Though best known as Chandler Bing on NBC’s hit sitcom ‘Friends’, Matthew Perry brought his signature comedic talents to a diverse array of roles over his accomplished career. Following his tragic passing at age 54, we take a look back at some of Perry’s most beloved performances outside of the iconic Central Perk gang.
Romantic Lead in ‘Fools Rush In’
In the 1997 romantic comedy ‘Fools Rush In’, Perry took on a rare leading man role alongside Salma Hayek. Playing an uptight corporate type who knocks up Hayek’s character during a one-night stand in Mexico, Perry got to showcase both his physical comedy chops and a softened romantic edge.
Seeing the typically sarcastic actor portray a man discovering his heart through unexpectedly becoming a father served as ideal foreshadowing for the emotional growth Chandler Bing would undergo on ‘Friends’. Perry adeptly walked the line between zany sitcom hijinks and genuine sentiment that made him so endearing.
Twisting His ‘Friends’ Persona on ‘Scrubs’
Perry’s guest appearance on the medical sitcom ‘Scrubs’ offered him the chance to subvert audiences’ expectations of the Chandler Bing character.
As sarcastic hospital patient Murray, Perry amplified the cynicism while stripping away the underlying charm. The result was a fresh comedic perspective on the archetype he was strongly associated with post-‘Friends’.
Impressively, Perry played with his signature persona without becoming derivative, demonstrating his versatility. The episode, which Perry also directed, proved he could bring nuance to a familiar role.
Bringing Gravitas to the Overwrought ‘Studio 60’
Perry’s performance as head comedy writer Matt Albie elevated the maudlin Aaron Sorkin drama ‘Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip’.
Despite the show’s self-important writing, Perry injected authenticity into Matt through sheer charisma and commitment. His natural timing and emotional depth made Matt feel like a fleshed-out character rather than just a “genius” myth.
Perry’s magnetism provided the show’s heart, anchoring its most insufferable tendencies. He milked the subpar material for all it was worth, demonstrating his underrated dramatic chops.
Voicing an Iconic ‘Fallout’ Villain Out of Love for the Game
Perry’s fandom for the post-apocalyptic RPG ‘Fallout 3’ led to him landing the key voice role of Benny in 2010’s ‘Fallout: New Vegas’.
As the swanky gangster who double-crosses the player early on, Perry set the stage for the game’s nonlinear narrative through his hammy femme fatale monologue.
Perry’s passion for the franchise shone through. His performance as Benny was a love letter to ‘Fallout’ that helped establish ‘New Vegas’ quirky tone just as much as its writing.
Channeling Midlife Regret in ’17 Again’
2009’s ’17 Again’ offered Perry his most poignant later career role as Mike O’Donnell, the middle-aged father given a chance to relive high school.
Though the body-swap comedy displayed Perry’s affability, it was the moments of vulnerability and regret that gave the film surprising emotional weight. As Mike, Perry tapped into the relatable angst of roads not traveled.
It demonstrated Perry’s range for more dramatic work and served as a fitting swan song for his prolific film career.
Embodying Ruthless Ambition in ‘The Good Wife’/’Good Fight’
As smarmy political operative Mike Kresteva on acclaimed legal dramas ‘The Good Wife’ and spinoff ‘The Good Fight’, Perry was downright chilling.
Through subtle characterization, Perry made Kresteva’s ruthless lust for power quietly terrifying. The role proved Perry could compel through stillness as much as manic energy.
Perry leaning into playing an outright villain showed off untapped sides of his talent. He stole scenes while brilliantly setting aside any traces of the likability he was adored for.
Lasting Cultural Impact Beyond His Most Famous Role
While Perry will always be remembered first and foremost as Chandler Bing, he demonstrated remarkable range across his varied roles in film and television.
Whether nailing rom-com charm, animated voice acting, uproarious physical comedy, or even villainous creepiness, Perry’s creativity shone through. He breathed life into every character.
Matthew Perry’s passing diminishes the world of entertainment far beyond the loss of an iconic sitcom star. His willingness to take risks and evolve as an actor over three decades onscreen cemented his legacy.
