Courteney Cox Gets Nostalgic as “FRIENDS” Finale Clocks 20 Years. Twenty years ago, on May 6, 2004, millions of viewers tuned in to witness the emotional farewell of the beloved sitcom FRIENDS. The two-part series finale, aptly titled “The Last One,” marked the end of an era, leaving fans with a mix of laughter, tears, and lasting memories.
The Final Scene
In the closing moments of the finale, as the gang prepared to leave Monica and Chandler’s empty apartment, Rachel (played by Jennifer Aniston) posed a simple question: “Should we get some coffee before the Bings move into their new house?” Chandler (Matthew Perry) responded with his trademark wit, “Sure. Where?” It was a fittingly sarcastic quip that captured the essence of his character.
The Legacy Lives On
Since that bittersweet goodbye, FRIENDS has continued to resonate with audiences worldwide. Here are some key points that highlight its enduring impact:
Viewership Records
“The Last One” drew a staggering 52.5 million viewers, making it the fifth most-watched series finale in U.S. history. Even today, the show’s popularity persists, thanks to streaming platforms like Netflix and HBO Max.
The Reunion
In 2021, the original cast members—Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer—reunited for the Emmy-nominated special, “Friends: The Reunion.” It was a heartwarming celebration of their on-screen chemistry and real-life friendships.
Remembering Matthew Perry
Sadly, the 20th anniversary is the first milestone without Matthew Perry, who portrayed Chandler. In his 2022 memoir, Perry revealed that he had requested the final line of the show. His impeccable timing delivered the perfect punchline, leaving fans with a memorable moment.
Life After Central Perk
As much as we’d love to imagine our favorite characters perpetually hanging out in that purple apartment or at Central Perk, life moves forward. The show’s creators, Marta Kauffman and David Crane, always intended FRIENDS to capture that unique phase in your 20s when friends become your family. After a decade of laughter, tears, and coffee, the gang moved on to new chapters in their lives.
A Timeless Legacy
Courteney Cox Gets Nostalgic as “FRIENDS” Finale Clocks 20 Years. Courteney Cox, who portrayed Monica Geller, recently reflected on the show’s timeless appeal. Despite nearly 18 years passing since the finale, she believes that FRIENDS will never truly die. Its themes of friendship, love, and growth continue to resonate across generations .