Which actor played Jack Geller, Monica and Ross’s father, in Friends?

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Elliot Gould played Jack Geller, Monica and Ross’s father, in Friends.

Jack Geller is introduced as the warm but sometimes embarrassing father of Monica and Ross. He and his wife, Judy, frequently compare their children, often favoring Ross while criticizing Monica’s weight or career choices. Their family dynamic supplies several recurring jokes throughout the series.

Gould appeared in multiple Friends episodes as Jack, beginning with the first season. His character is especially prominent in stories involving Monica and Ross’s childhood, their parents’ house, and major family occasions. Christina Pickles played Judy Geller, Jack’s wife.

Elliot Gould is an American actor whose film career includes M*A*S*H, The Long Goodbye, and the Ocean’s film series. Friends viewers sometimes confuse Jack Geller with other older male guest characters, including Richard Burke, Monica’s former boyfriend, who was played by Tom Selleck.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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