When Friends debuted on NBC in September 1994, no one could have predicted the cultural phenomenon it would become. Over the course of its 10-season run, the show would carve a permanent place in television history, and its ensemble cast would become some of the most beloved actors in Hollywood. The series, which centered around a group of six friends living in New York City, resonated with audiences for its humor, relatability, and the timeless appeal of its main characters.
But while the show’s premise was simple, its success was largely due to the performances of its incredibly talented cast. Let’s take a deeper look at the stars who brought Friends to life, where they started before the show, their standout moments on the series, and where they are now.
Jennifer Aniston as Rachel Green
Before Friends: Jennifer Aniston, who played the iconic character Rachel Green, was a relatively unknown actress when she joined the cast of Friends. She had appeared in a few TV shows, such as Molloy and The Edge, but she had yet to land a role that would cement her as a household name. Aniston’s comedic timing and relatable performance as Rachel would quickly make her one of the most recognized and admired actresses in the world.
Character Overview: Rachel Green is the quintessential “girl next door” who grows into a confident, successful woman over the course of the series. Initially, she is introduced as a spoiled, somewhat naive fashion-conscious woman who has just left her fiancé at the altar. Over the 10 seasons, Rachel evolves into a key character with a career in fashion, a strong friendship with the other characters, and a memorable on-again-off-again romance with Ross Geller.
Her character is integral to the show’s emotional core, with her complicated relationships, notably her romance with Ross, providing some of the show’s most memorable moments. Rachel’s fashion sense also became a defining trait, influencing 90s fashion trends.
Post-Friends: After Friends ended in 2004, Jennifer Aniston’s career skyrocketed. She went on to become one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood. Her roles in movies like Marley & Me (2008), The Break-Up (2006), Along Came Polly (2004), and Horrible Bosses (2011) showcased her range, proving she was more than just Rachel Green. She later won acclaim for her role in the Apple TV+ series The Morning Show (2019), earning Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Awards. Aniston’s career continues to thrive, and she remains a beloved figure in both television and film.
Courteney Cox as Monica Geller
Before Friends: Courteney Cox was already an established actress before Friends came calling. She had gained recognition for her role as the spunky, ditzy girl in the Family Ties spin-off The Simpsons. But it was her role as Monica Geller that truly elevated her into a household name. Monica, the obsessively neat and competitive chef, was a perfect fit for Cox’s strong comedic abilities.
Character Overview: Monica Geller is Ross’s sister, and her personality contrasts sharply with the other characters, adding depth to the group dynamic. Known for her competitive nature, love of cleanliness, and incredibly sarcastic humor, Monica also brings a sense of stability to the group as the “mother” figure. Monica’s growth throughout the series, particularly her relationships—especially with Chandler Bing, which culminates in their marriage and adoption of twins—was central to the show’s heartwarming and comedic arcs.
Post-Friends: After Friends ended, Courteney Cox moved on to a variety of projects, including Cougar Town (2009-2015), a show she both starred in and produced, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination. Her film roles in Scream (1996) and its sequels continued to be successful, establishing her as a star in both TV and film. Additionally, she has ventured into directing, including work on Cougar Town and other projects. Cox remains a familiar and respected figure in Hollywood, balancing both comedy and drama roles.
Lisa Kudrow as Phoebe Buffay
Before Friends: Lisa Kudrow’s career prior to Friends consisted of minor roles in television and film. She had appeared in shows like Mad About You and had a supporting role in the film Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997). However, it was her portrayal of Phoebe Buffay that would make her a breakout star and an Emmy winner.
Character Overview: Phoebe Buffay, the quirky and eccentric musician, was one of the most unique characters in Friends. Her offbeat sense of humor, strange beliefs, and the infamous song “Smelly Cat” made her a fan favorite. Despite her oddities, Phoebe’s loyalty and warmth were central to her character, and her comedic moments often highlighted her sweet, vulnerable side. Phoebe’s romance with Mike Hannigan (played by Paul Rudd) in the later seasons was one of the show’s most beloved love stories.
Post-Friends: After Friends, Lisa Kudrow’s career continued to flourish. She won an Emmy Award for her performance on the show and went on to star in several successful television and film projects. Kudrow’s notable roles include The Comeback (2005-2014), a satirical HBO series she created, starred in, and produced, and her appearances on Web Therapy (2011-2015). She has also made guest appearances in shows like Parks and Recreation and Grace and Frankie. Kudrow is celebrated for her versatility and sharp comedic talent.
Matt LeBlanc as Joey Tribbiani
Before Friends: Matt LeBlanc was relatively unknown before landing the role of Joey Tribbiani. He had appeared in guest roles in shows like Married… with Children and Top of the Heap, but none of his roles had garnered significant attention. However, his portrayal of the lovable, dim-witted actor would define his career.
Character Overview: Joey Tribbiani, the aspiring actor with an unrelenting charm and a passion for food, is the comedic heart of Friends. His catchphrase “How you doin’?” and his long list of failed acting auditions became iconic, and his childlike innocence and loyalty to his friends made him a favorite of fans. His long-term friendship with Chandler Bing was central to the series’ heartwarming moments, and his romantic entanglements, particularly his short-lived crush on Rachel, provided several comedic subplots.
Post-Friends: After Friends ended, Matt LeBlanc starred in Joey, a spinoff series that focused on his character’s life post-Friends. Though Joey didn’t capture the same magic as Friends, LeBlanc continued to enjoy a successful career, particularly in the realm of television. He became the host of the British car show Top Gear and starred in the Showtime series Episodes (2011-2017), which earned him critical acclaim and multiple award nominations. LeBlanc also starred in the CBS sitcom Man with a Plan (2016-2020). LeBlanc remains a beloved figure in the entertainment world.
Matthew Perry as Chandler Bing
Before Friends: Matthew Perry had appeared in a number of TV series before landing the role of Chandler Bing, but it wasn’t until Friends that he gained worldwide fame. He had roles in shows like Charles in Charge and Sydney, but they didn’t achieve significant success. Perry’s breakthrough came when he was cast as Chandler, bringing his impeccable comedic timing and sarcastic wit to the role.
Character Overview: Chandler Bing, known for his sarcastic one-liners and self-deprecating humor, became a beloved character on Friends. He was often the comic relief, but his personal growth throughout the series—particularly his evolving relationship with Monica—was one of the show’s most touching storylines. Chandler’s struggles with commitment and his complicated relationship with his parents added depth to his character, making him more relatable to viewers.
Post-Friends: Following Friends, Matthew Perry struggled with personal issues, including addiction, which he later openly discussed in interviews and his memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing (2022). Despite these struggles, Perry’s career continued with notable roles in The Whole Nine Yards (2000), 17 Again (2009), and the TV show Mr. Sunshine (2011). He also starred in Go On (2012-2013). Perry’s frankness about his personal challenges and his recovery has earned him respect and admiration.
David Schwimmer as Ross Geller
Before Friends: David Schwimmer was a theater actor before landing the role of Ross Geller. He had appeared in a few minor TV roles, but his acting career was mainly rooted in the stage. Schwimmer’s portrayal of Ross, the neurotic, awkward paleontologist, would make him one of the most well-known actors of his generation.
