For ten years, starting in 1994, the sitcom “Friends” aired on NBC, leaving an indelible mark on television production. Focusing on the lives of six friends residing in New York City, “Friends” didn’t require a complex plot to captivate audiences. Instead, its charm lay in the familiar and relatable experiences of its characters, which contributed significantly to its popularity. The cast shared a strong camaraderie, their antics were entertaining, and the romantic subplots kept viewers guessing. It’s no wonder that numerous shows have attempted to emulate “Friends” and replicate its success, with varying degrees of accomplishment.
As a film enthusiast, I’ve noticed that many contemporary shows share a unique essence that distinguishes them, be it a framing device, characters with shared professions or hobbies, or settings that transport us to unusual times and places. At their heart, these shows explore the intricate dynamics of a diverse group of friends, delving into the complexities of life and love, and how they can become less daunting when navigated alongside those we care about. Joey, being the only spinoff of Friends, may have tried to ride on its predecessor’s wave of popularity, but each of these projects stands as a spiritual successor to the legendary show, continuing its legacy in their own unique ways.
7. Cougar Town (2009–2015)
Led By Friends Alum Courteney Cox, Cougar Town Is A Logical Follow-Up To Friends
In the starring role of “Cougar Town,” Courteney Cox steps into a new chapter following her time on “Friends.” While her character, Jules, differs from Monica, “Cougar Town” delves humorously into the post-“Friends” phase of life. Despite accumulating more years, Jules and her pals grapple with the challenges of restarting their lives and navigating a dating scene that has drastically evolved since they settled down before. The similarities between “Cougar Town” and “Friends,” not only lie in Courteney Cox’s captivating performance but also in their shared themes as they tread familiar waters.
In my perspective, having Cox aboard was the initial move that made “Cougar Town” a potential spiritual heir to “Friends.” However, it was the narrative structure and style that truly solidified this connection. Although small-town Florida is quite distinct from New York City, “Cougar Town” manages to amplify the emotional depth and intensity of the characters’ interactions, making the environment seem just as significant. The eccentric personalities populating Jules’ life are equally endearing as Cox’s co-stars in “Friends,” and “Cougar Town” skillfully exploits this familiar group dynamic.
| Title | Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
| Cougar Town (2009–2015) | 89% | 83% |
6. Coupling (2000–2004)
This British Sitcom Is Considered The Response To Friends
Produced by Steven Moffat, who gained fame as the head writer for the modern era of “Doctor Who”, “Coupling” is a drastically different show compared to this sci-fi series. It focuses on six friends navigating early adulthood and their pursuit of love, while candidly discussing relationships and sex. Remarkably, the themes in “Coupling” bear a striking resemblance to those in “Friends”. Although the humor and tone of “Coupling” were more distinctively British, with a sharper and sometimes cynical edge compared to American comedy, its underlying structure owes much to the enduring influence of “Friends”.
It’s interesting to note that in 2003, U.S. producers made an American adaptation of the British show Coupling, despite the fact that Friends, which was a forerunner for the series and had been on air for almost a decade prior. However, despite these similarities, Coupling managed to carve out its own niche, earning comparisons with both Friends and Seinfeld. Like these shows, it delved into everyday matters, but there were also distinctly unique elements to Coupling that set it apart.
| Title | Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
| Coupling (2000–2004) | N/A | 97% |
5. New Girl (2011–2018)
A Big, Beautiful Apartment Plays A Central Role In New Girl & Friends
Many popular sitcoms feature characters living in homes or apartments that seem too luxurious given their supposed income. Shows like “New Girl” and “Friends” follow this pattern, often filming scenes inside the main apartments where multiple characters reside. The casts of these shows are particularly charming, making it believable that they have a close bond. Both series emphasize the theme of found families.
The romantic tension between Ross and Rachel on “Friends” is widely regarded as one of the greatest in TV history, but Nick and Jess from “New Girl” could potentially rival them. While “Friends” didn’t originate this trope, it certainly popularized it within sitcoms. “New Girl,” in turn, acknowledges and builds upon this formula. Moreover, both shows feature their characters pairing off for shared adventures and mishaps, a common theme. Despite being set in LA, the characters’ interactions with the city in “New Girl” feel reminiscent of “Friends.
| Title | Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
| New Girl (2011–2018) | 95% | 85% |
4. Will & Grace (1998–2006)
Friends Played It Safe In Some Ways, While Will & Grace Took More Risks
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Just a few years after “Friends” wrapped up, the show “Will & Grace” made its debut. At the time, audiences were deeply engrossed in series centered around young adults living in New York City, so any new show had to strike a balance between resembling popular shows like “Friends” and offering something fresh to avoid monotony. Although “Will & Grace” aimed to draw fans of “Friends” by presenting a similar sitcom, it also managed to carve out its unique identity through certain distinctive elements.
