There are few television friendships that rival that of “Community”s Troy Barnes (Donald Glover) and Abed Nadir (Danny Pudi) — an unlikely match that stole the hearts of fans everywhere from pretty much Episode 1.
Because it’s been over two years since the series wrapped (and three since Glover’s exit), fans may be wondering if the actors are just as close as they appeared in the Dan Harmon-created series. Well, we were too, so TheWrap asked Pudi during the Television Critics Association press tour last week. And, as you may have guessed, the answer is yes.
“I mean we’re, you know, we’re brothers,” Pudi told TheWrap. “We’ve gone through a very unique experience (laughs). And an amazing experience. So I think we’ll always be tight because of that. You know?”
As for how he feels about his buddy’s professional milestones since “Community” ended, the “Bobcat Goldthwait’s Misfits and Monsters” actor couldn’t be happier.
“Yes [I did]! Yeah, yeah it’s a big deal,” Pudi said of congratulating Glover after he won both Best Actor and Best Director at the 2017 Emmys for the freshman season of his FX series “Atlanta.”
“And it’s incredible to see him, and others, like Alison [Brie], at the Golden Globes,” Pudi continued, giving a nod to another “Community” alum, who is currently starring in Netflix’s “GLOW.” “And other people just kind of move on and do different things. You know?”
“Community” also starred Joel McHale, Gillian Jacobs, Ken Jeong, Yvette Nicole Brown, Jim Rash and Chevy Chase.
“We’re still very tight — all of us, as a group,” Pudi said. “I think in some ways we’ll always be. Because we went through a very strange, wonderful, up and down process. And that really brings you together.”
Oh, we hope they stay that way, since we’re holding out for the “movie” part of the fans’ “six seasons and a movie!” battle cry. But don’t worry, Pudi tells us he is too. You can read more about that here.
In case you’ve forgotten how amazing Troy and Abed’s friendship was, check out one of their classic “Community” scenes below.
“Bobcat Goldthwait’s Misfits & Monsters” will premiere on truTV this summer.