Frank Grillo Reveals He Almost Played Joey in ‘Friends’
UPDATE: In a shocking revelation, actor Frank Grillo has disclosed that he nearly landed the iconic role of Joey Tribbiani on the beloved sitcom Friends. This unexpected audition story emerged during his recent appearance on the podcast Lights, Camera, Barstool, highlighting a pivotal moment that could have altered the landscape of television comedy.
Grillo, who is now known for his roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and various action films, recounted how, over three decades ago, he was spotted by a casting agent while accompanying a friend to an audition. “I did a read for the role, and they called me back again,” Grillo said. “I didn’t have an agent or anything. They called me back a third time, and then I went to do what’s called a test — and I tested for it.”
At that time, Grillo was confident he would secure the role, stating, “At that point, I go, ‘This is easy. I’m gonna be an actor.’” However, the role ultimately went to Matt LeBlanc, who became synonymous with the character. Despite missing out on one of television’s most recognizable parts, Grillo credits this experience as a defining moment that motivated him to pursue acting more seriously.
Fast forward to today, Grillo has carved out an impressive career with notable roles in series like Prison Break and films including The Purge. He has recently been cast in the DC Universe, portraying Rick Flag Sr. in James Gunn’s projects, including the animated series Creature Commandos and Peacemaker Season 2. Grillo described this role as a significant part of his journey, adding emotional depth as he plays a father avenging his son’s death.
Though he reflects on the missed opportunity with a sense of nostalgia, Grillo is gracious about the outcome. He acknowledged that Matt LeBlanc was undoubtedly the “perfect” choice for Joey Tribbiani, emphasizing the importance of the casting decision in shaping the show’s success.
Friends, which aired from 1994 to 2004, continues to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide and remains available for streaming on HBO Max. As this casting story resurfaces, fans are reminded of the unique paths actors take and how close calls can lead to different yet successful journeys in the entertainment industry.
Stay tuned for more developments on this story as Grillo continues to share insights into his remarkable career trajectory.
