For many Friends fans, the thought of the gang’s story continuing beyond the original series is bittersweet. The 2004 spin-off, Joey, attempted to follow everyone’s favorite lovable, slightly clueless actor to Los Angeles—but it also dropped hints that, in some ways, the friendships we cherished may have faded.
Joey’s Lonely Move to LA
In the spin-off, Joey reflects on how his friends have moved to the suburbs, started families, and grown into separate lives. He admits that the tight-knit dynamic of the group has effectively dissolved, which motivates his decision to pursue a career in LA.
It’s a surprisingly somber perspective compared to the comedic tone of Friends. For fans who grew up watching the gang’s endless antics, it’s hard not to feel a pang of sadness imagining those bonds slowly drifting apart.
Is “Joey” Canon?
This is the million-dollar question for the fandom. Some argue that the spin-off should be considered canon, meaning the dissolution of friendships is part of the characters’ true trajectories. Others prefer to view it as an alternate storyline—non-canon fan-fiction sanctioned by NBC.
Personally, it’s easier to imagine the original group maintaining their bond, even while starting families and living in different places. After all, the show was built on the idea of friendship enduring through life’s ups and downs.
Real-Life Friendships and Life Changes
Whether or not you consider the spin-off canon, the scenario it presents isn’t unrealistic. Even the strongest friendships can face challenges when careers, family, and distance come into play. The beauty of Friends was always that it highlighted the effort, humor, and loyalty required to sustain relationships.
Fan Takeaways
For many fans, the Joey spin-off is easier to enjoy as a comedic side story rather than a definitive continuation. It gives closure to Joey’s career ambitions, but it doesn’t have to rewrite the bond that made the original series so beloved.
