Many storylines were considered for Friends, but one in particular, had it been included, could have changed the show — and the characters’ dynamics — forever. As one of the defining sitcoms of the 1990s, Friends followed Chandler (Matthew Perry), Phoebe (Lisa Kudrow), Monica (Courteney Cox), Joey (Matt LeBlanc), Rachel (Jennifer Aniston), and Ross (David Schwimmer) as they navigated adulthood in New York City.
Its simple premise, paired with sharp humor, helped cement its success and lasting legacy. While certain aspects — like the Ross and Rachel saga — have aged awkwardly, the show generally gave all six characters room to grow. However, this balance could have looked very different if the scrapped storyline had made it to the screen.
Matt LeBlanc and Lisa Kudrow Once Pitched a Secret Joey and Phoebe Romance That Could Have Changed Friends Forever
A major focus of Friends was, of course, the love lives of its main characters. While Ross and Rachel dominated the spotlight, the show also explored the ups and downs of the other friends’ relationships. But one storyline nearly flipped that dynamic entirely.
In a 2015 interview with People, Matt LeBlanc and Lisa Kudrow revealed that they had pitched an idea where Joey and Phoebe were secretly hooking up behind everyone’s back. The plan was ambitious: the show would reshoot past scenes to reflect their hidden romance, with the big reveal staged in a dramatic broom closet moment.
Ultimately, the Friends team rejected the concept. Joey and Phoebe remained close friends, preserving the chemistry and group dynamic fans had come to love — and avoiding a massive shake-up in the show’s romantic storylines.
Joey and Phoebe Hooking Up Would Have Meant Monica and Chandler Never Happened
Friends gave us two iconic couples: Ross and Rachel, and Monica and Chandler, widely considered the show’s best pairing. If Joey and Phoebe had been secretly hooking up, it would have been a predictable twist — but it also could have derailed Monica and Chandler’s storyline.
Their relationship grew naturally over the series, giving fans a satisfying arc of love and maturity. A secret romance between Joey and Phoebe would have dominated the group’s romantic focus, making Monica and Chandler’s development confusing and far less impactful.
Why It’s Good Phoebe and Joey Never Became a Couple
Phoebe and Joey’s chemistry was undeniable, and they even shared a few kisses on Friends. But they’re much better off as best friends. By not pairing them romantically, the writers avoided predictability and allowed both characters to find the right partners.
Phoebe eventually married Mike (Paul Rudd), and Joey settled down with Alex in his spinoff. Forcing a romance between them would have shifted the show’s focus away from friendship — the heart of Friends.
Ultimately, each character got an ending that fit their story. Joey staying single made sense, and Phoebe and Joey remaining friends preserved the dynamic fans loved.
