When we think of Friends, we think of iconic moments, unforgettable laughs, and, of course, the unforgettable romantic relationships. Over the course of ten seasons, viewers witnessed some of the most memorable on-screen couples, or “ships,” in TV history. From the tumultuous relationship of Ross and Rachel to the unexpected yet lovable pairing of Monica and Chandler, Friends had it all.
But which couple truly dominated each season? Which ship stole the show and kept us hooked from start to finish? In this article, we’re diving deep into the best couple in every season of Friends, and yes, there might be some surprising picks along the way. Grab your coffee (we know you have your mug ready) and let’s revisit the rollercoaster of love that was Friends!
Season 1: Ross and Rachel – The Spark That Started It All
The very first season of Friends is all about the beginnings, and the relationship that stood out was, of course, Ross and Rachel. From the moment Ross confesses his feelings for Rachel, it’s clear that there’s something special brewing. Their relationship goes through all the awkward stages, including Ross’s majorly unhelpful declaration of “we were on a break!”
Despite all the drama that follows (and let’s be real, there’s a lot), Season 1 gives us the iconic “will they, won’t they?” dynamic, which made Ross and Rachel’s relationship one of the most iconic in television history. It’s their early flirtations and Rachel’s journey from clueless teen to self-sufficient woman that makes them the perfect couple to start the Friendssaga.
Season 2: Ross and Rachel – Love Triangle Drama and the Kissing Booth Moment
As much as we love the chaos, Season 2 belongs to Ross and Rachel once again. This season is where their relationship goes from “we’re just friends” to full-blown drama. The love triangle between Ross, Rachel, and Julie (Ross’s new girlfriend) adds a level of emotional complexity to their relationship that keeps us hooked.
The tension in the group is palpable, and we can’t forget the unforgettable moment when Ross and Rachel kiss for the first time. It’s in Season 2 that their bond starts to feel like the kind of relationship that’s hard to ignore. Sure, it’s complicated—this is Friends, after all—but their connection is undeniable.
Season 3: Monica and Richard – The Age Gap Romance That Shocked Everyone
In Season 3, Monica and Richard really take center stage, and their relationship becomes one of the most compelling stories of the season. Richard, played by Tom Selleck, isn’t just a mature, confident man; he’s also an unexpected match for Monica, who typically goes for guys who are, well, a bit less emotionally mature.
The age gap between them initially causes some concern for Monica’s friends, but she doesn’t care. They’re perfect for each other, and their romantic moments are some of the most tender of the season. But, of course, Monica’s desire to have children eventually leads to their breakup, leaving fans to wonder “what if?”
Season 4: Ross and Rachel – The One with the “We Were on a Break” Saga
By Season 4, Ross and Rachel are still navigating the rollercoaster of their on-again, off-again dynamic. After Ross sleeps with another woman while on a “break” with Rachel, their relationship is tested more than ever. But let’s be honest, that whole “we were on a break” drama is one of the most iconic plot points in Friends history.
Despite all the messiness, Season 4 sees Ross and Rachel remain one of the central ships. The complexity of their relationship continues to drive the show, and no other couple seems to have the same emotional pull in this season. It’s all about whether they can get past their issues and find their way back to each other.
Season 5: Monica and Chandler – The Unexpected Romance That Blossoms
In Season 5, Monica and Chandler finally become a couple—and it’s one of the most heartwarming moments in the show. What starts as a rebound for Monica after a difficult breakup with Richard turns into a full-blown relationship. Their dynamic is fresh, playful, and full of surprise. Who knew these two would be the ones to find lasting love?
Monica and Chandler’s relationship feels like a natural progression. Their shared humor and deep friendship create a strong foundation that we can’t help but root for. While the other couples are still navigating their own issues (cough, Ross and Rachel), Monica and Chandler’s chemistry is undeniable, and their relationship starts to become one of the most stable on the show.
Season 6: Monica and Chandler – The Couple Everyone Wanted
By Season 6, Monica and Chandler are one of the most solid couples on the show. Their bond has deepened, and they start thinking about taking their relationship to the next level. This season is all about them facing their own personal issues together, from Chandler’s job struggles to Monica’s desire to have kids.
