Remembering Matthew Perry: Here Are Some of His Most Iconic Moments as Chandler Bing on Friends
One year ago today, the world lost Matthew Perry, who tragically passed away on October 28, 2023, at the age of 54. His unexpected departure left a significant void in the hearts of fans and friends alike. Yet, in his absence, his legacy continues to shine brightly, filled with the unforgettable moments he gifted us through his iconic role as Chandler Bing on Friends. As Perry himself expressed in 2022 while promoting his memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, “I would like to be remembered as somebody who lived well, loved well, was a seeker.”
In this spirit, we remember him just as he wished. Chandler Bing wasn't merely a character; he was a friend to millions.
Perry's portrayal of the neurotic, sarcastic, yet endearing Chandler transformed him into a cultural icon, making him relatable in ways that felt both comforting and real. With his razor-sharp one-liners and poignant vulnerabilities, Chandler Bing captured bits of ourselves, someone we cheered for and laughed at.
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane to relive those magical moments that always left us in stitches, sometimes made us cry, and reminded us of the actor who turned the most ordinary scenes into something truly special.
Matthew faced personal battles during the show's filming, notably a serious alcohol and opioid addiction that stemmed from a jet skiing accident in 1997, for which he was prescribed Vicodin for pain management. Despite his struggles, his memorable moments as Chandler remain a highlight for fans. Here are some of Matthew's most iconic scenes on Friends:
In this hilarious scene from Season 4, Chandler finds himself handcuffed by Rachel's boss, left in his underwear and unbuttoned shirt when Rachel opens the door. His facial expressions are truly the highlight of the episode.
Desperate to escape his ex-girlfriend Janice Hosenstein (Maggie Wheeler), Chandler concocts a wild story about being transferred to Yemen. Unfortunately, he ends up actually buying a $2,100 ticket and travelling to Yemen to uphold his elaborate ruse.
Chandler and Rachel become obsessed with a cheesecake from Mama's Little Bakery (located in Illinois, Chicago), hilariously stealing deliveries from their neighbor. They even attempt to eat a cheesecake that fell on the floor!
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Initially averse to bubble baths, Chandler is swayed by Monica's romantic setup. When he finally agrees to try it he loves it, but when he tries to prepare his own bath he gets everything wrong, so next time Monica draws a bath for herself he steals it. Everyone gathers in the bathroom while Chandler is in the tub to share the news that Rachel and Ross are having a girl.
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Amid wedding preparations, Chandler is startled when he hears their new outgoing message announcing them as "The Bings," leading to a comical freakout.
Credit: Warner Bros/Everett Collection
Joey surprises Chandler with a chick, leading to a hilarious back-and-forth reminiscent of a married couple. Chandler resolves to take the chick back, but not only does he fail to return her (because he finds out that they would kill her if nobody else is willing to adopt her), but he apparently also comes back home with a fully-grown duck.
From the iconic episode "The One Where Ross and Rachel... You Know", Joey surprises Chandler by purchasing two large leather recliners and a big TV for their apartment after his contract on Days of Our Lives as Dr. Drake Ramoray was renewed. Excited about the new additions, the two decide to enjoy their recliners and TV immediately, unwilling to leave their comfy spots.
While packing their apartment for a move to the suburbs, Monica and Chandler rush Erica to the hospital as she goes into labor three weeks early. Left alone in the delivery room, Chandler struggles to connect with Erica, making a series of awkward jokes. Monica and Chandler witness the birth of their son, but just as they express their gratitude to Erica, the obstetrician warns them not to get too comfortable, as a second baby is on the way. Surprised to learn that Erica is having twins, they happily decide to adopt both. They name their son Jack, after Monica's father, and their daughter Erica, after her birth mother.
In the series finale, Chandler and Monica leave their Manhattan apartment after welcoming their twins. The family moves to Westchester, signaling the end of their close-knit life with the other four friends. As they place their keys on the kitchen counter and prepare to share one last coffee, Chandler jokes, "Where?" prompting laughter as they walk down the hallway together.
As we remember Matthew Perry, let us celebrate the laughter and warmth he brought into our lives through Chandler Bing.