Article Overview
Matthew Perry prevented Chandler from cheating on Monica in Friends, as he believed the audience would never forgive him for it.
Chandler and Monica's strong friendship and deep commitment made them the ultimate couple in Friends. If Chandler had cheated, it would have jeopardized their relationship and been exceptionally challenging for them to recover from, particularly considering Monica's past romantic experiences.
Chandler's fidelity to Monica in Friends was almost compromised if it hadn't been for Matthew Perry's intervention. Perry, widely known for his portrayal of the quick-witted and lovable character in Friends, was highly favored by fans. Following Perry's unexpected passing, various online stories about him have emerged, including a particular incident where he prevented the Friends writers from damaging Chandler and Monica's relationship.
During an interview with TMZ, Lisa Cash, a guest star on Friends, disclosed how Perry put a halt to a storyline that would have depicted Chandler's infidelity towards Monica. The episode in question was "The One in Vegas: Part 1" from season 5, which featured the group's trip to Las Vegas. You can find her complete statement below:
The scene took place in Vegas where Chandler and Monica were engaged in an argument about Monica having lunch with Richard. In our original script, Chandler goes up to their hotel room and orders room service. As a hotel worker, I bring the order to their room, and we unexpectedly start talking, laughing, and forming a connection. Eventually, Chandler ends up cheating on Monica with my character. We had thoroughly rehearsed the scene, but the day before shooting in front of a live audience, I learned that Chandler had spoken to the writers and expressed concern that the audience would never forgive him for betraying Monica. In hindsight, he was probably correct.
Why Chandler and Monica Are The Ultimate Friends Couple
Ross and Rachel, considered by many as the central romance in Friends, were caught in a perpetual cycle of uncertainty. Their on-again-off-again dynamic was dissected endlessly, particularly when Ross engaged in infidelity during a period of supposed separation. Amidst all the turmoil, heartache, and longing that both experienced, their time together was fleeting. In retrospect, it becomes apparent that their relationship was toxic. Therefore, while they may have been the focal love story in Friends, they were not its most harmonious couple.
Chandler and Monica emerged as the epitome of romance in Friends, building their connection upon a foundation of friendship. As their bond deepened over time, they gained an intimate understanding of one another. Given their unwavering commitment, it was justifiable for Perry to advocate for the abandonment of Chandler's infidelity storyline. Such behavior would have been out of character and jeopardized the show's most beloved couple.
Recovering from such a crisis would have proved immensely challenging, particularly in light of Monica's past with Richard. Despite the ups and downs, their unwavering dedication to one another remained unshakable. While Chandler's infidelity could have injected drama into the plot, it would have ultimately undermined the overarching story of Friends.
Source: TMZ
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I have mixed feelings about the revelation that Matthew Perry prevented Chandler from cheating on Monica in Friends. On the one hand, I understand why Perry was concerned that the audience would never forgive Chandler for betraying Monica. After all, Chandler and Monica were one of the most beloved couples on the show, and their relationship was built on a foundation of trust and friendship. If Chandler had cheated on Monica, it would have been a major betrayal of that trust and would have likely damaged their relationship beyond repair.
On the other hand, I also believe that it is important for TV shows to portray realistic portrayals of relationships. Cheating is a common occurrence in real life, and it is something that many couples have to deal with. By preventing Chandler from cheating on Monica, the writers of Friends were sending the message that cheating is never okay and that it is always better to be honest with your partner.
Overall, I think that Perry's decision to prevent Chandler from cheating on Monica was the right one. It preserved the integrity of the show's most beloved relationship and sent a positive message to viewers about the importance of honesty and fidelity in relationships.