Phoebe Buffay, hands down the greatest character on hit show Friends, and arguably on TV period, is so well received by viewers because she is everything most people hope to be. While Phoebe is a satirical genius, and, of course, an extremely talented musical artist, viewers admire her positive ability. Viewers always root for the character who overcomes, even if just in a classic comedy series.
Phoebe undoubtedly comes from the darkest background, having to deal with her mother’s suicide, her father’s incarceration and a terrible relationship with her sister, Ursula. Phoebe shares how, before meeting Chandler, Monica, Rachel, Ross, and Joey, she spent her life on the streets, dealing with everyday dangers of being homeless. Having made these friends and finding herself a steady job as a masseuse, Phoebe’s life is construed entirely different in the series than it was when she was in the pit of her life. I don’t know about you, but I enjoy the occasional visit from Street Phoebe, her alter ego she uses to refer to the person she “had to be” when living on the streets.
Arguably my favorite feature of Phoebe Buffay is her humility as far as being a musical genius. If you have not yet been exposed to Central Perk classic, Smelly Cat, I highly suggest you do so, you won’t regret it.
Phoebe, or Phoebs, as her friends call her, quickly gained acclaim as the most relatable Friends character of all. She is known for her extreme beliefs, but if you take a step back from the comedy of the sitcom, you realize Phoebe’s extreme animal activism and love for all things living is quite admirable, actually. As much as carnivorous Joey flaunts his ham, pastrami, bacon sandwich, Phoebe stands firm in her vegetarian beliefs, with the exception of a few extraneous circumstances. On top of her admirable beliefs, Phoebe constantly proves to be the most eccentric optimist on the show. She is always the friend to remind the others never to take themselves too seriously. Phoebe helps draw the kid out of each of her friends when they need it most, even Ross, who is indeed, technically, a doctor. Not only is Phoebe focused on being positive, but she is the character the other five turn to when they need help. When Chandler decided to propose to Monica, it was Phoebe he asked along to pick out the ring. When Rachel terrifyingly agreed to reveal her pregnancy to her high-strung father, it was Phoebe who aided her in the confession.
I think we can all take something from Phoebe Buffay’s character, whether it be standing strong in our beliefs, overcoming adversity, or just being the friend everyone needs. We could all use a little Phoebe Buffay in our lives, right?
