Two decades ago, television fans experienced a bittersweet moment. On May 6, 2004, in the United States, The final episode of “Friends” aired, marking the end of an era for the hit comedy series that for ten seasons captured the hearts of millions. “Friends,” since its inception in 1994, was not only a phenomenon on television, but also became a cultural element that defined a generation.
The final episode, titled “The Last One”, was followed by approximately 52.5 million viewers in the United States alone, making it one of the most watched series finales in history. The episode showed the six friends—Rachel, Ross, Monica, Chandler, Joey and Phoebe—facing big changes in their lives, closing cycles and starting new chapters, a perfect reflection of the growth each of them experienced over the years.
In addition to being a ratings success, “Friends” has left a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment. The series launched its six leads to fame, and also set a new standard for sitcoms, with its witty writing and unmatched chemistry between the actors.
To date, it remains relevant thanks to reruns and streaming platforms, where new generations continue to discover and fall in love with the misadventures and joys of this group of friends In New York.
Looking back, it’s clear that “Friends” was more than just a television series; was a phenomenon that captured the essence of friendship and adulthood with humor and warmth. Although 20 years have passed since the last episode aired, the impact and affection it continues to generate among fans of all ages are proof that, indeed, this series has left an indelible mark on popular culture.
Matthew Perry dies at 54, remembered for playing Chandler in “Friends”
20 years after saying goodbye to ‘Friends’: Where are the protagonists now?
Two decades after the end of “Friends,” the six actors who played the series’ iconic characters have followed diverse paths in the entertainment industry. Here we review their trajectories:
Jennifer Aniston (Rachel)
After saying goodbye to Rachel, Jennifer Aniston didn’t miss a beat and continued to be a prominent figure in Hollywood. Although she is known for her roles in romantic comedies such as “A Couple of Three” and “Love Happens”, one of her biggest hits was “We’re the Millers”, where she shared the screen with Jason Sudeikis and Emma Roberts. The film was so successful that a sequel was rumored. Beyond film, Jennifer has participated in acclaimed television projects, including the series “The Morning Show,” for which she has received critical praise and awards, cementing her place as a star of caliber in both film and television.
Courteney Cox (Monica)
Courteney Cox, remembered for her role as Monica, has maintained a high profile on television after “Friends.” She starred in “Cougar Town,” which earned her a Golden Globe nomination, showcasing her ability to lead a sitcom. Additionally, Courteney has returned to her beloved horror genre with her recurring participation in the “Scream” saga, appearing in the latest installment that premiered in 2022. She has also explored behind-the-scenes roles, directing and producing content.
Lisa Kudrow (Phoebe)
Lisa Kudrow, who played the eccentric Phoebe, has had a versatile post-“Friends” career. She participated in films such as “Damn Neighbors” and maintained a presence on television with “Web Therapy”, an innovative series that she also produced. Additionally, Kudrow was cast in the revitalized series “The Comeback,” which received critical acclaim for its satirical depiction of Hollywood. Lisa has also showcased her talents in documentaries, producing and hosting “Who Do You Think You Are?”, exploring family genealogies.
David Schwimmer (Ross)
David Schwimmer, the eternal Ross, has had a more discreet career compared to his co-stars. He has directed several projects and acted in theater. Schwimmer also stood out in the acclaimed series “American Crime Story: The People v. OJ Simpson”, where he played Robert Kardashian, a role that earned him positive reviews. His directing career includes work in both theater and film, demonstrating his versatility beyond acting.
Matthew Perry (Chandler)
Matthew Perry has continued his career primarily in television with varying success. After “Friends”, he starred in “The Odd Couple”, where he also worked as a writer and producer. Unfortunately, Matthew had personal and health challenges that he was not able to overcome.
Matt LeBlanc (Joey)
Matt LeBlanc, after his attempt to continue Joey’s legacy in the eponymous spin-off, found success with “Episodes”, a series that parodied the television industry, for which he was nominated for several major awards. More recently, Matt ventured into hosting on the popular show “Top Gear,” expanding his range beyond acting.
This review shows how each of the protagonists of “Friends” has navigated their post-series career, leaving a mark in different areas of entertainment and beyond. Although they have followed different paths, they have all maintained a presence in popular culture, demonstrating the lasting legacy of their characters and the series that made them famous.
N. de la R.: It is important to mention that the success of “Friends” is not only measured in terms of television audience or the direct cultural impact through its original broadcasts and repetitions, but also in its influence on the entertainment industry in broader ways. For example, the business model that “Friends” helped solidify in 1990s television, where syndication contracts and broadcast licensing deals became extremely lucrative, has been a model for subsequent series. Additionally, the “Friends” phenomenon has been studied in numerous sociology and communication courses, highlighting how the series reflects and also shapes social interactions and cultural expectations. This underscores how television productions are not only entertainment, but also vehicles of widespread cultural and social influence.
