"Friends," a timeless and beloved sitcom, continues to captivate audiences today, just as it did during its prime in the late '90s and early 2000s. This enduring show, now conveniently available for streaming on Max, is widely regarded as one of the funniest and most dependable series in TV history, leaving fans perpetually eager for more.
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The holiday season has a special place in the hearts of "Friends" enthusiasts, with Christmas episodes becoming iconic moments in the series. These episodes beautifully capture the festive spirit, from cozy dinners to raucous celebrations as the clock strikes midnight. It's no wonder that fans hold these holiday-themed episodes in high esteem, often rating them among the series' finest on platforms such as IMDb.
While "Friends" is celebrated for its Thanksgiving episodes — such as the memorable one in which Chandler meets Monica and Joey dons a turkey on his head — the show also boasts its fair share of unforgettable Christmas episodes. What sets these episodes apart is the same enduring formula that characterizes the entire series: an exceptional cast, stellar writing, genuine humor and poignant moments. "Friends" consistently maintained a level of quality that set it apart from other sitcoms and cemented its place in television history.
In the spirit of the season, let's delve into the rankings of all 10 "Friends" Christmas episodes spanning the show's 10-season run, celebrating the festive moments that have become etched in our hearts.
10. 'The One with Christmas in Tulsa' - Season 9, Episode 10
NBC
"The One with Christmas in Tulsa" ranks as the 10th entry on our list. Although it could have been a standout "Friends" Christmas episode, it falls short due to its reliance on flashbacks from earlier episodes, a technique that doesn't always resonate with fans. However, the episode has its redeeming qualities.
It centers on Chandler, who finds himself working in Tulsa during the holiday season — causing strain in his relationship with Monica, much to the chagrin of fans who adored this beloved couple. The episode ultimately redeems itself as Chandler quits his job in Tulsa to return to New York and celebrate Christmas with his friends. This decision to prioritize his relationships over his career adds a cozy, Christmassy note to the episode's conclusion, with the entire gang gathered together, basking in the snowfall outside the window.
9. 'The One with Ross's Step Forward' - Season 8, Episode 11
NBC
The ninth place goes to "The One with Ross's Step Forward." This episode primarily revolves around Ross' romantic escapades and his relationship with Mona, one of his more understanding girlfriends. Despite Ross' intelligence, his lack of honesty and selfishness consistently sabotaged his relationships, a theme showcased here.
Another subplot features Chandler, who engages in humorous yet somewhat forgettable interactions with his boss. However, the episode's true highlight is Rachel, whose pregnancy hormones lead her to develop an intense attraction to practically every man she encounters. This episode underscores Jennifer Aniston's remarkable comedic talent.
Unfortunately, this installment marks the beginning of a controversial and divisive story arc in "Friends" history — the development of Joey and Rachel's romantic involvement, a narrative choice that didn't sit well with many fans. Despite its comedic moments, it's remembered for the less-popular romantic twist in the series.
8. 'The One with Monica's Boots' - Season 8, Episode 10
NBC
Monica takes center stage in "The One with Monica's Boots," our eighth choice. She decides to splurge on an expensive pair of boots that, unfortunately, prove to be excruciatingly painful to wear. To justify the expense in Chandler's eyes, Monica wears these torturous boots for most of the episode, providing Courteney Cox the opportunity to showcase her physical comedy skills.
Phoebe embarks on the episode's other noteworthy storyline, striving to secure two tickets to Sting's concert. Her eccentricity shines as she goes to great lengths to obtain the tickets, even ending up with a restraining order in the process. The episode features a guest appearance by Trudie Styler, Sting's real-life wife, playing herself.
While this episode delivers humor and allows the characters' quirky traits to shine, it doesn't rank higher due to the absence of a central holiday theme. Despite its comedic moments, it doesn't fully capture the festive spirit associated with the top "Friends" Christmas episodes.
7. 'The One with the Monkey' - Season 1, Episode 10
NBC
In the episode titled "The One with the Monkey," we witness the introduction of Ross' pet monkey, Marcel, during the show's first season. This quirky storyline was a temporary addition to the series, largely because David Schwimmer (Ross) found it challenging to work with the monkey. Marcel brings a dose of chaos and humor into the lives of the group, particularly Ross.
The episode isn't a typical Christmas-themed one but takes place around New Year's Eve, featuring festive decorations, which is why it's sometimes considered a Christmas episode. The gang grapples with the question of what to do when the new year arrives, leading to a pact to spend it without dates.
6. 'The One with All the Candy' - Season 7, Episode 9
NBC
In "The One with All the Candy," Monica's maternal instincts kick in as she decides to make homemade candy for her neighbors. Her treats turn out to be so scrumptious that the entire building goes into a candy frenzy, with neighbors clamoring for more and pushing Monica to her limits. This episode exemplifies her dedication to making people happy, even at her own expense, and her husband, Chandler, steps in to help her out.
