Playing the theme song to “Friends” at the end of the In Memoriam is a perfectly good acknowledgment of Matthew Perry, giving him a moment without distracting from anything else. Jeannae Rouzan-Clay and Jesse Collins spoke about ensuring a fair balance in this section, especially when it came to Perry and one other influential figure: “Yes, Norman Lear and Matthew Perry, you have to give some special attention to, but you don’t want anyone to feel slighted,” Collins said. “Everybody’s contribution was significant.” Lear got a special tribute prior to the In Memoriam section with Rob Reiner and Sally Struthers — stars of “All in the Family” — introducing the slideshow.

Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, and Lisa Kudrow have already discussed their feelings about losing Perry. The cast of “Friends” released a joint statement shortly after his death, saying, “We were more than just cast mates. We are a family. There is so much to say, but right now we’re going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss.” 

There were many television reunions at the 75th Emmys, with the casts of “Cheers,” “Ally McBeal,” and more coming out in recreated sets for special moments. A “Friends” reunion would’ve been bittersweet, and it’s probably just too soon. The 76th Emmys are scheduled to take place sometime in September 2024, so perhaps the “Friends” actors will be ready to do something for Perry by then. 

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