For a decade, they were there for you, making us laugh, cry, and feel like we were part of their New York City lives. The question on every fan's mind remains: where is the Friends cast now, nearly 20 years after the iconic series finale and 30 years since its debut?
If you enjoy sitcoms, the American series 'Friends' is likely a staple on your watchlist. True to its name, it follows the lives of six close friends—Monica, Ross, Rachel, Phoebe, Joey, and Chandler—as they navigate the highs and lows of life in New York City. Over the course of 10 successful seasons, the show aired from 1994 to 2004, dominating prime time and becoming a pop culture sensation. Now, decades later, we’re still captivated by Jennifer Aniston (Rachel Green), Courteney Cox (Monica Geller), Lisa Kudrow (Phoebe Buffay), Matt LeBlanc (Joey Tribbiani), Matthew Perry (Chandler Bing), and David Schwimmer (Ross Geller). Though the six main actors in the Friends cast have had successful careers since the sitcom ended, they'll always be remembered for their characters. But where has the cast of Friends been since that last episode aired? Here’s a comprehensive look at where the Friends cast is now and what they’ve done since the series finale in 2004.
On September 22, 1994, TV audiences got six new pals with the cast of the hit NBC series Friends. Debuting 30 years ago, this show about six pals navigating life in New York City quickly won over critics and became one of the most beloved TV series ever. For ten years, they were there for you (when the rain started to pour), captivating millions with their relatable struggles, hilarious antics, and heartwarming friendships. Friends has left a lasting mark on its fans, becoming a cultural phenomenon that transcended generations. Even today, new viewers are discovering the magic of Monica, Chandler, Phoebe, Joey, Rachel, and Ross, while long-time fans admit: how many times have you watched Friends? We understand you very well; we ourselves are so delighted with the plot and actors of the Friends series. But what happened after the final episode aired in 2004? While the show's iconic cast has finally reunited for a special, many fans wonder about their individual journeys. From romance to directing to Hollywood fame, here's an update on the cast. Discover what the Friends cast has been up to since the show ended in 2004.
Jennifer Aniston: Rachel Green's Journey Beyond Central Perk
Jennifer Aniston, who famously portrayed Rachel Green, arguably had the most prominent post-Friends career in terms of mainstream Hollywood success. Her transition from television darling to romantic comedy queen was seamless, solidifying her status as a global icon.
Biography and Personal Data
Attribute
Detail
Full Name
Jennifer Joanna Aniston
Date of Birth
February 11, 1969
Place of Birth
Sherman Oaks, California, U.S.
Occupation
Actress, Producer, Businesswoman
Known For
Rachel Green in 'Friends', numerous film roles
Awards (Selected)
Emmy Award, Golden Globe Award, Screen Actors Guild Award
Post-Friends Career Highlights
Sure, Jennifer Aniston continues to star in movies and guest star on TV series, maintaining a consistent presence in Hollywood. After Friends, she quickly became a fixture in romantic comedies, starring in hits like *Bruce Almighty* (2003, while Friends was still airing), *Along Came Polly* (2004), *The Break-Up* (2006), and *Marley & Me* (2008), which showcased her versatility beyond comedy. She also ventured into more ensemble comedies such as *Horrible Bosses* (2011) and its sequel, and *We're the Millers* (2013). Beyond the big screen, Aniston made a triumphant return to television with the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ drama *The Morning Show*, which debuted in 2019. Her role as Alex Levy earned her another Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series, proving her dramatic chops and solidifying her status as a versatile actress. She also took on producing roles for the series, further expanding her influence in the industry. Her continued success and public appeal make her a central figure when discussing where the Friends cast is now.
Courteney Cox: From Monica's Apartment to Hollywood Stardom
Courteney Cox, beloved for her portrayal of the meticulous Monica Geller, has carved out a diverse career path, embracing both comedic and dramatic roles, and even stepping behind the camera.
Biography and Personal Data
Attribute
Detail
Full Name
Courteney Bass Cox
Date of Birth
June 15, 1964
Place of Birth
Birmingham, Alabama, U.S.
