There has been a lot of discussion recently about diversity and the need to have it in all areas of life. And this discussion includes looking back at popular television shows like Friends.
Quinta Brunson, known for her role in Abbott Elementary, recently called out Friends for its lack of diversity. During her hosting gig on Saturday Night Live, she pointed out that there were no black characters on the show.
She also highlighted her own show, Abbott Elementary, which focuses on the lives of teachers navigating a state-funded elementary school primarily made up of black students in Philadelphia. The contrast between the diversity on Abbott Elementary and the lack thereof on Friends is evident.
Speaking about her journey to hosting SNL, Brunson humorously remarked, “I wanted to be on SNL back in the day but the audition process seemed long – so instead, I just created my own TV show, made sure it became really popular, won a bunch of Emmys, and then got asked to host. So much easier, so much easier.”
The audience resonated with her sentiments. Brunson continued, comparing Friends to Abbott Elementary, “It’s a network sitcom like, say, Friends. Except, instead of being about a group of friends, it’s about a group of teachers. Instead of New York, it’s in Philadelphia, and instead of not having Black people, it does.”
While Brunson’s commentary had a playful tone, it struck a chord with many individuals who share her concerns. Martha Kauffman, one of the creators of Friends, expressed embarrassment over the lack of diversity in the show. In an effort to make amends, she pledged $4 million to a university to support African and African-American studies departments.
Reflecting on her own journey, Kauffman stated, “I’ve learned a lot in the last 20 years. Admitting and accepting guilt is not easy. It’s painful looking at yourself in the mirror. I’m embarrassed that I didn’t know better 25 years ago.” She also shared her commitment to becoming an ally and anti-racist, offering her perspective as a white woman.
The debate surrounding diversity on television shows like Friends will continue, and it is an important topic to consider. It is encouraging to see prominent figures in the industry acknowledging past shortcomings and working towards greater inclusivity.
