The One Where They Grew Up: Friends Cast Then And Now (2024) 30th Anniversary Updates

Thirty years ago, on September 22, 1994, six twenty-somethings sat on a couch in an iconic coffee house and changed television history forever. The Friends phenomenon, which ran for ten seasons, continues to captivate new generations, but the lives of the actors who played Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler, and Ross have evolved dramatically since the final episode aired in 2004. As of December 2024, the cast is navigating new careers, personal milestones, and tragically, the profound loss of one of their own, making the "then and now" comparison more poignant than ever.

The journey of the *Friends* cast from being young, relatively unknown actors to global superstars earning a million dollars per episode is one of Hollywood's greatest success stories. Today, the five remaining members maintain a close bond, often sharing mini-reunions and supporting each other's ventures, all while honoring the enduring legacy of their beloved co-star, Matthew Perry, whose passing marked a heartbreaking moment for fans worldwide. This is a deep dive into where the core six are now, celebrating their careers and the show's 30th anniversary.

The Core Six: Complete Cast Biography and Profile List

The main cast of *Friends* consists of six actors, all of whom have established extensive careers in film, television, and production since the show concluded in 2004.

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• Jennifer Aniston (Rachel Green): Born February 11, 1969 (Age 55). Actress, producer, and businesswoman. Known for her iconic "Rachel" haircut and a successful film career.
• Courteney Cox (Monica Geller): Born June 15, 1964 (Age 60). Actress, director, producer, and entrepreneur. Best known for *Friends* and the *Scream* film franchise.
• Lisa Kudrow (Phoebe Buffay): Born July 30, 1963 (Age 61). Actress, writer, and producer. Known for her Emmy-winning role and her work on *The Comeback*.
• Matt LeBlanc (Joey Tribbiani): Born July 25, 1967 (Age 57). Actor and comedian. Known for *Friends*, the spin-off *Joey*, and the sitcom *Episodes*.
• Matthew Perry (Chandler Bing): Born August 19, 1969 – Died October 28, 2023 (Age 54). Actor and advocate. His final years were dedicated to helping others with addiction.
• David Schwimmer (Ross Geller): Born November 2, 1966 (Age 58). Actor, director, and producer. Also a co-founder of the Lookingglass Theatre Company.

Jennifer Aniston (Rachel Green): From Central Perk to Morning Show Executive

Jennifer Aniston, who played the fashion-forward and lovable Rachel Green, has arguably had the most successful post-*Friends* film career, transitioning smoothly into a major box office draw. However, in recent years, she has made a powerful return to television, not just as an actor but as a producer, solidifying her status as a Hollywood powerhouse.

Then: Rachel Green's journey was defined by her evolution from a spoiled runaway bride to a top executive at Ralph Lauren. The "Rachel" haircut became a global phenomenon, cementing her status as a '90s style icon. Her on-again, off-again relationship with Ross Geller remains one of the most debated plotlines in TV history ("We were on a break!").

Now (2024): Aniston’s career is currently dominated by her critically acclaimed role as Alex Levy in the Apple TV+ drama series, *The Morning Show*. She not only stars in the series but also serves as an executive producer, a role that earned her a Screen Actors Guild Award. This project represents a significant shift, showcasing her dramatic range beyond the romantic comedies she was known for. She continues to have film projects in development, keeping her active in both the big and small screens. At 55, Aniston remains one of the most bankable and recognizable stars globally, often sharing sweet, mini-reunions with her former co-stars, Courteney Cox and Lisa Kudrow, on social media.

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Courteney Cox (Monica Geller) and Lisa Kudrow (Phoebe Buffay): The Power of Female Friendship

The bond between Monica Geller and Phoebe Buffay was a cornerstone of *Friends*, and the real-life friendship between Courteney Cox and Lisa Kudrow remains just as strong today. Their post-*Friends* careers have seen them explore diverse roles, from horror to entrepreneurship and back to comedy.

Courteney Cox: From Cleaning Obsession to Homecare Empire

Then: Monica Geller was the competitive, neat-freak chef who served as the group's maternal figure and host. Her relationship with Chandler Bing was the emotional core of the later seasons, culminating in their move to the suburbs.

Now (2024): Courteney Cox has successfully balanced acting with a new venture. She reprised her iconic role as Gale Weathers in the *Scream* film series, demonstrating her enduring star power in the horror genre. More recently, she has channeled Monica’s passion for a clean home into her own lifestyle brand, Homecourt, which offers a line of home care and beauty products. This move into entrepreneurship showcases a different facet of her career. Cox has also been open about her journey with cosmetic procedures and embracing natural beauty, a topic she has discussed in recent years.

