The Definitive Must-See Episode From Every Season of Friends
Season 1: “The One with the Blackout”
Top 10 Things You Missed in The Mandalorian Season 3 Episode 1
We can't create a list of essential “Friends” episodes without mentioning “The Pilot,” a.k.a “The One Where It All Began.” It introduces the group who would come to feel like our own friends over the 10 seasons. However, episode seven arguably stands out as one of the season's best. It centers around a citywide power outage during NBC's “Blackout Thursday,” a theme that ran through several of their New York-based sitcoms. This episode became iconic for various reasons, including its role in popularizing the term “Friend Zone.” We also just enjoy watching the dynamics between the main cast—well, except Chandler, who's stuck at an ATM vestibule with Jill Goodacre. Everything about this episode is perfection.
Season 2: “The One with the Prom Video”
The Funniest Moment in Every Season of Friends
This episode sees one of the series’ most important relationships take its next step. That’s right, Chandler and Joey become bracelet buddies! Of course, it also marks a major turning point in Ross and Rachel’s will-they-won’t-they narrative. Just as we think there may be no coming back from that list fiasco, a prom video throwback turns everything around. But first, let’s just take a moment to appreciate those unmistakably 80s looks. Anyway, Rachel learns what Ross was willing to do for her, and the rest, as they say, is history. This episode has the perfect balance of humor and heart and gives us all hope that one day, we’ll find our lobsters, too.
Season 3: “The One Where No One's Ready”
Every Friends Season Premiere: Ranked!
While every member of this principal cast is strong, our favorite season three episodes prove they’re at their peak as an ensemble. The chaos in “The One with the Football” is uproariously hilarious. Yet, this bottle episode, unfolding predominantly in the Purple apartment in real-time, is a paragon of greatness from start to finish. Ross’ patience is tested as a string of hilarious antics delays the gang from getting ready for his big event. Monica fixates on a voicemail from her ex, Richard; Phoebe needs to conceal a hummus stain, and Rachel grapples with wardrobe decisions. Meanwhile, Chandler and Joey fight over a chair, yielding some of the best, most hilarious quotes of the episode, if not the series.
Season 4: “The One with the Embryos”
The Best Friends Blooper of Every Season
Quick! Who’s Chandler and Joey’s TV guide addressed to? What’s the name and profession of Joey’s imaginary childhood friend? How many towel categories does Monica keep? Yes, Ross’ trivia game is the comedic centerpiece of the episode, providing hilarious insights into our friends as they battle to prove who knows the other best. The questions and competitive banter bring out the best and funniest moments, and quizmaster Ross is always welcome to our next game night. Amid the antics, Phoebe breaks tensions with the exciting news that she’s pregnant. Speaking of memorable season four moments, the finale packs unexpected twists and turns, leaving our jaws on the ground with one of the most unforgettable sitcom cliffhangers.
Season 5: “The One Where Everybody Finds Out”
Every Friends Finale: Ranked!
Choosing a standout season 5 episode poses quite a dilemma. “The One with All the Resolutions” offers ample comedy, but we’re also thankful for “The One with All the Thanksgivings.” Also, “The One with the Cop” is why many of us can’t turn a corner without yelling. However, our ultimate pick is another ensemble-driven gem where laughter fills practically every moment. Poor Joey gets entangled in Phoebe and Rachel’s scheme to make Chandler and Monica confess to their relationship. Meanwhile, Ross goes to great lengths to secure Ugly Naked Guy’s apartment. The highlight is Phoebe using her sexuality to crack Chandler, which works and brings a heart-melting twist. Just when the storyline seems wrapped up, Ross adds a final side-splitting note.
Season 6: “The One Where Ross Got High”
Top 10 Unforgettable Friends Season 1 Moments
“Friends” served numerous unforgettable Thanksgiving episodes, but this one is as delicious as a traditional English trifle (without beef sautéed with peas and onions, of course). Joey’s pouting because he wanted to spend the holiday with his roommate Janine and her dancer friends. Phoebe reels from a steamy dream about Jack Geller, and Rachel takes on dessert duty. Chandler learns that Mr. and Mrs. Geller don’t like him, triggering a comedic chain of confessions. Season six is also responsible for why we’ll never be able to order freshwater eel without saying. The season finale also deserves a shoutout for taking us on a wild ride, culminating with the perfect proposal. It’s everything “Friends” fans could have wanted and more.
Season 7: “The One with the Holiday Armadillo”
Top 3 Things You Missed in Season 4 Episode 4 of Rick and Morty
‘Tis the season for celebrations, from weddings to holidays and milestone birthdays. Yet, for many “Friends” fans, the festive spirit truly begins with a visit from the Holiday Armadillo. Ross hopes to teach Ben about Hanukkah this holiday season, but he’s more interested in Christmas and its MVP, Santa. Ross ultimately caves but, unable to secure a last-minute Santa costume, gets creative— or desperate— you be the judge. Chandler and Joey add to the hilarity with their own costume finds. Meanwhile, Phoebe showers Joey with gifts to drive Rachel out of the apartment and back to their newly renovated home. The episode’s charm stems from its seamless blend of festive cheer, cultural exploration, and an abundance of laugh-out-loud moments.
Season 8: “The One with the Rumor”
Top 3 Things You Missed in Rick and Morty Season 4 Episode 3
“Friends” boasts an impressive roster of guest stars, but the audience’s uproar at this one’s reveal speaks volumes. Brad Pitt, then married to Jennifer Aniston, plays Will Colbert, Ross’s high school friend and co-founder of the “I Hate Rachel Club.” Despite the on-screen tension, his chemistry with the cast, especially Aniston, is exceptional, even earning him an Emmy nomination. This episode is packed with laughter and mayhem, showcasing Pitt’s effortless comedic prowess. Yes, some of its subject matter aged poorly. But Pitt’s seamless integration with the cast elevates the episode to a timeless classic. Phoebe isn’t the only one who wants to see more of Will (oh, wait! Oh, you know what we mean!).
Season 9: “The One in Barbados (Parts 1 & 2)”
Top 3 Things You Missed in Rick and Morty Season 4 Episode 2
We couldn’t talk about this season without mentioning Christina Applegate’s Emmy-winning performance as Rachel’s abrasive sister, Amy. Yet, the real gem of the season lies in the two-part finale. It’s a rollercoaster of romantic tension, laughs, and surprising twists. The gang, joined by Charlie, David, and Monica’s hair, jets off to Barbados for Ross’s keynote address. While there, Phoebe turns down David’s proposal and gets back together with Mike. Meanwhile, Monica’s competitive spirit, much like her hair, flares up, and the Ross-Charlie-Joey-Rachel love saga takes a captivating turn. By the time they head home, almost everyone has recoupled. Also, Joey and Rachel’s kiss had us teetering on the edge of our seats until the Season 10 premiere.
Season 10: “The One with Ross's Tan”
Top 10 Best Friends Season 4 Moments
Speaking of Joey and Rachel’s unexpected kiss, this episode shows their hilarious attempts at a first date – needless to say, it also becomes their last. The titular event, of course, refers to Ross’ misadventures at a tanning salon. It teaches us the importance of asking whether we should be counting “Mississippi-ly,” and opens him up to Chandler’s witty savagery. Ross may have been after a glow-up but got a burn-down instead. Stealing the spotlight, Jennifer Coolidge plays Monica and Phoebe’s hilariously obnoxious former friend, Amanda. Wrapping up our “Friends” fest, the finale delivers everything fans could ask for. It reminds us that while the series may be over, these friends will always be there for us.
