Actress Quinta Brunson has criticized the iconic TV series Friends for its lack of Black representation. Despite its enduring popularity, Friends has faced backlash for predominantly featuring white actors and sidelining characters of color like Aisha Tyler’s role as Charlie Wheeler. Tyler revealed that fans still identify her as “the Black girl from Friends” .

This issue resurfaced during the 2021 reunion when no Black cast members were present, drawing renewed criticism. Co-creator Marta Kauffman has acknowledged this criticism, expressing regret over the show’s lack of diversity and committing to learning about systemic racism.

Lisa Kudrow, who played Phoebe, defended Kauffman and co-creator David Crane, suggesting that their backgrounds may have influenced the show’s narrow perspective. Jennifer Aniston has also acknowledged that some find Friends offensive today.

Recently, Quinta Brunson addressed this topic during her Saturday Night Live hosting debut, contrasting her show Abbott Elementary, which celebrates diversity, with Friends. Abbott Elementary features a group of teachers in Philadelphia and embraces a more inclusive representation.