Would the friends on ‘Friends’ really have been friends?

Summary

The article critically examines the realism of the friendships portrayed in the sitcom 'Friends', questioning whether the characters would have genuinely been friends and suggesting that their personalities and lifestyles might have clashed in reality.

Abstract

The author reflects on the beloved sitcom 'Friends', questioning the plausibility of the on-screen friendships in a real-world context. It is posited that Ross and Joey's intellectual and lifestyle differences would have likely prevented them from being friends, with Joey's success with women possibly irritating Ross. Phoebe's eccentricity is seen as a point of friction, particularly with Monica, as evidenced by a flashback in Season 3 where their differing lifestyles led to Phoebe moving out. The article also humorously notes the implausibility of the lack of romantic involvement between Joey and Rachel, considering their physical attractiveness and proximity, until the eighth season.

Opinions

The friendship between Joey and Ross is deemed unlikely due to their contrasting personalities and intellectual pursuits.
Joey's romantic success despite his perceived lack of intelligence could have been a source of irritation for Ross.
Phoebe's quirky and unpredictable nature would not mesh well with Monica's orderly lifestyle.
The article implies that the characters' long-term close relationships are exaggerated for the sake of the show's narrative.
The delayed romantic development between Joey and Rachel is seen as unrealistic given their status as the 'hottest characters' on the show.
The overall portrayal of friendships on 'Friends' is criticized for being overly idealized and not reflective of real-life dynamics.

Would the friends on ‘Friends’ really have been friends?

‘Friends’ was one of my favorite sitcoms. But just how realistic was it?

If the characters had been real people, would they have been friends with each other? And if so, would they have hung out together all the time?

Joey and Ross wouldn’t have been friends. Ross’s intellectual/science side would have irritated Joey, and Joey’s high success rate with women (despite being stupid) would have infuriated Ross.

Phoebe would have been too “chaotic and swirly” for everyone, especially Monica. Actually, in a flashback episode of Season 3, we learn that she moved out of Monica’s apartment because their lifestyles irritated each other so much.

And don’t get me started on how it took eight seasons for Joey and Rachel to get it on. The two hottest characters in the show, living right next to each other? Get outta here!

Would the friends on ‘Friends’ really have been friends?

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