The world of Friends has been filled with many exciting guest stars over the years, but one of the most memorable moments came in 1996 when Julia Roberts, already an A-list star, made her appearance.
Julia Roberts guest-starred in The One After the Superbowl: Part 2 (Season 2, Episode 13), which originally aired after the Super Bowl, drawing millions of viewers. Roberts played Susie Moss, a former classmate of Chandler’s who held a hilarious grudge against him for humiliating her back in elementary school. In true Friends fashion, their storyline combined comedy, wit, and a dash of romance—making it an unforgettable episode
. Perry reportedly won her over by charming her with witty jokes and engaging conversations. Rumor has it, Perry had to write Roberts a paper on quantum physics as a part of his quest to convince her to take on the guest-starring role—a request made by Roberts herself. Their off-screen chemistry added an extra spark to their performances, making fans and critics take note. However, as quickly as the relationship started, it ended. While their romance was short-lived, it left a lasting impression on Friends enthusiasts who continue to recall this episode with fondness.
Roberts’ guest appearance on Friends is often hailed as one of the best celebrity cameos of the entire series. Her seamless transition into the world of Central Perk made her performance a memorable one. Decades later, fans still talk about the episode and how perfectly Roberts fit into the sitcom’s playful, humorous world. In hindsight, this episode is also a reminder of the unique guest stars that Friends was able to attract, and how the show became a platform where television and movie stars could collaborate in unexpected and delightful ways.
While the romance between Julia Roberts and Matthew Perry may have been short, their on-screen chemistry during her guest appearance on Friends became the stuff of sitcom legend. Roberts’ portrayal of Susie Moss gave fans an iconic moment, while Perry’s charm, both on and off the set, left a lasting impression. This brief romance may not have stood the test of time, but it certainly added to the magic of Friends—a show where anything could happen, even a fleeting love story between two Hollywood stars.
