Julia Roberts, at 56, recently shared heartfelt sentiments about the tragic loss of Matthew Perry during a candid interview with ET’s Kevin Frazier. The actress, known for her iconic roles, opened up about the “heartbreaking” nature of Perry’s sudden death and the impact it had on her. As she discussed her brief stint on the beloved ’90s sitcom Friends, where she made a guest appearance, Roberts also touched upon her past romantic involvement with Perry.
Heartfelt Reaction to Matthew Perry’s Passing: In the interview, Roberts expressed her deep sorrow at the untimely death of Matthew Perry, who tragically drowned in his jacuzzi on October 28, 2023. She described the loss as “heartbreaking” and emphasized the importance of appreciating life and moving forward in a positive manner.
Friends Stint and Fond Memories: Julia Roberts made a memorable appearance on Friends in the 1996 episode, “The One After the Super Bowl,” portraying a childhood classmate of Perry’s character, Chandler Bing. Reflecting on her experience on the show, Roberts praised the cast, highlighting their warmth and welcoming attitude during her time as a guest star. She shared, “They were all so welcoming to me as just a kind of a one-off character, and it was a really fun time.”
Past Romance with Matthew Perry: Apart from their professional collaboration, Roberts and Perry had a brief fling in the late ’90s. Perry detailed their ‘three-month courtship’ in his memoir, shedding light on the dynamics of their relationship and the pressures that led to its conclusion. Perry also revealed that he was the one who convinced Roberts to join Friends, adding a personal touch to their on-screen collaboration.
Friends References in Upcoming Film: In Julia Roberts’ upcoming film, “Leave the World Behind,” Friends references play a recurring theme, showcasing the enduring legacy of the iconic sitcom. The thriller, currently in theaters and set to premiere on Netflix on December 8, features an ensemble cast, including Mahershala Ali, Ethan Hawke, and Myha’la.
A Poignant Tribute: Mahershala Ali, a co-star in “Leave the World Behind,” acknowledged the unintentional but beautiful timing of the film coinciding with the honoring of Friends, offering a poignant tribute to Matthew Perry’s legacy.
Conclusion: Julia Roberts’ candid interview not only provides insight into her personal reflections on Matthew Perry’s passing but also sheds light on the enduring impact of Friends and the intricate connections between its cast members. As Roberts continues to navigate her illustrious career, her words serve as a heartfelt acknowledgment of the indelible mark left by both a cherished colleague and an iconic television show.
