This past Monday, September 22, marked twenty years since the first episode of Friends premiered, way back in 1994. The show is so timeless and classic, some forget just how old it really is. It has stood the test of time, still regularly being shown on multiple channels for people to watch for the first time, or, you know, the hundredth.
In honor of twenty years, Warner Bros. created a highlight reel so fans could relive the 236 episodes in 236 seconds. It showcases all main characters, giving fans a little taste of what they’ve been missing since the show wrapped up in 2004 after its ten-season run.
If you didn’t feel the highlight reel paid enough homage to such a beloved show, don’t worry just yet. An actual Central Perk opened in Soho last week. In honor of twenty years, the real-life replica of the iconic coffee shop will remain open for a month. Additionally, the actor who portrayed Gunther, James Michael Tyler, will actually be present for the opening and closing, also possibly throughout the month. He granted the space his approval, stating it’s pretty close to the actual set. Friends memorabilia such as Joey’s dog statue, outfits from the show, Monica and Chandler’s wedding rings, and much, much more will also be on display. If you want to have your chance to sit in the orange couch, you have until October 18 to make your way to New York City!
The fact people are still celebrating the show twenty years after its air date is all the proof anybody needs to know how big an impact it had on so many lives. People who can’t even claim twenty years of life love the show just as much as people who are far older and got the privilege of watching the show when it actually aired.
Even now, two decades later, people are watching the show for the first time, and falling in love with Monica, Rachel, Phoebe, Ross, Chandler, and Joey. Not only that, but new show after new show try and grab what they can take from Friends and make a new show out of it. No matter how hard producers and companies try, no show has come close to even touching Friends. The show was one-of-a-kind, grabbing fans’ hearts in a way in which other shows struggle. It’s genuine, simple, and heartwarming, and will surely live on in fans’ hearts long past its two decade mark.
Lauren Detweiler is a first-year student with an undeclared major. She can be reached at LD838069@wcupa.edu.