While Friends gave most of its main characters a satisfying romantic ending, there were several relationships over the sitcom’s ten-year run that fans wished had gone the distance. By the series finale, Ross (David Schwimmer) and Rachel (Jennifer Aniston) rekindled their romance, Monica (Courteney Cox) and Chandler (Matthew Perry) moved to the suburbs with their twins, and Phoebe (Lisa Kudrow) married Mike Hannigan (Paul Rudd). Only Joey (Matt LeBlanc) remained single.
Although these conclusions were heartwarming, several other romances during the show’s run had the potential to be equally meaningful — and maybe even more lasting.
1. Joey Tribbiani & Rachel Green
Joey and Rachel shared a close friendship that eventually evolved into romantic tension. During Season 8, Joey realized he had feelings for Rachel while they were living together during her pregnancy with Ross’ baby. Though he confessed his love, Rachel initially turned him down. Their dynamic continued to fluctuate over Seasons 9 and 10, including moments when Rachel developed feelings for Joey, and they briefly attempted a romantic relationship.
Despite their chemistry and deep understanding of each other, the show ultimately kept Ross and Rachel together. However, many fans argue that Rachel and Joey were soulmates — their friendship-turned-romance was mature, stable, and filled with genuine affection, and Joey’s love for both Rachel and her daughter, Emma, made him the perfect partner.
2. Chandler Bing & Janice Litman-Goralnik
Janice (Maggie Wheeler) was the recurring ex whose distinctive laugh and persistent presence drove Chandler crazy. Despite the humor in their repeated breakups, Janice was the first woman Chandler truly loved, and she cared for him deeply. Over the years, they broke up and reunited several times, including during pivotal moments like New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, and even a brief return while Janice was divorced.
Though Chandler ultimately married Monica, it’s easy to imagine a world where Janice was the one. Their relationship had love, humor, and genuine connection — and fans often speculate that Chandler might have been happier if he had embraced it.
3. Phoebe Buffay & David
David (Hank Azaria), the shy, brilliant scientist, was Phoebe’s first real love interest. He adored her from the beginning and was ready to commit fully, but his work in Minsk forced them apart. He returned twice, even proposing to Phoebe, only for her to choose Mike Hannigan.
Though Phoebe and Mike were a wonderful couple, David’s devotion and steadiness could have provided Phoebe with a lifelong partner who appreciated her quirks and treated her like royalty. Many fans feel Phoebe and David were a perfect match.
4. Monica Geller & Pete Becker
Pete (Jon Favreau) was the wealthy entrepreneur who swept Monica off her feet. Their romance showed real promise, but Pete’s obsession with becoming an Ultimate Fighting Champion ended the relationship. Monica left him because she couldn’t bear to see him get hurt.
Before that storyline interfered, Monica and Pete had a genuinely happy connection. Fans often lament that external plot twists ended their budding romance prematurely, as they had the potential for a lasting, fulfilling relationship.
5. Monica Geller & Richard Burke
Richard (Tom Selleck) was Monica’s older boyfriend who captured her heart in Season 2. They loved each other deeply, but their breakup occurred because Richard didn’t want more children — a non-negotiable for Monica. Though he reappeared in Season 6 expressing willingness to marry and have kids, Monica had already found happiness with Chandler.
Despite the age difference, Monica and Richard shared a deep emotional bond. Fans often wonder what could have happened if circumstances had allowed them to explore their love further — a relationship full of maturity, mutual respect, and lasting affection.
