Friends Reunion: Cast reveals how they became good friends in real life

The 'reunion' line-up isn't a full one given the absence of Chandler </3

Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Phoebe, Joey (Getty Images)

Ever wonder how the Friends cast achieved the undeniable chemistry that made the sitcom such a success?

Well, apparently the answer is poker.

During the long-awaited reunion to honour director James Burrows, which will air in the US on NBC on Sunday, five out of six of the original castmates discussed their time on the show. Matthew Perry was the only one unable to join as he is currently starring in The End of Longing on the West End.

The actors, Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer, Courtney Cox, Matt Le Blanc and Jennifer Aniston, recalled how Burrows ensured they all became real-life friends so their connection would transcend onto the screen.

Le Blanc, who is soon to be a host on the revamped series of Top Gear told host Andy Cohen: “[Burrows] really encouraged us all to get along and get to know one another and be kind to one another, and support one another, help one another."

Kudrow added: “He gave his dressing room because it was big. We really wanted to connect. I think it was sort of unspoken, but we instinctively felt like we need to be friends, we need to get along, we need to connect. And so we started playing poker and Jimmy gave us his room so that we can have a bigger hangout room for us.”

Aniston said this is what led to the episode, The One With all the Poker, in season one of the beloved show.