If ‘Friends’ Premiered in 2025: Who Would Play the Iconic Six?

Picture this: it’s 2025, and the beloved sitcom ‘Friends’ is hitting screens for the first time. The story of six pals navigating life, love, and laughs in New York City still feels fresh, but who would bring these iconic characters to life today? Casting for a modern take would need actors who can capture the charm, humor, and heart of the original crew while fitting the vibe of today’s audience.

I’ve thought about which rising stars could step into the shoes of Rachel, Ross, Monica, Chandler, Phoebe, and Joey. Using their past roles and unique talents, I’ve matched each actor to a character, keeping the ensemble feel that made ‘Friends’ so special. Here’s my take on who could shine in a 2025 version of the show.

Sydney Sweeney – Rachel Green

Sydney Sweeney would nail the role of Rachel Green, the stylish runaway bride who grows into a confident career woman. Her ability to balance charm and vulnerability makes her a perfect fit. In ‘Euphoria’, Sweeney shows she can handle complex emotions, much like Rachel’s journey from spoiled rich girl to independent fashionista. Her comedic timing in interviews and smaller roles proves she can deliver Rachel’s quick wit.

Sweeney’s natural charisma would light up scenes at Central Perk, and her knack for playing relatable yet flawed characters would make Rachel’s arc feel fresh. She’d bring a modern edge to the iconic haircut and make Rachel’s romantic ups and downs with Ross totally binge-worthy. Her star power is on the rise, and she’d carry Rachel’s heart with ease.

Noah Centineo – Ross Geller

Noah Centineo as Ross Geller would bring a lovable, awkward energy to the paleontologist with a knack for bad luck in love. Known for his roles in ‘To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before’, Centineo has the boy-next-door charm that makes Ross so endearing. His ability to play heartfelt, slightly nerdy characters fits Ross’s dorky yet passionate vibe.

Centineo’s chemistry with co-stars would make Ross’s on-again, off-again romance with Rachel pop. He can handle the emotional depth of Ross’s divorces and fatherhood while landing the character’s goofy humor, like whining about sandwiches. His youthful energy would keep Ross relatable for a new generation, making those dinosaur rants oddly charming.

Ayo Edebiri – Monica Geller

Ayo Edebiri would be a stellar Monica Geller, the organized chef with a competitive streak. Her standout performance in ‘The Bear’ shows she can play driven, perfectionist characters with warmth and humor. Edebiri’s sharp comedic delivery would make Monica’s obsessive cleaning and hosting quirks hilarious yet heartfelt.

She’d bring a fresh take to Monica’s relationships, especially her slow-burn romance with Chandler. Edebiri’s ability to blend intensity with vulnerability would make Monica’s moments of insecurity shine. Her natural chemistry with ensemble casts would ensure the group dynamic feels tight-knit, just like the original. Monica’s purple apartment would feel like home with Edebiri in charge.

Jacob Elordi – Chandler Bing

Jacob Elordi as Chandler Bing would bring the sarcastic, commitment-phobic jokester to life with a modern twist. His roles in ‘Euphoria’ and ‘The Kissing Booth’ show he can handle brooding intensity and sly humor, perfect for Chandler’s quippy one-liners. Elordi’s tall, charming presence would make Chandler’s awkward charm stand out.

Elordi’s ability to play layered characters would add depth to Chandler’s fear of commitment and emotional growth. His chemistry with Ayo Edebiri as Monica would spark, making their romance a fan favorite. He’d nail Chandler’s sarcastic jabs while keeping the character’s heart intact, ensuring every ‘Could I be more…’ line lands.

Meghann Fahy – Phoebe Buffay

Meghann Fahy would capture Phoebe Buffay’s quirky, free-spirited energy with ease. Her role in ‘The White Lotus’ shows she can play eccentric characters with warmth and depth, much like Phoebe’s offbeat charm. Fahy’s musical background would make Phoebe’s ‘Smelly Cat’ performances a highlight, blending humor with heart.

Fahy’s ability to balance comedy and sincerity would shine in Phoebe’s wild stories and emotional moments, like her bond with her brother or romance with Mike. She’d bring a modern, grounded vibe to Phoebe’s bohemian style, making her stand out in the group. Fahy’s infectious energy would keep Phoebe as lovable as ever.

Glen Powell – Joey Tribbiani

Glen Powell as Joey Tribbiani would steal the show as the lovable, dim-witted actor with a heart of gold. His charm in ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ and ‘Anyone But You’ proves he can play charismatic, slightly goofy guys, perfect for Joey’s ‘How you doin’?’ swagger. Powell’s comedic timing would make Joey’s acting struggles hilarious.

Powell’s natural warmth would make Joey’s loyalty to his friends shine, especially in scenes with Chandler. He’d bring a fresh take to Joey’s womanizing ways, keeping them playful but not dated. His rising star status fits Joey’s dreams of fame, and he’d make every pizza-loving moment iconic.

Who would you cast as the six friends in a 2025 ‘Friends’ reboot? Drop your dream lineup in the comments!