During its ten seasons and more than 230 episodes, the story of the six friends in ‘Friends‘ won hearts, brought laughter and transported us to the chaotic, but cozy, world of New York.
However, behind the laughs and success, the lives of the six actors in the series had their ups and downs!
‘Friends’: behind the scenes and personal lives of the actors
Image: HBO Max/Reproduction
Launched in the mid-90s, the series not only established itself as a global phenomenon, but also shaped generations and remained relevant decades after its end.
From love dilemmas to professional difficulties, and constant changes in the dynamics of friendships, the series addressed universal themes! See the main ones below.
1. Jennifer Aniston’s near absence from the series
Jennifer Aniston He almost did not participate in the series due to a contract with another project. The cancellation of this project allowed her to play Rachel.
2. The initial names of the series
Before ‘Friends’, other names were considered, such as ‘Insomnia Cafe’, ‘Across the Hall’ and ‘Six of One’.
NBC acquired the series titled ‘Friends Like Us’, which had its title simplified to ‘Friends’.
3. Matthew Perry’s internal struggles
The charismatic Chandler Bing may have been the center of the laughs, but Matthew Perry faced serious battles, including problematic substance use.
He admitted to memory lapses in several seasons due to drug and alcohol abuse.
4. Phoebe’s fate
Originally, Phoebe was going to marry David, but her adorable relationship with Mike won over the public, changing the fate of the couple. couple on the Serie.
5. The participation of Bruce Willis
Bruce Willis made a cameo appearance after losing a bet to Matthew Perry, acting without pay.
His performance earned him an Emmy, despite the peculiar arrangement.
6. The challenges of the actors’ personal lives
Marriages, separations and relationships marked their lives off-screen.
Stories like Matt LeBlanc’s drunk driving arrests in the 90s or Jennifer Aniston’s relationships with Brad Pitt, Justin Theroux and others show the complexity of their love lives.
7. The energy behind the scenes
According to screenwriter Patty Lin, the energy of behind the scenes It wasn’t the best!
According to her, the actors were tired and seemed unhappy.
8. The death of Matthew Perry
Unfortunately, on October 28, 2023, the actor who played the eternal Chandler passed away at home due to ‘acute effects of ketamine’.