Krispy Kreme wants fans to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic ’90s sitcom “Friends” with a new series of specialty doughnuts.
The only problem? Some “Friends” fans are upset that Krispy Kreme isn’t sharing this release with U.S. consumers, since the special doughnuts are only available in the U.K.
The doughnut chain announced its new limited release of four “Friends”-inspired doughnuts in a reference-heavy news release Monday, stating: “Could we be more excited?!?!”
“Each donut is a tribute to one of the most iconic TV shows, inspired by fan-favorite characters and episodes,” the announcement said.
As part of the celebration, Krispy Kreme conducted a survey to evaluate the likelihood of its adult consumers sharing food — a nod to Joey’s famous line “Joey doesn’t share food” — and found that when it comes to doughnuts in particular, people are a little stingy.
Here’s what we know about the Krispy Kreme “Friends” anniversary collaboration.
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Reaction from American fans
“Friends” and Krispy Kreme fans have a big problem with the limited release — it’s only available in the UK
Despite “Friends” being an icon of ’90s American culture, the North Carolina-based company decided to give away the anniversary treats only to its fans. Why? Well, Krispy Kreme has decided to keep its secrets — but American fans certainly have some opinions.
“This is where I’m confused with the decision-making process,” one wrote under a Snackulter post announcing the doughnuts on Instagram. “Friends was a huge American show (I know it’s huge internationally too, but come on), yet this is a UK thing.”
Another said, “Why isn’t this American phenomenon released in the US?” One commenter put it more succinctly, saying: “The UK? Bro, why not in New York.”
Some American fans found a little more humor in the situation, with one commenting, “The U.K.? But that’s where Ross met Emily! And Monica and Chandler don’t just stay friends, they do laundry!”
UK fans were naturally more excited, with many in the comments planning special trips to their nearest locations to receive the gift.
While American fans may feel a little left out of this nostalgic release, they still have something tasty to enjoy with the Dolly Parton doughnut line, which dropped over the weekend. What’s the next collaboration fans are begging for? A look at the blockbuster release of “Inside Out 2,” of course.
Either way, American donut fans will have to wait to see what happens next.
Krispy Kreme ‘Friends’ 30th anniversary doughnut flavor
These cheeky-named donuts are inspired by famous episodes and moments from the show, and feature witty names combined with “Friends”-inspired imagery.
A nod to Ross’ famous line, “We were on a coffee break,” displays the “Central Park Coffee” shop’s logo at the top, while the simply named “Friends” donut stands out with an image of the iconic fountain, font and colors in the form of sprinkles.
“How you doin’?” of course references Joey’s catchphrase and alludes to Monica’s apartment’s purple and yellow door peephole, and “trifle” refers to Rachel’s infamously disastrous Thanksgiving treat.
- ,Friend” – An Original Glazed doughnut topped with chocolate icing, sprinkles, and a white chocolate “Friends” logo topper.
- ,How are you’?” –A classic ring donut dipped in purple icing with mango and passionfruit frosting.
- ,We were on a coffee break” – A glazed donut topped with café latte flavored icing, chocolate swirls, frosting, and a white chocolate topper.
- ,small one” – a donut filled with strawberries and custard, topped with chocolate curls and green sprinkles.
The range will be available in the UK until July 21 at Krispy Kreme stores, some supermarkets and service stations, as well as delivery partners such as UberEats.
