During a recent interview, Jennifer Aniston became visibly emotional when asked about her late “Friends” co-star Matthew Perry. Aniston, 55, who played Rachel Green on the iconic sitcom from 1994 to 2004, was speaking with Quinta Brunson for Variety’s “Actors on Actors” series when the topic of “Friends” arose.
“Oh God, don’t make me cry,” Aniston said, her voice shaking. Brunson immediately comforted her and suggested they could skip the question. “I’m sorry, I just started thinking about it,” Aniston responded, her tears reflecting her deep bond with Perry and their time together on the beloved show.
Matthew Perry, who played the witty and sarcastic Chandler Bing, passed away on October 28, 2023, at 54. The LA County Medical Examiner’s Office determined his death was due to “acute effects of ketamine,” with drowning, coronary artery disease, and the opioid buprenorphine listed as contributing factors. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Los Angeles Police Department have initiated an investigation into his death.
Aniston revealed she had been texting Perry on the morning of his death, describing him as “happy” and “healthy.” She emphasized that he had quit smoking and was getting in shape, hoping to set the record straight that he was not struggling or in pain in his final days.
After taking a moment to compose herself, Aniston continued the interview, reflecting on the lasting impact of “Friends” as it marks its 30th anniversary. “It feels surreal to realize it’s been 30 years,” she said. “The show’s enduring impact and how much it still means to people is one of the greatest gifts we, as a cast, could have ever hoped for.”
Throughout the conversation, Aniston emphasized her strong relationship with her former castmates, including Lisa Kudrow, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer. “We truly are a family forever,” Aniston said.“I talked on FaceTime with Court [Cox] last night for an hour, and Lisa [Kudrow] and the boys, and we have a really strong bond.”
Aniston’s emotional reaction underscores the close-knit nature of the “Friends” cast, who have remained supportive of each other long after the show ended. Perry’s unexpected death brought them together again, with Aniston and her co-stars issuing a joint statement, expressing their sorrow and emphasizing that they were “more than just castmates” but a “chosen family.”
Aniston wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post after Perry’s passing, “He was such a part of our DNA. We were always a group of six, a chosen family that shaped our lives and futures. He brought so much laughter to us all,” she said. “Matty, I love you deeply and take comfort knowing you are at peace.”I talk to you daily and almost hear you saying, ‘Could you be any crazier?’ Rest in peace, little brother. You always brought light to my day.”
Aniston’s tearful interview and touching tribute highlight the enduring legacy of “Friends” and the unbreakable bond between its cast members. As fans worldwide continue to celebrate the show’s 30th anniversary, the memories of Matthew Perry and the laughter he brought to millions remain deeply cherished.