What's happened
As 'Friends' approaches its 30th anniversary, cast members reflect on the show's legacy, including its cultural significance and the challenges of diversity. Insights from producers reveal the evolution of the cast's confidence and the show's financial success, which has left a lasting mark on television.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Todd Stevens, a line producer on 'Friends', noted that as the show's popularity grew, the cast became more assertive in their roles, making it difficult to revisit iconic scenes like the fountain dance. He stated, 'Revisiting the uncomfortable nature of that, cold and wet, was very different when they were big.' Meanwhile, Aisha Tyler emphasized the show's diversity shortcomings, saying, 'For a show that was set in the heart of Manhattan, it really lacked diversity.' This sentiment reflects a broader conversation about representation in media today. The Scotsman highlights the show's financial success, noting that the main cast earned substantial salaries, with each member reportedly making $1 million per episode by the finale. This financial success underscores the show's lasting impact on the television landscape.
How we got here
Premiering in 1994, 'Friends' ran for ten seasons and became a cultural phenomenon, earning its main cast significant wealth and spawning a merchandising empire. The show has seen renewed interest among younger audiences through streaming platforms.
Common question
-
What Behind-the-Scenes Secrets Did the Friends Cast Share?
As 'Friends' approaches its 30th anniversary, the cast reflects on their experiences and the show's lasting impact. From iconic scenes to the dynamics that changed over the years, there are plenty of intriguing stories that fans want to know about. Here are some of the most common questions regarding the behind-the-scenes moments of this beloved sitcom.
More on these topics
-
Aisha Nilaja Tyler is an American actress, comedian, director, and talk show host.
She is known for playing Andrea Marino in the first season of Ghost Whisperer, Dr.
-
Matthew Langford Perry is a Canadian American actor, comedian, executive producer, screenwriter, and playwright who played the role of Chandler Bing on the NBC television sitcom Friends, which ran from 1994 to 2004.
-
Marta Fran Kauffman is an American television writer and producer. She is best known as the co-creator of the NBC sitcom Friends with her longtime friend, David Crane.