Friends premiered 23 years ago on this day: Some fun facts you did not know about the show

The first episode of Friends premiered on September 22,1994. All those who think they know all about the show Friends are in for a surprise. Here is a list of some fun facts related to the show.

The show was originally called 'Insomnia cafe' before it was renamed 'Friends Like Us', then to 'Six of Us' to finally being 'Friends'. (Photo | Youtube grab) 

Bruce Willis agreed to be a part of the show for free as he lost a bet to Matthew Perry which was about the success of the movie 'The Whole Nine Yards'. He donated his fee to charity. (Photo | Youtube grab)

Apart from playing the character of Dr. Ross Geller in the series, David Schwimmer also directed 10 episodes of the show. (Photo | AP)

Ellen Degeneres was almost Phoebe. Reportedly, Degeneres was offered the role of Phoebe but she turned it down. (Photo |AP)

The makers of the show wanted Courteney Cox to play the role of Rachel which was finally played by Jennifer Aniston. Cox was later on given the role of Monica. (Photo | AP)

The character of Joey played by Matt Leblanc was not originally meant to be dumb. These changes were brought about by the way Matt Leblanc played him at the audition. (Photo | AP)

Before filming the show and the cast was finalised, the main love story was supposed to be between Joey and Monica played by Matt Leblanc and Courteney Cox respectively. (Photo | Youtube grab)

David Schwimmer plays elder brother of Courteney Cox in the show. In reality, Cox is actually older than Schwimmer. (Photo | Youtube grab)