Title: Friends’ Thanksgiving Episodes: A Timeless Tradition that Transcends Time
For over a decade, fans of the iconic sitcom Friends have indulged in a cherished Thanksgiving tradition. Even years after the series came to an end in 2004, these annual holiday episodes continue to captivate audiences through various mediums, including DVDs, syndication, and streaming platforms.
The ninth season, in particular, brought some unforgettable moments, from Rachel’s infamous beef-filled trifle to a special guest appearance by Jennifer Aniston’s then-husband, Brad Pitt. These holiday episodes not only entertained fans but also revealed new details about the beloved characters and advanced the overall plot of the series.
Recently, these Thanksgiving episodes have taken on an even deeper meaning for fans following the untimely death of Matthew Perry. As fans revisit these episodes, they find solace in witnessing the late actor’s memorable performances, making the annual tradition even more special.
Recognizing the lasting impact of these holiday installments, The Hollywood Reporter recently ranked all the Friends Thanksgiving episodes in descending order, based on fan preferences. Topping the list as the least favorite episode is Season 7’s “The One Where Chandler Doesn’t Like Dogs.” This episode fell short of creating any memorable moments, leaving fans wanting more.
Season 10’s “The One with the Late Thanksgiving” secured the eighth spot, with a minimal focus on Thanksgiving itself. Instead, the episode primarily concentrated on Monica and Chandler’s adoption story, diverting attention from the holiday spirit.
Coming in at number seven is Season 8’s “The One with the Rumor,” which featured the highly-anticipated guest appearance by Brad Pitt. The episode revolved around Pitt’s character, who held a grudge against Rachel, providing fans with some unexpected drama.
Ranking as the sixth favorite Thanksgiving episode is Season 9’s “The One with Rachel’s Other Sister.” In this installment, viewers were introduced to Rachel’s self-centered sister, Amy, who brought chaos to the Thanksgiving dinner.
Season 4’s “The One with Chandler in a Box” claimed the fifth spot, as it delved into Chandler’s unique punishment of confining himself in a box, bringing laughter and a sense of camaraderie among friends.
Taking the fourth spot is Season 3’s “The One with the Football,” which showcased an intense touch football game between the friends, adding a competitive edge to the festivities.
Ranking third is Season 5’s “The One with the Thanksgiving Flashbacks,” a time-traveling episode that gave fans insights into Monica’s weight loss journey and provided hilarious flashbacks of Chandler and Ross’s outrageous costumes.
Securing second place is Season 6’s “The One Where Ross Got High,” which delved into the underlying tension between Chandler and Monica’s disapproving parents and revealed shocking secrets about Ross’s college days.
Lastly, ranked as the all-time favorite Thanksgiving episode is Season 1’s “The One Where Underdog Gets Away.” This episode serves as the cornerstone of this beloved tradition, depicting the friends’ mishaps and arguments during Thanksgiving dinner. Ultimately, they come to realize the true value of friendship and the importance of being grateful for one another.
As fans eagerly await the next Thanksgiving, there is no doubt that these timeless episodes will continue to bring joy, laughter, and a sense of togetherness. Whether it’s through DVDs, syndication, or streaming platforms, the tradition of Friends’ Thanksgiving episodes will forever hold a special place in the hearts of millions around the world.
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