Actor in Hollywood

Sitcom, live audience, live performance—

Obviously, this was a special challenge for Anson.

It's like how theater and film are two different art forms. Theater emphasizes the live experience, an uninterrupted flow, where even if mistakes occur, the show must go on. Film, on the other hand, focuses on direction and staging, going through repeated rehearsals, re-shoots, and edits to finally present the perfect vision in the mind.

"Friends" falls somewhere in between—neither as serious nor as simple.

Yesterday, Darren personally called to give Anson some pointers, and with the help of Chris, James, and other friends, Anson spent the night rehearsing at home.

No matter how you look at it, this is Anson's first project in his acting career. Without any prior acting experience or even the slightest understanding of how to stand in front of a camera, he now had to face the challenge of both the camera and a live audience simultaneously. This indeed required some practice and preparation.

In the morning, Anson arrived at the studio 30 minutes early to familiarize himself with the environment—

He admitted that it wasn't entirely just to get used to the place. There was also a mix of curiosity, anticipation, and nervousness—different emotions intertwined.

Anson was no stranger to the set, having worked on one before; but this time it was slightly different. Anson would be moving from behind the camera to in front of it. Just this simple change in position made the same set and space feel subtly different.

However, what Anson didn't anticipate was that this seemingly innocuous action would make him the center of attention on Stage 24 on this Monday morning.

When Jennifer Aniston arrived at the studio, this was the scene she walked into:

Whispers, excited exchanges, animated expressions.

"What's going on?"

"What's going on?"

Jennifer put her bag down on a chair and smiled as she noticed the gossipy expressions on the faces of the makeup artist, hairstylist, and assistant stage manager.

Immediately, a few figures swarmed around her, their chatter overlapping as they filled her in, leaving Jennifer momentarily stunned.

"That's it?"

Jennifer spread her hands.

"Hey, girls, this is Hollywood. This isn't the first time, and it won't be the last. There's really no need to get so excited."

"Image, ladies, image. Wipe the drool off your chins, quick."

Someone immediately responded from the side, "Yes, this isn't the first time. But the thing is, even if it happens every day, it's still something to be happy about."

"After all, it's not like we get to go home and see Brad Pitt's face every day."

Roar.

A burst of laughter ensued, with everyone exchanging knowing glances and teasing Jennifer.

Jennifer, with a serious expression, said, "No, I don't."

Despite her words, the uncontrollable smile at the corners of her mouth, tinged with shyness and a hint of sweetness, betrayed her true feelings. Happiness was radiating, revealing how she really fel

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With the massive success of "Friends," Jennifer is now comparable to "America's Sweetheart" alongside Julia Roberts and Meg Ryan. Her hairstyle, her outfits, her bags, and her taste have all become fashion trends that women eagerly emulate.

Some might argue that movie stars and television stars are ultimately different.

But now, with Jennifer about to marry Brad Pitt, the situation has taken a different turn.

Without a doubt, Jennifer Aniston is now that girl who has it all.

To prove she wasn't shy, the sweetheart adjusted her hair and straightened her back. "I'm curious too, so I'm going over to say hello."

A chorus of laughter erupted around her, with onlookers giving her playful looks. Someone even joked, "Don't worry, we won't tell Brad."

Jennifer turned to the crowd, mouth agape.

"You should. Make him jealous."

Her remark sparked a wave of laughter.

With a quick turn, Jennifer walked forward with a lighthearted smile. Unlike the fussing staff, she appeared calm and composed.

Indeed, this wasn't the first time. Over the past six years, "Friends" had seen plenty of top-tier stars come by as guest stars.

Taking a deep breath, she said, "Hey, welcome to Stage 24."

Anson was reading the script—

He could feel the stares and hear the chatter, but it was precisely because of the attention that Anson realized he needed to focus on his character.

After all, once the audience entered the studio, the space would become even more crowded and lively.

He was a bit nervous and anxious.

At this moment, sitting on the ginger-colored sofa of "Central Perk" felt like breaking the fourth wall, just like in the movie "The Purple Rose of Cairo," blending film and reality, entering the "Friends" living space on the small screen. A subtle emotion rippled through his mind.

His fingertips tingled slightly, but beyond that, he felt more excitement and joy, with the roar of blood rushing through his ears.

So, he needed to concentrate, gradually getting into character and settling into the scene.

Then, Anson heard a greeting.

When he looked up, he saw Jennifer's smooth, flowing hair and a friendly, sweet smile, completely without the airs of a superstar. Her girl-next-door charm made the conversation feel more relaxed. Coupled with the set's familiar sights, it really felt like a scene from "Friends."

"Oh, sorry, am I taking your spot?"

Anson stood up with the script in hand, gesturing to his seat.

Jennifer paused for a moment, then realized Anson was breaking the fourth wall, speaking to Rachel.

Looking at Anson's calm smile, Jennifer's expression lightened with a playful glint in her eyes. "No, no, no, this seat doesn't have my name on it."

After a brief pause, Jennifer continued, "Welcome to 'Central Perk'?"

Her tone had a slight upward inflection, filled with hesitation and uncertainty.

Jennifer could hear the doubt in her own voice and gave an awkward smile. "My improvisation is a disaster, isn't it?"

Comedy, after all, sometimes needs a little spark.

Anson's unexpected response showed a wit beyond his years, making Jennifer appear a bit clumsy, almost like she was the high schooler here.

However, Anson didn't respond immediately. Instead, he looked to the left, then the right, ensuring no one else was around before pointing uncertainly at himself.

"Are you comparing yourself to me? Me? I'm just here today to showcase a face."

As he spoke, Anson gestured toward his face—

He, a guy with no acting experience, just a pretty face?

Jennifer couldn't help but burst into laughter. She winked at Anson. "They think all a pretty face needs to do is stand there. Oh, for heaven's sake, keeping that face pretty and being funny is far from simple. I can give you some tips."

A pretty face recognizing another—kindred spirits.

Jennifer had always been seen as just a pretty face in "Friends," the one responsible for the beauty.

Now, looking at Anson, Jennifer couldn't help but think of her own situation. Those scrutinizing glances, curious looks, and gossiping whispers had already labeled Anson.

But clearly, Jennifer had learned to laugh at herself by now.

They thought Anson didn't understand, but Anson saw it all; and not only that, Anson was aiming for something more, a higher level.

"Let me tell you a secret. They're just jealous, after all. Some things can't be changed, unless you're born again."

Dear readers, please be patient during the new book period. Once it's on the shelves, there will be explosive updates, so I hope you continue to support the book during this time. Thank you very much! Thank you!

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