10: Chandler’s Unexpected Valentine’s Day Date with Janice “The One with the Candy Hearts”

It’s easy to overlook the fact that Janice has been a recurring presence in the friends’ lives since the show’s inception. In Season 1, Chandler seeks Phoebe’s assistance in ending his relationship with her. However, fate has other plans when Joey arranges a blind date for Chandler, unaware that Janice is his date. The evening takes an unexpected turn, leading to a memorable encounter that foreshadows their tumultuous relationship.

9: Ross & Rachel’s Laundry Mishap “The One with the East German Laundry Detergent”

Season 1 teases Ross and Rachel’s evolving relationship, which becomes a central theme of the show. In this early episode, the two share an adorable bonding moment. Rachel, unfamiliar with doing laundry due to her privileged upbringing, finds herself in a predicament at the laundromat. Ross steps in to help her separate her colors and defends her against a woman attempting to take her machine. While their iconic kiss in Season 2 is often remembered as their “first,” this episode marks their actual first kiss

8: Ross Bids Farewell to Marcel “The One with the Fake Monica”

While the subplot of Ross owning a monkey in Season 1 may seem peculiar, Marcel became a cherished part of the group. As Marcel reaches sexual maturity and requires a more suitable habitat among his own kind, Ross must say goodbye. Despite the comedic nature of Marcel’s storyline, the scene at the airport where Ross bids him farewell is unexpectedly heartfelt and moving, highlighting the bond between man and monkey.

7: The Birth of Ross and Carol’s Son, Ben “The One with the Birth”

Throughout the first season, anticipation builds for the arrival of Ross’s son, starting with Carol’s pregnancy announcement in the second episode. In this episode, Ross and Susan clash over their roles in Carol and the baby’s life. Phoebe attempts to mediate by locking them in a closet, but the plan backfires. Despite the chaos, everything falls into place for the birth, and the closet incident even influences the baby’s name. Meanwhile, Joey’s subplot, where he assists a young single mother, showcases a rare, tender side of his character.

6: The Gang’s First New Year’s Eve Celebration “The One with the Monkey”
Also Featured in: Top 10 Memorable Moments from Friends Season 3

As New Year’s Eve approaches, the friends agree to attend a party together, vowing to go without dates to show solidarity. However, their pact unravels as the night progresses, leading to tension among them. This episode is filled with memorable moments, including Ross acquiring Marcel the monkey, the less-than-fun appearance of Fun Bobby, and Rachel’s altercation at the airport. One of the standout storylines involves Phoebe’s evolving relationship with David, which is both heartwarming and poignant. Chandler’s comedic plea for a kiss and Joey’s response provide some of the episode’s funniest moments.

5: Poker Night with the Gang “The One with All the Poker”

While many TV shows take time for characters to fully develop, “Friends” immediately showcases the distinct personalities of its characters. This episode exemplifies the group dynamics as the girls and guys engage in a poker showdown. It’s a pivotal moment for Ross and Rachel’s relationship, as Ross deliberately lets Rachel win after she receives upsetting news about a job application. His selfless act underscores the depth of his feelings for her, revealing Ross’s true character.

4: Rachel’s Revelation “The One Where Rachel Finds Out”

Also Featured in: Top 10 Memorable Rachel & Ross Moments
In the first season finale, Rachel celebrates her birthday while Ross is away on a business trip in China. During the festivities, she receives a gift from Ross that strongly hints at his feelings for her – a fact Chandler bluntly points out. Rachel is stunned to discover that her friends knew about Ross’s feelings, and her reaction suggests that this revelation is not unwelcome. While the audience knows the outcome, there’s still a lingering hope that Rachel could have intercepted Ross’s confession in time.

3: The Great Blackout of New York “The One with the Blackout”

Also Featured in: Top 10 Memorable Moments from Friends Season 2

A city-wide blackout hits New York, affecting all six friends in different ways. This episode is packed with memorable moments: Ross’s failed attempt to confess his feelings to Rachel due to a cat jumping on him, Rachel meeting Paolo and derailing Ross’s plan, and the gang playing truth or dare. Chandler, however, finds himself stuck in an ATM vestibule with supermodel Jill Goodacre, and his awkward attempts to impress her provide hilarious moments, especially during his phone call with Joey, which is a scene fans can almost recite verbatim.

2: Their Inadvertent Thanksgiving “The One Where Underdog Gets Away”

Also Featured in: Top 10 Memorable Moments from Friends Season 4
Thanksgiving became a beloved tradition on “Friends,” and the first one is arguably the most memorable. Initially, there are no plans for the group to celebrate together, but a series of mishaps leads them all to gather around the dinner table, forming a new kind of family. Rachel and Monica get locked out of their apartment, resulting in ruined food and Rachel missing her family ski trip. Joey finds himself on a VD poster, and Chandler wants to boycott the holiday altogether. In the end, Chandler somewhat gets his wish.

1: Rachel’s Iconic Entrance at Central Perk “The Pilot”

Also Featured in: Top 10 Memorable Ross and Rachel Moments
For our top pick, there’s no better choice than the moment that sets the entire series in motion: Rachel running out on her wedding and arriving at Central Perk in her wedding dress. This scene not only introduces us to the full gang but also establishes the dynamic between Ross and Rachel from the beginning. Rachel’s character is immediately fleshed out as she asserts her independence to her father, declaring that she doesn’t want to be just a shoe. Revisiting these scenes is incredibly heartwarming, knowing the incredible journey these characters will embark on together.