“Friends” is a classic 90s sitcom from NBC. It follows a group of tight-knit friends in their 20s navigating love, life, career, and friendships in the bustling city of New York. Since its premiere in 1994, “Friends” skyrocketed to mainstream popularity for its clever humor, iconic one-liners, and interesting, distinct characters. Although the series ended on a record-breaking finale in 1994 – 52.5 million viewers watched it – “Friends” continues to dominate streaming services and remains one of the most popular and most-watched shows to this day.
Viewers in Canada can stream the “Friends” series on subscription-based streaming platforms like Crave and Max. However, the availability of complete seasons and episodes may vary depending on the service. Some platforms may also require a VPN to access the show.
“Friends” is also available on free and ad-supported streaming services in Canada, like CTV.
The complete “Friends” series is also available in physical home media formats like Blu-ray and DVD box sets.
In this article, we will take a look at all the available streaming options to stream “Friends” in Canada to see what platform suits your preferences and needs better.
Table of Contents
1. Crave
All 10 seasons and 236 episodes of “Friends” are available to stream on Crave, the Canada-exclusive platform. The availability of subtitles, Closed Captions (CC), and Described Video (D) varies depending on the season and episodes.
Crave is compatible with different devices as well, including smartphones, smart TVs, computers, laptops, tablets, media players like Roku and Apple TV, and game consoles like Xbox and PlayStation. There’s also a 7-day free trial offer to new users.
To watch the complete “Friends” series on Crave, register for an account and subscribe to any o Crave’s following membership plans:
Plan | Monthly | Annual | Video resolution | Simultaneous streams |
Basic with ads | CAD$9.99 | CAD$99.90 | 720p | 1 device |
Standard with ads | CAD$14.99 | CAD$149.90 | 4K | 4 devices |
Premium ad-free | CAD$19.99 | CAD$199.99 | 4K | 4 devices |
2. Max
Max, first launched as HBO Max, is another viable option to stream all seasons and episodes of “Friends.” On Max, you can stream the “Friends” series in HD with subtitles in various languages. You can also watch the “Friends: The Reunion” movie on Max.
Devices like iOS and Android mobile phones, computers, laptops, tablets, media players like Apple TV and Chromecast, and gaming consoles like the Xbox series. Unfortunately, Max stopped its free trial offer after its relaunch.
Max is only available in the US and select European territories, so you must subscribe to a VPN if you want to stream “Friends” via Max in Canada.
How to Watch the “Friends” Series On Max In Canada
If you prefer to stream “Friends” on Max in Canada, simply follow the steps below:
- Subscribe to a VPN service. (ExpressVPN is our #1 recommendation)
- Download and install the VPN app on your preferred device.
- Connect to a server in the US.
- Open the Max website or app, then log in or sign up.
- Prepare a US-issued form of payment. Max accepts credit/debit cards (American Express, Visa, Mastercard, Discover) and PayPal.
- Search for “Friends” in its library, hit play, and start streaming.
Tip: Using a VPN can help you bypass geo-restrictions, mask your IP addresses, block malicious tracking entities, and even secure discounts on certain online purchases.
The use of VPNs is legal in Canada, but it can be challenging to unblock Max’s geo-restrictions in areas outside the US. Fortunately, ExpressVPN, our top VPN recommendation, has proven to be a safe and effective tool for bypassing Max’s geo-restrictions in Canada.
You can get a 30-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee on ExpressVPN if you click the link below:
To stream the “Friends” series on Max, sign up for an account and subscribe to any of its membership plans:
Plan | Monthly | Annual | Simultaneous streams | Video resolution | Number of downloads |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ad-Lite | $9.99 | $99.99 | 2 streams | HD | None |
Ad-Free | $15.99 | $149.99 | 2 streams | HD | 30 titles |
Ultimate Ad-Free | $19.99 | $199.99 | 4 streams | HD to 4K | 100 titles |
3. CTV
You can also stream several seasons and episodes of “Friends” on CTV, a free and ad-supported Canadian streaming site. CTV does not require registration. Simply search for “Friends” in its library and enjoy streaming.
4. Apple TV
The complete “Friends” series is also available for purchase on Apple TV’s video-on-demand store. The series streams in HD with Dolby 5.1 surround sound. It also includes subtitles and Closed Captions (CC) in English. You can check its price on the Apple TV platform or iTunes in Canada.
5. Microsoft Store
Another VOD option is the Microsoft Store. There, you can buy the complete “Friends” series in both SD and HD for CAD$149.99. You also have the option to buy per episode, which costs CAD$2.49 each. Subtitles are available in English.
