In a heartfelt tribute to the beloved sitcom “Friends,” the entertainment world reflects on the 25 talented actors from the show who have passed away. Since its debut in 1994, “Friends” has become a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its memorable characters and iconic moments. However, the passage of time has taken some of its stars, leaving fans and friends alike to cherish their contributions to television history.
Fritzy Burr, who portrayed Mrs. Weinberg in 1995, was one of the early losses. At 71 when she joined the cast, Burr had a rich career in both television and theater, with notable appearances in “The Twilight Zone” and Broadway productions. She passed away on January 17, 2003, at 78 due to natural causes following health challenges.
James Michael Tyler, best known for his role as Gunther, the coffee shop worker with unrequited love for Jennifer Aniston’s character, Rachel, joined the series in 1994 at the age of 32. He sadly succumbed to prostate cancer on October 24, 2021, at 59, having kept his illness private until shortly before his death.
Another memorable character, Phoebe Abbott, played by Teri Garr, was introduced in 1997. Garr was 53 at the time and had a celebrated career, yet she passed away on October 29, 2024, at 79 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Ron Leibman, who portrayed Dr. Leonard Green, Rachel’s father, entered the show in 1996 at 59. He passed away on December 6, 2019, at 82 from pneumonia complications after facing multiple health issues. Similarly, Max Wright, who played Terry the restaurant manager, was 51 when he joined in 1994. He lost his battle with lymphoma on June 26, 2019, at 75.
Mike Hagerty, known for his role as Mr. Trigger, appeared on the show in 1995 at 41. He passed away unexpectedly on April 29, 2022, at 67 due to complications from an unknown illness.
Other notable losses include Janette Miller, who played an elderly woman in 1998 and passed away on November 4, 2016, at 84 from heart disease, and Ron Glass, who portrayed Russell in 1999 and died on November 25, 2016, at 71 due to respiratory failure.
Matthew Perry, who famously brought Chandler Bing to life, joined “Friends” at 25 in 1994. Tragically, he passed away on October 28, 2023, at 54 from cardiac arrest, a consequence of his well-documented struggles with addiction.
Mary Pat Gleason, who played Nurse Sore in 1994, had a rich career and succumbed to cancer on June 2, 2020, at 70. Paxton Whitehead, who appeared as Mr. Waltham in 1998, was another significant loss, passing away on June 16, 2023, at 85 due to natural causes.
The list goes on, including Beverly Garland, who played Aunt Iris in 1995, and Gregory Itzin, who portrayed Theodore Hanigan in 2002. Both actors had remarkable careers but left us with cherished memories and performances.
The legacy of these actors is not just in their performances but in the joy and laughter they brought to millions. “Friends” remains a beloved series, and its characters continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring that the memories of these talented individuals will never fade. As fans reflect on their contributions, they are reminded of the timeless moments created by these stars, who will forever hold a special place in the hearts of viewers.
