Even though the comedy T.V. show Friends has been off the air for almost 10 years, its impact still influences today are popular culture. Cougar Town, New Girl, Vampire Diaries, That 70’s Show, and Teen Wolf are just some examples of T.V. shows that were inspired by Friends.

     “Friends is one of those shows -that even though it has been over for a few years, it’s timeless. The humor and the writing is so smart that people now can still appreciate the development of these characters, and the plot,” mentioned Mrs. Katie Jeans, an English teacher at Pitman.

     The show is about six friends – Rachel Green, Monica Gellar, Phoebe Buffay, Joey Tribbianni, Chandler Bing, and Ross Gellar  – who all tell the story of their lives together in New York City. The storyline centers around them growing up as a group; showing all their hard times, funny times, and their most memorable moments.

     The first episode of Friends aired on September 22, 1994. The show used comedy that our generation can understand and laugh about today- like taking “a break” in a relationship, hitting on someone  (“How you doin?'”), or finding that perfect job. Even the then unknown actors- Jennifer Aniston, Courteny Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer – are still relevant in today’s entertainment.

     “It’s such a loving show and it puts you in a good mood,” stated junior, Cassie Klinkhammer.

     Friends doesn’t have just one main character, but six different main characters who all tell their own story. Every episode has conflict that involves different characters, which keeps the show alive and entertaining. Most viewers are drawn to the humorous jokes and dialogue of each character. Others are drawn to the multiple storylines that the show has to offer.

     Mrs. Katie Jeans said, “I like how it was an ensemble and how you got the storyline of all the characters and not just one main character.”

     Friends can have its serious moments, but mostly it’s a romantic comedy. Although it may not be age appropriate for all viewers, the half-hour comedy still resonates from teens to their parents. Friends will continue to be a popular, entertaining show that will stand the test of time.