Iconic US sitcom Friends to return to Channel 4 after 16 year break

EntertainmentMovie
15 Oct 2026 • 6:51 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Iconic US sitcom Friends to return to Channel 4 after 16 year break

Channel 4 is bringing Friends back to British screens, with the Emmy Award-winning sitcom returning to the broadcaster from January 2027.

The US series, which debuted in 1994, last aired on Channel 4 in 2011.

Its return will make the show available to watch and stream for free on Channel 4 and E4.

The comedy follows six friends, Rachel Green, Monica Geller, Phoebe Buffay, Ross Geller, Chandler Bing and Joey Tribbiani, as they navigate life, love and work in New York City.

It ran for 10 series and made stars of its cast, which included Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer.

Kiran Nataraja, director of content strategy at Channel 4 said: “Friends has always been an audience favourite and we’re delighted to welcome the show back to its original UK home, made possible through our valued relationship with Warner Bros.

“Its witty, character-led comedy and lasting popularity make it a natural fit for Channel 4.

“Cherished by long-time fans and continuing to attract new viewers, it will complement the distinctive programming across our slate.”

Chandler (Matthew Perry) and Monica (Courtney Cox) in a classic Friends episode (NBC/YouTube)

Polly Scates, Head of Acquisitions at Channel 4, said: “Most of us remember exactly where we were when we watched the Friends finale!

“This iconic series has enduring appeal and continues to bring together audiences of all ages.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Friends home to Channel 4.”

Over its run, the series won six Emmy awards.

Those included Outstanding Comedy Series in 2002.

Kudrow won the best supporting actress in a comedy series category in 1998, while Aniston picked up the lead actress in a comedy series award in 2002.

The announcement comes after Perry, who was also known for appearances in films including Fools Rush In (1997), The Whole Nine Yards (2000), and 17 Again (2009), died in October 2023 from an accidental overdose.

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