Famous for having participated in 150 episodes of “Friends” in the skin of the character of Gunther, James Michael Tyler died at his home in Los Angeles (United States) this Sunday, October 24 following cancer of the prostate at the age of 59.
The Hollywood actor has played in many series, such as “Sabrina the Witch”, “Scrubs” or “Just Shoot Me!”. But his most outstanding role will remain that of “Friends”, where he played Gunther, the manager of the “Central Perk” café.
Warner Bros. Television mourns the loss of James Michael Tyler, a beloved actor and integral part of our FRIENDS family. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues and fans. pic.twitter.com/9coGnT5BHz
– FRIENDS (@FriendsTV) October 24, 2021
The news of his death was confirmed by his representatives to the American people site TMZ, reporting a peaceful death at his home in Los Angeles in the morning.
Diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer in 2018, he had kept his disease a secret, even during his appearance in the special reunion episode of the cult sitcom so as not to be a depressing factor in this meeting. so special.
“An actor and a loving husband”
His relatives praised his qualities “as an actor, musician, advocate for cancer awareness and loving husband” in the local press, relayed by Le Parisien. They portrayed an endearing man, like the one seen on the small screen.
“Michael loved live music, cheering on his Clemson Tigers and often found himself on fun and unforeseen adventures. If you’ve met him once, you’ve made a lifelong friend, ”the actor’s friends and family, including his wife Jennifer Carno, said on his funeral inscription.
The actors of the cult series have also paid tribute to him on social networks.
“Friends wouldn’t be the same without you. Thank you for the laughter you brought to the show and to all of our lives. We will miss you very much, ”wrote Jennifer Aniston.
Courteney Cox also shared her sadness.