Friends is officially returning to Channel 4 after 15 years

Good news, Friends fans! The hit comedy series is set to return to Channel 4, 15 years after it left the broadcaster.

The news was announced in post across Channel 4's social channels, including one on its Instagram page which says: "Our friends are coming home. They'll be there for you on E4 & Channel 4 January 2027".

The comedy series, which ran for 10 seasons and starred Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer, continues to be hugely popular, and has had numerous homes since it left its original UK broadcaster, Channel 4, in 2011.

This has included Netflix, 5, Comedy Central and its current streaming home HBO Max. The show will remain on that platform, but Channel 4 will have free-to-air rights. From January 2027, it will be available to watch and stream for free on Channel 4 and E4.

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Kiran Nataraja, director of content strategy at Channel 4 said in a statement: "Friends has always been an audience favourite and we’re delighted to welcome the show back to its original UK home, made possible through our valued relationship with Warner Bros.

"Its witty, character-led comedy and lasting popularity make it a natural fit for Channel 4. Cherished by long-time fans and continuing to attract new viewers, it will complement the distinctive programming across our slate."

Meanwhile, Polly Scates, head of acquisitions at Channel 4, added: "Most of us remember exactly where we were when we watched the Friends finale! This iconic series has enduring appeal and continues to bring together audiences of all ages. We're thrilled to welcome Friends home to Channel 4."

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Earlier this year, Kudrow revealed that she and her co-stars earn $20 million a year in residuals when Friends is re-aired, while speaking in an interview with The Times.

A documentary about Perry, who died in 2023, will soon be coming to Netflix, arriving on that platform on Monday 27 October.

Friends is available to stream on HBO Max. Subscribe from £5.99 a month.

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Authors

James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.