Jennifer Aniston’s Career: From ‘Friends’ to ‘Murder Mystery 2’

Jennifer Aniston became a global superstar and a cultural icon with her role as Rachel Green on the legendary sitcom ‘Friends’. For a decade, she was a fixture in living rooms around the world, with her character’s journey, relationships, and famous hairstyle defining an entire generation. The show’s unprecedented success made her a household name and one of the most recognizable and beloved actresses in television history, earning her an Emmy and a Golden Globe Award for her performance.

Following the massive success of ‘Friends’, Aniston seamlessly transitioned into a highly successful film career, quickly establishing herself as a reliable box-office draw, particularly in the romantic comedy genre. Over time, she has taken on more diverse and challenging projects, earning critical acclaim for her dramatic performances in independent films and proving her range as an actress. Now a respected producer and star, she continues to lead major projects for both the big screen and streaming services, solidifying her status as an enduring Hollywood power player.

‘Ferris Bueller’ (1990–1991)

One of Jennifer Aniston’s first major roles was in the television adaptation of the hit movie ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’. She played Jeannie Bueller, the uptight and perpetually annoyed older sister of the charming title character. The series followed the ongoing rivalry between the siblings as Jeannie constantly tried to expose Ferris’s elaborate schemes to their parents.

Though the series was short-lived, it was a significant early step for Aniston, giving her valuable experience as a series regular. Her performance captured the same sarcastic energy of the original film character, showcasing her natural comedic timing. It was a foundational role that put her on the path to becoming a television star.

‘The Edge’ (1992–1993)

Aniston was a main cast member on the sketch comedy series ‘The Edge’. The show was known for its sharp, satirical humor and often pushed the boundaries of network television. She played various characters in a wide range of comedic sketches, working alongside a talented ensemble cast that included a young Wayne Knight and Julie Brown.

This role was an important showcase for Aniston’s versatility as a comedic performer. It allowed her to develop different characters and hone the skills that would later make her a sitcom legend. ‘The Edge’ demonstrated her ability to handle fast-paced, edgy comedy beyond the traditional sitcom format.

‘Leprechaun’ (1993)

Jennifer Aniston made her feature film debut in the horror-comedy ‘Leprechaun’. She starred as Tory Reding, a spoiled city girl who moves to a North Dakota farmhouse with her father, only to be terrorized by a malevolent and murderous leprechaun searching for his lost pot of gold.

While Aniston has since humorously expressed embarrassment over the film, it remains a cult classic and a notable starting point for her film career. The role of the “final girl” was her first lead in a feature film, and despite the movie’s campy tone, it provided her with her first taste of the Hollywood filmmaking process.

‘Muddling Through’ (1994)

Right before her career exploded, Aniston starred in the sitcom ‘Muddling Through’. She played Madeline Drego Cooper, the eldest daughter of an ex-convict who returns home from prison to run the family’s motel and restaurant. Her character was a buttoned-up, married woman whose life is turned upside down by her mother’s return.

The series was cancelled after only one season, but it was a crucial moment in Aniston’s career. It was during the airing of this short-lived show that she was cast in ‘Friends’. This role as a more responsible and mature character was a stark contrast to the one that would soon make her world-famous.

‘Friends’ (1994–2004)

Aniston’s career-defining role was as Rachel Green in the globally successful sitcom ‘Friends’. Her character began the series as a spoiled runaway bride and evolved over ten seasons into a successful fashion executive and a single mother. Her on-again, off-again romance with Ross Geller became one of the most iconic storylines in television history.

‘Friends’ was a cultural phenomenon that made Aniston an international superstar. Her performance earned her numerous awards, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe, and her “Rachel” hairstyle became a global trend. The role not only established her as a comedic powerhouse but also as a beloved figure in popular culture.

‘She’s the One’ (1996)

In the romantic comedy ‘She’s the One’, Aniston played Renee Fitzpatrick, the wife of a Wall Street stockbroker who is frustrated by his infidelity and their passionless marriage. Her character navigates feelings of betrayal and insecurity while trying to decide the future of her relationship.

