Police hunt for David Schwimmer lookalike prompts nearly 100,000 'Friends' jokes

Police would like to speak to the man on the left.

A police appeal to identify an alleged thief has attracted widespread attention on Facebook - after multiple people pointed out the man's resemblance to "Friends" star David Schwimmer.

Police in Blackpool posted on Facebook asking for witnesses to identify the man - pictured leaving a restaurant in the town.

Facebook users quickly piled into the comments section with a wave of jokes and references to Ross Geller - Schwimmer's character in the well-loved US sitcom.

The post has so far attracted more than 82,000 comments.

The alleged theft happened on September 20, the post said.

Following numerous responses, Lancashire Constabulary replied: "Thank you to everyone for your speedy responses.

"We have investigated this matter thoroughly and have confirmed that David Schwimmer was in America on this date.

"We're so sorry it has to be this way."

A Facebook user, referencing the Friends theme song, replied: "I don't think it's been this guy's day, his week, his month or even his year....."

Another, referencing a Friends episode where Ross says he is an expert in self-defence, wrote: "Please approach with caution. He is known to have studied Karate and we believe he has mastered the art of Unagi, the state of total awareness."

Some of the many Friends related jokes and comments on the post. Credit: Blackpool Police/ Facebook

Anyone with information on the alleged crime can contact 7798@lancashire.pnn.police.uk 240258 OCT 18