Success starts with one small step. In the world of entertainment, that line could never be more true. The many big names in Hollywood today can trace their beginnings to a humble, struggling self. While Arnold Schwarzenegger made his way out of a small Austrian village, Jim Carrey had to deal with multiple rejections. Among this list also fall many from the Friends cast, including Jennifer Aniston. The actress went through several jobs and small acting roles before she became a household name with the show.

Talking about her roots, the very first movie Aniston ever starred in was 1993’s Leprechaun. Now, as the movie celebrates its 30th anniversary, its director opened up on directing the actress at her career’s nascency.

Mark Jones would “like to take credit” for Jennifer Aniston starring in Friends

Jennifer Aniston went through with being a telemarketer, a bike messenger, and, much like her Friends character, a waitress before making it big in showbiz. Auditioning for the comedy-horror, Leprechaun, the actress became the top choice of director Mark Jones. In an interview with Screenrant, Jones explained how he was looking to cast “unknowns”. Among the many who auditioned, Aniston’s “charisma” and acting prowess meant the role of Tory Redding and ultimately even Rachel from Friends would go to her.

Elaborating further, Jones explained how starring in Leprechaun gave Aniston the necessary exposure she required before making her breakthrough with Friends. “I like to take credit for getting her Friends, but I’m not sure that it’s accurate,” he added. Regardless, soon after Jones’ movie, the Rachel Green actress would go on to command the screens and, by the end of its tenth season, draw a $1 million per episode paycheck. Finally, Jones also added that Aniston was a “professional” and he was glad things worked out for her.

Nevertheless, Aniston’s fame would know no bounds after Friends as her career trajectory simply went up as did her net worth.

Decades of flawless acting, fashion, and fitness define the ageless actress

Jennifer Aniston would go on to be America’s heartthrob with her effortless sense of style as well as acting skills in and after Friends. With a net worth of $320 million, and over 40 movies, she is easily one of the most successful stars in Hollywood. The 54-year-old currently excels in her role in Apple TV+’s The Morning Show. Furthermore, with Emmy and Screen Guild nominations, there is less to doubt about her acting.

On the personal front, ever since Friends, Aniston would go on to marry Brad Pitt and then Justin Theroux. Despite both ending in divorces, the actress holds no regrets and is marching ahead with her fashion statements. Moreover, she also channels and actively endorses fashion brands. As of now, she is well poised and on her way to becoming one of Hollywood’s greatest.

What do you think of Mark Jones’ statements on Jennifer Aniston? Let us know in the comments below.