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Lisa Kudrow: The Quirky Icon’s Return to TV

Then: Phoebe Buffay was the eccentric, guitar-playing masseuse known for her bizarre backstory, catchy songs like "Smelly Cat," and her eventual marriage to Mike Hannigan.

Now (2024): Lisa Kudrow continues to be a respected figure in television. She recently appeared in the star-studded Netflix series *No Good Deed*, a project that generated buzz in late 2024. Furthermore, fans of her cult-favorite show, *The Comeback*, have been excited by news of a potential third season, with a premiere tentatively announced for 2026, indicating her continued involvement in high-quality, character-driven comedy. In a 2024 interview, Kudrow even speculated on where Phoebe would be today, suggesting her character would likely be thriving and still making music. Her work, which also includes producing, highlights her preference for unique and complex comedic roles.

Matt LeBlanc (Joey Tribbiani) and David Schwimmer (Ross Geller): The Boys’ New Directions

The dynamic between the perpetually single, food-loving Joey Tribbiani and the intellectual, often-divorced paleontologist Ross Geller provided endless comedy. Their real-life counterparts have taken distinct paths since the show’s conclusion, marked by recent life changes and new career ventures.

Matt LeBlanc: A Step Back After Heartbreak

Then: Joey Tribbiani was the lovable, simple-minded actor whose catchphrase, "How you doin'?", became a cultural phenomenon. He starred in the short-lived spin-off *Joey* immediately after *Friends*.

Now (2024): Matt LeBlanc achieved success post-*Friends* with the critically acclaimed series *Episodes* and as a host of the popular British show *Top Gear*. However, recent reports in late 2024 suggest that LeBlanc has decided to step back from acting, making a conscious decision to be more reclusive following the tragic death of his close friend and co-star, Matthew Perry. His rare public appearances, such as one in late October 2024, have drawn significant media attention, highlighting his desire for a quieter life after decades in the spotlight.

David Schwimmer: From Paleontology to Disney+ Horror

Then: Ross Geller was the overly intellectual, three-times-divorced paleontologist whose romantic life was a constant source of frustration and comedy. His character was central to the show's biggest long-running romance.

Now (2024): David Schwimmer has spent much of his post-*Friends* career focusing on theatre, directing, and taking on challenging roles. He is a co-founder of Chicago's Lookingglass Theatre Company, demonstrating his commitment to the stage. For his most recent major television role, Schwimmer has signed on to star in the second season of Disney+'s *Goosebumps* series, with news of his casting breaking in early 2024. This move into the supernatural/horror-comedy genre shows his continued interest in diverse projects, a significant departure from his time as Ross Geller.

The Enduring Legacy of Matthew Perry (Chandler Bing)

The character of Chandler Bing, played by the late Matthew Perry, was the witty, sarcastic heart of the group, whose journey from emotional commitment-phobe to loving husband was one of the series' most satisfying arcs.

Then: Chandler Bing was the executive with the mysterious job (transponster?) whose humor masked deep insecurities. His relationship with Monica Geller was a fan favorite, providing a stable, mature anchor for the show.

Now (2024): The tragic passing of Matthew Perry in October 2023 sent shockwaves across the globe and deeply affected his former co-stars. His post-*Friends* career was marked by his candid memoir, *Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing*, where he bravely detailed his long struggle with addiction. Today, his most significant and enduring legacy is the Matthew Perry Foundation, which was established to continue his mission of helping others struggling with the disease of addiction. The foundation ensures that his advocacy and commitment to mental health awareness live on, fulfilling his final mission to be remembered for the help he gave others, rather than just his acting roles.

The 30th Anniversary and The Future of the Friends Universe

The year 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of the *Friends* premiere, a milestone that has triggered numerous celebrations and renewed interest in the show's cultural impact. The anniversary has been celebrated with special events, including the return of the Friendsgiving experience at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood and a historic auction of iconic memorabilia through Julien's Auctions. The show's enduring popularity, evidenced by its remastering in 4K, confirms its place as a timeless piece of television history.

Despite the tragic loss of Matthew Perry, the remaining five cast members—Aniston, Cox, Kudrow, LeBlanc, and Schwimmer—remain a tight-knit family. Their bond, forged over ten years of shared success, continues to be a source of comfort and public interest. While a true *Friends* revival is highly unlikely, their individual successes and occasional public reunions serve as a constant reminder that the spirit of the six friends from New York City is alive and well, proving that even 30 years later, they will always be there for us.