Salma Hayek Remembers Matthew Perry: A Heartfelt Tribute
The passing of Matthew Perry has left a void that many, including his former co-star Salma Hayek, are struggling to fill with the warmth of their memories. As the world mourns the loss of the beloved Friends star, Salma Hayek shared a touching tribute to honor his memory.
In the wake of Perry’s untimely death, the actress took to social media with a series of throwback photos alongside a moving caption.
“I woke up two days ago to the shocking news that Matthew Perry is no longer with us,” Hayek began. “It’s taken me a couple of days to process this profound sadness. There is a special bond that happens when you share dreams with someone, and together you work towards them.”
She continued, “I was deeply moved last year when Matthew shared on his Instagram Stories how much he loved ‘Fools Rush In,’ and how he thought that the film we did together was probably his best movie. Throughout the years, he and I found ourselves reminiscing about that meaningful time in our lives with a deep sense of nostalgia and gratitude.”
In conclusion, she said, “My friend, you are gone much too soon, but I will continue to cherish your silliness, your perseverance, and your lovely heart. Farewell, sweet Matthew, we will never forget you.”
“Fools Rush In” marked Perry’s first film endeavor following the massive success of Friends, a show that catapulted him to global stardom during the mid-’90s sitcom era. Perry’s unforgettable portrayal of Chandler Bing solidified his place among television’s comedy greats.
The 1997 film, which was based on the real-life experience of Hollywood producer Doug Draizin, followed the journey of Hayek and Perry’s characters after a one-night stand results in an unexpected pregnancy.
Draizin, reflecting on the movie and his time with Perry, shared heartwarming anecdotes about the actor. He remembered how Perry, in moments of tension on set, would engage in friendly Wiffle ball games, drawing the attention of local kids who were thrilled to see Matthew Perry from “Friends” hitting a Wiffle ball in their neighborhood.
“A lot of kids would come and pitch to him,” Draizin recalled. “He loved having people come around when we were on location. He was really friendly and very genuine.”
Draizin also noted the special presence of Perry’s father, John Bennett Perry, in the film, which held sentimental significance for Perry, given the challenges of his own divorce. The shared experience of working together on the film was a source of pride and connection for father and son.
The producer, despite the happiness that the movie poster of “Fools Rush In” once brought him, now looks at it with a sense of melancholy. The loss of Matthew Perry has cast a shadow over the memories of their time together.