Aisha Tyler Critiques Diversity in Friends

Aisha Tyler, the only black actress with a recurring role on the iconic sitcom Friends, has reflected on her experiences during her time on the show. Appearing as Charlie Wheeler in season nine, she noted that the predominantly white cast was a topic of discussion even at the time, although it did not receive the same level of discourse that it might today due to the absence of social media. Tyler emphasized the lack of diversity in a show set in Manhattan, stating that this was acknowledged by the cast and crew, including co-director David Schwimmer, who advocated for greater inclusivity. She fondly remembered her friendships with her co-stars, particularly the late Matthew Perry, while also acknowledging the show's ongoing criticism for its non-inclusive portrayal. Other cast members, such as Adam Goldberg, echoed her sentiments, highlighting the industry's historical neglect of diversity. Jennifer Aniston also expressed regret over the show's lack of sensitivity to diverse narratives, noting its impact on younger generations who find the episodes offensive today.