Emmys producers Jesse Collins and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay explain why the cast of Friends didn’t reunite for the awards show’s Matthew Perry tribute. The series created by David Crane and Marta Kauffman first aired in 1994 and became one of the most popular shows of a generation, following a group of friends as they navigate their daily lives in New York City. Perry played Chandler Bing, but the actor tragically passed away on October 28 last year at the age of 54.
After the 2024 Emmy Awards’ touching tribute to Perry on January 15, Collins and Rouzan-Clay spoke with THR about why Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer, and Courteney Cox did not reunite for the emotional moment. The producers explained that the actors are all still in mourning. Collins noted that they had considered the idea early on but realized it might be too soon to ask the actors to come together publicly, given their personal grieving processes. He emphasized the importance of respecting their tight-knit bond and the fact that they are like a family.
Perry’s passing last October due to an accidental ketamine overdose shocked fans and colleagues alike. The internet quickly flooded with tributes to the star. Several days after his death, the core cast of Friends released a brief joint statement. It wasn't until mid-November that Aniston, Schwimmer, Kudrow, LeBlanc, and Cox shared more detailed messages on social media.
LeBlanc was the first to post on Instagram, expressing that it was an honor to share the stage with you and call you my friend, and emphasizing that Perry’s memory would always hold a special place in his heart. Cox followed with a behind-the-scenes look at a scene she shared with Perry, praising his generosity as a co-star. She highlighted how he often suggested jokes for other actors between takes, describing him as both funny and kind.
Aniston’s post commemorated the strong bond that the six stars shared, a connection that extended beyond the end of the series. She celebrated Perry’s quick wit and concluded by saying, You always made my day. Schwimmer focused on Perry’s impressive comedic talents, particularly his timing and unique delivery. Kudrow, in her heartfelt post, recalled how Perry fostered camaraderie among the Friends cast with a poker game at the start of the show, expressing gratitude for the best 10 years a person gets to have.
