The series finale of 'Friends' was watched by 52.5 million viewers, making it the most-watched episode from any television series throughout the 2000s in U.S. history.
"... did exactly what it was supposed to do," wrote Robert Bianco of USA Today in his review of the series finale of 'Friends'.
The One Where They Say Goodbye - the final episode of 'Friends' aired exactly 20 years ago (on May 6, 2004), putting an end to a remarkable decade-long journey. It was indeed a sad moment bidding farewell to our friends Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler, and Ross. Also, amidst the sadness, there was a sense of nostalgia as well. Because, well, it had become more than a TV show; it had become a part of our lives, making us laugh, cry, and everything in between.
The series finale not only lived up to our expectations but also exceeded them in several ways. As the group gathered one last time in the apartment and went for one last cup of coffee together before finally saying 'goodbye', it left us emotional like no other. And it also reminded us of all the heartfelt moments throughout the series. It was satisfying in the best sense of the term.
The Friends
"It's exactly what I had hoped. We all end up with a sense of a new beginning and the audience has a sense that it's a new chapter in the lives of all these characters." - David Schwimmer (Ross)
Joey Tribbiani (Matt Leblanc) from ‘Friends’
In this article, let's revisit the best moments of 'Friends' that resonated with one and all.
It's one of the best proposal scenes ever in the history of television. In the two-part episode titled "The One with the Proposal", Monica proposes to Chandler in a beautiful way, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their relationship. It defies traditional gender stereotypes as it’s Monica who takes the initiative, showcasing why 'Friends' stands out. And what follows next between the couple is a rollercoaster ride of emotions.
(Credit: TBS)
In the episode called "The One Where No One’s Ready", each character tries to get ready as promptly as Ross would want. However, it ends up getting only what the title suggests. And the funniest part begins when Joey appears wearing all of Chandler’s clothes. It's hilarious, and at the same time, encapsulates what the show is about!
(Credit: Comedy Central UK)
If we have to choose the one scene where Ross's feelings for Rachel is best shown, it's this! Ross accidentally says Rachel's name instead of Emily's during their wedding vows, and it only showcases his feelings for Rachel. He might act of being in love with Emily, but in his heart, it's Rachel who reigns supreme. And it's only in the series finale that he finally becomes able to confess his love for Rachel. If you have seen the episode, you know how heartwarming it is when Rachel says a 'yes', and Ross instantly gets on cloud nine.
(Credit: TBS)
Well, 'Friends' is packed with moments that give us butterflies in the stomach. We would run out of words trying to capture the emotions that it has. How about rewatching it again from the beginning?
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