Marta Kauffman, co-creator of “Friends” and “Grace and Frankie,” recently shared her involvement in a high-profile fundraiser for Vice President Kamala Harris. The event, Cooking for Kamala, is set for September 14 in Los Angeles and features an intimate dinner prepared by celebrity chef Nancy Silverton, with Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona also making an appearance.
Kauffman, who readily agreed to co-host the fundraiser when asked by her neighbor Silverton, expressed her optimism about Harris’s chances but also her caution, reflecting on the unexpected outcome of the 2016 presidential election. “I got complacent and thought Hillary would win,” Kauffman said, emphasizing the need for proactive efforts like postcard writing, door-to-door canvassing, and phone banking to support Harris.
Reflecting on the recent debate, Kauffman described her viewing experience as a rollercoaster of fear and joy. She praised Harris for her performance, particularly on reproductive rights, and criticized Donald Trump for his stance and judicial appointments.
Kauffman also mentioned her concerns about Project 2025, describing it as a troubling glimpse into a dystopian future reminiscent of “The Handmaid’s Tale.” She voiced fears about the impact of the election on Hollywood, particularly regarding union support and abortion rights.
The conversation touched on how Hollywood might influence the election, with Kauffman noting that even small shifts in public opinion can be significant, especially with high-profile endorsements. She commended Jennifer Aniston’s courageous response to JD Vance’s controversial comments and suggested that Aniston’s public stance was impactful and brave.
When asked about the potential for a “Friends” reunion focused on politics, Kauffman joked about the difficulty of organizing such an event. She speculated on which characters from the show would support Kamala Harris, suggesting Ross and Monica would be the most engaged, while Phoebe might be swayed by conspiracy theories.
Kauffman hinted at a potential political sitcom project in development, humorously denying any current plans involving a former president in jail. For election night, she remains undecided on whether to watch the results with others, reflecting on her past experience of having to end a gathering early due to the distressing turn of events.
Kauffman’s insights reveal her deep engagement with political and social issues, underscoring her commitment to advocacy and activism in addition to her entertainment career.
