Quinta Brunson Criticizes the Lack of Diversity in Friends
The TV show Friends is celebrated as one of the most popular sitcoms in television history, continuing to enchant viewers even years after it ended.
The series revolves around the lives of six friends living in Manhattan, exploring their humorous adventures, romantic relationships, and memorable experiences. Its appeal has led to a growing fan base as new generations discover the show.
Despite its success, Friends has faced criticism for its lack of diversity over time.
A major criticism is the show’s almost entirely white cast, with few opportunities for actors of color. Aisha Tyler, who appeared as Charlie Wheeler—a paleontologist involved with both Joey and Ross during the ninth season—has spoken about how she is often remembered as the ‘Black girl from Friends’ despite her substantial role.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Tyler said, “It was a global sensation, and to this day, people still recognize me as ‘Charlie’ or ‘the Black girl from Friends.’”
Tyler remains the sole Black actor with a recurring role throughout the series’ run.
Additionally, the 2021 reunion special for Friends also drew criticism for its lack of diversity, with notable figures like Phil Lewis, Chandler’s boss, and Gabrielle Union, who played a love interest for both Ross and Joey, being absent from the special.
Marta Kauffman, a co-creator of the show, addressed this issue in a conversation with the Los Angeles Times: “Reflecting on the past 20 years has been a learning experience for me. Acknowledging these past shortcomings is difficult, and I regret that I didn’t understand better at the time.”
In light of her new perspective on systemic racism, Kauffman has donated $4 million to establish an endowed chair for the African and African American Studies Department at her former university.
Lisa Kudrow, who portrayed Phoebe Buffay on Friends, has defended Kauffman and co-creator David Crane. In a statement to The Daily Beast, Kudrow explained, “The show was the product of two Brandeis University graduates who drew from their own experiences post-college.”
Brunson shared her own perspective while discussing her show, Abbott Elementary. “I considered auditioning for SNL but found the process overwhelming. Instead, I created my own successful show, won a few Emmys, and eventually got invited to host. It was a more straightforward path for me!”
She then described Abbott Elementary, stating, “It’s a network sitcom similar to Friends, but instead of a group of friends in New York, it features a group of teachers in Philadelphia and includes Black characters.”
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