This was one of Aniston’s first major film roles during her time on ‘Friends’, and it allowed her to take on a more dramatic and complex character. The film, directed by Edward Burns, was a well-received independent feature that showcased her ability to handle nuanced emotional material beyond the sitcom format.

‘Dream for an Insomniac’ (1996)

Aniston had a supporting role as Allison in the independent romantic comedy ‘Dream for an Insomniac’. The story centers on a young woman who refuses to fall in love until she meets her dream man. Aniston played the best friend of the main character’s love interest, a grounded actress who provides a realistic counterpoint to the film’s more whimsical romance.

The role was another step in building her film resume while starring on ‘Friends’. It showed her willingness to support smaller, character-driven projects. Her performance was a warm and sensible presence in the film, highlighting her ability to play supportive and relatable characters.

”Til There Was You’ (1997)

In the romantic comedy ”Til There Was You’, Aniston played Debbie, a woman who has a brief and unpleasant encounter with one of the main characters. The film’s story is about two people whose lives are destined to intersect, and Aniston’s character is part of the messy romantic history of the male lead.

Though a smaller supporting role, it placed her in a cast with other notable actors of the era. The film explored themes of fate and romance, and her part, while minor, was a memorable part of the protagonist’s journey. It was another film credit that she added to her resume during her rise to mega-stardom.

‘Picture Perfect’ (1997)

Aniston had her first major leading role in a feature film with the romantic comedy ‘Picture Perfect’. She played Kate Mosley, a struggling advertising executive who fakes an engagement to a man she just met to make herself seem more stable and promotable to her boss. The lie quickly spirals out of control, leading to chaotic and romantic complications.

This film was a crucial test of Aniston’s star power and her ability to carry a movie as the lead. The movie was a commercial success and established her as a bona fide romantic comedy star. It was the first of many films that would solidify her reputation as one of the genre’s most reliable and beloved actresses.

‘The Object of My Affection’ (1998)

In the romantic comedy-drama ‘The Object of My Affection’, Aniston starred as Nina Borowski. She played a social worker who invites her gay best friend to move in with her after a bad breakup. Their close bond is complicated when she becomes pregnant and asks him to raise the child with her, forcing them both to examine the boundaries of love and friendship.

The film was praised for its heartfelt and progressive exploration of relationships, and Aniston’s performance was a key part of its success. She delivered a warm, nuanced, and emotionally intelligent portrayal of a woman creating her own version of a family. The role showcased her depth as a dramatic actress.

‘Office Space’ (1999)

Aniston played Joanna in the satirical comedy ‘Office Space’. Her character is a waitress at a chain restaurant who is fed up with her job and the “flair” she is required to wear. She becomes the love interest of the film’s protagonist, who encourages her to stand up to her overbearing boss.

Though it was not a box office hit upon its initial release, ‘Office Space’ has become a massive cult classic, celebrated for its sharp critique of corporate culture. Aniston’s role as the down-to-earth and relatable Joanna is a beloved part of the film, and her performance perfectly captured the frustrations of working in the service industry.

‘The Iron Giant’ (1999)

Aniston lent her voice to the character of Annie Hughes in the critically acclaimed animated film ‘The Iron Giant’. She voiced the hardworking single mother of the young boy who discovers and befriends a giant alien robot during the Cold War. Her character is a loving and protective parent trying to understand her son’s incredible secret.

‘The Iron Giant’ is widely regarded as one of the greatest animated films ever made. Aniston’s voice work brought warmth, sincerity, and emotional depth to Annie, making her a memorable and relatable maternal figure. The role is a cherished part of her filmography and showcased her talent in voice acting.

‘Rock Star’ (2001)

In the musical drama ‘Rock Star’, Aniston played Emily Poule, the supportive girlfriend and manager of a rock musician, played by Mark Wahlberg, who gets his dream job as the lead singer of his favorite heavy metal band. As her boyfriend gets swept up in the excesses of fame, their relationship is put to the test.

