Matthew Perry's 1997 'SNL' appearance revisited as show pays special tribute after 'Friends' star's death
MANHATTAN, NEW YORK: Following the news of 'Friends' star Matthew Perry's passing at the age of 54 on Saturday, October 28, NBC’s 'Saturday Night Live' paid tribute to the actor and former host.
At the end of the Halloween-themed episode hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze on Saturday night, just before the curtain call, the show aired a special tribute card for Perry.
Perry had previously hosted the iconic sketch comedy show with musical guest Oasis on October 4, 1997.
Perry's 'SNL' experience
During his monologue, Perry urged the residents of New York City to come together and participate in the recreation of the beloved opening fountain dance in the popular TV show ‘Friends.’
Several hilarious sketches were telecast that night, one of which being Perry teaching a group of students, including Will Ferrell, Cheri Oteri, and Norm Macdonald, 'Sarcasm 101,' in which he explained his signature comedic tone.
In the episode, Perry also played the character of Joey in a ‘Friends’ parody skit. He expressed his objection to Colin Quinn portraying his character Chandler in a way that he felt was too effeminate.
The actor who starred in the hit NBC sitcom became the fourth cast member to host 'SNL.'
This follows the previous hosting gigs of Courteney Cox and David Schwimmer in 1995, and Lisa Kudrow in 1996.
Jennifer Aniston, who once turned down the opportunity to host 'SNL' for 'Friends,' eventually hosted the show in 1999 and 2004.
However, Matt LeBlanc has never hosted the show to date.
Gone too soon
Perry was reportedly found unresponsive in a jacuzzi at his home in Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Authorities responded about 4 p.m. to his home, upon which they declared him dead.
According to law enforcement sources, there were no indications of foul play and no drugs were discovered at the location where the actor was found dead.
However, the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office will determine the cause of death at a later date.
The actor who received an Emmy nomination also made appearances on several television shows such as 'Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip', 'Go On', and 'The Odd Couple.'
Additionally, he starred in movies including 'Fools Rush In', 'The Whole Nine Yards', and '17 Again.'
In 2021, he reunited with his former colleagues for a 'Friends Reunion Special' on HBO Max.
The following year, he garnered attention for his revealing memoir, 'Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing', in which he opened up about his long-standing struggles with substance abuse.