Courteney Cox, the beloved actress known for her role as Monica Geller on “Friends,” recently shared a heartfelt reflection on her career and the enduring impact of her late co-star, Matthew Perry.
In an interview with CBS Sunday Morning, Cox expressed a deep sense of gratitude and connection to Perry, whom she described as one of the funniest and kindest people she has ever known.
Cox, 59, spoke warmly of Perry, highlighting his exceptional humor and the genuine kindness that defined him. “He is genuinely a huge heart,” she said, acknowledging the struggles he faced throughout his life. Despite these challenges, Cox is thankful for the years they spent working closely together on the iconic sitcom.
Cox shared her belief that Perry, along with her other loved ones who have passed away, continue to visit her in spirit. “I’ve talked to my mom, my dad, Matthew.
I feel like there are a lot of people that are … I think they guide us,” she said. “I do sense, yeah, I sense Matthew’s around for sure.”
Reflecting on the ten years spent filming “Friends,” Cox described the cast and crew as her family. She emphasized the bond they shared, stating, “Those 10 years were everything… they’re my family.” The show, which brought joy to millions, also provided Cox with a support system and lifelong friendships.
The death of Matthew Perry in October 2023 at the age of 54 was a profound loss for Cox and the rest of the “Friends” cast. Perry’s cause of death was later ruled to be “acute effects of ketamine,” a revelation that added to the sadness of his passing. Despite this tragedy, the memories and love shared among the cast remain strong.
Following Perry’s death, Cox, along with Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, Lisa Kudrow, and Matt LeBlanc, released a heartfelt statement expressing their devastation. “We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just castmates. We are a family,” they said, underscoring the deep bond they all shared.
During her interview, Cox also reminisced about how being cast in “Friends” was a turning point in her life. “That show, thank God for that show,” she said, recalling how she landed the role at a time when she was struggling financially. The opportunity to be part of such a special project, with its incredible cast and writers, was a life-changing experience.
Cox marveled at the magic of “Friends,” describing it as “lightning in a bottle.” The show’s success not only brought her financial stability but also forged lasting relationships and unforgettable memories. The camaraderie and chemistry among the cast members contributed to the show’s enduring popularity.
