Why Weren’t The Friends Cast Involved In Netflix’s Matthew Perry Doc? Director Speaks Out

Friends fans the world over will be tuning into Netflix this week to check out the streaming platform’s new documentary about the late Matthew Perry.

The three-part series The One About Matthew Perry premiered on the service on Tuesday morning.

Netflix said in an official synopsis the series will explore “the full scope of who Matthew Perry was: the comedic genius, the man who grappled with addiction, the advocate in the addiction and recovery space, and – perhaps most importantly – the human being and friend”.

So far, the critical reception to the doc has been largely positive, with particular praise for the candour shown by its interviewees, including the late Emmy nominee’s sister and numerous people who worked on Friends throughout its 10-season run.

However, there are some notable absentees – namely the surviving members of the Friends cast, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer.

Director Mary Robertson recently told The New York Times that the five actors were contacted about contributing to her documentary, but ultimately chose not to be part of it.

“We know the Friends cast loves Matthew and is grieving Matthew,” she pointed out. “We did approach them about participation. They decided not to participate.”

The One About Matthew Perry was released on the third anniversary of the actor’s death at the age of 54.

Shortly after Matthew’s death was made public, his co-stars paid their respects in a joint statement, which read: “We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew.

“We were more than just castmates. We are a family. There is so much to say, but right now we’re going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss.

“In time we will say more, as and when we are able. For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty’s family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world.”

The One About Matthew Perry is now streaming on Netflix.