Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow sat down for Variety’s Actors on Actors series to reminisce about their time on the iconic sitcom Friends.. They highlighted the show’s memorable guest stars, notably Brad Pitt, who appeared as Will Colbert in season eight while still married to Aniston. The pair also disclosed that the original cast continues to earn roughly $20 million annually from residuals, a windfall that began when the show’s per‑episode pay rose from $22,500 in season one to $1 million each in the final two seasons.

Brad Pitt’s Guest Role: From Hollywood Star to “Friends” Fan

According to Variety, Brad Pitt brought a distinct comedic timing to his role as Will Colbert, a character who competes with Ross for a job at the museum. lisa Kudrow praised his performance, noting that he “knew how to play the part” and that his presence added a fresh dynamic to the ensemble. Aniston added that movie stars often feel nervous when stepping into the sitcom’s fast‑paced environment, a sentiment she confirmed with an anecdote about advising a guest star to "talk louder" to match the show’s format.

Residuals That Keep the Cast Richer Than Ever

Variety reports that the cast’s residual earnings have grown substantially since the series finale in 2004. the original per‑episode salary climbed from $22,500 in the first season to $1 million each in the final two seasons. today, the ensemble still earns around $20 million a year in residuals, a figure that underscores the long‑term profitability of the show’s syndication deals and streaming rights.

Personal Lives After the Show: Aniston, Pitt, and New Relationships

Since their high‑profile marriage and subsequent divorce, both Aniston and Pitt have moved on. Brad Pitt is now in a relationship with Ines de Ramon, while Aniston has been dating wellness expert Jim Curtis. The reunion, which took place years after their split, highlighted how the two former spouses have maintained a professional rapport and mutual respect in front of the camera.

Who Else Made an Impact on the Set?

While the conversation centered on Pitt, Aniston and Kudrow also touched on other guest stars who left a lasting impression. They recalled the nervousness that often accompanies big‑name actors when they first appear on the show, a dynamic that the cast navigated with humor and professionalism. The discussion, as reported by Variety, illustrates how the show’s collaborative atmosphere helped integrate diverse talents into its iconic formula.

Unanswered Questions About the Cast’s Future Earnings

Although the cast’s residuals are well documented, it remains unclear how future streaming deals or potential revivals might affect their earnings. Additionally, the exact breakdown of residuals among the six main actors has not been disclosed, leaving fans to speculate about the distribution of the $20 million yearly payout. Finally, the impact of new media platforms on the long‑term profitability of classic sitcoms like Friends is still a topic of debate among industry insiders.