Lisa Kudrow reveals Friends cast earns $20 million annually in residual payments

9 articles · Updated · The Daily Beast · Apr 28

Kudrow, now 62, disclosed that each main cast member—including Jennifer Aniston and Matthew Perry—continues to receive these payments over 20 years after the show ended in 2004.
She reflected on the demanding on-set environment, mentioning strict writers and referencing a lawsuit by assistant Amaani Lyle over alleged inappropriate remarks, which Lyle lost.
Kudrow also discussed Matthew Perry’s 2023 death and how it led her to rewatch Friends, deepening her appreciation for the show and its lasting impact on their careers.

Do massive residual payments justify the 'brutal' on-set environment Lisa Kudrow described?

What is the true legacy of 'Friends': actor solidarity or extreme industry inequality?

How did the 'Friends' cast secure a deal now impossible for today's TV stars?

Could the 'creative atmosphere' defense from the 'Friends' lawsuit protect writers today?

How will new Hollywood contracts address AI when the 'Friends' model is already history?