19 Years Since the ‘Friends’ Ending, Throwback to When Diva Jennifer Aniston Expressed Her Opinion About the Show’s Offensive “hysterical” Jokes

Published 09/13/2023, 2:12 PM EDT

via Imago

It is not usual that a show aired decades ago keeps on entertaining the viewers in contemporary times. But the NBC sitcom, Friends, starring Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, and others, is one such classic example. The sitcom, which started in 1994 and ended in 2004, is still a go-to show to millions of viewers. Interestingly, the viewers belong to many generations, and thus it touches each one differently. After 19 years of the show’s ending, various viewers have pointed out many offensive things in the show.

Throughout the show, there have been many references, and jokes that have offended the viewers. Addressing those allegations, the Cake star once revealed the thought process behind those jokes.

Jennifer Aniston revealed how the offensive jokes were funny back then

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Friends touched upon several social issues throughout its run for 10 years. The sitcom, which is relatable to many, has had unexpected effects on an entire generation. They claimed the jokes were offensive. Addressing those claims in March this year, the 54-year-old actress explained to AFP as per The Hollywood Reporter that the show was created at a different time. She admitted that the creators never intentionally put anything offensive in the show. Jennifer Aniston further added that there was no such sensitivity back then as they had in recent times.

The offensive jokes, like Chandler’s transgender parent, mockery of Monica’s body weight, and even Ross trying to get his son to play with more masculine toys, were not to attack anyone. As Aniston pointed out, those jokes were about educating people. “They were hysterical,” said the actress and added, they just wanted to show how ridiculous people were.

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The Murder Mystery actress went on to talk about the difficulties of creating humorous content in the present times. She said it had become tricky. Additionally, Aniston mentioned that comedy was important to culture. Therefore, one should never take oneself too seriously. Not only Aniston but also the showmaker, Marta Kauffman, once addressed these issues. She admitted the show lacked diversity while defending the creation as well.

How did Marta Kauffman defend the show from the backlash?

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After decades since its completion, viewers have pointed out several inaccuracies in the ’90s sitcom. However, in 2021, Kauffman addressed those issues and admitted the flaws. But she expressed her wish and said, “There are many things that I could say if I only knew then what I know now,” followed by a confession. The Friends creator confessed there were no conscious decisions.

She also revealed how firm she was with the choices she made. Despite having flows in the show, it also showcased many important aspects of human lives as well. Do you remember how Monica revolutionized women’s pleasure in season 4? But certainly, the time difference has brought in novel perspectives as well.

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What are your thoughts about Jennifer Aniston’s explanation? Share your opinion with us in the comments below.

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Neha Chande

1876 articles

Meet Neha Chande, an entertainment writer at Netflix Junkie, who has written more than 1100 articles. With a Master's degree in English Literature, Neha believes in unbiased journalism. Before delving into her passion for writing and cinema, she taught English and communication skills as a facilitator and lecturer.

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