The Character That Jon Favreau Almost Played On Friends
The "Friends" cast is nothing short of iconic: David Schwimmer, Matthew Perry, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow, Courteney Cox, and Jennifer Aniston are Ross, Chandler, Joey, Phoebe, Monica, and Rachel. But in an alternate universe, every single one of the characters could have been played by other actors. Failed audition stories for the sitcom abound, with everyone from Jon Cryer to Leah Remini being considered for one of the main roles at one point or another. However, while some of the potential casting alternatives came closer than others, Jon Favreau definitely could have had a main role on the sitcom if he had wanted one.
Favreau is best known as the director of movies like "Iron Man" and "Elf," but in the early '90s he was working hard to establish his acting career. He even went on to write, direct, and star in a film about his struggles in Hollywood, the 1996 cult classic "Swingers." Ironically, "Swingers" ended up being the multi-hyphenate star's big break.
But two years before "Swingers" was released, Favreau was offered the role of Chandler on "Friends," as reported by Vulture. It's unclear why he ultimately turned down the role, but when he did, he paved the way for Perry to be cast. And even though there's no denying Favreau has comedic chops (just check him out as Happy in the Marvel universe), Perry is so good as the sarcastic Chandler Bing it's hard to imagine anyone else playing the character.
Jon Favreau played a different Friends role after turning down his chance to play Chandler
Even though he said no to Chandler, Favreau didn't miss out on his chance to be a part of "Friends." In Season 3, he joined the show for a multi-episode guest arc as Pete Becker, an extremely rich man who Monica begins dating after meeting him at the '50s themed diner where she was working at the time. As Pete, the actor got to lean into his quirkier side to play an eccentric millionaire who ultimately dooms his relationship when he decides to pursue a wrestling career.
But before he and Monica split, Favreau appeared in six episodes. During that time, viewers got to watch as Pete wooed Monica, who was initially reluctant to date him because she didn't think she was attracted to him in a romantic way. After a few grand gestures — including leaving her a massive tip and taking her on an impromptu Italian getaway — she eventually realized she did like Pete after all.
Sadly, their relationship didn't last due to Monica's aversion to seeing Pete get pummeled in the ring. And unlike some of the show's other guest stars, Favreau didn't return for more appearances in later seasons after his exit. Still, he got the chance to be a part of "Friends" history without spending 10 years tied to one role — ultimately, it was the perfect compromise, and one that ensured he would go on to become one of Hollywood's most in-demand directors.