Matthew Perry Is Famous for Friends, What What Are His Best Film and TV Roles?
Matthew Perry, while best known for his enduring role as Chandler Bing on the highly successful television sitcom “Friends”, has also showcased his talents in a variety of other film and television roles that have allowed him to display his range as an actor. Beyond the wise-cracking Chandler, here are some of his most notable performances:
1. “The Whole Nine Yards” (2000) – In this crime comedy film, Perry plays Nicholas “Oz” Oseransky, a hapless dentist who ends up entangled with his new neighbor, who happens to be a hit man. Perry’s comedic timing shines through in this role, proving that he can hold his own on the big screen alongside co-stars like Bruce Willis.
2. “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip” (2006-2007) – Stepping back into the world of television, Perry took on the more serious role of Matt Albie in this behind-the-scenes drama about a fictional live sketch comedy show. Although the series was short-lived, Perry’s performance was praised and showed audiences a more dramatic side of his acting abilities.
3. “17 Again” (2009) – In this romantic comedy, Perry plays Mike O’Donnell, a man who gets a chance to relive his high school years after mysteriously transforming into his 17-year-old self, played by Zac Efron. While Efron depicts the younger version, Perry’s few scenes as the older Mike resonated with audiences through both humor and heart.
4. “The Ron Clark Story” (2006) – This made-for-television movie featured Perry in the title role based on a real-life inspirational teacher who leaves his small hometown to teach in one of Harlem’s toughest schools. His portrayal of Clark earned him nominations for both an Emmy and a Golden Globe.
5. “Fools Rush In” (1997) – In this romantic comedy opposite Salma Hayek, Perry plays Alex Whitman, a straight-laced architect from New York who has a one-night-stand with Isabel Fuentes (Hayek) resulting in an unexpected pregnancy and a whirlwind romance. This film demonstrated Perry’s romantic lead potential early in his career.
While Matthew Perry will always be fondly remembered as Chandler Bing of “Friends,” these roles highlight his versatility as an actor and his ability to capture audiences in different contexts, genres, and characters. Even outside the Central Perk coffeehouse walls, Perry’s wit and talent continue to entertain and impress viewers across the globe.