David Schwimmer reveals his struggle with the ‘Friends’ theme song: ‘I had just heard it so many times’
David Schwimmer, during a recent podcast appearance, revealed how hearing the Friends theme song repeatedly over the years left him with a unique emotional response.
David Schwimmer recently shared some unexpected thoughts about the iconic Friends theme song, reflecting on his experience with it over the years. Despite being one of the most recognized elements of the show, Schwimmer admitted to feeling quite differently about the song after hearing it repeatedly for a decade.
During a podcast appearance, Schwimmer revealed how his feelings towards the theme song—and the show itself—changed over time, especially after his daughter discovered Friends. His candid thoughts about his relationship with the song offer a fascinating glimpse into his personal journey post-Friends.
Why does David Schwimmer hate the 'Friends' theme song?
David Schwimmer, known for his role in Friends, admitted that he became a little tired of the iconic theme song after hearing it for ten seasons. Speaking on the 'Making a Scene' podcast with Matt Lucas and David Walliams, Schwimmer shared that he never rewatched the show after it ended. "I did it, I’m moving on," he explained, adding that he generally doesn’t revisit past projects.
However, his perspective changed when his daughter, Cleo, now 13, discovered the show and began watching it around the age of nine. Schwimmer, who shares Cleo with his ex-wife Zoë Buckman, said, “There was a time when just hearing the theme song would really… I just had heard it so many times,” trailing off as he expressed his discomfort.
In a lighter moment, Lucas humorously referenced the opening lyrics of the theme song: “Well, no one told you life was going to be that way,” to which Schwimmer responded, “Correct, thank you.” He explained that hearing it repeatedly, especially during interviews and talk shows, had soured his relationship with the song.
But when he began hearing his daughter laugh while watching the show, Schwimmer’s feelings shifted. “I’d hear my kid’s laughter… my whole relationship to that song and to the show changed,” he reflected.
Friends is considered one of the best series in television history. Photo: Pinterest.
Where to stream 'Friends' in the U.S.?
'Friends' first premiered on September 22, 1994, and followed the lives of six friends living in Manhattan, facing love and life together. Schwimmer starred alongside Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and the late Matthew Perry.
The cast remains close, having reunioned over the years, including for 'Friends: The Reunion' in 2021. The show continues to be beloved, even after celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024.
Fans can stream 'Friends' on Amazon Prime Video and Max.