The role allowed Aniston to play a grounded and loyal character amidst the wild world of 1980s rock and roll. She was the emotional anchor of the story, representing the life and love her partner was in danger of losing. The film was another opportunity for her to showcase her dramatic range.

‘The Good Girl’ (2002)

Aniston received widespread critical acclaim for her performance in the independent dark comedy-drama ‘The Good Girl’. She played Justine Last, a bored and lonely discount store clerk in a small Texas town who begins a passionate and dangerous affair with a younger co-worker, which leads to disastrous consequences.

This role was a significant turning point in Aniston’s career, proving her capabilities as a serious dramatic actress. Her raw and transformative performance was a stark departure from her ‘Friends’ persona and earned her some of the best reviews of her career. The film established her credibility in the world of independent cinema.

‘Bruce Almighty’ (2003)

Aniston starred opposite Jim Carrey in the blockbuster comedy ‘Bruce Almighty’. She played Grace Connelly, the kind and patient girlfriend of a television reporter who, after complaining to God, is given divine powers to see if he can do a better job. Her character is the grounding force in his life as he wreaks hilarious havoc with his new abilities.

The film was a massive international box office success, becoming one of the highest-grossing comedies of all time. Aniston’s warm and relatable performance was the perfect counterpoint to Carrey’s manic comedic energy. The role solidified her status as a major movie star who could attract huge audiences worldwide.

‘Along Came Polly’ (2004)

In the romantic comedy ‘Along Came Polly’, Aniston played Polly Prince, a free-spirited and unpredictable woman who re-enters the life of her former middle school classmate, a risk-averse insurance analyst played by Ben Stiller. Her chaotic lifestyle turns his carefully ordered world upside down, forcing him to learn to embrace spontaneity.

Aniston’s performance was praised for its charm and comedic energy. She fully embodied the quirky and adventurous spirit of her character, and her chemistry with Ben Stiller was a highlight of the film. The movie was a box office hit that further cemented her reign as a queen of the romantic comedy genre.

‘Derailed’ (2005)

Aniston starred in the thriller ‘Derailed’, a significant departure from her comedic work. She played Lucinda Harris, a mysterious and alluring business executive who begins an affair with a married advertising professional. Their tryst is violently interrupted by a criminal, pulling them into a dangerous web of blackmail and violence.

The role was a dark and complex one that allowed Aniston to explore a completely different genre. She played a classic femme fatale with hidden motives, and the film’s shocking twists relied on her ability to portray a character who is not what she seems. It was a bold choice that showcased her versatility.

‘Rumor Has It…’ (2005)

In ‘Rumor Has It’, Aniston played Sarah Huttinger, a woman who learns that her family was the inspiration for the novel and film ‘The Graduate’. While attending her sister’s wedding, she begins to unravel a family secret and questions her own identity and romantic future, leading to a series of comedic and complicated situations.

The film had a clever premise that connected it to a cinematic classic, and Aniston’s role as the confused and searching protagonist was central to the story. She effectively portrayed her character’s mix of anxiety and curiosity, leading the audience through the film’s charming and tangled plot.

‘Friends with Money’ (2006)

Aniston led an ensemble cast in the independent dramedy ‘Friends with Money’. She played Olivia, a single woman who quits her teaching job to work as a maid, much to the confusion of her three wealthy and married best friends. The film explores the dynamics of friendship, marriage, and class among the group.

The role earned Aniston strong reviews and was another successful foray into character-driven independent film. Her performance was a poignant and understated portrayal of a woman feeling lost and adrift in her life. The film was a critical success that highlighted her strength in more subtle, dramatic material.

‘The Break-Up’ (2006)

Aniston starred opposite Vince Vaughn in the anti-romantic comedy ‘The Break-Up’. She played Brooke Meyers, one half of a couple who decides to end their relationship but, in a spiteful standoff, both refuse to move out of the upscale condominium they share. The film follows their bitter and often hilarious attempts to drive each other out.

