Matthew Perry was infamous among TV fans for his role as Chandler Bing in the sitcomFriends. Like Seinfeld, Friends became a cult classic that redefined television. Perry’s character was well-loved as the comedic friend who had trouble committing to relationships.
The Emmy producers made a choice early on
The producers of the Emmys discussed that it was still too early since Matthew Perry’s death to have the cast reunite at the award show to honor the late actor.
Since the death of the actor, each cast member of Friends took their time to mourn beforepublically addressing fanson social media.Courtney Cox paid tributeto her love for Perry alongside Jennifer Anistonwho called him her “little brother.”Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer, andMatt LeBlanc also paid homageto the actor.
Charlie Puth performs the theme song from#Friendsduring the in memoriam segment at the 75th#Emmyspic.twitter.com/YbfNUZOHYj
It’s not uncommon for the Emmys to round up the cast members who worked with a late actor to say kind words or appear in commemorance. But the Emmy producers voted against reuniting the Friends cast.
“It’s still very fresh for them,” said Jeannae Rouzan-Clay toThe Hollywood Reporter.
“We had talked about it early on,” said Jesse Collins. “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.”
The Emmy memorium included stars like Norman Lear, Bob Barker, Paul Reubens, and Treat Williams. A picture of Perry closed out the segment as Charlie Purth sang “See You Again” into an acapella version of the Friends theme song “I’ll Be There For You.”
Gabriela Silva was a Senior TV & Movies Writer on Dexerto’s US team, specializing in Netflix originals, K-Drama, and Disney+ shows. She also has bylines at ScreenRant, Pop Br, and Showbiz Cheat Sheet.