What Is the Best Streaming Option to Watch Friends in Canada?
The best streaming option to watch “Friends” in Canada is through Crave. Both Max and Crave share almost the same price range, and video streaming quality, and provide all seasons and episodes of “Friends,” but Crave’s edge lies in its accessibility in Canada. If you’re after a platform that doesn’t require any additional workarounds and provides convenience, then choose Crave.
For users who prefer to own the series by purchasing them digitally, we recommend Apple TV. Apple TV stands out among other VOD platforms for delivering the best audiovisual experience through its premium Dolby features. These features are ideal for users who are seeking a more immersive and cinematic streaming experience.
What is Friends About?
“Friends” follows the everyday lives of six longtime friends — Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Chandler, Joey, and Ross — as they navigate love and life in an apartment building in New York City. Throughout the show, the group explores the ups and downs of their personal and professional lives while celebrating the humorous moments that come with it and the bonds they share. A reunion movie was also released on Max in 2020.
Who Are the Creators of Friends?
David Crane and Marta Kauffman created “Friends” and served as the show’s executive producers throughout its entire run. The show is produced under Bright/Kauffman/Crane Productions and Warner Bros. Television.
Friends Cast
The cast of “Friends” includes prominent actors such as Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, and Matthew Perry. Throughout the series, “Friends” also features famous Hollywood A-listers as guest stars like Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, Reese Witherspoon, Bruce Willis, Brooke Shields, Paul Rudd, Gary Oldman, and more. Here are the main cast members of “Friends”:
- Jennifer Aniston as Rachel Green
- Courteney Cox as Monica Geller
- Lisa Kudrow as Phoebe Buffay
- Matt LeBlanc as Joey Tribbiani
- Matthew Perry as Chandler Bing
- David Schwimmer as Ross Geller
Friends Main Characters
Listed below are the main characters of “Friends” and their unique attributes:
- Rachel Green – A fashion aficionado who works as a waitress in their local cafe slowly carving her dream career path in fashion.
- Monica Geller – A highly organized and competitive chef with an obsession with cleanliness.
- Phoebe Buffay – An eccentric, free-spirited massage therapist with a penchant for music and a unique outlook on life.
- Chandler Bing – Unfailingly witty and sarcastic, Chandler uses humor as a defense mechanism as he balances his career and relationships.
- Joey Tribbiani – A simple-minded yet charming casanova with a passion for food, acting, and women.
- Ross Geller – A paleontologist with a strong interest in dinosaurs, who often finds himself caught for his feelings for his longtime crush, Rachel.
Why Friends Is So Popular?
From its release in 1994 to the present day, “Friends” maintains an immense and enduring popularity among viewers for several reasons. The show’s interesting characters, clever humor, quotable dialogues, the cast’s impeccable chemistry, as well as its universal and heartwarming portrayal of friendship and love, all contributed to the show’s timeless appeal. The show’s growing availability on streaming platforms also helped in attracting viewers across different generations.
What Do Critics Say About Friends?
“Friends” received positive reviews from critics. It was praised for its writing, the cast’s performances, and for its witty humor.
“Friends” holds an overall score of 78% on Rotten Tomatoes. See why critics love the show:
- “The show was perfectly cast, the writing was snappy…and the plotting, as the Ross and Rachel story built, was a masterpiece of delayed gratification.” — Guardian
- “The writers didn’t rush [the Monica and Chandler] relationship to its conclusion…and it’s this comedy mined from their sneaking around and trying to keep their relationship a secret that makes Season 5 one of the show’s best.” — Collider
How Many Seasons of Friends Are Available?
“Friends” had a 10-season run on the NBC channel from 1994 to 2004. Here’s a brief look at what happened each season:
Season 1 (1994–1995)
Rachel joins the group after she runs off in the middle of her wedding ceremony, re-igniting Ross’s high school crush on her.
Episode list:
- The One Where Monica Gets a Roommate
- The One with the Sonogram at the End
- The One with the Thumb
- The One with George Stephanopoulos
- The One with the East German Laundry Detergent
- The One with the Butt
- The One with the Blackout
- The One Where Nana Dies Twice
- The One Where Underdog Gets Away
- The One with the Monkey
- The One with Mrs. Bing
- The One with the Dozen Lasagnas
- The One with the Boobies
- The One with the Candy Hearts
- The One with the Stoned Guy
- The One with Two Parts, Part 1
- The One with Two Parts, Part 2
- The One with All the Poker
- The One Where the Monkey Gets Away
- The One with the Evil Orthodontist
- The One with the Fake Monica
- The One with the Ick Factor
- The One with the Birth
- The One Where Rachel Finds Out
Season 2 (1995–1996)
Rachel catches feelings for Ross only to find out he has a new girlfriend after a work trip in China.
