Prepare to feel exceptionally old. Next Monday sees Friends celebrate the 20th anniversary of our first introduction to Rachel, Ross, Phoebe, Chandler, Monica and Joey.
Feeling nostalgic? We’re just getting started, as we’ve rounded up our 10 favourite things about the show.
1. Central Perk
There’s never been a cosier sitcom hangout. Plus, who could dispute having a convenient regular set of sofas constantly free for you and your friends?
2. ‘How you doin’?’
Joey’s infamous pick-up line has never lost its comedic value.
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3. Supporting cast
There were so many additional characters that we learned to love. For example: Ugly Naked Guy, your average exhibitionist neighbour. Gunther and his overt love for an oblivious Rachel. Even Janice. Yes, that’s right.
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4. Rachel’s hair.
The style that launched a thousand copycats. Seriously.
5. Phalange. Unagi. Princess Consuela Banana Hammock.
For the priceless one-liners, to the additions to our vocabulary that are completely senseless. Mostly courtesy of Phoebe.
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6. Ross and Rachel.
Will they? Won’t they? Then the final episode settled our inner turmoil with one nerve-wracking voicemail. Did she get off the plane?!
7. The amazing guest appearances.
Over the duration of the show, we were privy to cameos from the likes of (deep breath): Brad Pitt, Elle Macpherson, Julia Roberts, George Clooney, Reese Witherspoon, Bruce Willis, Winona Ryder, Susan Sarandon, Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Saunders, and so many more.
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8. The flashbacks
Every so often the viewers would be given snippets of the gang’s past, whether it came in form of Ross’ dodgy moustache, Rachel’s original nose, or Chandler’s… everything.
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9. The bungled physical transformations.
Joey’s eyebrows. Ross’ infamous spray tan. Monica’s cornrows. We could go on.
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10. The theme song.
The fountain. The cringe-worthy Nineties attire. And most importantly, The Rembrandts’ I’ll Be There For You seared into our consciousness for the rest of time.
