They say, “You’re such a Phoebe!” But I have no idea what that means.
“Wait have you never watched ‘Friends?’” Queue the never-ending social exile.
I’ve seen all of the sitcom classics. “Parks and Recreation” fulfilled all that my quirky heart desired. “30 Rock” was a sarcastic breath of fresh air. And of course, “The Office” holds a special place in my heart.
However, there is one — one I do not understand nor find funny. I just don’t like “Friends.”
Even though I do not share the common admiration for the series, it doesn’t mean my opinion is wrong. In no way am I less funny or cheerful — my tastes are just different than yours.
Let’s get one thing clear, I don’t hate “Friends.” I don’t think I would have enough time or energy to detest something as trivial as a television show. I’ll admit, I did try to watch it, but I could not get past the bland humor and lackluster characters.
After watching the first episode again, for probably the seventh time — I swear I’ve tried to give it a real shot — it truly solidified my aversion to “Friends.”
To make a long story short, Monica Geller goes on a date with Paul “the wine guy” and sleeps with him after being tricked into doing so out of pity. Rachel Green, Monica’s high school best friend, was left at the altar by her fiance and moves in with Monica. Meanwhile, Ross Geller, Monica’s older brother, is upset since his wife left him, moved out and came out as a lesbian. Joey Tribbiani, Chandler Bing and Phoebe Buffay are there for comedic relief and moral support throughout the episode.
This pilot showcases the absolute nonsense that ensued for ten seasons and ten years too long.
“Friends” began in 1994. My conception was not even a thought at that time, and when I was alive, the themes would have been too adult for a bright-eyed 4-year-old Olivia. When the time came for me to potentially watch it, I put it off and opted to view other series on Netflix.
More often than not, my friends have forced me to watch episodes. Their consistent claims of its hilarity and amazing storylines hyped up the show. They shoved it in my face and refused to stop until I gave in.
I tried to understand the “epic” love story of Rachel and Ross. But the constant ups and downs, including marriage, divorce, manipulation and a child out of wedlock, made me realize how toxic the pair were for each other.
“We were on a break!” — This is your relationship goals?
On the flip side, Phoebe and Joey, the so-called reliefs, are all over the place, and their attempts at humor and sarcasm fall short in making me stifle even a sigh.
I have never laughed despite the countless times I have heard the incessant utterance of "How you doin'?"
When I tried to explain why I did not enjoy it, those around me persisted and made me feel bad for the way I thought. Some people can get so intense about a particular subject and are willing to defend a TV show film or fandom to the bitter end. Give it a rest, I’m never coming around.
Everyone has their own unique sets of likes and dislikes. So long as they do not harm or affect anyone negatively, go out and shout how you feel from the mountain tops.
Maybe you watched the show with your family growing up and it brings back profound nostalgia, or it's your go-to series to rewatch whenever you are feeling down.
But you’re allowed to have your own feelings, and it’s OK to not like what everyone else does — including “Friends.” It’s up to you to decide how you feel about something.
Just because you can’t get down and vibe with it, doesn’t mean you are a bad person.
I'll never judge someone for their passions, so please don’t do so for my lack of one for “Friends.”
Reach the reporter at omunson@asu.edu and follow @munson_olivia on Twitter.
Like The State Press on Facebook and follow @statepress on Twitter.
Olivia Munson is a digital producer for The State Press. She previously served as editor of the publication's The Echo desk. In the past, she has worked for Arizona PBS, The Arizona Republic and The Entertainer! magazine.
