Beloved Friends star Matthew Perry had always been inspired by the talent and success of actor Michael J. Fox. Perry, in a November 2022 event promoting his bestselling memoir Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, revealed his admiration for Fox, particularly since his teenage years.

As a ninth-grader, Perry couldn't help but be envious of Fox's achievements, especially after the release of Back to the Future. Fox was a sensation, simultaneously dominating both television and film with the number one TV show and movie of the time. Perry humorously added that he could relate to the accomplishment since he himself achieved the same feat.

Responding to Perry's admiration, Fox, 62, called the Friends star a "funny guy." He expressed his happiness at having impacted Perry and reminisced about their transition from admirers to friends. Fox recounted an unexpected act of kindness from Perry when he generously donated a significant sum to The Michael J. Fox Foundation, which supports Parkinson's disease research, upon signing his historic $1 million per episode contract with Friends.

Fox appreciated the gesture, describing it as a vote of confidence in their early stages.

He emphasized his admiration for Perry's lack of self-aggrandizement, remarking that Perry simply wanted to support the cause. Fox concluded by stating his gratitude for the friendship they had built.

Perry's untimely death at the age of 54 continues to be mourned by his loved ones and fans alike. In a joint statement, his Friends co-stars Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer expressed their devastation, describing themselves as more than just colleagues but a family. They asked for understanding as they grieved and processed the loss, assuring that more would be said in due time. Their thoughts and love were extended to Perry's family, friends, and fans worldwide.