Ranking Every Season of ‘Friends’ from Best to Worst

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Friends fans rejoice! It has been 20 years since the iconic sitcom aired its final episode, but the love for the show is still going strong. From debates about whether Ross and Rachel were on a break to quoting memorable lines, the influence of Friends is undeniable.

As a die-hard fan who has watched and rewatched the show countless times, I have taken on the daunting task of ranking every Friends season from best to worst. And let me tell you, it was no easy feat. Each season has its own charm and iconic moments, making it hard to pick a favorite.

Starting off with the best, season 5 takes the top spot for me. With solid storytelling, sharp humor, and impeccable chemistry between the cast members, this season is a masterclass in television storytelling. The highlight episode, “The One with All the Thanksgivings,” showcases the characters sharing their worst Thanksgiving experiences, while “The One with Ross’s Sandwich” adds a touch of possessiveness to the mix.

Following closely behind is season 4, packed with iconic moments and episodes. “The One with the Embryos” stands out as one of the best episodes ever, featuring a hilarious quiz between the friends. The two-part finale, “The One with Ross’s Wedding,” adds a dramatic twist with Ross accidentally saying Rachel’s name instead of Emily’s during his wedding vows.

Moving on to season 8, where Joey and Rachel’s romantic involvement takes center stage. Despite this hiccup, the season is filled with entertaining plotlines and celebrity guest appearances. The standout episode, “The One with the Videotape,” showcases Rachel and Ross arguing over who made the first move, resulting in comedy gold.

Season 6 continues the trend of humor and emotion, with the two-part finale “The One with the Proposal” stealing the show. Monica and Chandler’s relationship is put to the test, leading to a heartwarming proposal and a slow dance to Eric Clapton. The season also delves into Ross’s struggles with fatherhood and Joey’s career troubles.

Season 3 marks the point where Friends finds its stride, focusing on what works best for the audience. The raw emotion and excellent performances from the cast members make this season a standout. The infamous “We were on a break” debate in “The One Where Ross and Rachel Take a Break” adds a layer of complexity to the characters’ relationships.

As we delve into the top half of the rankings, season 2 shines with the blossoming relationship between Rachel and Ross. “The One with the Prom Video” stands out as a blend of humor and emotion, laying the foundation for future storylines. Chandler’s struggles with relationships and Monica’s perfectionism add depth to the season.

Season 7 feels like the beginning of the end, with Monica and Chandler’s wedding serving as a highlight. Despite some strange plot developments, the season wraps up with a satisfying conclusion for the beloved couple. The two-part finale wedding episode showcases the growth of their relationship and the bond between the friends.

Wrapping up the rankings is season 10, the final season of Friends. While it may not be the strongest, it still delivers touching and poignant moments as we bid farewell to the beloved characters. The series finale stands out as the best episode of the season, bringing closure to the Central Perk regulars.

And finally, season 9 takes the last spot in the rankings. With weak humor, unresolved plotlines, and filler episodes, this season falls short compared to its predecessors. The Ross and Rachel dynamic feels tired, and Joey and Rachel’s romantic subplot lacks depth.

In conclusion, Friends may have ended 20 years ago, but its legacy lives on through its timeless humor, memorable characters, and iconic moments. Whether you agree with my rankings or not, one thing is for sure – Friends will always hold a special place in our hearts.