How did NBC secure Jennifer Aniston for 'Friends'?

NBC executives actively worked to remove Jennifer Aniston's contractual obligation to a CBS comedy, 'Muddling Through,' to ensure her full availability for 'Friends'.

What was Jennifer Aniston's other show before 'Friends'?

Before 'Friends,' Jennifer Aniston was contracted for a CBS comedy called 'Muddling Through'.

What is the practice of 'second position' in casting?

Second position refers to hiring actors who are already cast in other on-air shows, typically for pilot episodes.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / NBC Sabotaged CBS to Get Jennifer Aniston

NBC Sabotaged CBS to Get Jennifer Aniston

31 Jan

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Summary

NBC executives schemed to remove Aniston from a CBS show.
Aniston was contracted for a CBS comedy, 'Muddling Through.'
NBC strategically blocked Aniston's availability for 'Friends.'

NBC Sabotaged CBS to Get Jennifer Aniston

NBC executives orchestrated a plan to secure Jennifer Aniston for the iconic role of Rachel Green on "Friends." At the time, Aniston was contracted for a CBS comedy series titled "Muddling Through," which had a six-episode commitment.

Recognizing Aniston's crucial talent for "Friends," NBC decision-makers intervened. The network's scheduling strategist, Preston Beckman, was tasked with ensuring Aniston's availability. This involved actively undermining her role on the CBS show, which was reportedly scheduled for Saturday nights.

This practice, known as "second position," usually applies to pilot episodes. However, NBC was confident in "Friends" potential and chose to eliminate the scheduling conflict entirely by derailing Aniston's CBS commitment.

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