Hey there, TV lovers! Have you ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes stories of your favorite TV shows? Well, today, we’re diving into the world of guest stars and their almost-missed opportunities. These guest stars almost didn’t make it on to some of the most iconic TV shows we know and love. Let’s take a look at some of the biggest close-calls in TV history.

Matthew Perry almost missed Friends

As it turns out, Matthew Perry was almost never cast as Chandler Bing on Friends. In fact, he was originally committed to starring in a different show called L.A.X 2194. Thankfully, that show never aired and Perry was able to join the cast of Friends. Can you imagine the show without Chandler? We certainly can’t! 😱

A photo of Matthew Perry as Chandler from Friends

Seth Rogen almost missed Freaks and Geeks

Seth Rogen was originally set to play a small role in Freaks and Geeks, but the show’s creator, Judd Apatow, saw something special in him. Apatow expanded Rogen’s role on the show, which ended up being a major stepping stone for Rogen’s career. This just goes to show how important it is to take chances on young talent. 🤩

A photo of Seth Rogen from Freaks and Geeks

Ben Affleck almost missed Friends

In the earlier days of Friends, Ben Affleck was almost cast as Ross instead of David Schwimmer. Schwimmer ended up landing the role, and we can’t imagine anyone else playing Ross. This could’ve been a completely different show if it weren’t for the casting choices that were made. 😮

A photo of David Schwimmer as Ross from Friends

Lisa Kudrow almost missed Friends

Lisa Kudrow was originally slated to play a character on a different show called Frasier. When that didn’t work out, she was offered the role of Phoebe on Friends. We can’t imagine the show without her impeccable voice, seemingly off-kilter sense of humor, and occasional song lyrics! 🎶

A photo of Lisa Kudrow as Phoebe from Friends

John Krasinski almost missed The Office

John Krasinski was almost passed over for the role of Jim on The Office. The show’s casting director had a specific image in mind for the character, but Krasinski’s audition won her over. We can’t imagine anyone else playing the beloved character of Jim Halpert! 😍

A photo of John Krasinski as Jim from The Office

Honorable Mentions

Other actors who almost didn’t make the cut for their respective shows include Jennifer Aniston for Friends, Jane Lynch for Glee, and Sarah Jessica Parker for Sex and the City. These actors were all nearly passed over for their iconic roles, but thankfully, everything worked out in the end! 🙏

A photo collage of the actors mentioned in Honorable Mentions

So, what have we learned? Sometimes, the biggest stars in TV almost didn’t make it onto their iconic shows. Whether it was due to scheduling conflicts, initial character visions, or just pure luck, we can’t help but wonder what these shows would’ve looked like without their key players. These behind-the-scenes stories remind us just how important casting choices can be in the world of TV. Thanks for reading, and happy binge-watching! 📺

A photo of a TV screen showing clips of various TV shows