When observing the immensely popular sitcom Friends, it is quite clear that it was able to succeed because of the close bonds between the large group. Although they would go on to experience a lot of conflict with one another, they always found a way to rise above it and move forward even stronger. However, one could argue that it would have been even better, had they added a seventh friend to the mix.
Given the fact that there were a plethora of outstanding recurring characters and guest stars, the potential was always present. So many characters had the chance to had bigger storylines, especially when noting that they were well-received by audience members.
Although the final product of this series was stupendous, there will forever be looming questions when it comes to this said topic.
Gunther
Gunther was seen throughout the entirety of this series, but never was truly a part of the gang. He certainly was a follower of their adventures though, as he was quite intrigued by them when they were at the coffee shop.
Given the fact that he went through a lot with them, even from a distance, Gunther absolutely deserved to be the seventh friend. Although, the one major conflict that could have come from this was the fact that he loved Rachel, much like Ross.
Janice
Janice was one of the most beloved side characters from fans of this show. Although her relationships with Chandler would never pan out, it would have been nice to see her stay on the show, as she was nothing short of hysterical.
She definitely had the potential to get along with somebody like Phoebe well, as she also was quite strange in nature. She was another character who kept coming back, so in a way, she was kind of like an extra friend to the group.
Mike
Mike was a late addition to the series, but he would prove to be excellent. His relationship and eventual marriage to Phoebe was beloved by the audience. However, what also should be noted was the fact that he connected with the rest of the group quite easily.
This was because he was simply a very easygoing character. He was a character who truly meshed well with the rest of the main cast, which resulted in him being the seventh friend at the end of the series for sure.
Carol
Although she broke Ross' heart, in time, it could have made sense for Carol to become friends with the group. This was due to the fact that she was the mother of Ross' child, Ben. Therefore, having her around with a more prominent role would have been acceptable.
As the series progressed, Ross seemed to also forgive her actions, as she was simply unhappy with their past dynamic. Overall, her pretty tame personality could have been an intriguing addition to the group of friends.
Eddie
Eddie becoming the seventh friend may have been a stretch, because well, he was absolutely insane. It was apparent that Chandler did not like his company while they were roommates, as he had a wicked temper and was far too unstable to be trusted.
However, keeping him on the series for a longer period of time would have been amazing, as he was hysterical. The group was not necessarily against having eccentric friends either, so maybe it could have worked out if he became a little more stable.
Richard
The relationship between Richard and Monica may have failed, but at the end of the day, he could have been a strong addition to the friend group. Keep in mind, they were all young and could have used a wise figure to help them through their hard life moments.
Richard certainly was a character that could have had a larger story than just being Monica's partner. His character was quite intriguing to follow. If he had been given the chance to lead the group, it could have been excellent.
Will
Given the fact that Will was Ross' best friend in high school, it would have made sense for him to carry over as a friend for the rest of the group. Yet, for that to have occurred, he would have needed to drop his hatred for Rachel.
This would have been quite the challenge for him, of course. However, Will was hilarious in his lone episode in the series, so it would have been cool to see him return in at least a recurring role.
Dina
Dina was a young character who would have benefitted from guidance. Thus, it would have been great for her story if she had become the seventh friend of the group. Joey and the gang could have been good influences on her.
It would have been great to see how she would have handled being a mother too. It also should be noted that Joey was her closest relative, so seeing her around more with the group absolutely would have been understandable.
Ben
Ben should have been shown far more, as he was Ross' child. Ben would go on to disappear from the series in its later years. Yet, it would have been great to see him utilized in a different role, especially when seeing as how he would go on to have a half-sister.
Having a kid around the series more also could have been a growing experience for not only Ross but the rest of the group as well. This would have been fantastic for all of them. Also, the high amount of comedy that could have come from him would have been awesome.
Frank
Frank absolutely would have been fun to watch in a larger role, as he was hilarious in his limited time on the series. Having him around more would have been great for Phoebe too, as he could have been the lone family member that was always present in her life.
Fans were able to see his story a bit more than most though, as the series did follow his love life and allowed him to have a family. Given the fact that Phoebe also had his children, their connection absolutely should have been shown more as the series went on.