Hmmm...
Now that we're seven eps into the new season, I've noticed a trend in my reaction to the shows. First, they're extremely uneven (at best) and second, Joey/MLB manages to come out unscathed every ep.
With the writers failing to write character-driven comedy, Joey's generally supportive role has become a bit more important, and I've been appreciating MLB's delivery of lines. He's about the only character whose managed to stay quite true to what we know of him while remaining funny and fun to watch. Ross shouts, Monica screeches, Chandler....does nothing, Rachel connives, and Phoebe....does nothing. Meanwhile, Joey remains a humorous Greek chorus to the group, while still living an actor's life and scoring with the women.
I NEVER thought Joey would become the most watchable, most tolerable member of the group, but that's what's happening for me.
*Sigh*