Friends co-stars Jennifer Aniston and Matthew Perry shared a connection that extended far beyond their on-screen chemistry, making the shocking news of Perry’s untimely death all the more devastating for the actress and their fellow cast members.
The heart-wrenching revelation came from none other than the series director, James Burrows, during a recent appearance on the Today show. Burrows shared insights into the deep bond that existed between Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, and Perry, describing their reactions to the sorrowful news as nothing short of being “destroyed.”
He went on to express the magnitude of their grief, explaining that for these actors, Matthew Perry was more than just a friend and co-star; he was like a beloved family member. The loss of Perry left a void that none of them could have anticipated.
In response to the news of Matthew Perry’s passing, the Friends cast issued a heartfelt joint statement. In it, they conveyed their profound sadness over the loss of their dear friend and colleague. They emphasized that their bond was far more than professional; they were a tight-knit family. The statement continued to reflect the deep sorrow they felt, and they expressed their need for time to process and grieve the unimaginable loss.
Matthew Perry’s memoir, “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Trouble,” had previously shed light on his affection for Jennifer Aniston. In his book, he shared the story of attempting to ask the 54-year-old actress out on a date, only to face rejection. Perry’s humorous account of this encounter demonstrated the genuine and warm friendship that existed between them, despite the initial romantic interest.
The close-knit cast of Friends shared not only laughter and memorable moments on the show but also formed unbreakable bonds behind the scenes. The news of Matthew Perry’s passing serves as a painful reminder of the depth of their connection and the enduring impact of their on-screen and off-screen friendship.