David Duchovny reflects on “failure of friendship” with Gillian Anderson during ‘The X-Files’ years

David Duchovny discusses strained off-camera relationship with Gillian Anderson during ‘The X-Files’ filming.

In a candid conversation on his Fail Better podcast, David Duchovny opened up about the highs and lows of his decades-long friendship with The X-Files co-star Gillian Anderson. Despite their iconic on-screen chemistry as FBI agents in the show’s 11-season run, Duchovny revealed that off-camera tensions sometimes led to weeks without speaking.

He described this period as a “failure of friendship” but acknowledged the unique bond they share from their shared experience in a groundbreaking series. Anderson, who joined Duchovny on the Nov. 12 episode, agreed, recalling how their work created an “immediate connection” even as their friendship evolved under the pressures of fame. Despite past struggles, the two have maintained a close relationship, with Duchovny likening it to “family,” united by a deep, shared understanding of their time in the spotlight.