film & tv2 min(s) read
Friends fans have discovered a link between the show and an iconic 90s film
A surprising detail has blown the minds of fans of both Friends and Hocus Pocus. The two beloved 90s classics have far more in common than anyone thought - specifically, one very famous fountain.
As it turns out, the fountain that appears in Friends’ iconic opening credits is the exact same one featured in a scene from Hocus Pocus, the 1993 Halloween favorite. It’s a blink‑and‑you’ll‑miss‑it connection that’s now getting major attention online.
The fountain’s real identity
The fountain, often mistaken as being located in New York City because of its association with Friends, actually lives on a backlot in Burbank, California. It was part of the former Warner Bros. Ranch, a space used repeatedly for various TV shows and films over the years.
In Friends, the cast famously dances around the fountain during the show’s intro, set to “I’ll Be There For You” by The Rembrandts. But that exact same location was used in Hocus Pocus for a nighttime scene where the main characters are celebrating in a park.
Even though Hocus Pocus is set in Salem, Massachusetts, the production filmed many key scenes in Los Angeles. The use of this fountain was simply another case of Hollywood reusing its own assets.
Fans react to the unexpected crossover
The link between the two 90s hits was recently pointed out in a Reddit post: “In Hocus Pocus (1993) the fountain in the background of one of the scenes is the same fountain from the Friends opener.”
That post kicked off a string of amused and amazed responses. One user commented, “If you look close enough and imagine some lights being turned on, you'll notice that even the buildings in the background are the same!” Another joked, “Using the same location for their shows/movies? Unheard of.” And one added, “If only they put a couch and lamp there, then I'd be a real detail.”
The comments reflect a mix of humor and appreciation for the kinds of hidden details that make rewatching old favorites feel fresh again.
A small set piece with big nostalgia
While it’s not unusual for film studios to repurpose sets, it’s still a thrill for fans to discover a tangible link between two cultural staples. Both Friends and Hocus Pocus have massive fanbases and long afterlives thanks to streaming and annual rewatch traditions.
Now, the humble fountain - once just part of the scenery - is getting the spotlight it never knew it needed.