David Schwimmer Responds to Matthew Perry’s Praise for His Physical Comedy Before His Passing

American actor David Schwimmer recently expressed his surprise at discovering that his late Friends co-star Matthew Perry admired his physical comedy skills. Perry, celebrated for his iconic role as Chandler Bing, passed away on October 28, 2023, at the age of 54 due to the acute effects of ketamine.

During an appearance on the Origins podcast hosted by his friend Cush Jumbo, recorded on September 17, 2024, Schwimmer reflected on this surprising revelation. He admitted that because of Perry’s typically reserved nature, such praise was entirely unexpected.

Jumbo recounted a conversation with Perry about David Schwimmer’s comedic abilities, particularly emphasizing his talent in physical comedy. This discussion took place while Perry and Jumbo collaborated on The Good Fight for a year.

Jumbo shared, “I remember discussing with him how I knew you a bit but not very much at that time, and I was mentioning commedia [dell’arte] and physical comedy and all that.”

She explained that she asked Perry, “Is David someone who just does it? Does it just come naturally to him? Or…”recalling Perry’s reply:

“He mentioned how it’s not out of control at all. You’re a linchpin in a scene… without you being that pivot, the rest doesn’t align, which I thought was incredibly complimentary and likely very true,”she noted.

David Schwimmer Reflects on Perry’s Reserved Nature

54th Golden Globe Awards - Source: Getty — 54th Golden Globe Awards – Source: Getty

David Schwimmer, who portrayed Ross Geller alongside Perry on Friends for ten seasons, was taken aback by the compliment. During the podcast, he commented:

“It’s interesting for many reasons to hear that, because… it’s a huge compliment, and I’m surprised to hear it because Matthew was quite reserved with me. He wouldn’t have expressed that, but I truly appreciate it,”he remarked.

He elaborated on his approach to physical comedy:

“Yes, I am one of the few in the cast with extensive theatre training, so… in film or any scene involving stunts or physicality, I believe it needs to be finely choreographed. I would work relentlessly on my physical comedy in any scene,”Schwimmer detailed.

David Schwimmer continued to explain his careful process, noting how he meticulously structured and choreographed his movements to ensure both safety and consistency, likely the aspect Perry was acknowledging.

Perry’s passing profoundly affected Schwimmer and the entire Friends cast. Following Perry’s death, Schwimmer took to social media on November 15, 2023, to express his sorrow. He shared a heartfelt message on Instagram along with a photo from one of his treasured moments with Perry from the Friends season 5 episode, “The One with All the Thanksgivings.”

In his post, Schwimmer also highlighted Perry’s generous spirit, which played a significant role in uniting the Friends cast as a family.

In the wake of Perry’s passing, the Friends cast, which includes Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer, issued a joint statement mourning their dear friend.

“We were more than just cast mates. We are family,”the statement declared.

The cast requested privacy as they navigated their grief over Perry’s death.

“There is so much to say, but for now, we need to take a moment to grieve and process this incomprehensible loss… For now, our thoughts and love are with Matty’s family, friends, and everyone who loved him globally,”they shared.

Schwimmer is currently engaged in various projects, including his role in the Peacock series Intelligence. He recently appeared in the film Little Death, which showcased at the Sundance Film Festival on January 19, 2024. Schwimmer continues to pursue opportunities in both acting and directing across television and film.

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