Lisa Kudrow has found a heartfelt way to honor her late friend and former co-star, Matthew Perry. By revisiting their days on the iconic show Friends, Kudrow celebrates his comedic genius and their shared memories.
The beloved actress, known for her portrayal of the quirky Phoebe Buffay, shared that she began rewatching Friends after Perry’s sudden passing last October. Kudrow mentioned in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Honestly, I wasn’t able to watch it because it’s too embarrassing to watch yourself. But if I make it about Matthew, then that’s okay.
Laughter Amid Loss
Kudrow finds solace in laughing at the memorable moments they created together. She fondly recalls how incredibly funny her co-stars were, especially Perry. I’m blown away by Courteney Cox. I’m blown away by Jen [Aniston]. Matthew, obviously, is just uniquely hilarious. No one ever knew that cadence or comedic rhythm before him. Matt LeBlanc is hilarious. And David Schwimmer, too. Sometimes I even laugh at what I’ve done.
The camaraderie on set was unmatched, with laughter being a constant companion. Kudrow reminisced, You’re just laughing all day long, basically, in between the scenes, because these are funny people. And especially someone like Matthew, whose goal was: How many laughs can I get in real life every day? So we were always laughing so hard, tears were flying out of our faces.
A Unique Celebration
Kudrow’s rewatch of the 90s sitcom is a tribute not only to their friendship but to Perry’s legacy. She called it her “own little way of celebrating”, emphasizing the significance as the series celebrated its 20th anniversary in May.
Perry passed away in October 2023 due to the acute effects of ketamine, leaving fans and friends grieving his loss deeply. Kudrow’s sentiments echo the world’s admiration for Perry. She stated, The world is remembering him the way he wanted to be remembered.
A Bond Beyond Screens
Kudrow isn’t alone in her tribute. Courteney Cox emotionally described Perry as one of the funniest human beings in the world
. Reflecting on his memory during an interview with CBS Sunday Morning, Cox stated, I talk to my mom, my dad, Matthew – I feel like there are a lot of people that are – I think that guide us. I do sense – yeah, I sense Matthew’s around for sure.
The Enduring Impact
Kudrow’s reflections come at a poignant time as both fans and co-stars continue to process Perry’s sudden departure at age 54. His portrayal of Chandler Bing remains etched in television history, alongside the show’s immense success worldwide.
Friends, which premiered on September 22, 1994, brought together Perry with Jennifer Aniston (Rachel Green), Courteney Cox (Monica Geller), Lisa Kudrow (Phoebe Buffay), Matt LeBlanc (Joey Tribbiani), and David Schwimmer (Ross Geller) – creating one of TV’s most beloved ensembles.
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