The main character in <i>Friends</i> has finally been revealed (2024)

We all have a favourite Friends character, whether you're a self-confessed fan of Chandler's dad jokes or still seek inspiration from Rachel's '90s wardrobe. But, turns out it wasn't quite the equal-ensemble cast you might think it was.

Data scientist Yashu Seth decided to determine which of the six characters is the real star of the show by analysing every script from all 10 seasons.

According to the findings, Ross and Rachel boasted the most lines, having learned a grand total of 9,000 each. Phoebe on the other hand, came in last place with the least number of speaking opportunities.

Ross and Rachel shared a similar number of lines throughout the show’s 10 seasons

With regards to individual screen appearances, the study discovered that Ross was given the most out of the cast. However, it was Rachel who stole the spotlight in terms of episode title mentions (E.g. The One Where Rachel's Sister Baby-sits) with three more than Ross.

So, which of the two characters can be named the lead?

"It is really close between Ross and Rachel. But, Ross beats Rachel by a significant margin in the individual scene appearances,"Seth concluded. "Besides, there was very little difference between them in the other parameters. Hence, I will have to give it to Ross."

So, there you have it.