boyfriend). We are also introduced to Janice and her infamous laugh in this episode, making it one of the most impressionable first few episodes.
Season 2, Episode 14: The One With the Prom Video
In this unforgettable episode, Monica comes across a tape recording of their prom in a storage box. In the tape we get a glimpse of teenage Rachel, Monica and Ross. One of the main reasons this episode is unforgettable is because we get to witness Ross with an afro and mustache and Rachel prior to getting her nose job. Another reason being the notorious scene of Ross getting dressed up in a suit and holding a bouquet of flowers to surprise Rachel, only for her to run off with another date. This touches Rachel and leads her to forgive Ross for an altercation they were having at the time and overall touches us as the audience as well.
Season 4, Episode 20: The One With All the Wedding Dresses
We just had to mention this episode because of the scene consisting of Rachel, Monica and Pheobe sitting on the couch in wedding dresses and drinking beer. Can it get more iconic than that?
Season 3, Episode 9: The One With the Football
As you know, Thanksgiving is intended to be a time for families to come together and give thanks for the things they are grateful for. That, and the annual Geller football game. In this memorable episode, Ross and Monica compete for the Geller Cup, a rusty homemade trophy made from a troll doll. Meanwhile, Chandler and Joey compete for the attention of a Danish model and ultimately both fumble the bag by making a fool of themselves. This ones definitely a classic.
Season 5, Episode 11: The One with All the Resolutions
In this hilarious episode, each character sets resolutions for themselves. However, sticking to their resolutions turned out to be a lot harder than they thought it would. Rachel tries not to gossip while Chandler attempts to cut down on his jokes. Ross steps out of his boundaries and creates a new look for himself which is when we see a sight we thought we never would, Ross in leather pants. Watching Chandler fight the urge to make a joke about the pants really puts the cherry on top of the episode.
Season 5, Episode 1: The One After Ross Says Rachel
Now, this is an unforgettable episode. As viewers, we were all at the edge of our seats when Rachel arrived a little too late to Ross’ wedding to confess her feelings. Watching Ross say “take thee Rachel” will forever evoke a cringe, shock, and excitement, ensuring this episode remains unforgettable.
Season 5, Episode 14: The One Where Everyone Finds Out
Months of secrecy came to an end when Monica and Chandler inadvertently exposed their relationship. First, Phoebe and Rachel stumble upon them through the window. Subsequently, Joey uncovers the truth due to an eyebrow-raising eyelash curler incident. Finally, Ross inadvertently discovers their secret when he peers through the window, leading to the iconic line, “What’s going on? Get off my sister!” This comedic sequence unfolds in one unforgettable episode.
Season 2, Episode 11: The One With The Lesbian Wedding
One of the first things we learn about Ross at the beginning of the show is that his ex-wife left him for a woman. Though this remained an ongoing joke throughout the show, it also shows how progressive the show was for its time. This episode in particular surrounds Ross’ ex-wife, Carol, and her partner, Susan’s wedding. However, this episode aired back in 1995 and same-sex marriage wasn’t legal in New York City until 2011. Therefore, the two did not legally get married but instead had a commitment ceremony. This makes for a very special episode in Friends and should be more appreciated looking back.
Season 1, Episode 7: The One With The Blackout
Now this is an interesting one. If you’ve already watched the show, you’ll recall that Chandler becomes trapped in an ATM vestibule with model Jill Goodacre, and Rachel kisses Paolo. What many don’t know, however, is that the blackout was a result of a cross-over with the sitcom “Mad About You” where one of the characters, Jamie, steals a cable and causes a city-wide blackout. Knowing this, you might want to check out the Mad About You episode before watching the Friends one for a new perspective!
Season 5, Episode 8: The One With All The Thanksgivings
This one stands out among all of Friends’ Thanksgiving episodes. The gang takes a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about past Thanksgiving episodes. Check it out to relive Phoebe’s war stories, Joey getting his head stuck in a turkey. and Chandler confessing his love to Monica.
As we’ve journeyed through the iconic moments and unforgettable one-liners, we’ve had the pleasure of reminiscing about the best FRIENDS episodes. From Central Perk mishaps to heartwarming friendships, these best FRIENDS episodes are unforgettable. They remind us of laughter, loyalty, and love.
So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the series, take a trip down memory lane and relive the magic of the best FRIENDS episodes. In the TV world, nothing matches the humor and friendship of these six New Yorkers. The best FRIENDS episodes are not just binge-worthy TV shows. They are cherished memories that continue to bring people together, episode after episode.