The sitcom Friends debuted September 22, 1994, becoming a generational touchstone over its 10-season run, and remains one of the most popular TV shows on streaming services. The Onion looks back at key moments in the show’s history on its 25th anniversary.
1993:
Creator David Crane comes up with unprecedented idea to explore what would happen if friends had sex with each other.
1994:
Show’s success creates thriving tourism industry in New York City.
1996:
Flashback shows how deep years-long friendship formed between Monica and Joey after he unexpectedly removes his clothes and exposes himself to her.
1997:
Iconic “We were on a break!” episode resonates with millions of viewers who have no respect for their partner.
1998:
The One Where Everyone Is Homophobic.
1999:
Struggling to recover from a season-five ratings dip, producers add Jennifer Aniston’s nipples to the cast.
2000:
A black person silently orders a cup of coffee at Central Perk.
2002:
Cast bands together to negotiate salaries of $1 million per episode, making them the poorest people in Los Angeles.
2004:
Actor Matthew Perry hit with realization while taping final episode that it all downhill for him from here.
2019:
Friends’ long-lasting influence still seen today in shows that are 22 minutes long and air on NBC.
