Aisha Tyler Reflects on Joining the Cast of Friends: 'It Was a Big Deal'

Nearly two decades later, Aisha Tyler is remembering how "petrified" she was upon her casting as a new character in the hit sitcom Friends. Playing the role of recurring character Dr. Charlie Wheeler, Tyler debuted in the ninth season of Friends for the episode "The One With The Soap Opera Party," which originally aired on NBC in April 2003. Initially a love interest for Joey (Matt Le Blanc), Charlie ends up forming a romantic connection with Ross (David Schwimmer). The two characters would be dating until partway through the next season when Charlie reunites with her ex, leaving Ross behind to get back with her former lover.