TVLine has published a ranking of the 15 weakest episodes from the beloved sitcom Friends, pointing out flaws in writing, humor, and handling of sensitive themes. These selections cover issues like predictable plots, outdated jokes, and uncomfortable storylines that detract from the show's legacy. The list spans all 10 seasons, offering insight for fans considering a rewatch.
Overview of the Ranking
The article critiques episodes that fail to deliver on Friends' usual charm, focusing on juvenile humor, tonal inconsistencies, and problematic representations. Published on December 9, 2025, it reminds readers that even a cultural phenomenon like Friends, which ran from 1994 to 2004 on NBC, has its low points amid its 236 episodes.
Notable Low Points
Lower-ranked entries include Season 9's 'The One with the Donor,' criticized for squandering John Stamos' guest appearance in a sperm donor subplot that mixes awkward comedy with unconvincing drama. Season 1's 'The One with the Butt' is faulted for shallow exploration of Chandler's romance with a married woman, overshadowed by Joey's odd casting gig.
Phoebe-focused stories like 'The One with Phoebe's Rats' and 'The One with Phoebe's Ex-Partner' draw ire for portraying her as overly self-absorbed without strong payoffs. Ross's arc in 'The One Where Ross Dates a Student' raises ethical concerns over a teacher-student relationship, damaging his likability.
Mid-Tier Missteps
Episodes such as 'The One with the Baby on the Bus' undermine believability by endangering Ross's son Ben through Chandler and Joey's negligence, paired with dated jokes. 'The One with the Male Nanny' tackles gender roles but relies on sexist and homophobic tropes, despite a nod to Ross's backstory. The monkey subplot in 'The One with the Fake Monica' is seen as a low-brow distraction.
Holiday and Family Issues
Season 9's 'The One with Christmas in Tulsa' disappoints as a clip show with contrived tension in Chandler and Monica's marriage. 'The One with Chandler's Dad' ambitiously addresses his transgender parent but falters with stereotypical portrayals and misgendering humor.
Top Offenders
Higher on the list, 'The One with the Memorial Service' wastes a funeral premise on insecure antics and weak gags. The Season 9 premiere 'The One Where No One Proposes' exemplifies forced misunderstandings between Rachel and Joey post-birth.
Season 1's 'The One with the Ick Factor' handles Monica's age-disguised fling with a minor insensitively. 'The One with the Sharks' absurdly miscommunicates Monica's suspicions about Chandler's interests.
Crowning the worst is Season 7's 'The One with Ross and Monica's Cousin,' condemned for Ross's inappropriate attraction to a family member, blending discomfort with failed comedy.