This is my review on the couple: Joey and Rachel.
This couple has a very interesting reception by fans, a type of reception that no other couple really has. What I mean by that is that there are basically two different sides in the community who both judge the couple very differently. One of the sides say that the couple is an absolutely astounding one which is easily on the levels of Monica and Chandler, if not, even better. The other side, however, say that the couple is practically, the worse couple ever stating that the only reason why the couple even existed is to create an excuse to keep Ross and Rachel apart. It can be said that the reception towards the couple is kind of controversial. I'm going to review whether I agree that they're a great couple or whether I agree that they are terrible together. So keep reading to see my review.
Ahh...Joey and Rachel. A duo that was great as friends but not as a couple.
There was one obvious clear reason why Joey and Rachel as a couple failed and that was because on how late during the series run, the relationship took place. To introduce such a major story arc with only 18 episodes remaining, left the couple no choice but to defer development. (I know Phoebe and Mike started theirs late too but unlike Joey and Rachel, they had exceptional chemistry during S9).
Due to how forced their relationship was and how it contrasted Rachel's decision in S8 was another reason why Joey and Rachel were terrible together. In my opinion, the Joey falling in love with Rachel plotline during S8 was great as it was entertaining. The plotline also brought us a different emotional side of Joey that was previously shown during the mentioned name's relationship with Kate. I totally respected Rachel's decision on declining Joey's love for her and I know in time, Joey eventually accepted the outcome. I really think the only reason why Rachel pursued a relationship with him was that he could fulfil her sexually. Even Joey was reluctant to pursue a relationship with her but only took the opportunity once he got the all clear.
However, if they dated around the time Ross and Emily were dating or during S5/6, then the couple would had been great and I would definitely prefer them over Ross and Rachel. That way it would feel much more natural and not predictable unlike the other mentioned couple. I say that because the tension and awkwardness would not be there and I could see their relationship lasting a long time since I could tell that they were generally in love with each other. I would also love the couple if they dated during Season 8, especially if you factor out Emma as their love would had been rooted by situations that were relatable i.e; feelings developed by two close roommates.
Unfortunately, both of my suggestions never happened so I don't ship them together as a couple thus agreeing with the trend of fans that say that they were terrible together. However, with that said, I would not say that I agree with the statement that they were an excuse to keep Ross and Rachel apart as I do see significance in the couple as it strengthened both Rachel and Joey for the better in the future. I would also say though that it was just the situation and the timing of the relationship which was why I rank them low. If they dated earlier then I would agree with the fans that say they were great together.
Therefore, Joey and Rachel are a terrible couple, rating them a mere (2.5/10). If they dated earlier then my rating on the couple would have increase significantly, earning them a fantastic (9/10) score.