TV executives originally wanted the cast of ‘Friends’ more diverse – but the creators refused

'Today it might feel a little tone deaf to not be more inclusive'

One of the executives behind the original concept of Friends has said that it was suggested that the cast be ‘more diverse’ – but that this idea was rejected by the creators.

EVP of Freeform Programming & Development Karey Burke was present when Marta Kauffman and David Crane first pitched the hit US sitcom. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, she said that Kauffman and Crane ‘pushed back’ when it was brought up that the characters show more diversity – claiming that they had very specific ideas that would only work with six white straight people.

“I think now it might be a different conversation. I also think that was Gen X, and I think Millenials and subsequently Gen Z are far more diverse generations,” said Burke. “And I think to honestly serve those generations…it might feel a little tone deaf to not be more inclusive.”

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favourite Friends character

A recent poll by YouGov found that Chandler was the nation’s favourite Friends character, followed by Joey in second place, before Rachel, Ross and Monica respectively.

Speaking out on the chances of a potential Friends reunion and comeback special or series earlier this year, Jennifer Aniston said: “Anything is a possibility, Ellen. Anything!

“I mean, George Clooney got married.”

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