‘Friends’ Star Reveals Which Competition Show Makes Them ‘Tear Up’

When it comes to reality TV competition shows, there’s one in particular that David Schwimmer says can make him feel emotional.

The Friends star gushed about his love for The Great British Bake Off while speaking with Page Six for a recent interview about his own new show, Goosebumps: The Vanishing. The second season of the Disney+ show based on the books by author R. L. Stine was released on the streaming platform on Jan. 10.

🤩 📺 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter & get the scoop on the latest TV news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🤩🎥

“I still can’t believe it,” Schwimmer said while discussing the competition show, which streams on Netflix under the title The Great British Baking Show. "I was just watching the new series the other day, on Netflix—it just came out,” he added. “I was like, ‘Ah. That handshake.’”

Though the People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story actor was enjoying watching the newest season that was released on Netflix last fall, he also has a personal connection to the show, having competed on a special celebrity edition back in the spring of 2023. The special was filmed in support of the charity Stand Up to Cancer.

Schwimmer earned one of the coveted handshakes that is offered very rarely by celebrity chef and The Great British Baking Show judge Paul Hollywood during his appearance on the show. He went on to win the competition when Hollywood and fellow judge and celebrity chef Prue Leith crowned Schwimmer the special edition’s “Star Baker.”

During his recent conversation with Page Six, Schwimmer reflected on the moment that prompted Hollywood to shake his hand as he marveled, “I can’t believe I got it from Paul.”

When asked if he ever sheds any tears while watching the popular competition show, Schwimmer did not hesitate long before confirming his feelings about the series. “I did, yes,” he said. “I tear up.”

Next: Kelly Ripa Says 'Sexual Chemistry Was Palpable' Between Husband Mark Consuelos and 'Friends' Star