Fans were shocked when Matthew Perry, beloved for his role as Chandler Bing on “Friends,” was left out of the 2024 Emmys “In Memoriam” segment. Here’s why the actor was not included and what social media users had to say about it.
The 2024 Emmy Awards, held in September, aimed to celebrate the best in television, but one notable absence in its “In Memoriam” segment created buzz online.
Despite his profound impact on the industry, Matthew Perry was not included in the Emmys’ tribute to the television luminaries who died over the past year. Although Emmy organizers explained the omission, some viewers felt that no matter the reason, Perry should have been included in this year’s tribute.
Matthew Perry during the REELZChannel portion of the 2017 Winter Television Critics Association Press Tour on January 13, 2017, in Pasadena, California. | Source: Getty Images
Matthew Perry’s Passing and His Absence from the 2024 Emmys Tribute
The entertainment world was left in shock following the tragic passing of Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the iconic sitcom “Friends.” Perry, who was 54 years old, was found dead at his Los Angeles home in what was reported as an apparent drowning in his hot tub.
Matthew Perry posing as Chandler Bing in “Friends,” circa 2001. | Source: Getty Images
Law enforcement confirmed the incident, stating that while the exact circumstances remained under investigation, there was no indication of foul play. Born in Williamstown, Massachusetts, Perry became a beloved figure in television history, known for his quick wit, charm, and the timeless humor of his most famous character.
Matthew Perry with his “Friends” co-stars, circa 2009. | Source: Getty Images
His portrayal of Chandler captured the hearts of millions, leaving a lasting legacy that has inspired countless fan tributes and social media homages. The sudden news of Perry’s death sent ripples through his local community, with neighbors expressing their sorrow and sharing fond memories of brief yet warm interactions with the actor.
Matthew Perry at the 9th Annual Dinner Benefiting the Lili Claire Foundation on October 14, 2006, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
Perry was remembered not only as a talented performer but also as a kind and approachable individual who mirrored much of the friendly demeanor seen on screen. As the investigation continued, Perry’s home remained taped off by police, a poignant reminder of the tragedy that had unfolded.
The timing of Perry’s death, so close to the 2024 Emmy Awards, made his absence from the ceremony’s “In Memoriam” segment particularly jarring for many fans and viewers.
Matt LeBlanc and Matthew Perry backstage following a performance of “The End Of Longing,” Perry’s playwriting debut at The Playhouse Theatre on April 30, 2016, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
The 2024 Emmys, held in September and hosted by the father-son duo Eugene and Daniel Levy, aimed to offer a fresh twist on the award show format by having the first-ever father-son duo hosting. This also marked the first time the Levys had taken on hosting duties, bringing their unique comedic flair to the night.
Eugene and Daniel Levy hosting the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards on September 15, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
“My dad and I are not stand-up comics, so we’re coming at it from a very different place. But we’re both really hard workers, and we’re determined to make it as great as it can possibly be,” Daniel shared ahead of the show.
Eugene and Daniel Levy at the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards on September 15, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Known for their work on the acclaimed series “Schitt’s Creek,” the Levys were no strangers to the Emmys stage, having both been multiple award winners themselves.
Throughout the night, the 2024 Emmys celebrated some of television’s best. “Shōgun,” a newcomer to the awards scene, led the night with an impressive 25 nominations and took home the prize for Outstanding Drama Series.
“Shōgun” stars Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada in the press room during the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards on September 15, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
“The Bear” also had a big night, sweeping several comedy acting categories, including wins for Jeremy Allen White and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Meanwhile, “Hacks” secured the Outstanding Comedy Series title, with Jean Smart earning her third win for her role on the show.
In the limited series category, “Baby Reindeer” dominated, winning Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series, along with acting and writing awards for its star Richard Gadd.
Richard Gadd at the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards on September 15, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
However, it wasn’t just the winners that drew attention; the show’s “In Memoriam” segment, a fixture of the annual telecast, sparked controversy. The tribute honored notable figures like Shannen Doherty, Chance Perdomo, Martin Mull, and Richard Lewis, acknowledging those the television world had lost over the past year.
Shannen Doherty’s tribute during the “In Memoriam” segment of the 2024 Emmy Awards. | Source: YouTube/ABC
The segment opened with a touching moment led by singer Jelly Roll, who offered heartfelt remarks before performing his song “I Am Not Okay.” “I believe that music is therapeutic. I believe that music can heal. I also believe that storytelling is just as cathartic,” Jelly Roll said, setting the tone for the tribute.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbrAgvZQCxE
As the montage played, many expected to see Perry’s image among those being honored. However, viewers were quick to notice that he was missing from the tribute. Other notable omissions included Shelley Duvall and Joe Flaherty.
Emmy officials clarified that Perry had been honored earlier in the year at the rescheduled 2023 Emmy Awards, which took place in January due to delays caused by the SAG-AFTRA strikes.
Lisa Kudrow, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, David Schwimmer, Matt LeBlanc, and Matthew Perry with James Corden for a “Friends” Reunion Special during “The Late Late Show with James Corden” on April 7, 2021. | Source: Getty Images
During that ceremony, the Emmys paid a special tribute to Perry, concluding the “In Memoriam” segment with the “Friends” theme song, “I’ll Be There for You,” playing in the background — a touching nod to his iconic role.
Matthew Perry at SiriusXM Studios on November 1, 2022, in New York. | Source: Getty Images
However, fans expressed their disappointment, wondering why the former “Friends” star had been left out of the 2024 award show. “Why didn’t they include him ????” one person asked. Someone else expressed the same sentiment, “Why was Matthew Perry omitted from the list?”
“How rude,” another person commented. Another social media user shared, “No matter the reason. He should’ve been included!” A fourth user typed, “@TheEmmys Where was the tribute to Matthew Perry in the Memoriam segment?”
Matthew Perry at the GQ Men of the Year Party 2022 on November 17 in West Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
Matthew Perry’s omission from the 2024 Emmys’ “In Memoriam” segment struck a nerve with fans. While the Emmy organizers clarified that Perry was honored earlier in the year, his absence during the September ceremony served as a painful reminder of how deeply he is missed.
