Gunther's Entire Friends Story Explained

Gunther is a man of strong ethics and principles. When he finds out about Ross cheating on Rachel in Season 3, he informs her not only because he loves her, but also because she has a right to know. Later, when Phoebe kisses him in Season 4, he confesses the incident to Rachel out of guilt, despite the fact that they aren't in a relationship. Granted, that's kind of a weird move on Gunther's part, but it does demonstrate his values and that he would be a faithful partner.  

Gunther's morality is on full display again in Season 6, Episode 14, when he suspects that Phoebe was once an actress in adult films. His confusion is understandable, considering that the actual actress is Phoebe's twin sister Ursula. When he assumes that it's Phoebe and not Ursula in the films, Gunther doesn't judge or condemn her actions in any way; instead, he speaks frankly about the situation to Joey. Meanwhile, Phoebe's other friends are much more critical of the situation right off the bat.

Beyond that, Gunther also isn't afraid to call people out when he feels that they are acting inappropriately. In Season 3, Episode 13, he's the only person who confronts Phoebe's boyfriend regarding some, ahem, indecent exposure at Central Perk, saying, "Hey buddy, This is a family place. Put the mouse back in the house." Additionally, Gunther sticks up for himself when he realizes that people are trying to use him. When Chandler (Matthew Perry) is mad at Ross and retaliates by choosing Gunther as the new best man in his upcoming wedding, Gunther immediately retorts, "What's my last name?" In doing so, he exposes Chandler's insincerity, refusing to be a pawn in this petty fight.