Episode list:
- The One with Ross’s New Girlfriend
- The One with the Breast Milk
- The One Where Heckles Dies
- The One with Phoebe’s Husband
- The One with Five Steaks and an Eggplant
- The One with the Baby on the Bus
- The One Where Ross Finds Out
- The One with the List
- The One with Phoebe’s Dad
- The One with Russ
- The One with the Lesbian Wedding
- The One After the Superbowl, Part 1
- The One After the Superbowl, Part 2
- The One with the Prom Video
- The One Where Ross and Rachel…You Know
- The One Where Joey Moves Out
- The One Where Eddie Moves In
- The One Where Dr. Ramoray Dies
- The One Where Eddie Won’t Go
- The One Where Old Yeller Dies
- The One with the Bullies
- The One with the Two Parties
- The One with the Chicken Pox
- The One with Barry and Mindy’s Wedding
Season 3 (1996–1997)
Ross and Rachel face major relationship troubles while Joey and Chandler adopt a chick and a duck.
Episode list:
- The One with the Princess Leia Fantasy
- The One Where No One’s Ready
- The One with the Jam
- The One with the Metaphorical Tunnel
- The One with Frank Jr.
- The One with the Flashback
- The One with the Race Car Bed
- The One with the Giant Poking Device
- The One with the Football
- The One Where Rachel Quits
- The One Where Chandler Can’t Remember Which Sister
- The One with All the Jealousy
- The One Where Monica and Richard Are Just Friends
- The One with Phoebe’s Ex-Partner
- The One Where Ross and Rachel Take a Break
- The One the Morning After
- The One Without the Ski Trip
- The One with the Hypnosis Tape
- The One with the Tiny T-Shirt
- The One with the Dollhouse
- The One with a Chick and a Duck
- The One with the Screamer
- The One with Ross’s Thing
- The One with the Ultimate Fighting Champion
- The One at the Beach
Season 4 (1997-1998)
Phoebe becomes a surrogate for her step-brother; Ross says the wrong name at his wedding.
Episode list:
- The One with the Jellyfish
- The One with the Cat
- The One with the ‘Cuffs
- The One with the Ballroom Dancing
- The One with Joey’s New Girlfriend
- The One with the Dirty Girl
- The One Where Chandler Crosses the Line
- The One with Chandler in a Box
- The One Where They’re Going to Party!
- The One with the Girl from Poughkeepsie
- The One with Phoebe’s Uterus
- The One with the Embryos
- The One with Rachel’s Crush
- The One with Joey’s Dirty Day
- The One with All the Rugby
- The One with the Fake Party
- The One with the Free Porn
- The One with Rachel’s New Dress
- The One with All the Haste
- The One with All the Wedding Dresses
- The One with the Invitation
- The One with the Worst Best Man Ever
- The One with Ross’s Wedding, Part 1
- The One with Ross’s Wedding, Part 2
Season 5 (1998-1999)
Monica and Chandler hide their secret romance from their friends, while Rachel and Ross inadvertently get married in Las Vegas.
Episode list:
- The One After Ross Says Rachel
- The One with All the Kissing
- The One Hundredth
- The One Where Phoebe Hates PBS
- The One with the Kips
- The One with the Yeti
- The One Where Ross Moves In
- The One with All the Thanksgivings
- The One with Ross’s Sandwich
- The One with the Inappropriate Sister
- The One with All the Resolutions
- The One with Chandler’s Work Laugh
- The One with Joey’s Bag
- The One Where Everybody Finds Out
- The One with the Girl Who Hits Joey
- The One with the Cop
- The One with Rachel’s Inadvertent Kiss
- The One Where Rachel Smokes
- The One Where Ross Can’t Flirt
- The One with the Ride Along
- The One with the Ball
- The One with Joey’s Big Break
- The One in Vegas, Part 1
- The One in Vegas, Part 2
Season 6 (1999-2000)
Monica and Chandler decide to move in together while Ross refuses to have an annulment for his marriage with Rachel.