Their relationship is characterized by mutual respect, support, and a deep understanding of each other. As viewers, we can’t help but cheer them on as they go from a casual fling to serious partners. Plus, who can forget the proposal scene at the beach house? It’s a moment that solidifies their place as the best ship of Season 6.
Season 7: Monica and Chandler – Moving to the Next Level
In Season 7, Monica and Chandler continue to be the ultimate couple. Their decision to move in together and start planning a future is a huge step for both of them. There’s also the minor drama of Chandler’s proposal to Monica, but everything works out in the end. They’re ready to build their lives together.
Their relationship represents a mature kind of love—one that’s built on a solid foundation of friendship and trust. While Ross and Rachel’s drama continues, Monica and Chandler’s steady, loving partnership steals the spotlight in Season 7.
Season 8: Ross and Rachel – The Baby That Changed Everything
In Season 8, Ross and Rachel are back in full force, but this time, their relationship takes a significant turn. Rachel is pregnant with Ross’s child, and the two are forced to figure out how to co-parent while navigating their complicated past.
Their relationship in Season 8 is less about romantic love and more about shared responsibility. But even with the impending arrival of their child, there are still moments of tenderness, and it’s clear that Ross and Rachel’s connection remains strong. Despite the ups and downs, they continue to be one of the most emotional and captivating ships of the season.
Season 9: Monica and Chandler – Starting a Family Together
In Season 9, Monica and Chandler are the clear frontrunners for best ship. After struggling with infertility, Monica and Chandler decide to adopt twins, marking a major milestone in their relationship. This season highlights their growth as individuals and as a couple.
Their decision to become parents together showcases how far they’ve come since the early days of their relationship. It’s not just about romance—it’s about building a life together, and it’s beautiful to watch them navigate the challenges of parenthood.
Season 10: Monica and Chandler – The Happily Ever After We All Wanted
By the time we reach Season 10, Monica and Chandler have truly earned the title of the show’s most stable and loving couple. They are married, and they’ve just adopted twins. Their arc in the final season is the epitome of what we all wanted from a Friends couple: a happy ending.
While Ross and Rachel have their ups and downs, it’s Monica and Chandler who truly embody the idea of lasting love. Their bond has been through a lot, but by the end of the series, they’re ready to take on the next chapter together as parents. It’s the perfect way to wrap up their relationship—and the show as a whole.
Conclusion: The Best Ship of Friends? It’s Monica and Chandler, Hands Down
When you look at the relationships in Friends, it’s clear that every ship had its own unique moments and challenges. But, when you break it down, Monica and Chandler are the best ship across the entire series. Their relationship evolved from a quirky fling to one of the most stable, loving, and inspiring pairings on TV.
Though Ross and Rachel’s “on again, off again” dynamic will always be iconic, and Monica’s fling with Richard had us all thinking “what if?”, it’s Monica and Chandler who really proved that love, patience, and understanding can lead to the happiest of endings.
FAQs About the Best Ships in Friends
1. What was the most iconic couple in Friends?
Ross and Rachel’s “we were on a break” drama is one of the most iconic aspects of Friends. However, Monica and Chandler’s steady, loving relationship ultimately becomes the most enduring couple on the show.
2. Why is Monica and Chandler’s relationship considered the best?
Their relationship is built on friendship, mutual respect, and shared values. They grow together throughout the series and provide the most emotionally satisfying and stable romance on the show.
3. Did Ross and Rachel ever truly end up together?
Yes, Ross and Rachel finally end up together at the end of the series, after a tumultuous relationship and a lot of personal growth for both characters.
4. How did Monica and Chandler’s relationship evolve?
Monica and Chandler’s relationship started as a rebound but quickly blossomed into a strong, loving partnership. They eventually got married and adopted twins, marking the show’s most stable relationship.
5. What made Richard and Monica’s relationship unique?
Richard’s maturity and understanding made him an ideal match for Monica, though their age gap and differing desires for children eventually led to their breakup. Despite this, their relationship remains one of the most touching in the series.
