The untold plots that almost changed 'F.R.I.E.N.D.S' forever
What's the story
The iconic television show F.R.I.E.N.D.S kept audiences worldwide laughing with its humor and relatable characters. But not every storyline made it to the screen. Some arcs were considered too sensitive or ahead of their time, so they were left out of the final cut. These lost stories give us a peek at what could have been, deepening fans's understanding of the show's creative process and the cultural sensitivities of its time.
#1
Ross's career dilemma
One storyline that got left on the cutting room floor was Ross confronted with a major career dilemma. The plotline tackled ethical issues in academia, which was considered too complicated for a sitcom format back then. This arc would have delved into Ross's moral compass and given his character depth beyond just his romantic entanglements.
#2
Monica's financial struggles
Monica's journey as a chef was not all smooth sailing. A proposed storyline focused on her financial struggles while trying to make a name for herself in New York City. This arc aimed to highlight the challenges faced by young professionals, but was ultimately deemed too serious for the show's comedic tone.
#3
Chandler's family dynamics
Chandler's family dynamics were ready to be explored deeper, his relationship with his parents. The writers wished to delve into acceptance and reconciliation, hoping to add more layers to Chandler's character. However, these sensitive plots were eventually put on the back burner, the decision being to keep the narrative of the show light and humorous. This left fans with a less complex understanding of Chandler's family background.
#4
Phoebe's past revisited
Phoebe Buffay's mysterious past gave us so many opportunities for interesting storylines that never came to light. One such arc was to explore her childhood experiences in greater detail, explaining how they shaped her quirky personality. Fears of balancing humor with serious themes led this storyline to be omitted from production plans.