Zoë Kravitz Criticizes 'Homophobic' Friends

Zoë Kravitz has criticized the sitcom Friends for its homophobic humor. In a recent interview, Kravitz commented that the show perpetuates clichés and stereotypes of the past.

The actress questioned how anyone could watch the show today, given its controversial jokes. She specifically mentioned that the 'super homophobic jokes on mainstream television' are something she would like to leave behind from the 90s.

The series has faced criticism in recent years for outdated jokes concerning the LGBTQI+ community, as well as for its lack of multiculturalism. Aisha Tyler, who appeared on the show, stated that the demographic composition of the cast reflected the then-prevailing view that 'only white stories sell'.

Friends has also been criticized for storylines involving, among other things, Chandler Bing's (Matthew Perry) anxiety about being perceived as gay, and a story about his trans parent (played by Kathleen Turner).

In 2020, David Schwimmer rejected the criticism, saying that the show was 'groundbreaking' for its time.