Carol Willick and Susan Bunch gradually stopped appearing as frequently in Friends primarily because their story arc had largely run its course, fulfilling their purpose in the show's narrative.
Why Carol and Susan's Appearances Decreased
- Initial Character Development for Ross: Carol and Susan were crucial in the early seasons for establishing Ross Geller's background and character. As Ross's ex-wife and her partner, they introduced the unique dynamics of his divorce, his anxieties, and the comedic challenges of his co-parenting relationship with their son, Ben. Their interactions often highlighted Ross's insecurities and provided a foundational understanding of his personality.
- Completion of Storyline Purpose: Once Ross had largely come to terms with his divorce and established a stable, if sometimes awkward, co-parenting relationship with Carol and Susan, their central narrative function diminished. They had served their purpose in explaining a significant part of Ross's past and present, and the initial drama surrounding their relationship had largely subsided.
- Focus on Main Cast: As Friends progressed through its ten seasons, the show naturally shifted its primary focus more intensely onto the evolving relationships, careers, and personal lives of the six main characters. While Carol and Susan, along with Ben, remained part of the broader Friends universe, they were supporting characters rather than integral main cast members. Their reduced screen time reflected the show's evolving narrative priorities, which centered on the core group's individual and collective journeys.
In essence, Carol and Susan fulfilled their role as important side characters who helped define one of the main protagonists. Once that foundational work was done, their extensive presence was no longer as crucial to the ongoing central storylines.
