Friends have become an essential part of our daily lives. They are the ones who are always there for us, through thick and thin. The importance of friendship has been explored and celebrated in various forms of media throughout history, and 80s sitcoms were no exception. In this article, we will be analyzing the significance of friendship in 80s sitcoms, specifically focusing on the hit show “Friends.”
The Role of Friendship in “Friends”
“Friends” is a show that revolves around the lives of six close friends living in New York City. The show’s central theme is the importance of friendship and how it can shape and influence our lives. Throughout the show, we see the six friends, Rachel, Ross, Joey, Chandler, Monica, and Phoebe, support each other through various trials and tribulations.
The Importance of Support
One of the significant roles of friendship in “Friends” is support. The six friends are there for each other through it all, offering a listening ear, advice, and even taking a bullet for one another. For example, when Ross and Rachel get into a brutal fight, the other friends are there to support both of them. They help Ross prepare for his first date after the breakup and also help Rachel move on by organizing a makeover and a new job offer.
Shared Experiences
Another significant role of friendship in “Friends” is shared experiences. The six friends have gone through many adventures and experiences together, making their bond even stronger. Their shared experiences, such as their annual Thanksgiving dinners or their trip to Barbados, reinforce their friendships, as they rely on each other to have a good time and overcome any obstacles that may come their way.
Growth and Self-Discovery
Additionally, another important role of friendship in “Friends” is growth and self-discovery. Although the characters often relied on each other for support, they also pushed each other to grow and discover new things about themselves. For example, Monica’s relationship with Chandler helped her realize her desire to become a mother, and Joey’s friendship with Rachel helped him come to terms with his feelings for her.
The Importance of Friendship in 80s Sitcoms
While “Friends” is undoubtedly a classic example of the importance of friendship in television, it is not the only one. Many other 80s sitcoms explored the theme of friendship and its impact on our lives.
“Cheers”
“Cheers” was an incredibly popular sitcom in the 80s that explored the bonds of friendship in a very different setting. The show was set in a Boston bar, where a group of regulars would gather to drink and socialize. While the characters were diverse and often had conflicting personalities, they were still a tight-knit group who supported each other through the ups and downs of life.
“The Golden Girls”
Another popular 80s sitcom that explored the role of friendship was “The Golden Girls.” The show featured four older women living together in Miami, whose bond was strengthened by their shared experiences and support for one another. The show tackled important themes such as aging, illness, and death, all while highlighting the importance of friendship in getting through these difficult times.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 80s sitcoms were not just a form of entertainment but also a celebration of the importance of friendship. Shows like “Friends,” “Cheers,” and “The Golden Girls” explored the different roles that friendship can play in our lives, from support and shared experiences to growth and self-discovery. These shows remind us that our friends are more than just people we hang out with; they are our family, our support system, and our partners through life’s ups and downs.
