With over 236 episodes, Friends became one of the most popular and highest-grossing TV shows ever, but not every episode gets the recognition it deserves. Airing from 1994 to 2004, the series followed six friends—Monica (Courteney Cox), Ross (David Schwimmer), Rachel (Jennifer Aniston), Joey (Matt LeBlanc), Phoebe (Lisa Kudrow), and Chandler (the late Matthew Perry)—as they navigated life in New York City. While iconic episodes like “The One Where Everybody Finds Out,” “The One with Chandler and Monica’s Wedding,” and “The Last One” remain fan favorites, many underrated episodes often go unnoticed. With such a long run, it’s natural some gems slip under the radar, even if they’re some of the funniest moments. Following Matthew Perry’s tragic passing in 2023, the full cast will never reunite, but these classic
The One Where Ross Struggles to Flirt
In Season 5, Episode 19, Monica and Chandler get ready to celebrate their ten-month anniversary. Meanwhile, Ross gets jealous, thinking Chandler is hitting on Caitlin, the pizza delivery girl (played by Kirstin Dattilo). When Ross tries to flirt himself, his awkward attempts lead to some hilarious moments. The episode feels cozy and focused, with standout humor and a sweet touch—especially when Joey’s grandmother shows up to watch his Law & Order scene, even though it was cut.
episodes keep their legacy alive.
The One With Joey’s Fridge
In Friends Season 6, Episode 19, Joey’s fridge breaks down, sparking a hilarious blame game—Is it Chandler, Rachel, Ross, or just old age? While Joey raids the fridge before it’s fixed, Chandler, Monica, and Phoebe team up to help Rachel find a date for a charity ball. Meanwhile, Ross struggles with his feelings about Elizabeth (Alexandra Holden), his student girlfriend, going on Spring Break. Though the episode doesn’t move the main story forward much, it’s packed with funny and awkward moments that make it a standout.
Cheesecake, Crashes, and Unexpected Connections
As Monica deals with the sting of not being invited to her cousin’s wedding — an event Ross ends up attending — tensions rise elsewhere among the group. Phoebe and Joey’s regular dinner tradition is disrupted by the surprise return of David (Hank Azaria), sparking emotional conflict. However, the real comedic heart of this Friends Season 7, Episode 11 lies with Chandler and Rachel. When Rachel catches Chandler secretly enjoying a cheesecake that was wrongly delivered, instead of scolding him, she joins in — unable to resist its incredible taste. This episode not only adds another layer to Phoebe and David’s ongoing storyline, but also gives viewers a rare and hilarious glimpse into the surprisingly fun chemistry between Chandler and Rachel.
Touchdowns, Tensions, and Turkey Day Traditions
Thanksgiving episodes have always been a highlight of Friends, and Season 3, Episode 9, “The One with the Football,” is a hidden gem among them. While Monica prepares the holiday meal, the gang decides to pass the time with a casual game of football — though it quickly turns into anything but friendly. Joey and Chandler compete for the attention of a Dutch woman named Margha (played by Suzanna Voltaire), while longtime sibling rivalry flares up as Monica and Ross go head-to-head for the infamous Geller Cup. Packed with competitive spirit, laughs, and classic Thanksgiving chaos, this standalone episode delivers both light-hearted fun and a deeper look at Monica and Ross’s family dynamic.
New Year, New Chaos: Resolutions Gone Hilariously Wrong
Kicking off 1999 with a bang, Friends Season 5, Episode 11, “The One with All the Resolutions,” delivers some of the show’s most unforgettable comedic moments—especially for Ross. As the gang sets their New Year’s resolutions, things quickly spiral into chaos. Chandler struggles to hold back his sarcasm, Phoebe attempts to teach Joey how to play guitar using her signature quirky methods, and Ross commits to doing something new every day—a goal that leads to the now-iconic (and cringe-worthy) moment involving leather pants and body lotion. Despite how hilarious it is, this episode often flies under the radar. Thanks to David Schwimmer’s perfectly awkward performance, this underrated New Year’s special deserves a lot more love.
Old Flames, Freezer Books & Fashion Fails
Friends Season 3, Episode 13, “The One Where Monica and Richard Are Just Friends,” is a prime example of how the show skillfully weaves multiple storylines into a single episode. Monica reunites with Richard (Tom Selleck), and the two attempt to navigate a “just friends” relationship—with clear emotional complications that make it impossible. Meanwhile, Rachel and Joey agree to swap their favorite books, leading to hilarious results: Little Women ends up in the freezer, and The Shining gets spoiled. On another front, Phoebe struggles to look past her new boyfriend’s questionable fashion choices. This episode balances humor and heart, especially as Monica and Richard’s story comes to a more mature, bittersweet close.
Chaos, Chairs & Countdown: The Ultimate Waiting Game
Episode 50 of Friends, Season 3, Episode 2, “The One Where No One’s Ready,” stands out as one of television’s most clever bottle episodes. Told in real time, the story follows Ross in full meltdown mode as he desperately tries to get everyone dressed and out the door for a formal event. What should be a simple task turns into utter chaos: Monica spirals over a message on Richard’s answering machine, Joey and Chandler wage war over a chair (and underwear), and Rachel just can’t find the right outfit. With its tightly-paced storytelling and rapid-fire humor, the episode delivers nonstop laughs—yet it’s often underrated, perhaps because of its single-setting format. Still, it’s a masterclass in sitcom timing and character dynamics.
