For nearly three decades, ‘Friends’ has remained a beloved show for millions around the world. Centered around six friends navigating life and love in New York City, the sitcom became an instant cultural phenomenon.
Premiering in 1994, ‘Friends’ quickly captivated audiences with its humor and relatable storylines. Even after its conclusion in 2004, the series continues to attract fans of all generations.
However, as the show remains a nostalgic favorite, its portrayal of New York City has come under increasing scrutiny. Critics and viewers alike have pointed out its glaring lack of diversity.
New York City is renowned for its vibrant and multicultural population. According to Date USA, the city comprises 31.2% White (non-Hispanic), 21% Black or African American (non-Hispanic), and 14.4% Asian (non-Hispanic).
Despite being set in one of the most diverse cities in the world, ‘Friends’ failed to reflect this reality. All six main characters were white, with only a few people of color appearing in minor or supporting roles.
One of these voices calling attention to the issue is actor Adam Goldberg. Goldberg, who played Eddie, Chandler Bing’s eccentric temporary roommate in three episodes, recently shared his thoughts.
Speaking to ‘The Independent’, Goldberg reflected on his time on the show and its broader implications. He described the lack of diversity on ‘Friends’ as “incredibly unrealistic.”
“In terms of diversity, looking back, it seems insane,” Goldberg said in the interview. “I’ve heard Black people speak about this, and it’s like, you never expected to see yourself.”
Goldberg also commented on the show’s depiction of New York living. “How the hell do these people afford to even live in New York?” he joked about the massive apartments shown on the sitcom.
“Their apartment is massive, and it’s an incredibly unrealistic portrayal of New York,” Goldberg added. He admitted he wasn’t even fully aware the show was set in the city.
The actor also reflected on the entertainment industry’s standards during the 1990s. He noted the pervasive lack of diversity wasn’t unique to ‘Friends’ but reflective of broader societal norms.
“I mean, I spent a lot of my career complaining about how Italians can play Jews,” Goldberg said. “You see [Robert] De Niro play Jews but very rarely a known Jewish actor playing Italian.”
He shared his frustrations about the feedback he received in his career. “I would get feedback about not being all-American enough, which, you know, if you were to say that now, you’d probably be fired.”
Goldberg acknowledged the culture of television at the time, stating, “The entire culture was like that, and television was just an amplification of that culture.”
Other voices connected to ‘Friends’ have also reflected on its shortcomings. Co-creator Marta Kauffman admitted her own role in perpetuating systemic racism in the series.
Following the murder of George Floyd and the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, Kauffman re-evaluated her actions. She expressed deep regret for the show’s lack of inclusivity.
Kauffman described her process, saying, “Admitting and accepting guilt is not easy. It’s painful looking at yourself in the mirror.” She added, “I’m embarrassed that I didn’t know better 25 years ago.”
In 2022, Kauffman took a concrete step toward addressing her past mistakes. She donated $4 million to Brandeis University to create a professorship in African and African American Studies.
David Schwimmer, who played Ross Geller, also voiced his thoughts on the matter. In a 2020 interview, he said he felt it was “just wrong” that the show lacked broader cultural representation.
“I really felt like Ross should date other people, women of all races,” Schwimmer said. His comments echoed calls for more authentic storytelling in the entertainment industry.
Breaking the mold, Aisha Tyler became the first Black actress with a recurring role on ‘Friends’. She appeared in nine episodes as Dr. Charlie Wheeler, a love interest for Ross.
While Goldberg shared his criticisms of ‘Friends’, he also expressed gratitude for being part of its legacy. “I’m so happy to be part of the show’s legacy. I love it,” he said.
He praised the success of his co-stars, particularly Jennifer Aniston. “I think about all those guys, and how incredible someone like Jennifer Aniston is,” Goldberg remarked.
As ‘Friends’ continues to charm new audiences, Goldberg’s reflections bring fresh insights into its portrayal of New York. His observations add to the ongoing dialogue around representation in media.
The story of ‘Friends’ reminds us of how far television has come and how much further it still needs to go. Its legacy endures as both an iconic series and a lens into cultural progress.
Featured Image Credit: (Instagram/ @friends)
