Friends Overview

Friends is an American comedy sitcom series that follows six close friends as they navigate young adulthood while living in New York City. The friends' relationships are strengthened over the years as they lean on each other during their romantic adventures and growth in their careers. Much of the show takes place in a small coffee shop called Central Perk where the friends meet up and chat about their day. If they are not gathering at Central Perk they are often popping in and out of Monica's (Courtney Cox) and Rachel's (Jennifer Aniston) apartment. Monica is an aspiring chef and a germophobic clean freak. Rachel is Monica's best friend from high school and is learning how to stand independently without her wealthy father's financial help. Chandler (Matthew Perry) and Joey (Matt LeBlanc) live across the hall from the girls in a typical bachelor pad. Chandler is known for his sarcasm and wit, while Joey, an absent-minded aspiring actor, is overly confident in being a lady's man. Ross (David Schwimmer) is Monica's brother, his sensitivity and love of paleontology often make him the butt of the group's jokes. Phoebe (Lisa Kudrow) is an eccentric free-spirit that often plays quirky songs that she has written at the coffee shop where they hang out. Friends first premiered in September 1994 and ran for ten seasons.