‘Friends’ Cast Mourns Matthew Perry In Emotional Tribute: “We Are All So Utterly Devastated”

The Friends stars penned an emotional joint statement in mourning of their longtime friend and castmate, Matthew Perry, who recently died at the age of 54.

The statement was signed by all of Perry’s Friends co-stars: Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, Courtney Cox, David Schwimmer, and Matt LeBlanc.

“We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are a family,” the statement reads, per People. “There is so much to say, but right now we’re going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss.”

It continues, “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.”

Perry and his castmates starred on the hit NBC sitcom together for 10 years, playing a group of tight-knit friends and neighbors living in New York City. Perry played Chandler Bing, the lovable yet socially-awkward love interest to Cox’s character, Monica.

Since his passing, Perry has been praised by many former co-stars and colleagues. Friends creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane wrote in a joint statement with executive producer Kevin Bright that Perry’s passing “seems impossible.”

“We are shocked and deeply, deeply saddened by our beloved friend Matthew’s passing… All we can say is that we feel blessed to have had him as part of our lives. He was a brilliant talent,” their statement reads.

His co-star Maggie Wheeler, who played Chandler’s on-again/off-again girlfriend Janice, wrote that she felt “so very blessed by every creative moment we shared.”

Actress Paget Brewster, who had a brief recurring role on the show, implored fans to “please read his book,” saying, “It was his legacy to help. He won’t rest in peace though.. He’s already too busy making everyone laugh up there.”

Though Chandler is one of the most iconic characters on television, Perry said he didn’t want to be remembered just for starring in the hit sitcom.

“The best thing about me, bar none, is if somebody comes up to me and says, ‘I can’t stop drinking. Can you help me?’” he says in a now-viral clip that began circulating after his death. “I can say yes and follow up and do it. That’s the best thing.”

He continues in the clip, “I’ve said this for a long time. When I die, I don’t want Friends to be the first thing that’s mentioned. I want that to be the first thing that’s mentioned and I’m going to live the rest of my life proving that.”