We asked AI to recast Friends for a modern reboot (and its casting choices are perfect)

It’s impossible to imagine a Friends that doesn’t include the likes of Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, Lisa Kudrow, Matthew Perry, Courteney Cox, and Matt LeBlanc. However, with NBC planning to revisit The Office one can’t help but wonder whether the day might eventually come in which the network might look to revisit another one of its most popular comedies.

Should the day come when NBC or another outlet such as Max looks to revisit Friends with a reimagining of the iconic series, it would seem likely they’d look to center the show around a new group of characters but what if they kept the focus on the core six with new actors and actresses taking on the iconic roles of Ross, Rachel, Joey, Chandler, Monica, and Phoebe? 

The idea of having to recast the roles in a modern reboot is a daunting task, which is why we decided why not take advantage of AI and see who it thinks would be the ideal group to lead a Friends reboot! 

AI recasts Friends for a modern-day reboot

Our prompt was simple. We asked ChatGPT’s AI to imagine that NBC was making a modern-day Friends reboot and to tell us who would be the perfect actors and actresses to play the roles of Ross, Rachel, Joey, Chandler, Monica, and Phoebe. The only ask we gave the tool in making its selection was that the actors all be around the same age and be within their mid-20s to early 30s given that was the age range of the original cast when they appeared on the show. 

So which actors does AI think are perfect for a Friends reboot and why? Let’s take a look! 

Ross Geller - John Boyega: John has demonstrated a strong range in films like Star Wars. He can play earnest and slightly nerdy very well, fitting Ross's character.

Rachel Green - Florence Pugh: Florence has the charisma and versatility needed to take on Jennifer Aniston's iconic role. She can effortlessly blend Rachel's fashion-forward and slightly spoiled nature with her growth into independence.

Joey Tribbiani - Glen Powell: Known for his charming and affable role in Set It Up, Glen has the comedic timing and likable personality that Joey's character requires.

Monica Geller - Beanie Feldstein: Beanie embodies the vibrant and intense personality traits that define Monica, with a proven track record in both comedic and serious roles, making her a great fit for the role.

Chandler Bing - Dylan O'Brien: Dylan has a natural comedic timing and a charming awkwardness that would suit Chandler's character well. He's known for his roles in Teen Wolf and The Maze Runner series, where he showcased a range of emotions that Chandler often goes through, from comedic to deeply personal.

Phoebe Buffay - Keke Palmer: Keke Palmer would be an excellent choice for the role of Phoebe Buffay due to her dynamic presence and versatility as an actress and singer. Her comedic timing is impeccable, which is crucial for delivering Phoebe’s unique blend of whimsy and offbeat humor.

I’m not going to lie, AI has some pretty good taste! This cast would be truly incredible and there isn’t a single name on the list that I would honestly be disappointed to see involved in a Friends reboot. 

I keep trying to pick just one favorite but there are so many great casting selections! Florence Pugh as Rachel is absolutely a perfect selection and I’m not going to be able to get that one out of my head now whenever I’m asked who my picks for a reboot would be. 

The same goes for the selection of Dylan O’Brien as Chandler. What an amazing selection! O’Brien would indeed be so perfect in the role of Chandler as he indeed has a perfect comedy timing and that charming awkwardness that goes hand in hand with Chandler. O’Brien would be absolutely incredible in the role and could totally make it his own while still bringing shades of what Matthew Perry brought to the character that helped fans fall in love with him. 

Keke Palmer as Phoebe is sheer perfection. She truly has it all. She is hilarious and her comedic chops would make her perfect for Phoebe’s more offbeat personality. Palmer also has an incredible voice that is key for our favorite songbird in the group! 

Of course, no Friends reboot is in the works, but should conversations start we can only hope that the casting producers manage to pull together a group as talented as the one AI selected!