Maggie Wheeler stated that Matthew Perry’s explosive memoir was “sad” and “difficult” to read.
The actress, who portrayed Perry’s on-again, off-again love Janice on the iconic NBC comedy, tells Page Six exclusively that the book was difficult to read because it contained “so many shocking revelations about the ways Matthew has suffered over the years attempting to control his addictions.”
Perry disclosed in his book “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Horrible Thing” that he nearly died at age 49 after his colon ruptured due to excessive opiate addiction. He spent two weeks in a coma, five months in the hospital, and nine months with a colostomy bag.
The 53-year-old star of “The Whole Nine Yards” revealed that at one point he was consuming 55 Vicodin tablets and a quart of vodka to get through the day. He calculated that he has spent over $9 million attempting to become sober.
Wheeler says, “I believe he’s done an outstanding job and has truly endured the unthinkable.” “And I’m so proud of him, and I’m so glad he’s here, and I think it’s very courageous that he’s written a book and is going around talking about it, because he’s helping so many people.”
She emphasizes that Perry was always the consummate professional, despite his obvious troubles while filming “Friends,” as evidenced by his huge weight fluctuations.
In the series, the actress portrayed Perry’s on-again, off-again girlfriend Janice.
“He came to work even when he was in his lowest place; he came to work with all of his wit, intellect, and talent. “Even when he was struggling, there was never a time when I was unsure of his participation on set; he always gave his all,” adds Wheeler.
Wheeler is thrilled to be an iconic part of the history of popular culture.
She tells us, “It is incredibly amazing to be a part of something that means so much to so many people, that brings them joy and keeps them calm and content.”
“I hear so many stories of people who watch ‘Friends’ before going to sleep, so it’s great to be a part of something that has so much resonance not only in the United States, but around the globe.”
Wheeler, Warner Bros. Discovery, and International Delight have collaborated on a limited edition coffee creamer.
Discovery, a Warner Bros.
In partnership with International Delight and Warner Bros. Discovery, the “Ellen” alum recently organized a special “Friends” trivia night to commemorate the launch of the “Friends” Manhattan Hazelnut Mocha creamer.
The flavor, which was featured on the chalkboard at Central Perk, is only available for a limited time.
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