Matthew Perry Did Not Like the Awful Strip Club Story Arc of Chandler, Asked FRIENDS Writers to Remove It From the Show
In a revelation that has come to light after the tragic passing of Matthew Perry at the age of 54. It has been disclosed that the beloved actor played a pivotal role in altering a controversial storyline in the hit sitcom Friends.
The storyline in question involved Chandler Bing, portrayed by Perry, cheating on his on-screen girlfriend/wife Monica during a trip to Las Vegas in a 1999 episode titled The One in Vegas: Part 1.
The original script detailed a heated argument between Chandler and Monica in Las Vegas, centering around Monica having lunch with her ex-boyfriend, Richard. This disagreement was set to escalate, leading Chandler to order room service in his hotel room. Enter Lisa Cash, playing a hotel worker, who was scripted to connect with Chandler in a way that ultimately led to his infidelity with her character.
Matthew Perry’s Unease: A Plea for Change
Matthew Perry, however, did not feel comfortable with this storyline and took a decisive step by approaching the show’s writers to request a change. According to Lisa Cash, who played the pivotal hotel worker role, Perry expressed concerns that the fans would never forgive Chandler for cheating on Monica. This pivotal moment unfolded just a day before the scheduled live audience shoot.
In response to Perry’s reservations, the writers promptly went back to the drawing board. The cheating scenes were excised from the script, and Lisa Cash’s part in the controversial plotline was cut. Despite this significant change, Lisa was fortunate enough to be offered an alternative scene in which she appeared as a flight attendant alongside Ross and Rachel, played by David Schwimmer and Jennifer Aniston.
Lisa Cash commended Matthew Perry for not only advocating for the alteration but also for his welcoming and supportive demeanor on set. Perry’s intervention ensured that the storyline did not take a direction that might have irreparably altered the course of Friends. Lisa expressed gratitude toward the actor, acknowledging his efforts to make her feel valued despite the changes.
The Right Decision: Averting a Potential Fan Backlash
Lisa also voiced her agreement with Perry’s stance, stating that Chandler’s decision to cheat on Monica could have had severe repercussions with the audience. She acknowledged the established dynamic of Ross and Rachel with the infamous “we were on a break” argument but emphasized that Chandler and Monica weren’t on a break. Lisa deemed it a smart decision by the writers to remove the cheating scene, avoiding potential fan backlash and preserving the integrity of the characters and the show.
In a gracious move by the Friends production team, Lisa Cash was not entirely left out. Despite the removal of her original role, she was given an opportunity to participate in an alternative scene, showcasing the show’s commitment to inclusivity and professionalism.
In the end, Matthew Perry’s decision to stand against the controversial storyline reflected not only his commitment to his character but also his consideration for the sentiments of Friends fans. This behind-the-scenes revelation adds another layer to the intricate tapestry of the iconic sitcom, illustrating the collaborative efforts and decisions that shaped its enduring legacy.
Also Read: FRIENDS Re-Wrote Entire Episode to Avoid Severe Backlash After Chandler’s ‘Sensitive’ 9/11 Joke
