Tom Selleck, known for his role as Richard Burke on the hit sitcom Friends, has fond memories of his time working with the cast, particularly Matthew Perry. Selleck joined the show in Season 2 and quickly formed a connection with Perry, discussing their shared friendship with John Bennett Perry, Matthew’s father. Despite Selleck’s initial concerns, the cast members couldn’t have been nicer to him, and he cherishes the moments he spent with Perry on set.
Selleck and Perry’s friendship extended beyond the confines of the Friends set. They frequently caught up with each other, and Selleck never missed an opportunity to ask about Perry’s father, whom he had known since his early struggling actor days. The bond they shared was genuine and rooted in the ups and downs of their respective careers. Selleck fondly remembers their friendship and the support they provided to one another throughout the years.
One episode that stands out in Selleck’s memory is “The One Where Old Yeller Dies.” In this episode, Joey and Chandler temporarily morph into Selleck’s character, Richard Burke. When Perry delivered Richard’s line, the entire set erupted with laughter. Selleck recalls the moment vividly and attributes it to Perry’s raw talent and charisma. He believes that Perry was the most talented member of a highly skilled ensemble cast, a sentiment he shares now that Perry has tragically passed away.
Perry’s untimely death on October 28, 2023, left the entire Friends cast devastated. In honor of Perry’s memory, the cast organized a memorial service, extending an invitation to Selleck. Unfortunately, Selleck couldn’t attend, but the bond between the cast members remains as strong as ever. The camaraderie and absence of ego on the Friends set deeply impacted Selleck. During rehearsals, it was evident that the actors genuinely enjoyed each other’s company and had developed a unique synergy. Selleck believes that their shared experiences of previous failures on other shows brought them closer together, allowing friendships to flourish.
The success of Friends is undeniable, and Selleck attributes it to the incredible chemistry among the cast members. The sitcom created a nurturing environment where actors could thrive and bring their best performances to the screen. For Selleck, his time on Friends holds a special place in his heart, not only because of the unforgettable memories, but also because of the lasting bond he developed with the cast.
Tom Selleck’s experiences on the set of Friends were filled with warmth, friendship, and laughter. His friendship with Matthew Perry was particularly meaningful, as they shared a genuine connection beyond their roles on the show. Despite Perry’s tragic passing, Selleck reflects on their time together with gratitude and admiration. The legacy of Friends and the strong bond among the cast members will forever remain a cherished memory in Selleck’s heart.