Friends, the popular TV show that has been airing since 1994, is loved by all because of the six main characters and the hilarious events that make up their everyday lives. As a pretty big fan, I can say I love the roles of Chandler, Joey, Monica, Rachel, Phoebe and Ross all equally. Each character adds humor and spice to the show and in all honestly, it wouldn’t be the same if any of them were missing. However, although every fan loves the individuality of each character, there is always a favorite. And although I am in the minority with this opinion I’m sure, Ross Geller is hands-down my favorite. To all you haters of Ross Geller, I realize he is whiney at times and occasionally acts like a depressed sloth, but the character of Ross Geller is one to model after. He reminds us of the important things in life (and he is just really funny). So here is my list of reasons for why Ross Geller is actually the best:

1. He cares for his friends.

Like all the characters do, he deeply cares for his friends. He does their makeup when they can’t, hugs them for comfort and cuddles during nap time.

2. He is musically talented and not afraid to show it.

you could see it as unique and creative. And he plays the bagpipes with confidence.

3. He thinks about saving money.

Deciding to haul a couch yourself instead of paying the movers is innovative and a simple way to save some cash. And how could we ever forget about the time he took everything free he could from the hotel he stayed at. Now that’s just getting your money’s worth.

4. He is brave to try new fashion trends and humble when they go horribly wrong.

The leather pants were a great idea at the beginning, but the mixture of sweat, lotion, and water got the best of his fashion statement. And never forget when he tried to get a spray tan and whiten his teeth. The poor guy just wanted to look good for his date. But through it all, he wasn't afraid to try new things.

5. He is unapologetically himself.

Although he is a nerd when it comes to his job, dinosaurs, and all things paleontology related, he doesn’t change who he is when his friends make fun of him. And he is not afraid to let loose on the dance floor (even in a routine with his sister).

6. He is protective of his sister.

Although Ross becomes somewhat angry when he finds out about Chandler and Monica, it’s only because he doesn’t want to see his sister get hurt. He thinks Chandler only wants to mess around, but when he finds out chandler actually loves his sister, he is 100 percent happy and supportive.

7. He just goes with the flow with all of his embarrassing moments.

Like when he tells the cute pizza delivery girl that he likes little boys or when he wears the same sweater as his date. And don’t forget about the time he said the wrong name at the alter. Embarrassing moments happen to Ross on the reg and yet he just goes with it.

8. He works at a job he has passion for.

Ross lives for paleontology and enjoys going to work everyday. He loves debating about new discoveries and going to conventions is better than Christmas morning. We should all have Ross’s enthusiasm when it comes to our job. It means we are exercising our passions and doing something meaningful.

9. He is loyal.

Ross stayed loyal to Rachel for so many years and even though some girls stole his attention for a while he came back to her in the end. He never stopped loving her.

10. He is a fantastic father.

With both Ben and Emma, Ross was a loving and caring father. He was ecstatic to hear their heartbeats, feel their kicks, and see their first steps. He wanted to be there every step of the way for each kid and did whatever he could just to spend more time with them.

11. He believes in marriage.

A lot of the characters sleep around (and yes, so does Ross) but don’t think about settling down a whole lot. Ross believes so strongly in marriage. I realize he got married and divorced three times, but at the root of it was his desire to be married and devoted to one woman. With all three marriages, he was torn up by the way things ended. He loves having a wife and a family and I just find that refreshing.

Yes, Ross has his flaws like every other Friends character, but he also portrays the importance of passion in work, family and love. He is embarrassing and awkward but takes those moments in strides and owns up to what he got himself into. Ross Geller is an underrated character, and in my opinion, one of the best this show's got.