On September 22, 1994 a pilot for a NBC show aired with expectation that the lives of the six lead actors would never be the same. Friends, starring Jennifer Aniston, Courtney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer followed the lives of 20-somethings in New York City as they navigated the ups and downs of life including dating, work, family, and more.
It’s been 25 years since Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler, and Ross came into our lives and made 10 seasons of a pop cultural impact that still has people debating if Rachel and Ross were really “on a break,” (YES they were), testing our friends unagi, thinking about the number 7 in a certain way, finding our lobster, and always clapping four times when you hear “see no one told you life was going to be this way.”
To celebrate the 25th anniversary Superfly Media Experiences created “The one with the Pop Up” and really brought Friends to the Soho section of New York City (FYI: the show was shot on the Warner Bros. lot in California). In an immersive experience for true fans of the series, lucky ticket holders get to revisit some of the most iconic moments and places of the show from September 7 – October 6. Tickets for the event sold out FAST, but I was lucky enough to snag a pair for me and a friend who loves the TV show as much as I do.
I was expecting more from the experience but it was still a good one to celebrate the show. The first thing I will say about the immersive pop up was the staff was REALLY nice. Dare I say FRIENDSly. At every stop they were welcoming and willing to take as many pictures as you wanted as long as the flow of traffic was light of other people who wanted to take pictures. I went to the exhibit on a Wednesday afternoon and there were not that many people in my group so my friend and I were able to walk through the entire experience in about a half of hour. Because it wasn’t that crowded I was able to get good pictures without other guests in my shots.
Upon entering the exhibit a greeter quickly went over guidelines instructing we were only allowed to go through the exhibit once and once we went through a section we couldn’t double back. The displays appeared to be a big post card walking from section to section which was divided into six parts representing each character and stand out moments for each.
Starting the exhibit was a recreation of the opening credits with the couch, water fountain, and colorful umbrellas. After that followed Ross’ section which had his Science Boy comic on display as well as the memorable leather pants outfit. One of the biggest pieces from his section was the PIVOT couch. Rachel’s section came next and a display of her iconic hair looks were encased for viewing. Monica’s section came next where fans could put a turkey on their heads, then Joey’s part showcased his Dr. Drake Ramoray costume and when he couldn’t BE wearing any more clothes.
Chandler and Joey’s apartment was another big recreation with the white dog, Barcaloungers, a Foosball table, and other details from the show all available for photo ops. Before heading to the last stop, Central Perk, Phoebe’s section had her infamous dollhouse, the original Buffay Glynnis, and of course Smelly Cat kitty liter. Before leaving, a retail store, which is available to anyone regardless if you brought a ticket to the exhibit, sold exclusive merch from apparel to accessories.
For the small admittance fee the experience was worth it. I love Friends so seeing some of the stuff from the show brought back all the feels of why this show is so good to me. Great way to celebrate the show on its 25th anniversary. Now excuse me while I go watch Friends.
HAPPY FRIENDS25!
Check out the full gallery of photos from the Friends New York City Pop Up in the slide show below. Are you a Friends fan? Which moment from the show sticks out to you the most? Share all your thoughts in the comments.
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