On this date in 2004, that familiar theme song (“I’ll Be There For You” by The Rembrandts) announces the beginning of the end, as an estimated 51.1 million people tune in for the original episode of NBC’s long-running comedy series Friends.
Titled “The Last One”, the episode concluded the show’s 10-season run, which had begun on 22 September 1994. Created by Marta Kauffman & David Crane, the sitcom followed six friends living in Greenwich Village, New York City, and became one of the most influential television series of its era.
Produced at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California, Friends was a critical and commercial success, earning six Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series in 2002. The show popularised trends such as Jennifer Aniston’s “The Rachel” haircut and catchphrases like “How you doin’?” (delivered by Matt LeBlanc’s character, Joey Tribbiani). Its ensemble cast—Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer—became household names.
The finale’s viewership was substantial, though it did not surpass records set by earlier sitcoms like M*A*S*H (105 million, 1983), Cheers (80.4 million, 1993), or Seinfeld (76.2 million, 1998). The episode provided closure for key storylines, including Ross and Rachel’s reconciliation, Monica & Chandler adopting twins, and Joey moving to Los Angeles—a setup for the short-lived spin-off Joey (2004–2006).
The cast famously negotiated equal salaries, each earning $1 million per episode in the final seasons. This collective bargaining set a precedent in television, reinforcing the show’s emphasis on ensemble chemistry. Friends remained a syndication powerhouse, airing in over 100 countries, and experienced a resurgence with its availability on streaming platforms.
In 2021, the cast reunited for Friends: The Reunion, an HBO Max special that celebrated the series’ legacy. The event drew significant viewership, reaffirming the show’s enduring popularity.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest sitcoms of all time, Friends continues to attract new audiences, maintaining its cultural relevance decades after its finale.
You might also like ROCK AROUND THE CLOCK GETS BANNED.
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
Featured image via People.com
