There are few shows that have managed to stand the test of time like Friends. In fact, it’s been 30 years exactly since the hilarious and heartwarming sitcom first hit our screens – and we’re still just as obsessed as ever. Feel like revisiting Chandler’s (Matthew Perry) witty one-liners, or Rachel’s (Jennifer Anniston) still covetable '90s wardrobe? We’ve got you covered. In honour of Friends’ milestone anniversary, we’re taking a walk down memory lane, with a definitive list of the episodes worth watching on your next couch-rotting session. Keep reading for a healthy dose of nostalgia.
The One Where It All Began (season 1, episode 1)
It’s true that most iconic shows don’t hit their stride until at least a few episodes in, but we think Friends might be the exception. Not only do we meet the six now-iconic twenty-somethings, but the pilot episode sets the scene for some seriously iconic storylines to come, from Rachel and Ross’ (David Schwimmer) whirlwind romance to Joey (Matt LeBlanc) and Chandler’s friendship.
The One Where Ross Finds Out (season 2, episode 7)
We were rooting for Rachel and Ross from day one, so the moment they finally got together will forever be embedded in our brains. In case you need a refresher, the very dramatic union came via a drunken voicemail from Rachel, where she finally admitted her feelings for Ross. Naturally, one of the most iconic on-screen kisses came shortly after.
The One With the Embryos (season 4, episode 12)
This is arguably one of the most action-packed episodes in Friends history. Not only does Phoebe become pregnant (with triplets, no less) as a surrogate for her both and sister-in-law, but the rest of the friends get embroiled in a heated pop quiz. Led by Ross, Phoebe and Rachel compete against Chandler and Joey, continuously raising the stakes as they go, until they eventually bet their apartments. Needless to say, things get more than a little dramatic when the girls lose.
The One With All the Thanksgivings (season 5, episode 8)
We love a flashback episode, and this one is no exception. To distract Ross from his divorce, the friends reminisce on their worst Thanksgivings, including the time Joey got a Turkey stuck on his head, and when Monica accidentally cut off Chandler's toe when they met as teenagers.
The One with the Cop (season 5, episode 16)
We’d argue that this episode should really be renamed ‘Pivot’, because it gave rise to one of the most memorable quotes in the show’s history. ICYMI, Ross buys a new couch but refuses to pay for delivery. Instead, he enlists Rachel and Chandler to help him. Naturally, the trio encounter a few roadblocks along the way.
The One With Rachel's Sister (season 6, episode 13)
Friends is responsible for some seriously iconic celebrity cameos. Case in point? Season 6, episode 13, when Reese Witherspoon appeared as Rachel’s spoilt younger sister, Jill. In a serendipitous turn of events, the two actresses are currently sharing the screen again. This time, they co-star as news anchors in Morning Wars.
The One Where Rachel Has A Baby (season 8, episodes 23 and 24)
It wouldn't be right to leave the episodes where Rachel and Ross welcome their daughter, Emma, off this list. But after a monumental labour (21 hours, to be exact) the drama doesn't stop there. Ross plans on proposing to Rachel, but when Joey finds the engagement ring, Rachel mistakenly thinks he is proposing. It's chaotic to say the least.
Want more binge-worthy TV shows? See our pick of the best Netflix series of all time.