Occupation
Actress, Producer, Director
Known For
Monica Geller in 'Friends', Gale Weathers in 'Scream'
Awards (Selected)
People's Choice Award, Critics' Choice Television Award nomination
Post-Friends Career Highlights
After the Friends finale, Courteney Cox quickly transitioned into new projects. She notably starred in the FX series *Dirt* (2007–2008), where she played a tabloid editor, showcasing a darker, more dramatic side. However, her most significant post-Friends television success came with the ABC/TBS sitcom *Cougar Town* (2009–2015), where she starred as Jules Cobb. The show, which she also executive produced, ran for six seasons and earned her a Golden Globe nomination, proving her enduring comedic appeal. Cox has also maintained a strong presence in film, particularly within the horror genre, reprising her iconic role as Gale Weathers in the *Scream* film series. She appeared in *Scream 4* (2011), *Scream* (2022), and *Scream VI* (2023), cementing her status as a horror movie staple. Beyond acting, Cox has explored directing, helming several episodes of *Cougar Town* and the independent film *Just Before I Go* (2014). Her diverse career trajectory highlights her versatility and determination to explore new avenues, making her a fascinating subject when examining where the Friends cast is now.
Lisa Kudrow: Phoebe Buffay's Diverse Path After Friends
Lisa Kudrow, who brought the quirky and lovable Phoebe Buffay to life, has continued to impress audiences with her unique comedic timing and surprising dramatic depth in a variety of roles.
Biography and Personal Data
Attribute
Detail
Full Name
Lisa Valerie Kudrow
Date of Birth
July 30, 1963
Place of Birth
Encino, California, U.S.
Occupation
Actress, Comedian, Writer, Producer
Known For
Phoebe Buffay in 'Friends', Valerie Cherish in 'The Comeback'
Awards (Selected)
Emmy Award, Screen Actors Guild Award
Post-Friends Career Highlights
Lisa Kudrow’s post-Friends career has been marked by critically acclaimed, often unconventional projects that allowed her to showcase her range. Her most notable venture was the HBO satirical comedy *The Comeback* (2005, revived in 2014), which she co-created, wrote, and starred in as Valerie Cherish, a washed-up sitcom star attempting a return to fame. The series garnered her immense critical praise and an Emmy nomination, becoming a cult classic. She also starred in and produced the Showtime web-therapy series *Web Therapy* (2008–2014), where she played a therapist who offers three-minute online sessions. Kudrow has appeared in numerous films, including *P.S. I Love You* (2007), *Easy A* (2010), *Neighbors* (2014), and *Booksmart* (2019), often taking on memorable supporting roles that leverage her distinctive comedic style. Her voice acting work includes characters in animated films like *The Boss Baby* (2017) and *The Willoughbys* (2020). Lisa Kudrow’s intelligent choices in projects demonstrate her commitment to unique storytelling, providing a fascinating answer to where the Friends cast is now.
Matt LeBlanc: Joey Tribbiani's Continued Adventures
Matt LeBlanc, forever synonymous with the lovable, dim-witted actor Joey Tribbiani, has had a varied career that included a direct spin-off and a highly successful return to sitcoms, as well as a surprising turn as a television host.
Biography and Personal Data
Attribute
Detail
Full Name
Matthew Steven LeBlanc
Date of Birth
July 25, 1967
Place of Birth
Newton, Massachusetts, U.S.
