“Friends Creators Speak Out on Matthew Perry’s Passing as Sitcom Celebrates 30th Anniversary”
Friends is approaching its 30th anniversary and fans of the show are buzzing with excitement online. Despite this significant milestone, the show’s creators, Marta Kauffman, David Crane, and Kevin Bright, recently addressed the passing of Matthew Perry, a major loss that cast a shadow over the celebratory occasion. Speaking with Today, the trio shared insights into Perry’s impact on the set of Friends.
Kauffman expressed, “It’s a tremendous loss. It adds a layer to the 30th anniversary celebration.” She continued, “He brought laughter to our lives every day—David always said he was the funniest person in the room.” Bright discussed Perry’s public struggles with addiction, acknowledging the actor’s candidness in his final days.
“He fought bravely for so long. It seemed like he had found some peace during the reunion,” Bright remarked. The creators praised the chemistry among all six cast members and the magic they brought to the show. Kauffman admitted that seeing the cast together sent shivers down her spine.
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During an interview with The Times, Kauffman suggested honoring Perry’s memory by supporting drug prevention organizations. “Donate to drug treatment centers—let’s fight this disease,” she urged. “Watch Friends and remember him as the hilarious, joyful man he was,” she added.
Aniston shared a funny anecdote from the early days of shooting Friends with Perry and Kudrow. “It’s hard to believe it’s been 30 years, as I remember the day the show premiered,” Aniston recalled. She recounted a playful prank she and Perry pulled on Kudrow during filming the first season.
Friends, featuring Courteney Cox, Matt Le Blanc, and David Schwimmer alongside Aniston, Perry, and Kudrow, aired for 10 seasons on NBC. The show will hit the 30-year mark on September 22.
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