Top 'FRIENDS' Guest Stars Who Became Big Hollywood Actors

Over its 10-season run, "Friends" welcomed dozens of guest stars. Some were already famous. Others were on the verge of major breakthroughs. Years later, many of those familiar faces went on to become Oscar winners, Emmy champions, and household names.

"Friends" remains one of the most popular primetime sitcoms in television history. The NBC series, which ran from 1994 to 2004, shaped pop culture and launched countless catchphrases. While the six main cast members became global stars, the show also featured an impressive lineup of guest actors who later reached new heights in Hollywood.

Here are some of the most notable names:

Reese Witherspoon

Before winning an Academy Award, Reese Witherspoon appeared in two Season 6 episodes as Jill Green, Rachel’s younger sister. Jill briefly dates Ross, played by David Schwimmer. The relationship creates tension, given Ross’s long history with Rachel. Witherspoon’s comedic timing stood out early in her career.

George Clooney and Noah Wyle

Fresh off their success on "ER," George Clooney and Noah Wyle guest starred in Season 1. They played doctors who treat Monica and Rachel after the friends switch identities so Rachel can use Monica’s insurance. The storyline ends with a double date filled with confusion as the women attempt to maintain the lie.

Winona Ryder

Two-time Oscar nominee Winona Ryder appeared in Season 7 as Melissa Warburton, a college friend of Rachel’s. The storyline centers on a drunken college kiss that Melissa claims not to remember. Rachel feels embarrassed until the two kiss again in front of Phoebe to prove it happened. Melissa later admits she remembered all along and confesses her feelings.

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt appeared in Season 8 as Will Colbert, a former high school classmate of Ross, Monica, and Rachel. He reveals he co-founded the "I Hate Rachel Green Club" with Ross. The episode aired while Pitt and Aniston were married, adding extra buzz.

John Stamos

In Season 9, John Stamos guest starred as a co-worker of Chandler’s who is unknowingly evaluated as a potential sperm donor. Monica and Chandler invite him to dinner and ask pointed questions about his health and family history. The awkward exchange delivers classic sitcom humor.

Julia Roberts and Jean-Claude Van Damme

Julia Roberts appeared in Season 2 as Susie Moss, a former classmate of Chandler’s. Seeking revenge for childhood teasing, she tricks Chandler into wearing her underwear in a restaurant bathroom before leaving him embarrassed.

In the same episode, Jean-Claude Van Damme plays himself. He unintentionally causes tension between Monica and Rachel when both express romantic interest.

Bruce Willis

Bruce Willis appeared in three Season 6 episodes as Paul Stevens, the father of Ross’s college girlfriend. He later dates Rachel, which complicates the group dynamic. Willis won an Emmy Award for his guest role.

Sean Penn

Two-time Oscar winner Sean Penn appeared in Season 8 as Eric, the fiancé of Ursula Buffay. After Phoebe learns her twin sister lied to Eric, she tells him the truth. Eric briefly dates Phoebe but struggles with their identical appearance, since both characters are played by Lisa Kudrow.

"Friends" did more than spotlight six rising actors. It also provided a platform for guest stars who would go on to dominate film and television. Some arrived as established names. Others were building momentum.

Decades after the series finale, these appearances remain memorable. They highlight the show’s cultural reach and its ability to attract top-tier talent. For fans revisiting the series, spotting future award winners in early roles adds another layer of enjoyment to an already iconic sitcom.