In Friends, which actor played Emily Waltham, Ross Geller’s second wife?

Helen Baxendale played Emily Waltham, Ross Geller’s second wife, in Friends. Emily is introduced as Rachel Green’s British employer’s niece and becomes romantically involved with Ross during the show’s fourth season.

Ross and Emily marry in London, but the ceremony is damaged when Ross accidentally says Rachel’s name instead of Emily’s during his vows. The mistake creates one of the series’ most consequential relationship conflicts and leads to the end of their marriage.

Baxendale’s character is sometimes confused with Carol Willick, Ross’s first wife, who was played by Jane Sibbett. Emily is the British character connected to the London wedding, while Carol is Ben’s mother and Ross’s former partner.

Helen Baxendale’s appearances are concentrated around the fourth and fifth seasons. Emily remains important to the show’s continuity even after she and Ross separate, because the wedding mistake changes Ross’s relationship with Rachel and the rest of the group.