### Chapter 67: Steady Climb

Curiosity works in a peculiar way. Even if one doesn't pay special attention, the moment something catches their eye, their focus is inevitably drawn to it. Before the brain even realizes it, it starts to explore, observe, and search—an instinct that is uncontrollable yet immensely powerful.

Rumors, gossip, intrigue, secrets, and more.

Another Thursday arrived as expected, creating a similar effect.

First, because of Brad and Jennifer—the Hollywood golden couple, undoubtedly the biggest buzz of the summer of 2000.

Second, because the season finale of "Friends" was approaching, with Monica and Chandler's much-anticipated proposal story finally set to unfold after being teased all season.

Third… because of the sudden emergence of Anson.

Especially the third point.

There were the optimistic onlookers, eager to unearth hidden gems and filled with anticipation; the pessimistic viewers, ready to pick apart what they couldn't understand—how a newcomer could become the focus of such heated discussion; and the neutral spectators, the bystanders waiting to see the drama unfold.

It was this collision of factors that led countless eyes to turn to "Friends"—

After all, it was the epicenter of the storm.

Thursday.

"Friends" aired on schedule.

In this episode, the character Paul, played by Anson, revealed the insecurities and vulnerabilities hidden beneath his confident and handsome exterior.

Paul emphasized his stance—he forbade Ross and Elizabeth from continuing their relationship, threatening to report Ross to the university, which could cost Ross his job.

But Ross was unfazed. He and Elizabeth went to Paul's family cabin for a romantic weekend, unaware that Paul and Rachel had the same plan; so when Paul and Rachel arrived, a shirtless Ross had to hide under the couch.

After a series of hilarious mishaps, Ross accidentally discovered Paul's insecurities, which he then used as leverage to strike a silent deal with Paul. Ross could continue dating Elizabeth, and in return, he would keep quiet about Paul's secrets.

Unexpected twists. Coincidences. Turns of events.

Laughter!

No wonder Marta mentioned that Anson's outstanding performance sparked the inspiration that led to the creation of the storylines for episodes 22 and 23.

Marta and David Crane once again delivered an excellent piece of work, cleverly weaving Paul's character into the awkward dynamics between Ross and Rachel. Meanwhile, Chandler and Monica's proposal preparations took a new turn, playing out a cat-and-mouse game amid a series of misunderstandings.

Two separate storylines, each independent and unrelated, yet skillfully maintaining suspense while bringing fresh appeal—quality remained top-notch.

With a solid fan base and widespread attention.

With hot topics and guaranteed quality.

Thus.

The ratings exploded—

Everything unfolded just as David Crane had anticipated.

First, the number of viewers: 26 million.

A slight increase. Although the growth was modest, it was nearly identical to the numbers for the first episode of the sixth season, undoubtedly marking the second-highest performance of the season.

More importantly, the fact that the viewership continued to rise for the second consecutive week was the most encouraging sign.

Objectively speaking, the non-core demographic, specifically the older audience, typically reacts slower to news trends. They don't follow fads or chase hot topics, leading to relatively stable viewing habits with minimal channel-switching fluctuations.

Therefore, the increase in viewership was expected to be limited, and it was.

The key focus was on the younger audience.

Secondly, the ratings: 14.88.

An increase.

A surge.

A leap.

The ratings for episode 22 shot up by 2.54%!

Not only did the rating numbers edge closer to the season's highest rating of 15.0, but the significant increase also reaffirmed the show's immense appeal.

When it finally delivered, the show's deep-rooted fan base unleashed an astonishing amount of energy.

A close analysis of both the ratings and viewership data reveals that this week's rating surge came almost entirely from the core 18-49 demographic, while other age groups showed negligible changes. The reason behind this is crystal clear.

David Crane's plan had targeted the ratings from the very start.

By leveraging the influence of Brad and Jennifer, the golden couple of Hollywood, attention was drawn, and then the quality of the script, along with Anson's charm, opened the way.

The former was the bait.

The latter was the focus.

Step by step, there was no rush to achieve immediate success in one or two episodes. Instead, the strategy was to plan carefully and execute with patience. The real victory was still on the horizon, and this was far from the endpoint.

Indeed—

The noticeable rise in ratings was just the surface.

The discussions surrounding Anson were the substance.

In the 22nd episode, Anson displayed a contrast in his character—a man with different shades and forms of charm. Despite being a comedy with slightly exaggerated performances, his portrayal was still applauded, revealing the various dimensions of masculinity.

On one hand, major media outlets immediately followed up with reports, showering Anson with various accolades. While the praise wasn't about astonishing acting skills or extraordinary talent, the repetitive commendations for his handsomeness and charm were more than enough. A lasting impression had been made.

On the other hand, the discussions about Anson in real life reflected the fact that this young man had indeed seized the opportunity to create a charming and believable character. The rapidly increasing buzz was not just a bubble or an illusion; everything was genuinely happening.

Freshness, energy.

Every once in a while, Hollywood sees a new face become the center of attention. People, with their fickle nature, are always on the lookout for the next big star.

This time, the spotlight was on Anson.

From surface to depth, from depth to surface, these two forces collided to generate a new momentum. With just a little push, the result was clear.

But!

This was still not the peak.

Seven days passed in the blink of an eye, and Thursday arrived once more, bringing with it the 23rd episode of "Friends."

This episode was the final step before the two-part season finale, and it also marked the last appearance of Paul Stevens, Anson's character.

People were curious about how Monica and Chandler's proposal would play out. They were also curious about how Paul would exit the stage, whether he would serve as a catalyst for Rachel and Ross, and how the writers would further explore the nuances of Paul's character.

The discussions were incessant.

At the same time!

Magazines like "Entertainment Weekly" and "US Weekly" began releasing interviews with actors and crew members, all building up the hype for the season finale.

The atmosphere was getting hotter.

Expectations were soaring.

Then, the final stroke of David Crane's carefully crafted trilogy was delivered.

Boom!

Not just a simple explosion, but an explosive, overwhelming reaction!

The timing was perfect. The setting was ideal. The people were in sync.

Everything fell into place.

Viewership reached 30 million.

The rating soared to 16.1.

It was an all-around success, far beyond expectations, sparking a tidal wave of reactions.

This was the peak.