
A perfect illustration of this is the Friends episode “The One With Ross’s Sandwich” (Season 5, Episode 9). It’s become iconic, largely thanks to Ross’s over-the-top reaction to someone eating his sandwich – the line “MY SANDWICH” is instantly recognizable. The sandwich itself, featuring a gravy-soaked slice of bread he calls the “moist-maker,” has become a cultural touchstone, with many restaurants offering their own version of it as a seasonal special. The episode centers around Ross struggling with his recent divorce from Emily – his second failed marriage – and he’s clearly not coping well. He sees the sandwich as the only bright spot in his life, making its disappearance all the more devastating – especially since he’d even left a note asking people not to eat it. It’s a relatable moment that reminds us, as the show’s theme song says, that life doesn’t always go as planned.