Friends cast ages: How old the sitcom stars were then and now

Friends made its TV debut in 1994. Thirty years later it’s still one of the most watched shows ever. More proof of Friends’ popularity is how often it’s streamed. Whatever streaming service has it instantly becomes popular. For many viewers, it's a comfort show; a program they can watch and laugh to even if they’ve seen the episodes dozens of times.

When Friends was still on the air, the actors of the main characters became millionaires and used their stardom to gain opportunities in Hollywood. It makes you wonder how old they were when the show started, what they’ve done since, and their current age. I have the answers right here.

Jennifer Aniston as Rachel Green

Born: Feb. 11, 1969
Age when Friends premiered: 25
Age now: 55

Jennifer Anniston’s Rachel Green is one of the most popular TV characters ever and is beloved for her outgoing and positive personality. While her entitlement can be frustrating at times and you wouldn't want her as a roommate, you can’t help but to root for her. Especially as you watch her evolve as a person.

Aniston could be the most famous of the cast. Since Friends ended, she’s starred in popular projects like We’re the Millers and The Morning Show. Even when she’s not the star, she leaves a lasting impression. A great example of this is her role in both Horrible Bosses movies. 

Lisa Kudrow as Phoebe Buffay

Born: July 30, 1963
Age when Friends premiered: 31
Age now: 60 (will turn 61 in 2024)

In terms of awards, Lisa Kudrow is the most successful. She has 14 Emmy nominations and one win. It’s a testament to the Phoebe character and Kudrow's portrayal. She did what she wanted, when she wanted. It may have come off selfish, but she just desired to live her life on her own terms. You can't be mad at her for that. When the show ended, she continued to get work in comedic and dramatic roles and voice acting. She’s also one of the few performers with no issue with doing roles others may think are beneath her.

Matthew Perry as Chandler Bing

Born: Aug. 19, 1969
Age when Friends premiered: 25
Died: Oct. 28, 2023 (Perry was 54)

Chandler Bing is the only person on this show who understands money and financial security. He’s expressed that (along with his sarcasm) is due to his parents’ divorce. This could make him the most well-rounded character on the show.

Matthew Perry was a fan favorite. He didn’t win a lot of awards or star in blockbuster films, but he was victorious in life. You can tell the worth of a person by how people talk about you when you’re gone. Most people didn’t have a bad thing to say about him. His passing left celebrities and fans heartbroken.

David Schwimmer as Ross Geller

Born: Nov. 2, 1966
Age when Friends premiered: 27
Age now: 57 (will turn 58 in 2024)

Ross Geller doesn't seem like he belongs with this group. For crying out loud, he’s a paleontologist. Does that seem like someone who'd hang around them? Nevertheless, he and Rachel became the most famous TV “will-they-won’t-they” ever. Maybe it's because opposites attract.

Other than Friends, the thing people will remember most about David Schwimmer is the actor voicing Melman in Madagascar. However, his portrayal of Robert Kardashian in The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story shouldn’t be forgotten. It’s a reminder that he’s more than a comedic actor.

Courteney Cox as Monica Geller

Born: June 15, 1964
Age when Friends premiered: 30
Age now: 59 (will turn 60 in 2024)

An easy way to deal with Monica Geller is to move out of her way. She knows how she wants something done and it’s her way or no way. Even if you do everything to the letter, she'll have notes. Everyone knows someone like this, but they’re needed and appreciated. It’s no different with her friends. 

After Friends, Courtney Cox appeared in 102 episodes of Cougar Town and became a horror icon after starring in the Scream movies. Recently, she was the lead in an underrated show called Shining Vale. A project that was unfortunately canceled. Hopefully, someone else will pick it up.

Matt LeBlanc as Joey Tribbiani

Born: July 25, 1967
Age when Friends premiered: 27
Age now: 56 (will turn 57 in 2024)

Matt LeBlanc plays Joey Tribbiani, who's a character every sitcom had in the 1990s. He’s a lovable fool. There are moments of depth from him, but they don’t happen often. It’s best to not expect much from him and just enjoy the comedy.

Many people assumed LeBlanc would have the biggest career after Friends. Instead, he seemed to pick his roles carefully. The 56-year-old starred in a Friends spin-off called Joey that ran for 46 episodes. His most recent show was titled Man with a Plan which ran from 2016-2020.

It’s been four years since Man with a Plan and it looks like he’s done with acting. He’s been quoted saying, “ I'm just enjoying not having to do anything — it's been kinda nice.” Although, never say never. The right role might come around and get him to act again.