When Friends wrapped up in 2004, it left a massive void in the hearts of fans worldwide. The show had become a cultural phenomenon, and its six main cast members—Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer—were catapulted to stardom. But what happened after the final credits rolled? In this article, we’ll explore the best TV comebacks of the Friends cast, ranking their most memorable roles post-series.
The Legacy of Friends
A Cultural Touchstone
Friends was more than just a sitcom; it was a cultural touchstone that defined a generation. The show’s humor, relatable characters, and iconic catchphrases made it a staple of 90s and early 2000s television. As the series ended, fans were left wondering what the future held for their favorite characters—and the actors who portrayed them.
The Pressure of Fame
With fame came the pressure to succeed. Each cast member faced the challenge of breaking free from their iconic roles while trying to carve out new paths in the entertainment industry. Some thrived, while others faced struggles along the way.
Ranking the Best Comebacks
1. Jennifer Aniston as Rachel Green
The Comeback: After Friends, Jennifer Aniston starred in several successful films, but her most notable comeback came with the critically acclaimed series The Morning Show. Playing Alex Levy, a morning news anchor navigating the complexities of the media landscape, Aniston showcased her dramatic chops and earned multiple award nominations.
Why It’s Great: Aniston’s performance in The Morning Show proved she could tackle serious roles while still maintaining the charm that made Rachel so beloved. The show’s exploration of workplace dynamics and personal struggles resonated with audiences, making it a must-watch.
2. Courteney Cox as Monica Geller
The Comeback: Courteney Cox found success after Friends with the horror-comedy series Cougar Town. Playing Jules Cobb, a recently divorced woman navigating the dating scene, Cox brought her signature humor and warmth to the role.
Why It’s Great: Cougar Town allowed Cox to showcase her comedic timing while also exploring deeper themes of friendship and family. The show garnered a loyal fanbase and highlighted Cox’s versatility as an actress.
3. Lisa Kudrow as Phoebe Buffay
The Comeback: Lisa Kudrow’s post-Friends career took off with the HBO series The Comeback, where she played Valerie Cherish, a washed-up actress trying to revive her career. The show was a satirical take on reality television and the entertainment industry.
Why It’s Great: Kudrow’s performance was both hilarious and poignant, earning her critical acclaim. The Comeback was ahead of its time, and Kudrow’s ability to blend comedy with genuine emotion made it a standout.
4. Matt LeBlanc as Joey Tribbiani
The Comeback: After Friends, Matt LeBlanc starred in the spin-off series Joey, which followed his character’s life in Los Angeles. While the show had a short run, LeBlanc later found success with the critically acclaimed series Episodes.
Why It’s Great: In Episodes, LeBlanc played a fictionalized version of himself, showcasing his comedic talent and self-awareness. The show received praise for its sharp writing and LeBlanc’s performance, proving he could thrive outside of Joey’s shadow.
5. Matthew Perry as Chandler Bing
The Comeback: Matthew Perry faced challenges after Friends, but he made a notable return with the NBC series The Good Wife and its spin-off The Good Fight. His role as a charismatic attorney showcased his dramatic abilities.
Why It’s Great: Perry’s performance in these series demonstrated his range as an actor, allowing him to step away from the comedic persona of Chandler. His character added depth to the ensemble cast, and fans appreciated his return to television.
6. David Schwimmer as Ross Geller
The Comeback: David Schwimmer took on a variety of roles after Friends, but his standout performance came in the FX
