Matt LeBlanc has paid tribute to his late FRIENDS co-star – and real-life friend – Matthew Perry.
In a post on Instagram, the actor shared a series of pictures of them working together as iconic duo Joey Tribbiani and Chandler Bing on the set of the hit TV show.
“Matthew. It is with a heavy heart I say goodbye,” he wrote. “The times we had together are honestly among the favourite times of my life. It was an honour to share the stage with you and to call you my friend.”
He continued, “I will always smile when I think of you and I’ll never forget you. Never. Spread your wings and fly brother, you’re finally free. Much love. And I guess you’re keeping the 20 bucks you owe me.”
Matthew passed away at his Pacific Palisades home on Saturday, October 28, 2023.
Hey there bestie – sign up to our FREE Newsletter for more kind, no-gossip celebrity news!
Warner Bros., the studio behind the hit series, shared a statement shortly after news of Matthew’s passing broke:
“We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry. Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros. Television Group family. The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many. This is a heartbreaking day and we send our loved to his family, his loved ones, and all of his devoted fans.”
His Friends cast mates also released a joint statement at the time:
“We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are a family. There is so much to say, but right now we’re going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss.In time we will say more, as and when we are able. For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty’s family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world.”
Matt is the first amongst the FRIENDS cast to share an individual message.
Since his passing, Matthew’s loved ones have launched the Matthew Perry Foundation to continue the late actor’s mission of helping others struggling with addiction.
(Feature Image Credit: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic via Getty Images)
