Paul Rudd Discusses Playing Video Games with Matthew Perry on ‘Friends’

ine overdose in October 2023 at the age of 54.

Rudd, now 55, first appeared on Friends in the ninth season as Mike Hannigan, Phoebe Buffay’s love interest. Their on-screen romance lasted through the final season, culminating in their characters getting married. Despite feeling welcomed by Perry and the rest of the cast, Rudd admitted he felt a bit out of place in the show’s finale.

Creators David Crane and Marta Kauffman shared that they felt Rudd’s presence was necessary in the finale to solidify Mike as Phoebe’s future. They acknowledged that there was a bit of internal conflict about including Rudd in the episode, as they wanted to focus on the original six cast members. However, they felt Rudd’s character was crucial to Phoebe’s storyline.

Although Rudd missed the 2021 Friends reunion special, he revealed that watching the show with his daughter brought back memories and nostalgia. He explained that revisiting the episodes with her allowed him to reflect on his time on the show and share stories about his experience.

Rudd’s fond memories of playing video games with Perry and the warm welcome he received from the cast showcase the special bond they shared on and off-screen. Their friendship and camaraderie behind the scenes added to the chemistry viewers saw on the show.