Chandler Bing is one of the most beloved characters in sitcom history. The late Matthew Perry’s portrayal of Chandler on F.R.I.E.N.D.Sredefined sarcasms for viewers of the cult 90s show. It wasn't merely about Matthew playing Chandler convincingly, it was as if he and Chandler were the same person.
In his 2022 memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, the Hollywood actor revealed an instant connection to the character upon reading the script. He described the feeling as if someone had shadowed him through the years, "stealing my jokes, copying my mannerisms, photocopying my world-weary yet witty view of life."
Chandler always had the last laugh, effortlessly delivering witty retorts to his on-screen friends Joey, Monica, Ross, Rachel, and Phoebe. His comedic brilliance was nearly nonstop, with several memorable one-liners per episode. Although Matthew faced well-documented struggles with addiction, his unique improvisations and unmistakable timing enabled him to elicit big laughs. He delivered his lines with impeccable comic timing, even while grappling with insecurities off-screen about whether he could garner enough laughs.
Of course, the show had to end eventually, especially with Chandler leaving Manhattan. How could Friendscontinue without him wandering into any scene, ready to crack the audience up? Tragically, Matthew Perry was silenced forever after drowning on October 28, 2023. The unforgettable jokes of his character live on in our hearts rent-free. ETV Lifestyle revisits some of his most hilarious quips as the 'transponster'.
"I don't know, bend over!"
In Season 4, Episode 2, The One with the Cat, Joey and Chandler get robbed. Joey dramatically asks, “If I ever run into that guy again, you know what I’m gonna do?” To which Chandler delivers the ultimate comeback: “I don’t know, bend over!” This line perfectly encapsulates Chandler's blend of humour and irreverence.
"I'm not great at advice. Can I interest you in a sarcastic comment?"
In Season 8, during the ill-fated Joey and Rachel storyline, Rachel turns to Chandler for advice, hoping to ease the tension. Chandler responds with his iconic line: "I'm not great at advice. Can I interest you in a sarcastic comment?" This response highlights Rachel’s realisation of why she approached him for advice over anyone else in the room.