Best Actors Who Made Guest Appearances on ‘Friends’

‘Friends’ is one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time, running for ten seasons from 1994 to 2004. Its mix of humor, heart, and relatable characters drew millions of viewers, but the show’s star-studded guest appearances added extra excitement.

Over the years, A-list actors, rising stars, and comedy legends popped up in memorable roles, often stealing the show. From dramatic performances to hilarious cameos, here are the best actors who made guest appearances on ‘Friends’, ranked from great to greatest.

Jennifer Coolidge

Jennifer Coolidge played Amanda Buffamonteezi in ‘The One with Ross’s Tan’ (2003). She was Monica and Phoebe’s annoying former friend with a fake British accent. Her over-the-top bragging and awkward dance for Chandler made her a standout, even if her character was hard to like.
Coolidge’s comedic timing was perfect, showcasing her knack for playing bold, quirky roles. Her performance was a preview of the hilarity she’d later bring to shows like ‘The White Lotus’. Fans still laugh at her character’s grating personality and ridiculous antics.

Ellen Pompeo

Ellen Pompeo appeared as Missy Goldberg in ‘The One Where Chandler Can’t Cry’ (2003). She played a college friend who both Ross and Chandler had crushes on, sparking a funny rivalry and a shocking revelation about Chandler’s past.
Before becoming Dr. Meredith Grey on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, Pompeo showed her comedic chops in this brief but memorable role. Her chemistry with the main cast made the episode’s flashback scenes especially entertaining.

Steve Zahn

Steve Zahn played Duncan, Phoebe’s husband, in ‘The One with Phoebe’s Husband’ (1995). His character was a gay Canadian ice skater who married Phoebe for a green card but later revealed he was straight and wanted a divorce.
Zahn’s quirky performance brought depth to Phoebe’s wild backstory. His charm and humor made the episode’s twist both funny and heartfelt, proving his versatility as an actor.

Alec Baldwin

Alec Baldwin played Parker in ‘The One in Massapequa’ (2002). His character was Phoebe’s overly enthusiastic boyfriend, whose constant positivity annoyed everyone, including her.
Baldwin’s exaggerated optimism was comedy gold, making Parker both irritating and unforgettable. His ability to lean into the character’s absurdity showed why he’s a sitcom legend, later shining on ’30 Rock’.

Freddie Prinze Jr.

Freddie Prinze Jr. starred as Sandy, the male nanny, in ‘The One with the Male Nanny’ (2002). Ross struggled with Sandy’s job as a man, but his warmth and wisdom won over Joey and Rachel.
Prinze Jr. brought heart and humor to the role, making Sandy likable despite Ross’s doubts. His sensitive yet funny performance stood out, showing he could handle comedy as well as his teen movie roles.

Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder played Melissa Warburton in ‘The One with Rachel’s Big Kiss’ (2001). She was Rachel’s college friend who denied a past kiss until Rachel kissed her again, leading to a funny confession of love.
Ryder’s bubbly yet confused performance was a departure from her usual dramatic roles. Her comedic timing and chemistry with Jennifer Aniston made the episode a fan favorite.

Sean Penn

Sean Penn appeared as Eric in ‘The One with the Halloween Party’ and ‘The One with the Stain’ (2001). He played Ursula’s fiancé, who falls for Phoebe after learning about Ursula’s lies.
Penn’s subtle humor and charm matched Phoebe’s quirky energy perfectly. His ability to play a straight man with a comedic edge showed a lighter side to the usually serious actor.

Jason Alexander

Jason Alexander played Earl in ‘The One Where Rosita Dies’ (2001). As a depressed office worker Phoebe tries to save from suicide, his dark humor and deadpan delivery were hilarious.
Known for ‘Seinfeld’, Alexander brought a similar neurotic energy to Earl. His brief but impactful performance made the episode both funny and oddly touching.

Danny DeVito

Danny DeVito played Roy, a stripper, in ‘The One Where the Stripper Cries’ (2004). Hired for Phoebe’s bachelorette party, his emotional breakdown mid-performance turned awkward into unforgettable.
DeVito’s mix of comedy and pathos was perfect for the role. His over-the-top yet heartfelt striptease remains one of the show’s most iconic guest moments.

Hugh Laurie

Hugh Laurie appeared as the Gentleman on the Plane in ‘The One with Ross’s Wedding: Part 2’ (1998). He hilariously called out Rachel for trying to stop Ross’s wedding, bluntly telling her it was a bad idea.
Laurie’s dry wit and sharp delivery made his brief role unforgettable. His line, “It seems to be perfectly clear that you were on a break,” is still quoted by fans today.

Anna Faris

Anna Faris played Erica in ‘The One with the Birth Mother’ and four other episodes (2004). She was the naive pregnant woman who chose Monica and Chandler to adopt her twins.
Faris’s wholesome yet dim-witted performance brought warmth to the final season. Her comedic timing and charm made Erica a standout in the show’s emotional conclusion.

George Clooney and Noah Wyle

George Clooney and Noah Wyle played doctors in ‘The One with Two Parts: Part 2’ (1995). Their double-date with Monica and Rachel was chaotic due to the girls’ insurance fraud scheme.
As ‘ER’ stars, their chemistry and charm made the episode a hit. The mix of hospital drama and sitcom humor showcased their comedic skills early in their careers.

Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon played Jill Green, Rachel’s spoiled sister, in ‘The One with Rachel’s Sister’ and ‘The One Where Chandler Can’t Cry’ (2000). Her attempts to seduce Ross to spite Rachel caused drama.
Witherspoon’s sharp comedic timing and bratty charm made Jill a perfect foil for Rachel. Her performance laid the groundwork for her iconic role in ‘Legally Blonde’.

Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts played Susie Moss in ‘The One After the Superbowl: Part 2’ (1996). She sought revenge on Chandler for a childhood prank, leaving him in a bathroom wearing only her underwear.
Roberts’s blend of charm and cunning made the episode a classic. Her star power and comedic delivery in this post-Super Bowl slot cemented her as a standout guest.

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt topped the list as Will Colbert in ‘The One with the Rumor’ (2001). As Ross’s high school friend, he revealed their “I Hate Rachel Green” club, spilling old secrets with venomous humor.
Pitt’s comedic timing and real-life chemistry with then-wife Jennifer Aniston made the Thanksgiving episode iconic. His ability to play both funny and intense made him the best guest star.

What’s your favorite ‘Friends’ guest star moment? Share your thoughts in the comments!