One of the less pleasant truths about watching Friends again is that the show has some scenes that seem outdated and make light of diverse groups. Although not many series from the 1990s can boast anything else, Will & Grace was exceptional in this regard, as it dared to focus on a large number of openly LGBTQ+ characters for such a mainstream program. Despite its flaws, Will & Grace‘s more explicit and boundary-testing nature is what set it apart from Friends.
Watching Friends again can be tough because some parts seem outdated and make fun of diverse groups. While many ’90s shows were the same, Will & Grace was unique for having so many main LGBTQ+ characters. Even though it made mistakes, its bold and daring qualities helped it stand apart from Friends.
| Title | Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
| Will & Grace (1998–2006) | N/A | 89% |
3. That ’70s Show (1998–2006)
This Sitcom Skewed Younger, But Still Learned A Lot From Friends
In a clever twist, That ’70s Show chose not only to be set in the 1970s but also to explore themes like generational and family relationships, alongside friendships. This approach proved successful for the sitcom, as it remained engaging and relatable without needing to depict current events. Interestingly, this distinctive focus allowed That ’70s Show to draw upon many beloved storylines and character development techniques that had been popularized by the hit series Friends.
By exploring inter-circle dating and the challenges of growing up, That ’70s Show mirrors the themes found in Friends, albeit focusing on a younger generation. This show, much like how Friends paved the way, created a unique premise to deliver familiar humor and storylines in a fresh setting. Re-watching That ’70s Show today still evokes the same sense of nostalgia and captivation as revisiting Friends.
| Title | Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
| That ’70s Show (1998–2006) | N/A | 82% |
2. The Big Bang Theory (2007–2019)
Friendship & Romance Take Center Stage In The Big Bang Theory
In a nutshell, while Ross from Friends might be the science enthusiast, The Big Bang Theory focuses on a gang of friends united by their shared passion for science, technology, and mathematics. Their neighbor, who’s drop-dead gorgeous, plays a key role in helping them break out of their comfort zones. Similar to Friends, The Big Bang Theory shows its characters supporting each other in learning and personal growth, making them better prepared to face the world. As the series unfolds, the friendships deepen, and we even see beloved pairs forming, just like on Friends.
In both “Young Sheldon” and “George and Mandy’s First Marriage,” there are numerous references, or Easter eggs, to the original “Big Bang Theory.” Both spinoffs have gained massive popularity, drawing in viewers who may not have been familiar with the original series. Unlike “Friends,” “The Big Bang Theory” has successfully grown into a flourishing franchise, continuously developing its storylines and characters. However, it’s important to note that the success of “Big Bang Theory” was greatly influenced by the trail blazed by “Friends.
| Title | Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
| The Big Bang Theory (2007–2019) | 81% | 84% |
1. How I Met Your Mother (2005–2014)
This New York-Set Show Eventually Became As Unforgettable as Friends
Set in New York City, “How I Met Your Mother” follows a group of friends navigating love and career paths in their twenties and thirties, drawing comparisons with the legendary sitcom “Friends.” Fresh off the heels of “Friends'” final season, it appeared as though “How I Met Your Mother” could be its trendy and modern successor. Initially, it seemed to follow similar themes and structures as “Friends,” but it eventually developed a distinct personality of its own.
Clearly, How I Met Your Mother acknowledged it couldn’t surpass a show like Friends at its own genre, and this was the smartest move the series could make. Embracing the peculiar and fantastical aspects that distinguished it from conventional sitcoms grounded in reality, How I Met Your Mother left an indelible mark on television during its nine-season run. Although Friends outlasted the series with a ten-season span, there’s no question that How I Met Your Mother will always be recognized as a powerhouse in its own right.
| Title | Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
| How I Met Your Mother (2005–2014) | 84% | 85% |
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2025-05-17 02:59