Rare ‘Friends’ TV Scripts Found in Bin from 25 Years Ago Headed to Auction

LONDON, ENGLAND – Original scripts from the beloved television sitcom “Friends” have been discovered and are set to be auctioned off soon. The scripts, from episodes that aired in the late ’90s and early 2000s, were found inside a former staff member’s bedside table. The retired 60-year-old man, who wishes to remain anonymous, stumbled upon the scripts while cleaning out his home. Despite not being a big fan of the show, he decided to have them evaluated at Hansons Auctioneers, a UK-based auction house.

The man revealed that he used to work at Fountain Studios in the Wembley neighborhood of London, where two popular “Friends” episodes were filmed. These episodes are notable for moments such as Ross accidentally saying the wrong name during his wedding vows and the budding romance between Chandler and Monica. The retired staff member recalled the busy atmosphere at the studio during those times, although he never actually encountered any of the cast members.

The discovery of these original scripts is particularly significant, as it was reported that the cast and crew were instructed to destroy their copies to prevent the ending from being leaked. However, these two scripts managed to slip through the cracks. The scripts are estimated to sell for a minimum of $650 at the upcoming auction, but the final price could go even higher.

Along with the scripts, the auction items include a standby ticket to a filming at Fountain Studios in 1998, two DVDs of the fourth and fifth seasons, a yellow cab sticker, a keyring, and a “Friends” London hoodie that was allegedly given to the production crew during taping. The auction will take place on January 12, 2024, at Hansons Auctioneers in Royston, England.

Fans of “Friends” will have the opportunity to bid on these unique and rare items both online and in person. For more information on how to participate in the auction and potentially own a piece of television history, interested buyers can visit the website of Hansons Auctioneers.