Occupation
Actor, Television Host
Known For
Joey Tribbiani in 'Friends' and 'Joey'
Awards (Selected)
Golden Globe Award
Post-Friends Career Highlights
Not many remember the Friends spinoff, *Joey*, but the show's stars — including Matt LeBlanc and Andrea Anders — have remained on our screens. After the conclusion of Friends, LeBlanc immediately reprised his role in the spin-off series *Joey* (2004–2006), which followed Joey Tribbiani's move to Los Angeles to pursue his acting career. While the show didn't achieve the same monumental success as Friends, it allowed fans to continue with a beloved character for a couple of seasons. LeBlanc later made a significant comeback with the Showtime/BBC Two comedy series *Episodes* (2011–2017), where he played a fictionalized version of himself. This role earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy, proving his comedic prowess was as sharp as ever. Following *Episodes*, he starred in the CBS sitcom *Man with a Plan* (2016–2020), further cementing his return to network television. In a surprising move, LeBlanc also became a co-presenter of the popular British motoring show *Top Gear* from 2016 to 2019, showcasing a different facet of his personality to a global audience. Matt LeBlanc's journey highlights his ability to reinvent himself and continue captivating audiences, giving a clear picture of where the Friends cast is now.
Matthew Perry: Chandler Bing's Lasting Impact and Legacy
Matthew Perry, who masterfully brought the sarcastic yet endearing Chandler Bing to life, continued to work in television and film, and also made significant contributions as a playwright and author. His passing in 2023 left a profound void, but his work and legacy continue to resonate.
Biography and Personal Data
Attribute
Detail
Full Name
Matthew Langford Perry
Date of Birth
August 19, 1969
Date of Passing
October 28, 2023
Place of Birth
Williamstown, Massachusetts, U.S.
Occupation
Actor, Comedian, Writer, Producer
Known For
Chandler Bing in 'Friends'
Awards (Selected)
Screen Actors Guild Award, Emmy nominations
Post-Friends Career Highlights
After Friends, Matthew Perry continued to star in movies and guest star on TV series, demonstrating his range beyond the beloved Chandler. He took on more dramatic roles, such as in the film *The Ron Clark Story* (2006), for which he received an Emmy nomination. On television, he starred in the short-lived but critically praised Aaron Sorkin drama *Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip* (2006–2007), where he played a head writer. Perry also returned to sitcoms, starring in and co-creating *Mr. Sunshine* (2011) and later starring in a revival of *The Odd Couple* (2015–2017) as Oscar Madison. Beyond acting, Perry ventured into playwriting with *The End of Longing*, which debuted in London's West End in 2016 and later in New York, where he also starred. In 2022, he released his highly anticipated memoir, *Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing*, which became a New York Times bestseller, offering a candid look into his life and struggles. Matthew Perry's journey post-Friends was marked by a continuous pursuit of creative outlets and a profound impact on his fans, making his story a poignant part of where the Friends cast is now. His legacy as an actor and a courageous advocate for mental health and addiction awareness continues to inspire.
David Schwimmer: Ross Geller's Evolution Behind and In Front of the Camera
David Schwimmer, known globally as the lovable paleontologist Ross Geller, has diversified his career significantly, excelling not only as an actor but also as a director in both television and theater.
Biography and Personal Data
Attribute
Detail
Full Name
David Lawrence Schwimmer
Date of Birth
November 2, 1966
Place of Birth
Astoria, Queens, New York, U.S.
Occupation
Actor, Director, Producer
Known For
Ross Geller in 'Friends', Robert Kardashian in 'American Crime Story'
Awards (Selected)
Screen Actors Guild Award, Emmy nomination
Post-Friends Career Highlights
After Friends, David Schwimmer largely stepped away from mainstream sitcoms, focusing on theater, directing, and more dramatic roles. He made his Broadway debut in 2005 in *The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial* and has directed several plays, including *Run Fatboy Run* (2007) and *Trust* (2009), showcasing his talent behind the camera. His most acclaimed post-Friends acting role came in 2016, when he portrayed Robert Kardashian in *American Crime Story: The People v. O. J. Simpson*. His performance earned him an Emmy nomination, demonstrating his impressive dramatic range and reminding audiences of his acting prowess beyond comedy. Schwimmer has also lent his voice to animated characters, most notably as Melman the Giraffe in the *Madagascar* film franchise (2005–2012). He has also appeared in various television series, including *Will & Grace* and the British comedy *Intelligence*. David Schwimmer's deliberate choices to explore different facets of the entertainment industry provide a compelling answer to where the Friends cast is now.
