Missing Chandler? You can grieve Matthew Perry and relive 'Friends Experience' in Florida
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It feels as if we all lost a friend recently.
Actor Matthew Perry, who was best known for playing Chandler Bing on NBC's smash hit comedy "Friends," was found dead Oct. 28, 2023, in a jacuzzi at his Los Angeles home from an apparent drowning. He was 54.
The show ran from 1994 to 2004 and still has a huge fan base to this day. USA TODAY wrote that Perry became synonymous with the character of Chandler, the witty and sarcastic member of the group.
Need a place to grieve with fellow fans and remember Perry's work on the beloved '90s sitcom? The popular "The FRIENDS Experience" opened in the Miami area, giving fans the ability to celebrate their favorite Friends and revisit some of the series’ most iconic moments. It opened in Florida the day before the actor died.
'I'll be there for you.' Why Matthew Perry was 'Friends' with all of us, remembering the iconic actor
What is 'The FRIENDS Experience?'
The "FRIENDS Experience" is a pop-up exhibit that has set up shop in cities around the globe, featuring set recreations, original props, and costumes. According to OGX officials, the interactive space provides "opportunities to explore the show’s history and revisit your favorite moments including posing in front of Rachel and Monica’s purple door, relaxing in Chandler and Joey’s recliners, and helping Ross with the famous sofa pivot."
Three main nostalgia-filled locations have been recreated for fans to check out:
Monica and Rachel’s apartment (Monica Geller was played by actress Courteney Cox and Rachel Green by Emmy winner Jennifer Aniston)
Joey and Chandler’s apartment (actor Matt LeBlanc played Joey Tribbianni)
the Central Perk coffee shop (The beloved show was based in New York, near Central Park, get it?)
Along with Miami, the experience is currently open in New York City, Detroit, Amsterdam, Dublin and Salt Lake City.
What have the organizers of 'The FRIENDS Experience' said about Matthew Perry's passing?
A day after Matthew Perry died, organizers of "The FRIENDS Experience" posted a tribute to its social media accounts.
"Along with FRIENDS fans around the world, we are so saddened to hear of Matthew Perry's passing. His exceptional talent brought so much joy and laughter, he will be deeply missed," the organizers wrote on Facebook. "We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and all of his fans."
Where is 'The FRIENDS experience' in Florida?
The experience will sit in Miami's Aventura Mall, 19501 Biscayne Blvd.
How long will 'The FRIENDS Experience' run?
The FRIENDS Experience will be open in the Miami area through March 24, 2024.
A full schedule of operating hours can be found at FriendsTheExperience.com/Miami.
How much are tickets to the Miami FRIENDS Experience?
Timed entry tickets are available starting at $27.50 plus taxes and fees.
Guided group tours are also available for groups of 6 to 10 guests. These tours allow fans to visit the space in the morning before general ticket holders arrive as well as ensure maximum social distancing between groups for a more private experience.
How do I buy the Miami FRIENDS Experience?
To buy tickets, visit FriendsTheExperience.com/Miami.
Will there also be 'Friends' merchandise?
The event will offer the "FRIENDS Experience" Shop, allowing fans to snag merchandise from the iconic sitcom. From magnets with famous quotes to your very own Central Perk coffee apron, there's something for every fan.
Want to prepare before you go? You can watch 'Friends' on (formerly HBO) Max
To prepare for The FRIENDS Experience’s tour stop in the Miami area, fans can watch "Friends: The Reunion" special and binge all 236 "Friends" episodes of the original series on the streaming service Max. "Friends" also airs on Nickelodeon (Nick @ Nite) on weeknights and on TBS on weekdays if you have cable.
What were the best Chandler Bing moments on 'Friends'?
Want to properly pay tribute to Matthew Perry and his character on the hit sitcom? According to USA TODAY, these are some of the best Chandler Bing moments and jokes throughout the series:
Making fun of Joey in Pinocchio in the pilot (Season 1, Episode 1)
Julia Roberts strands Chandler in the bathroom stall (Season 2, Episode 12)
"Actually it's Miss Chanandler Bong" (Season 4, Episode 12)
Chandler gets stuck in an ATM vestibule with Victoria Secret supermodel Jill Goodacre (Season 1, Episode 7)
Chandler gets trapped in handcuffs (Season 4, Episode 3)
Chandler in a box (Season 4, Episode 8)
Failing to break up with Janice (Season 1, Episode 10)
Chandler worries he'll be Mr. Heckles (Season 2, Episode 3)
Monica proposes to Chandler and he proposes back (Season 6, Episode 24)
Chandler gets the last line of the series (Season 10, Episode 18)
What have the other 'Friends' said about Perry?
Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, Lisa Kudrow and Matt LeBlanc released a joint statement, which was first obtained by People, paying tribute to their friend and co-star on Monday, Oct. 30.
"We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are a family," the statement reads. "There is so much to say, but right now we’re going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss."
"In time we will say more, as and when we are able," their statement continued. "For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty’s family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world."
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: 'Friends Experience' in Florida opened day before Matthew Perry died
