Reason behind exit of 'Emily' from TV show 'Friends' finally revealed

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Renowned television director James Burrows opened up on why the character Emily, played by Helen Baxendale, was quickly written out of the popular sitcom 'Friends'.

Emily was introduced in the fourth season and was planned to be Ross Geller's (David Schwimmer) second wife, executing an important storyline.

The character was largely liked by the audience, and her storyline with Ross was an exciting arc.

However, behind-the-scenes issues led to her abrupt termination from the series.

In a new revelation, Burrows highlighted that Baxendale's real-life pregnancy was the primary reason for her early exit. Baxendale was unable to fly to the States from the UK due to her pregnancy, negating plans to make her a regular on the show.

Additionally, Baxendale was not comfortable with the level of fame Friends brought her, resulting in her declining an offer to become a main cast member of the series. Thus, the producers had an alternative plotline ready if she did not want to proceed with the character.

Emily left the show after Ross mistakenly said Rachel's (Jennifer Aniston) name at their wedding.

Her character had a brief reappearance in season 5, seen merely over the phone or as a voiceover since she was in the UK at that time. Her abrupt exit left viewers surprised and intrigued.

James Burrows, considered by many as the Kingmaker of American sitcoms, directed 15 episodes of Friends, contributing significantly to the show's immense success.

Despite Emily's premature departure, Friends continued to attract audiences worldwide, solidifying its position as one of the most popular sitcoms of its time.