If you’re a die-hard Friends fan, then you’ve got to know everything about the star who brought Rachel Green to life! Here’s a fun and fascinating list of facts about Jennifer Aniston that you probably didn’t know!
Jennifer Aniston, born on February 11, 1969, in sunny Los Angeles, has undoubtedly become the most iconic “Friend” of them all. Even after her breakout role in Friends, she’s remained one of the biggest names in Hollywood. So, let’s dive into some lesser-known but super cool facts about her!
From her debut roles to her off-screen friendships, you’re about to get the inside scoop on Jennifer like never before. Plus, if you’re a real Friends fan, we’ve got some fun quizzes for you—find out what percent Rachel Green you are or which Friends character would be your BFF!
1. Acting runs in her blood!
Did you know Jennifer’s acting chops come from her parents? Her mom, Nancy Dow, acted in popular ’60s shows like The Beverly Hillbillies and The Wild Wild West. Her dad, John Aniston, was a longtime star on the soap opera Days of Our Lives—talk about family talent! Ironically, her parents weren’t too keen on Jennifer watching TV and even discouraged her from getting into showbiz. But look how that turned out!
2. She worked some pretty ‘meh’ jobs before stardom
Before hitting it big, Jennifer hustled like the rest of us. She started doing theater at 11, but her early 20s weren’t all glitz and glam. She worked as a bike messenger (and once crashed into an open car door!), a telemarketer, and even a waitress—yep, just like Rachel!
3. Her first movie? A wild one!
Jennifer’s major film debut was in the 1993 comedy-horror Leprechaun, which, yes, is about a killer leprechaun. Before that, she was an uncredited extra in Mac and Me, a super low-budget E.T. knockoff. Gotta start somewhere, right?
4. She could’ve been on Saturday Night Live?
Saturday Night Live* is a launchpad for top comedic talent, and Jennifer had the chance to join the ranks. She was offered a role but turned it down to star in Friends—a huge risk at the time, but it paid off big time!
5. She almost wasn’t Rachel Green!
Believe it or not, Jennifer was initially asked to audition for Monica! And get this—Courtney Cox, who we all know as Monica, was considered for Rachel. Imagine how different Friends would’ve been!
6. She wasn’t a fan of “The Rachel” haircut
The iconic layered look that took the world by storm? Jennifer wasn’t feeling it! She famously hated the haircut and said she struggled to style it on her own, relying on hairstylist Chris McMillan to keep it looking fresh.
7. She’s a Guinness World Record holder
When Jennifer finally joined Instagram in 2019, she broke the internet—literally! Her account reached 1 million followers in just 5 hours and 16 minutes, setting a world record.
8. Romcom royalty
Outside of Friends, Jennifer is basically the queen of romantic comedies. Think Along Came Polly, The Break-Up, Just Go With It, He’s Just Not That Into You, and so many more. If it’s a feel-good romcom, chances are, she’s in it.
9. She’s one of the highest-paid actresses ever
Since the ’90s, Jennifer has consistently been one of Hollywood’s top-paid actresses. In 2018, she ranked #3 on the list, and in 2023, she was still holding strong at #8! Fun fact: Scarlett Johansson took the top spot in both of those years.
10. She’s got a big heart for charity
Jennifer is as generous as she is talented. She’s involved with charities like Doctors Without Borders, Stand Up To Cancer, and Feeding America, to name a few. She’s also supported St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and has donated to disaster relief efforts for hurricanes and earthquakes.
11. She’s got a star on the Walk of Fame
Jennifer’s earned her place in Hollywood history with her very own star on the Walk of Fame. She shares this honor with her fellow Friends star, Courtney Cox.
12. Her passion for interior design
If acting wasn’t her thing, Jennifer could’ve totally made it as an interior designer! She revealed during a house tour with Architectural Digest that she’s obsessed with home design, and her own L.A. home is proof of that stylish touch.
13. She’s got her own fragrance line
Jennifer’s talents don’t stop at acting. She’s also created her own perfume line, launching her first fragrance in 2010. Since then, she’s released nine perfumes under her own brand!
So, how many of these did you know? Jennifer Aniston is more than just an actress—she’s a Guinness record holder, romcom icon, and a true friend both on and off the screen!
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