Legendary director James Burrows recalls that time Matthew Perry made him tear up because of how he talked about his experience in Friends.
Director James Burrows remembers Matthew Perry’s story that made him tear up during the Friends reunion. Tributes on social media continue to pour for Matthew Perry, who has tragically died at the age of 54. Specific details of his untimely demise have yet to be revealed, but the news was shocking to both his peers in the industry and the fans who adored him not just in Friends, but also in his other endeavors.
Before his death, however, Burrows, who directed some of the most pivotal episodes of the hit ABC sitcom, wrote in his book, Directed by James Burrows, the way that Perry made him tear up during Max’s Friends reunion in 2021. Read his full quote below:
Matthew said, “When James Burrows directed, he directed us to be together as friends. We knew not to mess it up with romance, and we became friends.” JA said, “He made it a point to tell us that this is a special show, it will become extraordinarily successful. The six of you must take care of each other, support each other, be each other’s allies, because this could be tricky when something like this becomes so big for people as young as we were at the time.” Matthew added, “It’s a little less special now that he hired us only because we were available.” I teared up. These were great people who would have triggered the parental instincts in anyone with any sense of warmth. I had a connection with these kids as if they were my own.”
Why Matthew Perry’s Death Is So Devastating To Many
Perry was best known for his role in Friends as Chandler, the group’s resident jokester. He was sarcastic and witty, but he was also a great friend to everyone. Beyond Friends, the actor also worked in both films and theater. Among his other public endeavors was his advocacy to shine a light on addiction — something that he struggled with for so many years. All of these made him the beloved actor that he was, but to many, his biggest impact would be his role in the successful comedy.
The popularity of Friends meant that it reached a wide audience. While it was a comedy, it provided a solace for many. Perry’s Chandler, in particular, was a comforting character — one that many would hope to be actual friends with in real life. He could make people laugh without being mean, and for many struggling with being lonely, that is a big thing. So when he died, everyone who loved him as Chandler felt like they all lost a good friend. The fact that he was also open about his personal struggles and still endeavored to help make the loss far greater.
Amid the flurry of tributes for Perry, the core cast of Friends has yet to release any statement. Whether they will is still uncertain at some point. It’s safe to say, however, that like many, they are also processing this massively unexpected loss.
