Friends Stars Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, and Courteney Cox Devastated by Matthew Perry's Tragic Loss
Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, and Courteney Cox's profound grief over the tragic passing of Matthew Perry, as revealed by 'Friends' director James Burrows Their heartfelt reactions to the devastating news showcase the deep bond shared by the beloved cast members
Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow. Gregg DeGuire/Getty Images
The news of Matthew Perry's death has hit the Friends cast members, particularly Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, and Courteney Cox, quite profoundly. James Burrows, who directed several episodes of Friends, revealed on the Today show on Thursday, November 2, that he had texted the girls on the day they received the news, and they were devastated. He compared it to the loss of a brother.
Perry's unexpected demise was reported on October 28th. Upon arrival at his residence, authorities discovered the actor unconscious in a separate jacuzzi. The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed on October 30th that Perry had already passed away before first responders arrived.
During his guest appearance on Today, Burrows fondly recalled Perry's remarkable ingenuity in delivering lines on the show.
Matthew Perry Michael Kovac/FilmMagic
On Thursday, the director expressed the need for a few days to process and absorb the situation. He emphasized that the deceased individual was once an integral member of a closely-knit family, making his departure a significant loss. In the days following Perry's passing, Aniston, Kudrow, Cox, LeBlanc, and Schwimmer united in paying homage to him.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Matthew. We were not just colleagues, but a close-knit family,” stated the cast members on Monday. “There are no words to express how heartbroken we are. For now, we will take the time to mourn and come to terms with this unimaginable loss.”
We will provide more information in the future when we are able to. Currently, our thoughts and love go out to Matty's family, friends, and all those who loved him globally.
Following the sudden passing of the star, several cast and crew members of Friends have expressed their condolences. Perry, famous for portraying Chandler Bing in the sitcom's 10-year tenure from 1994 to 2004, has left a significant impact.
Marta Kauffman and David Crane, the cocreators of Friends, paid tribute to Perry's "exceptional talent" in their statement to Us on Sunday.
"We are utterly devastated by the untimely loss of our dear friend Matthew. It feels unreal, and words cannot express the extent of our sorrow. However, we find solace in the fact that our lives were graced with his presence," stated the collective message,signed by executive producer Kevin Bright as well. "Matthew possessed an extraordinary talent that captivated audiences. It may sound cliché, but he truly made the characters his own, leaving no room for doubt." Heartfelt tributes have also been offered by notable guest stars of the show.
David Schwimmer, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matthew Perry, Lisa Kudrow, and Matt Leblanc. Getty Images
"What a tremendous loss. Matthew Perry, you will be deeply missed by the world," expressed Maggie Wheeler, the actress who portrayed Janice, Chandler's ex-girlfriend, through social media. "The immense joy you brought to numerous lives during your unfortunately brief existence will forever endure. I feel incredibly grateful for each and every creative moment we shared together."
Recounting their initial encounter, Elliot Gould, the actor who portrayed Cox and Schwimmer's onscreen father and later became Perry's character's father-in-law on the show, shared their memorable first meeting.
"I was introduced to Matthew in 1994 when I became a part of the NBC sitcom Friends. Matthew displayed qualities that were truly admirable - kindness, thoughtfulness, intelligence, humor, and immense talent as an actor. It was heartwarming to hear him express his gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside me," shared the actor on Instagram. "What Matthew was unaware of, until I revealed it to him, was that I considered it a privilege to portray his father-in-law. My deepest condolences go out to his remarkable family. He will be greatly missed by countless individuals, but his memory will endure forever."
