Jennifer Aniston has been reminiscing about her iconic sitcom “Friends” and how it has become a product of its time. While promoting her new Netflix movie “Mystery 2,” Aniston shared her thoughts on how comedy has changed over the years.
Speaking to AFP in Paris, Aniston noted that comedy has evolved significantly since “Friends” first aired in 1994. She acknowledged that the cultural landscape has shifted, making it more challenging for comedians to navigate.
Aniston explained, “Comedy has become more complicated because we need to be more mindful of the words we choose and the topics we tackle.” She added, “The beauty of comedy lies in its ability to poke fun at ourselves and life, but now we have to tread carefully.”
The actress also touched on how “Friends” is perceived by younger generations. She revealed that many young people now find certain episodes of the show to be offensive. Aniston acknowledged that the show’s creators and cast members were not as sensitive to certain issues back then.
“We didn’t have the same level of awareness and understanding that we do now,” Aniston said. “While some things were unintentional, there were others that we should have thought through more carefully.”
The issue of diversity on “Friends” has long been a topic of discussion. Last year, co-creator Marta Kauffman expressed her regret over the lack of diversity on the show. Kauffman told the Los Angeles Times, “It’s painful to confront one’s own shortcomings, but I wish I had been more aware and knowledgeable 25 years ago.”
Aniston’s reflections on “Friends” and the evolution of comedy serve as a reminder that our understanding of what is acceptable and funny changes over time. As we continue to navigate the complexities of comedy and representation, it’s essential to acknowledge the past and learn from it.
