There’s someone missing from the Friends reunion line-up and fans are furious

‘Friends’ fans can finally rejoice! Last Thursday, HBO Max confirmed the release date for the upcoming reunion, in addition to a teaser trailer. While fans were thrilled to have an official glimpse of the reunion special, there was a bit of confusion surrounding the list of guest stars - particularly one who was absent.

In addition to David Beckham, James Corden and Malala Yousafzai, supporting cast members including James Michael Tyler, Maggie Wheeler and Elliott Gould will be present during the unscripted special. But one celebrity not returning is Paul Rudd.

Fans of the beloved series will remember Rudd joining the series in its ninth season as Mike Hannigan - a potential love interest for Lisa Kudrow’s character, Phoebe Buffay. If you watched the series in its entirety, you’re aware that Phoebe and Mike tie the knot in episode 12x10, also cleverly known as “The One with Phoebe’s Wedding.”

Unfortunately for fans of the couple, Rudd will not return as one of the star guests, and it’s caused quite an uproar on social media.

“the absence of paul rudd on this list is appalling,” wrote one user.

“As much I am pumped about the Friends reunion, please tell me Paul Rudd will be a hidden guest or something. I mean he was such a huge part of Phoebe’s storyline as well,” wrote another.

Even though Rudd won’t appear in the special, we can bet on all six of the original cast members will returning, including Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matthew Perry, David Schwimmer, Matt LeBlanc and Lisa Kudrow. Last week Aniston, who plays Rachel Green, was the first to share the teaser on her Instagram account, writing: “It’s official! The #FriendsReunion premieres May 27th on @HBOMax — could we BE any more excited?! 😝❤️,”