The Friends actress shared the touching story behind her unexpected discovery.
Lisa Kudrow recently shared a deeply personal moment involving the late Matthew Perry, revealing that she came across a note he had written to her—hidden inside the iconic ‘Cookie Time’ jar from the Friends set—two decades after the show ended.
More than a year has passed since Perry’s tragic death, but his Friends castmates continue to keep his memory alive, cherishing the bond they shared on and off the screen.
Perry, best known for playing Chandler Bing, passed away at the age of 54 on October 28, 2023. His cause of death was ruled as the effects of ketamine, with additional factors including ‘drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine (a medication used for opioid dependency),’ according to the medical examiner.
Even after his passing, his co-stars frequently reminisce about him, sharing heartfelt memories and anecdotes that reflect his humor, kindness, and generosity. Kudrow, in particular, recently recalled discovering a forgotten note from Perry, tucked away inside a special gift he had given her years ago.
As a sentimental wrap gift, Perry had gifted Kudrow the well-known ‘Cookie Time’ jar from the Friends set—a piece of memorabilia that held meaning for both of them. What she hadn’t realized at the time was that he had also left her a note inside it, a message she unknowingly carried with her for years.
During an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, where she was promoting her new Netflix series No Good Deed, Kudrow shared the emotional story. Reflecting on the memory, she said: “Matthew gave that to me at the end of our last episode. I had recently found the note that he had in it for me.”
Lisa Kudrow recently found an old note penned to her by Matthew Perry
Jason Kempin/Getty Images
“I hadn’t opened it up or looked inside of it. But yeah, he did. He had a note in there and I forgot about it.”
Although Kudrow chose not to disclose the contents of the note, the story deeply resonated with Barrymore, prompting her to respond: “Timing is everything.”
Since Perry’s passing, Courteney Cox, who played his on-screen wife Monica Geller, has also spoken about how she still feels his presence in her life.
During an interview on CBS News Sunday Morning last year, Cox reflected on her connection with Perry, sharing: “I’m so thankful I got to work so closely with him for so many years. He visits me a lot, if we believe in that.”
Elaborating on her beliefs and spirituality, the Cougar Town actress added: “I talk to my mom, my dad, Matthew. I feel like there are a lot of people that, I think, guide us.”
“I do sense — I sense Matthew’s around for sure.”
Friends favorite Matthew Perry died in October 2023
Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for GQ
Meanwhile, in an ongoing investigation into Perry’s untimely passing, five individuals have been charged in relation to his death. Among them are two doctors, his personal assistant, and two others alleged to be involved in drug distribution.
One of the doctors, Mark Chavez, has admitted guilt to a federal charge of conspiracy to distribute ketamine. His sentencing is scheduled to take place in April in a Los Angeles court.