20 years ago, in the final episode of Friends titled “The Last One,” it was Matthew Perry’s character, Chandler, who delivered the last line, and it wasn’t by chance. In the iconic scene, the friends bid farewell to Monica and Chandler’s apartment as they move to the suburbs with their newborn twins. As they leave their keys on the table, Rachel suggests grabbing coffee, to which Chandler deadpans, “Where?” The audience erupts in laughter, knowing the group’s fondness for their local coffee spot, Central Perk. It was a perfect moment for Chandler’s sarcasm.
Perry, in his 2022 memoir, revealed that he had specifically asked co-creator Marta Kauffman for the honor of delivering the final line. He cherished the moment, particularly Schwimmer’s reaction, which captured the essence of the show’s affectionate yet humorous tone.
Reflecting on the series’ end after 10 seasons, Perry noted that the cast was ready to move on. Aniston’s desire to pursue films and the feeling that the characters’ stories had reached their natural conclusion contributed to the decision to wrap up the show.
On the last day of filming, emotions ran high among the cast, with Aniston particularly tearful. Perry, candid about his struggles with addiction, revealed that he felt emotionally detached, perhaps due to his ongoing battle with substance abuse. Despite the challenges, the bond among the cast remained strong, as evidenced by their joint statement mourning Perry’s untimely death in 2023.
Perry’s passing deeply affected his former castmates, who remembered him as an integral part of their “chosen family.” The legacy of Friends endures, shaped by the camaraderie and unforgettable moments shared by the six iconic characters.
