Key Points:
- The ‘Friends’ cast is still grieving Matthew Perry’s passing.
- Producers explained it was too soon for them to participate in the Emmys tribute.
- The cast shared individual tributes to Perry last November.
The 2024 Emmy Awards paid a touching tribute to the late actor Matthew Perry on January 15, but fans noticed the absence of Perry’s Friends co-stars during the emotional moment. The core cast members of the iconic sitcom, including Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow, and Courteney Cox, did not participate in the tribute, and now the producers have revealed why.
Why Didn’t the ‘Friends’ Cast Join the Emmys Tribute to Matthew Perry?
As per ScreenRant, according to Emmys producers Jesse Collins and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay, the decision for the Friends cast not to reunite for the tribute was deeply rooted in their ongoing grief. Perry, who played the beloved Chandler Bing on the series, passed away on October 28, 2023, at the age of 54. His sudden death left a profound impact on his former co-stars, who are still coming to terms with the loss.
Rouzan-Clay explained in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, “It’s still very fresh for them.” Collins added, “We had talked about it early on — but I can imagine, from their side, they’re mourning someone who was still very close to them. I can’t speak for them, but we all have to respect that they were their own family. It was probably just a little too soon.”
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What Have the ‘Friends’ Cast Said About Matthew Perry’s Passing?
Following Perry’s tragic death, the Friends cast released a joint statement expressing their shock and sadness. In mid-November, each of them shared more personal tributes on social media, revealing the depth of their bond with Perry and their grief over his loss.
Matt LeBlanc was the first to post, describing it as an “honor” to work with Perry and calling him a dear friend. Courteney Cox shared a behind-the-scenes moment, highlighting Perry’s generosity and sense of humor. Jennifer Aniston spoke of the strong bond the six stars shared, praising Perry’s wit and the joy he brought to her life. David Schwimmer emphasized Perry’s unique comedic talent, while Lisa Kudrow recalled how Perry helped the cast bond early on in the show’s run.
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Other actors and filmmakers, including Zac Efron, who co-starred with Perry in 17 Again, also shared their tributes, underscoring Perry’s significant impact in Hollywood.
Matthew Perry’s death was a result of an accidental ketamine overdose. The actor was found in his jacuzzi, with no illicit drugs at the scene. He was laid to rest on November 3, surrounded by family and his Friends co-stars.
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