Friends

Friends is still the nation’s favourite show

It may have been many years since there was a new episode of Friends (how has that happened?!), but we are still. Officially. Obsessed. And it’s not just us. The show remains the most-watched programme on subscription streaming services in the UK. That’s partly down to folks like us, revisiting old faves, but the show has also found new generations of fans.

But why is it still so popular?

The haircuts, phones and frankly some of the jokes (Chandler’s relationship with his trans dad hasn’t aged well) can seem pretty old-fashioned, but somehow, we still can’t get enough of the gang, and here’s why...

It’s still hilarious

Firstly, it’s still genuinely funny, from Phoebe’s wonderfully weird take on the world to Joey’s dumb but loveable man gags. But the king of the one-liner and he of the most LOLs is, of course, Chandler Bing: “I’m not great at the advice. Can I interest you in a sarcastic comment?”

The characters are great

Also, you really care about the characters. Despite their flaws, they’re all very human and very likeable. The writers did a great job building backstory through flashbacks and interactions with family, so they feel like old friends, and with the ‘will they, won’t they?’ romantic involvement between several of the characters it’s difficult not to be seriously invested as a viewer.

It creates a feeling when you watch it

But we actually think the biggest secret to the show’s success is that it creates a certain feeling. It portrays a world in which everybody’s having fun, friendships are strong, and nobody seems to worry about money too much. This is how life should be and it leaves us feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.

Friends gifts

We’re celebrating the ongoing success of our favourite sitcom by stocking some of the finest Friends gifts on the market. Whether you’re buying for your own friend, or you’re a superfan yourself, you’re sure to find the perfect Friends gift.