Friends: According to one of the series’ directors, this cast was “nice, but not very funny.”

For decades now, we’ve been laughing out loud in front of our friends. And especially thanks to the comedic talents of Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matthew Perry, David Schwimmer and Matt LeBlanc, who created the most iconic group of friends on the small screen.

Over the years, many guests have been added to this beloved group, all bringing something extra and new laughs to the series – all but one person, according to James Burroughs, who directed 11 episodes of Season 1 (including the pilot), but also several episodes from Seasons 2, 3 and 4.

The one who believes he is “sending it wrong” is actress Helen Baxendale, who played Emily Waltham, Ross’s wife in seasons 4 and 5 of the sitcom. in his creation Directed by James BurroughsPublished last year, we were able to hear the director’s (not so gentle) words about the latter’s performance.

“He was nice, but not funny” he wrote, more specifically blaming him for the lack of chemistry David Schwimmer With whom he still had to create a believable couple – as much as possible, because the character was under Rachel’s spell again and again.

“No one was returning Schwimmer. It was like trying to clap with one hand. In sitcoms and romantic comedies of all kinds, comedy is as important as chemistry. Then we discovered that any girlfriend Ross had to be as funny as Rachel.“

Separation is impossible

Despite the lack of chemistry, the actor still starred in 14 episodes of the show, but for reasons independent of the creative team, according to Burroughs.

“Often, filming is not possible due to tight shooting schedules and other logistical considerations. We need someone who can laugh. Sometimes you start a story arc that doesn’t work and you alienate the person. If he is the “player of the day”, you quickly say goodbye to him.“

Helen Baxendale That’s why they will be released in the 5th season. But the actor immediately followed another comedy Cold Feet: Amours et Petits Bonheurs and recently appeared in series such as Noughts + Crosses or the comedy Cuckoo, in which he appeared in more than 30 episodes.

If you want to check out episodes with Emily, note that she appears in Season 4 Episode 14, titled “The One with the Bad Minds.” His last physical appearance is in episode 6 of season 5, then we hear him on the phone for the last time in episode 20 of the same season.

Friends can be seen in full on Max.

Also rediscover all of the Friends cameos in the video below: