Tom Selleck recently shared heartfelt memories of the late Matthew Perry, calling him the “most talented” member of the Friends cast. Selleck, who appeared on the beloved sitcom as Dr. Richard Burke, Monica Geller’s (Courteney Cox) older love interest, praised Perry’s raw ability and unique comedic style.
In an interview with USA Today, the Blue Bloods star reflected on Perry’s talent, noting, “Matthew’s gone, so it’s easy to say this, but it’s true. I think he was the most talented of a very talented group of people.” Selleck, 78, fondly recalled working alongside Perry and the rest of the Friends cast from 1995 to 2000, during which time he appeared in nine episodes.
Selleck also expressed admiration for the close bond shared by the six main cast members of Friends, describing their camaraderie as “fascinating.” He observed, “There are no bad stories. No star stuff. Nothing like that there. You’d sit down to get notes on rehearsal, and it was fascinating. Courteney would be sitting on somebody’s lap and then someone else’s the next time. They all just got along.” Selleck attributed this strong connection to their shared experiences with previous failed shows, which made them appreciate their success even more.
The actor’s own connection with Perry extended beyond the set, as he shared a friendship with Matthew’s father, John Bennett Perry. This bond helped him feel more comfortable around the cast. “Everybody couldn’t have been nicer to me,” Selleck said. “But every day I’d see Matthew, and I’d ask him, ‘How’s your father?’ And he’d always smile, and we’d catch up.”
Selleck also recounted a memorable moment on the show when Perry’s influence helped him perfect a line delivered in Chandler Bing’s signature sarcastic style. Tom had to say, “Could that shot be any prettier?” and struggled with the delivery until Perry coached him on how to get it just right. “Matthew had this speech pattern that I hadn’t been aware of,” Selleck remembered. “Matt told me: ‘It’s a joke, Tom. It’s the way he says it.’ But during that whole show, I kept going up to him asking, ‘Can you say it again?’ and he’d do the line. That was his signature.”
Selleck’s tribute to Perry highlights the deep respect and fondness he had for the late actor, whose talent and warmth left a lasting impression on all who worked with him.
