The enduring legacy of the iconic television series *Friends* continues to capture the hearts of fans, even over two decades after its final episodes aired. Recently, actress Courteney Cox shared a touching memory from the set, revealing a pre-show ritual that she and her co-stars engaged in to foster camaraderie and support.
During an appearance at the Inc. 5000 conference, Cox recounted how the six lead actors would gather in a huddle before each performance, saying, “Alright everybody! Good luck!” followed by hugs and high-fives. This heartwarming tradition aimed to boost their confidence as they prepared to entertain a live studio audience.
Reflecting on the bond formed among the cast, Cox highlighted that the journey began with their rise to fame in 1994, when they collectively negotiated their contracts and navigated the challenges of the entertainment industry. The support they provided each other has had a lasting impact, extending beyond the show’s production.
Building Lifelong Friendships
The relationships among the *Friends* cast members have proven to be resilient through the years. For example, Matt LeBlanc was instrumental in helping Lisa Kudrow overcome early challenges in her role as Phoebe Buffay. Additionally, Jennifer Aniston frequently reached out to Matthew Perry regarding his struggles with addiction, demonstrating the depth of their friendships during both challenging and celebratory moments.
The ensemble cast spent a significant decade of their lives together, experiencing personal milestones, including marriages, breakups, and family issues. Director James Burrows played a pivotal role in fostering this strong connection early on. In his memoir, he recounted a memorable trip to Las Vegas that he organized for the cast before the show premiered, reminding them that this was their last chance at anonymity.
Following the show’s success, Cox, Aniston, and Kudrow maintained their close friendship, often sharing lunch together. Aniston became the godmother to Cox’s daughter, further solidifying their bond. While the pre-show huddle may not take place anymore, the actors frequently make cameo appearances in each other’s projects, continuing their support for one another.
Remembering Matthew Perry and Looking Ahead
The recent passing of Matthew Perry, who died in 2023 due to an accidental drowning linked to the acute effects of ketamine, has left a profound impact on the *Friends* family. Fellow cast member Maggie Wheeler, who portrayed Janice, expressed her belief that Perry’s spirit continues to watch over them, highlighting the deep connections formed during their time together.
Despite the significant residuals earned from the series, the cast remains active in new projects. Cox is set to reprise her role as Gale Weathers in the upcoming *Scream 7*, scheduled for release in 2026. Kudrow has been confirmed for a third and final season of *The Comeback*, while Aniston will return as both executive producer and star in the fourth season of *The Morning Show*.
As fans eagerly anticipate these new ventures, they can binge all ten seasons of *Friends* on HBO Max, reliving the charm and humor of the series while imagining the supportive huddles that set the stage for memorable performances.
