Friends director James Burrows reveals lack of chemistry between Helen Baxendale and David Schwimmer
In his new memoir, “Directed By James Burrows,” director James Burrows opens up about the lack of chemistry between Helen Baxendale and David Schwimmer, who played Ross Geller’s wife Emily in the hit sitcom Friends.
Burrows, who directed several episodes of the ’90s show, admits that he never found Baxendale particularly funny and felt that she lacked the necessary chemistry with Schwimmer. He compares their on-screen relationship to “clapping with one hand,” emphasizing the importance of humor in sitcoms and romantic comedies.
The director hints that the show nearly recast Baxendale’s character due to the lack of chemistry. However, tight shooting deadlines and logistical considerations made it difficult to make such changes. Burrows explains that if an actor is not working out, they are sometimes swiftly written out of the show, but if there is chemistry, the writers will find a way to keep them.
Baxendale’s character, Emily, was introduced in season 4 and appeared in a total of 14 episodes. Emily and Ross married in season 5, but their relationship was fraught with complications. Ross infamously uttered Rachel’s name instead of Emily’s during their wedding vows. Eventually, Emily was written off the show, which worked out well for the actress as she was pregnant at the time.
Burrows’ revelations shed light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics of creating a successful sitcom. The chemistry between actors is crucial to the success of a show, and when it isn’t present, it can lead to difficult decisions. In the case of Friends, the comedic timing and chemistry between Ross and Rachel, portrayed by David Schwimmer and Jennifer Aniston, played a significant role in their on-screen romance.
As fans of the show continue to revisit Friends through streaming platforms and DVD collections, Burrows’ memoir offers a fascinating insight into the challenges and decisions faced by the show’s creators.