By Andrés Muñoz

Like many in Latin America, I watched American sitcoms when I was young. I’d get home, do my homework, and see what was on TV (sometimes not in that particular order!). I grew up watching classics like That 70s Show, Seinfeld, and more.  

With the recent news of the death of Matthew Perry, who played the iconic Chandler Bing in the hit 90s series “Friends“, I find myself reflecting on how this show was a source of comfort and laughter for millions worldwide. Not only was it a cultural voice of a generation, but it paved the way so other programs could shine. Let’s drive down memory lane, explore Matthew Perry’s legacy, and see how “Friends” wasn’t just another show. 

Could “Friends” BE Any More From The 90s-2000s? 

In terms of zeitgeist, there are few comedic series that gripped the world as firmly as “Friends“. There was no place in the world where you wouldn’t know of Ross, Rachel, Chandler, Monica, Joey, and Phoebe and their adventures as they lived the ups and downs of life in New York City. 

There are still words and phrases that instantly transport viewers to a specific moment in the series. All you need to say is, “Pivot!” “Unagi” or “We were on a break!” to make someone smile and remember some of the show’s best moments. 

Some say that “Friends” hasn’t aged gracefully, with a lack of diversity in the main characters and reinforcement of gender stereotypes being some of the criticisms from today’s reviews. Times change, and with them, our sensibilities adjust and force a general reevaluation towards different types of humour. While this is only natural, “Friends” is still an iconic show for several reasons. 

First of all, it firmly resonated with the millennial generation. Those of us in the 1981-1995 cohort grew up with the six and, in our own way, experienced the same hardships of early adulthood that the show’s characters faced. The murky waters of dating, pursuing a fulfilling career, and finding your place in the world were all central narrative elements in the series.

Their characters are very relatable: their quirks, flaws, and unique personalities make them feel like real people. This way, viewers still identify with the characters’ struggles, dreams, and perspectives, regardless of when they watch the show. Also, no sitcom can fly without top-notch humour, and the witty one-liners and clever banter written by creators David Crane and Marta Kauffman still resonate, even though they were written decades ago.  

Finally, there’s the “Friends” versus “How I Met Your Mother” (HIMYM) debate. Some argue that HIMYM gives “Friends” a run for its money, with its engaging storylines and narrative structure (there are even some gags that take several seasons to hit the punchline!). With this said, without “Friends“, there wouldn’t have been “HIMYM”. 

Both shows share similarities, including a close-knit group of friends in New York City that weave romantic storylines among them. The fact of the matter is that the gold standard of the ensemble sitcom was established by Crane and Kauffman, and HIMYM borrows several elements from it.  

Bing: A Tribute To Matthew Perry

The recent passing of Matthew Perry, who portrayed Chandler Bing, was a grim moment for me and undoubtedly for fans everywhere. While each character in the show had something that made them shine, Perry’s portrayal of the sarcastic yet lovable Chandler was integral to the success of “Friends“. He was my favourite.

Going back to the generational conversation, Matthew Perry’s personal struggles with addiction, mental health and his journey to recovery made him even more relatable to many millennials. His openness about these issues was a source of inspiration and reassurance for those facing similar challenges. His willingness to share his experiences helped reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, making him a beloved figure on and off the screen. 

I particularly remember a video I saw recently, where he said that when he died, he didn’t want to be remembered for being a “Friends” character but for being a man who was always willing to help people, specifically those recovering from addictions. Therefore, I want to acknowledge the vital role he played not only in “Friends” but also in the general conversation about mental health. 

His legacy will be linked to the show, yes, but he’ll always be a reminder that even the most beloved TV characters are played by individuals with their own struggles and triumphs.

And there it is, my “Friends“… 

It is more than just a show; it’s a prime example of the 90s-2000s zeitgeist, a source of laughter, and a testament to the power of friendship. Furthermore, Matthew Perry’s contributions as an actor and an advocate for mental health awareness will resonate for generations to come. 

Share your favourite memories of this television classic in the comments section below!