Was Friends Actually Filmed in London?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re a Friends fan, you might have heard rumors that the show was filmed in London. But is it true? Let’s investigate.

The Setting

Friends is set in New York City, with most of the scenes taking place in Monica’s apartment or Central Perk. However, there are a few episodes where the characters travel outside of New York, such as when Ross and Emily get married in London.

The London Episodes

There are a total of four episodes that take place in London: “The One with Ross’s Wedding” Parts 1 and 2, “The One After Ross Says Rachel,” and “The One with the Princess Leia Fantasy.” These episodes were filmed on location in London, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the entire show was filmed there.

The Production

Friends was primarily filmed at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California. The show had multiple sound stages where they built sets for Monica’s apartment, Central Perk, Chandler and Joey’s apartment, and other locations. Some exterior shots were filmed on location in New York City, but the majority of the show was filmed on sound stages.

Conclusion

While Friends did film some episodes on location in London, it was not where the entire show was produced. The majority of Friends was filmed at Warner Bros. Studios in California. So next time someone asks if Friends was filmed in London, you’ll know the answer!

Fun Fact:
One of the most iconic scenes from Friends takes place during the London episodes when Ross yells “PIVOT!” while trying to move a couch up a staircase. This scene has become so popular that it has been referenced and parodied numerous times over the years.

  • In Conclusion:

Friends may have filmed some episodes in London, but the show was primarily produced in California. It’s important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to rumors about your favorite shows. And if you want to relive the London episodes, you can always rewatch them knowing that they were actually filmed on location in the city!