Tom Selleck Reflects on Channeling Matthew Perry’s Chandler Bing in “Friends”
Tom Selleck has always been known for his iconic roles, from “Magnum P.I.” to “Blue Bloods.” But his experience portraying Richard Burke on “Friends” came with a unique challenge: mastering the sarcastic charm of Matthew Perry’s Chandler Bing.
In a recent interview with USA TODAY, Selleck shared insights into the difficulties he faced while trying to embody Perry’s signature delivery. In a memorable episode from Season 2 of “Friends,” Selleck’s character, the ophthalmologist Richard Burke, takes on some of Chandler and Joey Tribbiani’s (Matt LeBlanc) traits, leading to a humorous role reversal.
Selleck recalls struggling to nail Perry’s distinctive line delivery for a quip about Richard’s foosball skills: “Could that shot be any prettier?” He says, “Matthew had this unique speech pattern that I wasn’t quite familiar with. I kept asking him, ‘Can you say it again?’ because I wanted to get it just right. He kept delivering the line with his signature style.”
Perry, who passed away on October 28 at the age of 54, was known for his quick wit and impeccable comedic timing. Selleck, who was preparing for his return in Season 14 of “Blue Bloods,” noted the challenge of replicating Perry’s iconic mannerisms. “Matt explained to me, ‘It’s a joke, Tom. It’s all in the way he says it.’ That was his signature.”
Selleck’s connection to Perry extended beyond their on-screen interactions. He revealed a personal link through Perry’s father, actor John Bennett Perry. “I’d often ask Matthew how his father was doing,” Selleck said. “I knew John from when I was a young actor trying to make it. He was always there, and we became good friends.”
Selleck appeared as Richard in nine episodes of “Friends” from 1995 to 2000, primarily working with Courteney Cox’s Monica Geller. He fondly remembers the Season 2 episode “The One Where Old Yeller Dies,” where his character humorously starts adopting some of Chandler and Joey’s characteristics.
Reflecting on his time on the show, Selleck expressed gratitude for the warm reception from the “Friends” cast and the opportunity to share scenes with Perry, whose comedic influence continues to resonate.
