The Final Episode of Friends Airs on May 5, 2004

On May 5, 2004, the beloved television series Friends concluded its ten-season run with its final episode airing on NBC. This marked the end of a cultural phenomenon that had captivated audiences globally since its debut in 1994.

Background

Friends, created by David Crane and Marta Kauffman, became a defining show of the 1990s and early 2000s. The series depicts the lives, relationships, and comedic adventures of six friends—Rachel Green, Ross Geller, Monica Geller, Chandler Bing, Joey Tribbiani, and Phoebe Buffay—living in New York City. Across ten seasons, Friends earned critical acclaim and high ratings, becoming one of the most popular sit-coms in television history.

The Final Episode

The series finale, titled “The Last One,” consisted of two parts and ran for approximately 52 minutes. It featured pivotal moments for each main character, wrapping up their storylines while maintaining the comedic and heartfelt elements that fans had grown to love. Key plot points included Ross’s attempts to reconcile with Rachel before she departs for Paris, Monica and Chandler preparing for the arrival of their adopted baby twins, and the group’s emotional farewell to the iconic apartment they had called home.

Key Moments

• Ross and Rachel: A central focus was Ross’s endeavor to confess his love to Rachel before she starts her new job in Paris. After a series of dramatic events, Rachel ultimately realizes she wants to stay with Ross, leading to their reconciliation.
• Monica and Chandler: The couple welcomes twins, Erica and Jack, through adoption, achieving their dream of starting a family.
• Leaving the Apartment: In a poignant scene, the friends leave Monica and Chandler’s empty apartment, marking the end of an era for both the characters and the audience.

Viewership and Cultural Impact

The finale was watched by about 52.5 million viewers in the United States, making it one of the most-watched television episodes of the 2000s. Its release generated widespread media coverage, celebrations by fans worldwide, and retrospectives on the show’s impact on popular culture.

Legacy

Friends has left an enduring legacy characterized by its enduring popularity on streaming platforms and syndication. The show introduced iconic phrases, influenced fashion, and inspired numerous other sitcoms. Its universal themes of friendship and love, timeless humor, and well-developed characters continue to resonate with new and existing audiences.

The conclusion of Friends on May 5, 2004, signified not only the end of a significant era in television history but also a celebration of a series that profoundly touched the lives of millions around the world.