Episode list:
- The One After Vegas
- The One Where Ross Hugs Rachel
- The One with Ross’s Denial
- The One Where Joey Loses His Insurance
- The One with Joey’s Porsche
- The One on the Last Night
- The One Where Phoebe Runs
- The One with Ross’s Teeth
- The One Where Ross Got High
- The One with the Inaappropriate Sister
- The One with the Routine
- The One with the Apothecary Table
- The One with Rachel’s Assistant
- The One with the Morning After
- The One with the Ski Trip
- The One on the Pie
- The One After Joey and Rachel Kiss
- The One Where Ross Dates a Student
- The One with Joey’s Fridge
- The One with Mac and C.H.E.E.S.E.
- The One Where Ross Meets Elizabeth’s Dad
- The One Where Paul’s the Man
- The One with the Ring
- The One with the Proposal, Part 1
- The One with the Proposal, Part 2
Season 7 (2000–2001)
Chandler and Monica finally get married and Joey bags a new role in a popular soap opera.
Episode list:
- The One with Monica’s Thunder
- The One with Rachel’s Book
- The One with Phoebe’s Cookies
- The One with Rachel’s Assistant
- The One with the Engagement Picture
- The One with the Nap Partners
- The One with Ross’s Library Book
- The One Where Chandler Doesn’t Like Dogs
- The One with All the Candy
- The One with the Holiday Armadillo
- The One with All the Cheesecakes
- The One Where They’re Up All Night
- The One Where Rosita Dies
- The One Where They All Turn Thirty
- The One with Joey’s New Brain
- The One with the Truth About London
- The One with the Cheap Wedding Dress
- The One with Joey’s Award
- The One with Ross and Monica’s Cousin
- The One with Rachel’s Big Kiss
- The One with the Vows
- The One with Chandler’s Dad
- The One with Chandler and Monica’s Wedding, Part 1
- The One with Chandler and Monica’s Wedding, Part 2
Season 8 (2001–2002)
Rachel is pregnant with Ross’ baby while Joey confesses his feelings for her.
Episode list:
- The One After “I Do”
- The One with the Red Sweater
- The One Where Rachel Tells…
- The One with the Videotape
- The One with Rachel’s Date
- The One with the Halloween Party
- The One with the Stain
- The One with the Stripper
- The One with the Rumor
- The One with Monica’s Boots
- The One with Christmas in Tulsa
- The One Where Joey Dates Rachel
- The One Where Chandler Takes a Bath
- The One with the Secret Closet
- The One with the Birthing Video
- The One Where Joey Tells Rachel
- The One with the Tea Leaves
- The One in Massapequa
- The One with Joey’s Interview
- The One with the Baby Shower
- The One with the Cooking Class
- The One Where Rachel is Late
- The One Where Rachel Has a Baby, Part 1
- The One Where Rachel Has a Baby, Part 2
Season 9 (2002–2003)
Rachel gives birth; Monica and Chandler find out they’re infertile.
Episode list:
- The One Where No One Proposes
- The One Where Emma Cries
- The One with the Pediatrician
- The One with the Sharks
- The One with Phoebe’s Birthday Dinner
- The One with the Male Nanny
- The One with Ross’s Inappropriate Song
- The One with Rachel’s Other Sister
- The One with Rachel’s Phone Number
- The One with Christmas in Tulsa
- The One Where Rachel Goes Back to Work
- The One with Phoebe’s Rats
- The One Where Monica Sings
- The One with the Blind Dates
- The One with the Mugging
- The One with the Boob Job
- The One with the Memorial Service
- The One with the Lottery
- The One with Rachel’s Dream
- The One with the Soap Opera Party
- The One with the Fertility Test
- The One with the Donor
- The One in Barbados, Part 1
- The One in Barbados, Part 2
Season 10 (2003–2004)
In the final season, Rachel bags a job offer in Paris; Monica and Chandler plan to move to the suburbs, and Phoebe gets married to her boyfriend Mike.
Episode list:
- The One After Joey and Rachel Kiss
- The One Where Ross is Fine
- The One with Ross’s Tan
- The One with the Cake
- The One Where Rachel’s Sister Babysits
- The One with Ross’s Grant
- The One with the Home Study
- The One with the Late Thanksgiving
- The One with the Birth Mother
- The One Where Chandler Gets Caught
- The One Where the Stripper Cries
- The One with Phoebe’s Wedding
- The Last One, Part 1
- The Last One, Part 2
Where to Buy Friends Merch in Canada?
You can transform your home into Central Perk or Monica’s apartment by purchasing official replica merchandise on the NBC Store and the FRIENDS Experience Store, including collectibles like Joey’s Hugsy plushie, and Central Perk mugs, as well as DVD and Blu-ray copies of the show. You can also find plenty of affordable, fan-made merch on Amazon.