The One Who Left Us Too Soon: FRIENDS Actor James Michael Tyler Passes Away

James Michael Tyler Passes Away: Cast of the iconic sitcom has suffered a huge loss as actor James Michael Tyler, who played Gunther on the show, passed away on Sunday, October 24. The 59-year-old had been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer, back in 2018, which had eventually spread to his bones.

A statement released Tyler's manager revealed that the actor passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles.

"Wanting to help as many people as possible, he bravely shared his story and became a campaigner for those with a prostate to get a... blood test as early as 40-years-old," the statement further said, adding that while the world knew him as Gunther (the seventh Friend), Michael's loved ones knew him as an actor, musician, cancer-awareness advocate, and loving husband.

Tyler's role as Gunther, the manager of Central Perk cafe on FRIENDS, was much loved by fans of the show, despite it not being one of the six main characters. After season 1, eventually, Tyler's role in the series was further developed, with him getting more lines and interaction time with the main cast. Gunther's crush on Rachel for over 10 years, through the run time of the show, was a recurring theme.

Tyler's passing was mourned by the cast and fans of FRIENDS. Actor Courteney Cox, who played Monica Geller on the show, paid her tribute to the actor on Instagram, writing, "The size of gratitude you brought into the room and showed every day on set is the size of the gratitude I hold for having known you. Rest In peace James."

Jennifer Aniston, who played Rachel on the show, shared a clip from the last season of the series, along with a photograph of the deceased star. "Friends would not have been the same without you. Thank you for the laughter you brought to the show and to all of our lives. You will be so missed," she captioned her post.

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