Drawing a stark comparison between her groundbreaking series and the cultural phenomenon that is “Friends,” Brunson remarked, “Instead of the absence of Black people, it actually includes them.”
However, this isn’t the inaugural instance the show has encountered scrutiny. Aisha Tyler’s portrayal as Charlie Wheeler illuminated the lack of diversity in the ensemble cast, leading to her being labeled as “the Black girl from ‘Friends.’”
Even the much-anticipated “Friends” reunion special disappointed, as it overlooked significant non-white characters, reigniting debates about the show’s representation—or lack thereof.