The movie was a huge commercial success, praised for its realistic and often painful portrayal of a relationship’s end. Aniston’s performance was noted for its emotional depth, balancing comedic moments with the genuine heartbreak of the situation. She also served as a producer on the film.

‘Marley & Me’ (2008)

Aniston starred alongside Owen Wilson in the heartwarming and heartbreaking comedy-drama ‘Marley & Me’. She played Jenny Grogan, one half of a couple who adopts a mischievous but lovable Labrador retriever named Marley. The film follows the couple’s life over more than a decade as they navigate marriage, careers, children, and the joys and sorrows of life with “the world’s worst dog.”

The film was a massive box office hit that resonated with audiences around the world. Aniston’s performance was praised for its warmth and authenticity, beautifully capturing the ups and downs of family life. Her portrayal of Jenny’s journey through motherhood and loss was both relatable and deeply moving.

‘Management’ (2008)

In the quirky independent romantic comedy ‘Management’, Aniston played Sue Claussen, a traveling corporate art saleswoman who has a brief encounter with a motel manager. He becomes infatuated with her and impulsively follows her across the country in an attempt to win her over. Aniston also served as an executive producer on the film.

The role of Sue was that of a guarded and career-focused woman who is slowly won over by the persistence of an unlikely admirer. The film was a character-driven story that allowed Aniston to showcase a more cynical and reserved side of her romantic comedy persona.

‘He’s Just Not That Into You’ (2009)

Aniston was part of a large all-star cast in the ensemble romantic comedy ‘He’s Just Not That Into You’. She played Beth Murphy, a woman in a happy, long-term relationship who decides to leave her boyfriend when it becomes clear he has no intention of ever marrying her. Her storyline explored the pressures and expectations surrounding marriage.

The film was a major box office success, and Aniston’s storyline was one of its most emotionally resonant. Her portrayal of a woman choosing to prioritize her own needs over a comfortable but stagnant relationship was praised as mature and relatable.

‘Love Happens’ (2009)

In the romantic drama ‘Love Happens’, Aniston played Eloise Chandler, a creative floral designer who meets a self-help author famous for his book about coping with grief. She begins to fall for him but soon discovers that he has not yet dealt with the tragic loss of his own wife.

Aniston’s character was a quirky and warm-hearted presence who helps the protagonist confront his own pain. She provided the film with its romantic and optimistic core, delivering a charming performance as a woman who helps someone else learn to heal.

‘The Bounty Hunter’ (2010)

Aniston starred with Gerard Butler in the action-comedy ‘The Bounty Hunter’. She played Nicole Hurley, a reporter who has skipped bail and is being pursued by her own ex-husband, who now works as a bounty hunter. Their chase becomes complicated when they both get entangled in a dangerous criminal conspiracy.

The film was a commercial success that blended the romantic comedy and action genres. Aniston’s comedic chemistry with Gerard Butler was a key element of the movie’s appeal, and she participated in numerous action and stunt sequences, showcasing her versatility in a physically demanding role.

‘The Switch’ (2010)

In the romantic comedy ‘The Switch’, Aniston played Kassie Larson, a single woman who decides to have a child on her own through artificial insemination. Unbeknownst to her, her neurotic best friend accidentally spills her chosen donor’s sample and secretly replaces it with his own. She also served as an executive producer on the film.

The movie was a heartfelt and humorous look at modern families and unconventional paths to parenthood. Aniston’s performance as the independent and determined Kassie was praised for its warmth and emotional depth. The role allowed her to explore themes of motherhood and friendship.

‘Just Go with It’ (2011)

Aniston starred alongside Adam Sandler in the hit romantic comedy ‘Just Go with It’. She played Katherine Murphy, a single mother and a plastic surgeon’s loyal office manager who is roped into pretending to be his soon-to-be-divorced wife to help him land the woman of his dreams. The elaborate lie takes them all on a chaotic trip to Hawaii.

The film was a massive box office success, and Aniston’s comedic chemistry with Sandler was widely praised. Her performance was a highlight of the film, showcasing her sharp comedic timing and her ability to be both hilarious and endearingly romantic. It was the beginning of a highly successful on-screen partnership.