Beyond the Main Six: Where Are Other Friends Cast Members Now?
While the six main actors in the Friends cast have had successful careers since the sitcom ended, they'll always be remembered for their characters. But what happened to Carol and Susan, or even Ben? The show's rich ensemble cast contributed significantly to its charm and humor. Many of these actors have continued to grace our screens in various capacities. * **James Michael Tyler (Gunther):** The manager of Central Perk, Gunther was the unrequited lover of Rachel. Tyler continued to act in short films and television, but his most significant role remained Gunther. Sadly, James Michael Tyler passed away in 2021 after a battle with prostate cancer, leaving behind a beloved legacy. * **Maggie Wheeler (Janice Litman-Goralnik):** Janice's iconic "Oh. My. God!" became a catchphrase. Wheeler has continued to work steadily in television, with roles in shows like *Everybody Loves Raymond*, *Californication*, and *Shameless*. Her distinctive voice has also been featured in animated series. * **Helen Baxendale (Emily Waltham):** Ross's second wife, Emily, was a significant character for a season. Baxendale is a prominent British actress who has continued her career primarily in the UK, starring in series like *Cold Feet* and *Cuckoo*. * **Jane Sibbett (Carol Willick) and Jessica Hecht (Susan Bunch):** Ross's ex-wife Carol and her partner Susan were groundbreaking characters for their time. Both actresses have had active careers. Sibbett has appeared in various TV shows and films, while Hecht has a strong presence in theater and has appeared in numerous TV series like *Breaking Bad*, *The Boys*, and *Succession*. * **Cole Sprouse (Ben Geller):** The part of Ben was actually played by several child actors, but Cole Sprouse, who played Ross's son Ben in later seasons, is perhaps the most famous. He went on to star in Disney Channel's *The Suite Life of Zack & Cody* alongside his twin brother Dylan, and more recently gained widespread fame as Jughead Jones in The CW's *Riverdale*. It’s been 24 years since the last TV series for some of these actors, but many are still active. * **Paul Rudd (Mike Hannigan):** Phoebe's husband, Mike, was introduced in later seasons and became a fan favorite. Paul Rudd has since become a major Hollywood star, known for films like *Anchorman*, *Knocked Up*, and his role as Ant-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. These actors, though not part of the core six, played pivotal roles in the Friends universe and have continued to shape the entertainment landscape, further answering the question of where the Friends cast is now.
Friends' Lasting Mark: A Timeless Sitcom
Friends, which aired from 1994 to 2004, centered on a group of best friends and has truly stood the test of time. The NBC sitcom Friends, which aired for 10 seasons, dominated prime time and became a pop culture sensation through the '90s and beyond. The cast of Friends embody their roles so well, and their IRL friendship totally comes through onscreen, which is a major reason for its enduring appeal. The show's enduring popularity is evident in its continued availability and viewership. Watch Friends now on Prime Video or Max, where it consistently ranks among the most-streamed shows. The "Friends: The Reunion" special in 2021 brought the main cast back together, offering fans a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a chance to see the real-life chemistry that made the show so special. This reunion was a testament to the lasting bond of the Friends cast and their enduring appeal to audiences worldwide. If you've finished your own rewatch, but still want to see Jennifer Aniston, Matthew Perry, Courteney Cox, David Schwimmer, and Matt LeBlanc, then here are some other titles featuring the cast of Friends to add to your watchlist! In conclusion, the Friends cast where are they now is a story of continued success, diverse career paths, and a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the iconic orange couch. Each actor has carved out a unique niche, proving their talent and versatility while forever remaining cherished for their roles in one of television's greatest sitcoms. The show debuted 30 years ago, and its impact is still felt today, a true testament to its timeless charm and the unforgettable characters it brought to life. What are your favorite post-Friends roles from the cast? Share your thoughts in the comments below! If you enjoyed this deep dive, consider sharing it with a fellow Friends fan or exploring more articles on our site about your favorite TV shows.
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