Jerry Seinfeld has reignited one of television's longest-running sitcom debates after joking that NBC effectively recreated Seinfeld when it launched Friends in the 1990s, only with a more glamorous cast.

The creator of hit sitcomSeinfeldsuggested that NBC saw the popularity of his series and decided to create 'the same thing with good-looking people,' drawing laughter from the audience.

The comedian made the remark during an appearance at theNetflix Is a Joke Festivalin Los Angeles, where he reflected on the similarities between the two hugely successful sitcoms.

Speaking to the audience at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, Seinfeld said, 'Here's my theory on 'Friends. My show came on — '89, '90. 'Friends' came on a few years later.'

He joked that NBC had been paying attention to his series and essentially decided to replicate its success, suggesting the network thought, 'Hey, this is working pretty well. Why don't we try the same thing with good-looking people?'

He then added that it turned out to be 'a good idea,' and stated, 'I think that kind of worked.' The remark was followed by a loud reaction from the crowd, while the actor broke into laughter as he delivered the punchline. Fans then called out their guesses for his favourite television shows during the performance, as shared byFox News.

Both sitcoms emerged as the defining shows of the 1990s and aired on NBC, but comparisons between them have existed for decades.

Seinfelddebuted in 1989 from creators Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David and focused on a close-knit group of neurotic New Yorkers navigating awkward everyday situations. The series featured stars Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Michael Richards and Jason Alexander alongside Jerry Seinfeld.

Five years later, in 1994,Friendspremiered with a similar urban setting and ensemble structure, though with a more romantic and emotionally driven tone. It starredJennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer, and Matthew Perry.

Seinfeldran for eight seasons until its 1998 ending, whileFriendshad ten seasons, ending in 2004, and continues to rank among the most-streamed and frequently syndicated television series long after its run ended, perPeople.

Source: International Business Times UK