A Beautiful Moment’ Friends’ Maggie Wheeler Still Misses Matthew Perry, And Shared A Touching Moment Where She Believes His Spirit Watched Over Her

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It’s tough to accept that it’s been nearly two years since Matthew Perry, tragically and unexpectedly passed away at the age of 54. His friends, fans, and everyone associated with him were stunned by the news, and this shock deepened as more details about his death emerged, such as Peacock’s recent documentary. Despite the heartbreaking facts that have been disclosed, there has also been an outpouring of fond memories shared – one of them being Maggie Wheeler, who portrayed Janice Hosenstein on Friends. The character who had a tumultuous on-off relationship with Chandler Bing, spoke about missing him while also sharing a touching story that transpired between the two following the news in 2023.

Although it’s been quite some time since we last saw Janice on television, Wheeler lent her voice to a character in the family-friendly film “Dog Man” released in 2025. During an appearance on “Still Here Hollywood with Steve Kmetko,” she reminisced about her recurring role on “Friends” (now available to stream with a Max subscription). However, when Kmetko brought up the topic of working with Perry, the actress from “Parent Trap” expressed that she still misses him and her brother, who also lost their lives due to addiction. Alongside this confession, she recounted an unexpected encounter around the time of the late “Friends” star’s demise, which she believes was his spirit acknowledging her. In her own words, via YouTube:

– While it’s been a while since we’ve seen Janice on TV, Wheeler played a character in the 2025 movie “Dog Man”.
– On Steve Kmetko’s show “Still Here Hollywood”, she discussed her frequent appearances on “Friends” (streamable with Max subscription).
– During their conversation about working together, Perry’s co-star from “Parent Trap” mentioned that she still misses him and her brother, who both suffered from addiction.
– Alongside this admission, Wheeler shared a strange encounter around the time of Perry’s passing, which she believes was his spirit reacting to hers.

Indeed, I do miss them dearly. There was an extraordinary instance – something I haven’t shared with many – but you understand, if you believe in such occurrences. Many people discuss the concept of spirits appearing as birds and other signs that seem to convey a message when someone has passed. After Matthew left us, I found myself alone at a neighbor’s pool. No one was around, and I was lying on my back, thinking about my brother. I called out, ‘Look after him,’ and suddenly, two hawks soared over me and flew past. One even circled back and took the other with it as it continued its flight past me. It was a profoundly moving moment, if you appreciate such experiences.

In the wake of Perry’s demise, Wheeler encountered a touching and consoling instant of emotional bond. Losing one person is painful, but losing two in similar circumstances can be devastating. As she discussed during their conversation, the unexpected passing of someone, regardless of their struggle with addiction, is always shocking. The realization that she experienced a tranquil moment where she felt Perry’s spirit looking after her and her family would have undoubtedly brought her some peace at that time.

Among the heartwarming anecdotes about the cast of 17 Again, such as Marlo Thomas’s initial tender moments, preventing John Stamos from awkward situations, and Paul Rudd reminiscing about being part of the set, it doesn’t surprise me that Wheeler felt that way. Despite his battles with addiction during his career, he was consistently ready on the Friends set, as confirmed by the Janice actress. She highlighted his undeniable comedic talent, stating that’s why she developed that iconic laugh (the laugh was the reason behind Janice becoming a recurring character).

Of course, let me share a bit of heartwarming trivia from my perspective as a dedicated movie enthusiast. The bond between Maggie Wheeler and Matthew Perry, forged on the set of “Friends”, was more than just a friendship; it was a lasting and unique connection that transcended their characters on the show.

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2025-04-15 20:37