‘Horrible Bosses’ (2011)

Aniston played a shockingly different type of character in the dark comedy ‘Horrible Bosses’. She portrayed Dr. Julia Harris, a dentist who is a manipulative and sexually aggressive predator who relentlessly harasses her male dental assistant. Her character is one of the three “horrible bosses” that the protagonists conspire to murder.

The role was a complete departure from her usual “America’s Sweetheart” image, and her raunchy, villainous performance was a critical and audience favorite. She stole every scene she was in and earned widespread praise for her fearless and hilarious comedic turn. The film was a huge box office hit.

‘Wanderlust’ (2012)

In the comedy ‘Wanderlust’, Aniston starred with Paul Rudd as Linda Gergenblatt, one half of a stressed-out Manhattan couple who, after losing their jobs, decide to escape modern society by joining a free-spirited hippie commune. Their experiment with communal living leads to a series of awkward and hilarious situations.

The film was a quirky and often outrageous comedy that allowed Aniston to embrace a more offbeat and physical style of humor. Her performance was praised for its comedic fearlessness, as she fully committed to the film’s R-rated and unconventional tone.

‘We’re the Millers’ (2013)

Aniston starred as Sarah “Rose” O’Reilly in the hit comedy ‘We’re the Millers’. She played a cynical stripper who is hired by her pot-dealer neighbor to pose as his wife as part of a fake family. The “Millers” are assembled to smuggle a massive shipment of marijuana across the Mexican border in an RV without arousing suspicion.

The film was a huge commercial success, and Aniston’s performance was a major highlight. She was praised for her sharp comedic timing and her memorable, impromptu dance scene. The role was another box office smash that demonstrated her incredible talent for R-rated comedy.

‘Life of Crime’ (2013)

In the crime-comedy ‘Life of Crime’, based on a novel by Elmore Leonard, Aniston played Margaret “Mickey” Dawson. She is a wealthy but neglected socialite who is kidnapped by two small-time criminals. The plan goes awry when they discover that her wealthy, cheating husband has no intention of paying the ransom to get her back.

Aniston’s performance was praised in this dark and stylish comedy. She effectively portrayed her character’s transformation from a passive victim into a resourceful woman who begins to turn the tables on both her captors and her husband. She also served as an executive producer on the film.

‘Horrible Bosses 2’ (2014)

Aniston reprised her acclaimed role as the predatory dentist Dr. Julia Harris in the sequel ‘Horrible Bosses 2’. When the main characters find themselves in a criminal predicament, they turn to Julia for advice, pulling them back into her web of manipulation and inappropriate behavior.

Once again, her performance was singled out as a highlight of the film. She fully embraced the character’s outrageous and villainous nature, delivering some of the sequel’s biggest laughs. Her return was eagerly anticipated by audiences, and she did not disappoint.

‘She’s Funny That Way’ (2014)

Aniston was part of an ensemble cast in the screwball comedy ‘She’s Funny That Way’, directed by Peter Bogdanovich. She played Jane Claremont, a therapist with a host of her own personal problems, including a boyfriend who is an alcoholic and a patient who is having an affair with her boyfriend.

The film was a throwback to classic Hollywood comedies, featuring a fast-paced and witty script. Aniston’s role as the short-tempered and exasperated therapist was a key part of the film’s interconnected and chaotic plot, showcasing her ability to handle rapid-fire dialogue.

‘Cake’ (2014)

Aniston delivered one of her most acclaimed dramatic performances in the independent film ‘Cake’. She played Claire Bennett, a woman suffering from chronic pain and severe depression following a personal tragedy. The film follows her as she navigates her debilitating physical and emotional state and forms an unlikely bond with the widower of a woman from her support group.

For the role, Aniston underwent a significant physical transformation, appearing on screen with no makeup and portraying the raw reality of chronic pain. Her performance was a tour de force, earning her Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award nominations for Best Actress. It was a powerful demonstration of her incredible dramatic depth.