While Monica's candy-making adventure adds a dose of humor and warmth, the most touching and memorable storyline of this episode revolves around Ross and Phoebe. Ross discovers that Phoebe never learned to ride a bike, and he decides to buy one for her. The heartwarming plot emphasizes the spirit of bonding and celebrating the holiday season.
5. 'The One with the Inappropriate Sister' - Season 5, Episode 10
NBC
"The One with the Inappropriate Sister" might not be your typical festive episode, as it delves into the somewhat unusual theme of an overly close sibling relationship. Rachel's new boyfriend, Danny, initially appears as a normal and likable addition to the Central Perk gang. However, as the episode progresses, it becomes clear that Danny's relationship with his sister is uncomfortably intimate, with gestures such as her feeding him by hand and running his baths.
Meanwhile, in their shared apartment, Ross, Joey and Chandler navigate their own storylines. Ross helps Joey write a script, leading to friction with Chandler, who perceives Ross as being too overbearing and serious.
The Christmas element of the episode adds humor, especially as Phoebe takes on the role of a Salvation Army bell ringer in front of Macy's, a prime spot. Her interactions with inebriated passersby and people tossing trash into the donation kettle highlight a different side of her character, which she calls "Street Phoebe."
4. 'The One with the Girl From Poughkeepsie' - Season 4, Episode 10
NBC
Season 4's Christmas episode, also known as "The One with Phoebe's Christmas Song," offers a delightful focus on the whimsical character of Phoebe. She endeavors to craft a holiday song about her friends, experimenting with various rhymes and tunes. The episode ultimately showcases Phoebe's unique charm and creativity as she settles on a tune that will bring smiles to the faces of fans.
In addition to Phoebe's musical pursuits, the episode explores Ross' romantic endeavors as he juggles dating two women simultaneously. Joey takes up a job at Monica's restaurant, and Chandler attempts to set up Rachel with one of his co-workers, giving each of the central characters a unique subplot to follow. Phoebe ultimately steals the spotlight in this episode, capturing the spirit of the holiday season.
3. 'The One with the Holiday Armadillo' - Season 7, Episode 10
NBC
"The One with the Holiday Armadillo" is a memorable "Friends" episode and serves as both a Christmas and Hanukkah installment. Ross takes on the challenge of introducing his Christmas-loving son, Ben, to the Festival of Lights. However, when he can't find a Santa suit, he resorts to renting an armadillo costume, attempting to be Santa's "half-Jewish friend."
The episode also features Chandler's humorous attempt to secure a table at a fancy restaurant, involving slipping money to the maître d' to ensure he and Monica get seated. Meanwhile, the repairs on Phoebe and Rachel's apartment are finally complete, but Phoebe makes persistent efforts to convince Rachel to leave Joey's place and move back in with her. In a comical twist, Phoebe resorts to giving Joey quirky and sometimes obnoxious presents to expedite the process, from a noisy drum set to a tarantula, which Rachel surprisingly appreciates.
2. 'The One Where Rachel Quits' - Season 3, Episode 10
NBC
In "The One Where Rachel Quits," we see Rachel take a significant step in her career. Throughout the first three seasons, she worked as a waitress at Central Perk. However, in this Christmas episode, she decides to leave that job behind and secure an assistant position at "Fortunata Fashions." Her new role involves making coffee for management, marking a bittersweet end to her stint as a waitress. Yet, brighter opportunities await her.
The emotional core of the episode centers on Phoebe, who experiences a surge of empathy for the chopped-down Christmas trees. In response, Joey collects all the discarded trees and brings them to Monica's apartment, greatly delighting Phoebe. The episode delivers a perfect Christmas story, emphasizing the holiday spirit, with Phoebe's childlike innocence adding an extra layer of charm.
1. 'The One with Phoebe's Dad' - Season 2, Episode 9
NBC
In this episode, Phoebe discovers that the picture of her father that she has cherished her whole life is actually just a stock photo that came with the frame. Devastated, she turns to her friends for support. Meanwhile, Ross' Christmas party goes awry when he accidentally breaks Monica's heater and the guests are left to swelter in the middle of winter. The episode veers into melancholy when Phoebe freezes up before confronting her father, too afraid of being rejected. But her friends save the day, brightening the mood with holiday spirit in the form of Christmas presents from the gas station.
A standout moment — and the one that catapults this episode into our No. 1 spot — comes as Joey and Chandler talk to Phoebe in the cab about her dad. "The Christmas Song" by Nat King Cole plays over the scene, an emotional score that reminds us the holiday season is about family, whether it's the one you've been dealt or the one you find on your own.
"Friends is currently streaming all 10 seasons on Max.
