Matthew Perry Said 12 Percent of Newfound Fame Was a ‘Little Scary’ One Year into Filming “Friends”

Matthew Perry Reflects on Early Days of Fame While Filming Friends

Matthew Perry, who tragically passed away in 2023, candidly shared his experiences of newfound fame during the early days of filming the hit TV show Friends. The actor, best known for his role as Chandler Bing, opened up to PEOPLE magazine in September 1995, just a year into the show’s second season. Perry revealed that despite the overwhelming attention and success, a portion of his newfound fame – around 12 percent, according to him – felt “a little scary.”

The journey to stardom for Perry began in September 1994 when Friends first aired, instantly propelling him to nationwide recognition. At the age of 26, he found himself thrust into the spotlight as the lovable and sarcastic Chandler Bing. In an interview with PEOPLE, Perry shared details about how he and a friend had originally pitched a pilot called Maxwell’s House, which NBC later passed on in favor of a show with a similar concept – Friends. Perry auditioned for the role and was quickly cast, starting work on the series within days.

As Friends gained immense popularity, Perry’s character, alongside those played by Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer, became household names across America. The show’s success was undeniable, with viewers tuning in each week and even during reruns in the summer. Despite the overwhelming positive response, Perry admitted that the early stages of fame had its challenges, with a small but significant percentage feeling unsettling to him.

Acknowledging the downside of fame, Perry reflected on the intrusiveness into his personal life, stating that while the attention was gratifying, it also came with its complexities. He found solace in the supportive and positive working environment provided by Friends, describing it as an “unbelievably wonderful place to work.” His co-stars, including Jennifer Aniston, spoke fondly of him, highlighting his sensitivity and kind-hearted nature, showcasing a different side to the funny and charming persona he portrayed on screen.

In a later interview with PEOPLE in 2022, Perry delved deeper into his personal struggles, particularly with addiction, and how the support of his castmates played a vital role in his journey to recovery. He candidly shared the challenges he faced while balancing his drug usage with the demands of a successful TV show, acknowledging that by his mid-30s, he was entrenched in significant trouble. Perry credited the camaraderie and understanding of his colleagues for helping him navigate those dark times, ultimately suggesting that Friends had a positive impact on his life.

Reflecting on his younger self who eagerly sought fame and validation, Perry noted a shift in perspective as he matured. He acknowledged that the pursuit of constant approval and attention was not sustainable, admitting that he was still discovering himself during the early days of Friends. Despite the challenges he faced, Perry expressed gratitude for the show and the friendships that sustained him through difficult periods, suggesting that it was a pivotal time in his personal and professional growth.

As fans and admirers remember Matthew Perry for his iconic role in Friends, his reflections on navigating fame and personal struggles serve as a poignant reminder of the complexities that often accompany success in the entertainment industry. His candidness and vulnerability shed light on the human behind the celebrity façade, resonating with those who continue to cherish his contributions to television and popular culture.