Friends’ Sweet Pre-Show Ritual Revealed!

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More than two decades have passed since the last episodes of “Friends” were broadcast, and with it still being one of television’s most rewatchable shows, tales from behind the scenes keep surfacing. We’ve heard amusing stories like the elaborate prank played on Jennifer Aniston, as well as harrowing incidents such as Matt LeBlanc’s “genuinely terrifying” injury. Now, Courteney Cox has shared a heartwarming recollection, reminiscing about their pre-show ritual with her fellow cast members.

The main cast of “Friends” achieved stardom in 1994, and sharing that journey collectively – even negotiating their contracts as a team – fostered an enduring bond among them. It appears that their mutual support began early on, as Courteney Cox mentioned at the Inc. 5000 conference (as reported by People): they supported each other right from the start.

In this situation, we gather together and exclaim, “Everyone, good luck!” before exchanging warm embraces and friendly slaps on the back.

Let’s play the ‘Friends’ opening tune, for this feels just like the moment when they gather their nerves and display their trust in each other before stepping onto the stage with the live audience.

Alongside Courteney Cox, the cast also featured Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer, and sadly, Matthew Perry. Tragically, Perry passed away in 2023 due to an accidental drowning, which was reportedly brought on by the sudden impact of ketamine.

There are numerous instances that demonstrate the genuine nature of the pre-show gatherings among the “Friends” cast members. For instance, Matt LeBlanc assisted Lisa Kudrow when she faced difficulties in portraying Phoebe at the start. Jennifer Aniston repeatedly offered support to Matthew Perry regarding his addiction, a fact he himself mentioned prior to his passing. Over the course of almost a decade, they stood by each other during marriages, separations, fertility challenges, and many other life events.

It’s possible that it was director James Burrows who established a friendly atmosphere among the six actors, leading them to form lasting friendships. In his memoir, he reminisced about the legendary Las Vegas trip he organized for them before the premiere of ‘Friends’ in 1994, explaining that this was their last chance at privacy. And indeed, it proved to be so.

Afterwards, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, and Lisa Kudrow regularly dined together (despite not sharing the famous salad often linked to Aniston). Aniston served as the godmother to Cox’s daughter, and they continue to celebrate each other’s birthdays, occasionally reuniting. It’s unlikely that they hold a pre-show huddle now, but they have frequently made guest appearances in one another’s projects.

Discover your favorite “Friends” episodes effortlessly on HBO Max, with all seasons streaming now! For just $9.99 per month, dive into our With Ads plan. However, keep in mind that we have three distinct subscription options available for you. Plus, secure a 20% savings by pre-paying for an entire year! Check it out here: View Deal

Despite earning substantial annual residuals from their roles in Friends, it’s likely that the actors don’t feel compelled to continue working. However, all the actresses have exciting projects coming up. Courteney Cox is set to reprise her role as Gale Weathers in Scream 7, slated for release in 2026. Lisa Kudrow has a significant return next year, as she’s set to appear once more in the final season of The Comeback. Additionally, Jennifer Aniston will make a comeback to television as executive producer and star of The Morning Show Season 4.

As we anticipate future events, we can reminisce about the good old days by streaming all 10 seasons of Friends on HBO Max. Let’s picture in our minds the delightful gathering that used to take place before the show began.

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2025-07-12 16:38