What happened at the end of Friends? Updated: May 13 2021, 16:50 ET Friends premiered on September 22, 1994 and ensured laughs, tears, and heart wrenching romance for 10 seasons 5 What happened to each character in the Friends finale? Recall what happened to each of the beloved and relatable characters when the series came to an end with a two-part finale on May 6, 2004. Ross and Rachel After landing her dream job in the fashion industry, Rachel Green is on her way to Paris, France. Her on-again-off-again boyfriend Ross Geller tries to stop Rachel from leaving by confessing his love for her. While on the plane, Rachel realizes she also loves Ross and decides to abandon her Parisian plans and stay in New York City with Ross.