Jane Sibbett On The Abuse She Endured For Playing A Lesbian In ‘Friends’

Jane Sibbett received backlash for playing her daring role as a lesbian in the ‘90s sitcom Friends, which is unsurprising as same-sex relationships were more controversial back then. Jane’s Carol was the ex-wife of David Schwimmer’s Ross, who was one of the major six characters from the show.

As Friends marks its 30th anniversary this fall, Jane recounted her experience playing Carol alongside her TV wife, Jessica Hecht. She experienced discrimination from friends, family, and even random strangers, just for the part.

Jane Sibbett came under fire for playing a lesbian on ‘Friends’

Jane’s father was against her lesbian role and refused to watch Friends. He would also hold bible study sessions at the same time Friends aired and prevent church folk from seeing Jane on screen as he was embarrassed by her.

She recalled shooting a Disney movie in Canada when a school child called her an offensive word and asked her to go back home to the US. An old lady from her church also made sure to remind her of her fate in hot hell for taking the abominable gig.

Jane Sibett has no regrets

Despite going through some rough patches while playing Carol, Jane admitted to having support for the most part and has no regrets about taking the offer. She is also proud of having set the pace for LGBTQ+ relationships on TV and for portraying the possibility of cordial co-parents with Schwimmer.

She also received support from her godfather, who penned a letter to her dad gushing about how proud he was about Carol and Susan’s wedding scene. Thankfully, Jane and her dad addressed the issue and reconciled just before he died.