‘Mother’s Day’ (2016)

Aniston was part of the large ensemble cast of the romantic comedy ‘Mother’s Day’. She played Sandy Newhouse, a recently divorced mother of two who is struggling to adjust to the fact that her ex-husband has remarried a much younger woman. Her story was one of several that intersected in the days leading up to Mother’s Day.

The film was the final entry in a series of holiday-themed ensemble comedies from director Garry Marshall. Aniston’s storyline was a heartfelt and humorous look at the challenges of co-parenting and blended families. She brought her signature warmth and relatability to the role.

‘Storks’ (2016)

In the animated comedy ‘Storks’, Aniston voiced the character of Sarah Gardner. She is the workaholic mother in a family that is so busy, they don’t have time for their lonely young son. When the son writes a letter to the storks asking for a baby brother, it sets the film’s chaotic adventure in motion.

Aniston’s voice performance perfectly captured the well-intentioned but overly stressed modern parent. The role allowed her to use her comedic talents in the world of family-friendly animation, and she helped bring a relatable and heartfelt emotional core to the film’s story.

‘Office Christmas Party’ (2016)

Aniston played Carol Vanstone in the ensemble comedy ‘Office Christmas Party’. She portrayed the uptight and ruthless interim CEO of a tech company who threatens to shut down her fun-loving brother’s branch. In a last-ditch effort to save their jobs, he and his co-workers decide to throw an epic holiday party to impress a potential client.

Playing the antagonist, Aniston was the stern and disapproving force that the other characters had to overcome. Her role was a crucial part of the film’s comedic conflict, and she excelled at playing the cold-hearted executive, once again showcasing her versatility in comedy.

‘The Yellow Birds’ (2017)

In the war drama ‘The Yellow Birds’, Aniston took on a serious supporting role. She played Maureen Murphy, the grieving mother of a young soldier who is killed in the Iraq War. The film centers on another soldier who must grapple with a secret he promised to keep about what really happened to her son.

The role was another powerful dramatic turn for Aniston, who also served as an executive producer. She delivered a poignant and heartbreaking performance, conveying the deep pain and quiet strength of a mother desperate for answers about her child.

‘Dumplin” (2018)

Aniston starred as Rosie Dickson in the heartfelt comedy-drama ‘Dumplin”. She played a former small-town beauty queen whose plus-size teenage daughter decides to enter her mom’s pageant as a form of protest. The daughter’s act of rebellion inspires a group of other misfits to join, revolutionizing the pageant and their town.

Aniston’s performance was a nuanced portrayal of a mother who loves her daughter but struggles to connect with her. She effectively balanced the character’s flaws with her underlying love, creating a complex and realistic mother-daughter dynamic. The film was praised for its positive message and heartfelt story.

‘Murder Mystery’ (2019)

Aniston reunited with Adam Sandler for the action-comedy ‘Murder Mystery’. She played Audrey Spitz, a hairdresser who finally goes on a long-promised European vacation with her police detective husband. A chance encounter on the plane leads to them being framed for the murder of an elderly billionaire, forcing them to go on the run and solve the crime themselves.

The film was a massive success for Netflix, breaking viewing records for the streaming service. Aniston’s fantastic comedic chemistry with Sandler was once again the highlight, and she excelled in the role of an ordinary woman caught up in an extraordinary, action-packed adventure.

‘Murder Mystery 2’ (2023)

Aniston reprised her role as Audrey Spitz in the sequel, ‘Murder Mystery 2’. Now full-time private detectives, Audrey and her husband find themselves struggling to get their new agency off the ground. They get their big break when their friend, the Maharajah, is kidnapped at his own lavish wedding, plunging them into another international case.

The sequel was another huge hit, proving the continued appeal of Aniston and Sandler’s on-screen partnership. She once again shined in the role, expertly blending comedy with action as her character became even more capable and confident in her new career as a detective.

From her iconic TV roles to her diverse film performances, which Jennifer Aniston character is your favorite?