This book offers a long overdue extensive study of one of the most beloved television shows:
Friends. Why has this sitcom become the seminal success that it is? And how does it continue to
engage viewers around the world a quarter century after its first broadcast? Featuring original
interviews with key creative personnel (including co-creator Marta Kauffman and executive
producer Kevin S. Bright) the book provides answers by identifying a strategy of intimacy that
informs Friends' use of humour performance style and set design. The authors provide
fascinating analyses of some of the most well-remembered scenes-the one where Ross can't get
his leather pants back on and Ross and Rachel's break-up to name just a couple-and reflect on
how and why A-list guest performances sometimes fell short of the standards set by the ensemble
cast. Also considered are the iconic look of Monica's apartment as well as the programme's much
discussed politics of representation and the critical backlash it has received in recent years.
An exploration of Joey the infamous spin-off and several attempts to adapt Friends'
successful formula across the globe round out the discussion with insights into mistranslated
jokes and much more. For students scholars creative industry practitioners and fans alike
this is a compelling read that lets us glimpse behind the scenes of what has become a cultural
phenomenon and semi-permanent fixture in many of our homes.
