Fans are reeling after waking up to the news of the death of James Michael Tyler, at the age of just 59. Known best as being the ever-quirky, incredibly entertaining character, Gunther, on the hit series Friends, he brought light-hearted humor into every space he walked in to, and will truly be missed.
James had been bravely battling prostate cancer since 2018, and had just revealed his diagnosis to the public in June of this year. He had discovered his illness during a routine medical checkup, and immediately underwent aggressive treatment, but sadly, he has succumbed to this horrible disease.
Fans, friends, and admirers of the show have been flooding social media with warm messages and condolences to James' family, and the co-creators of Friends have come forward to share their grief, calling James; "a genuinely kind, sweet man."
James Michael Tyler, Remembered
The list of shows that James Michael has lent his smile to, is a long one. His ability to make his fans smile and laugh, even through their most difficult times, will always be remembered by the millions of people that have always tuned in to watch is talent unfold on the small screen.
In addition to playing the role of the awkward manager of Central Perk, and the not-so-secret admirer of Rachel Green, (Jennifer Aniston) on Friends, James appeared on the shows Scrubs, Sabrina The Teenage Witch, and Modern Music, to name a few.
During his final days, the cancer had spread to James' bones, and he was unable to walk. He had been treated with hormone therapy, and he fought hard to stay with his loved ones. James passed away peacefully in his own home on Sunday, October 24th,2021.
Fans Are Crushed
James won his way into millions of hearts, all of whom are now in mourning over the loss of such an adventurous, happy, and truly good-hearted man.
Grieving fans have written; "Oh no, he was so funny, and such a nice human, RIP," as well as; "this is so sad, he was far too young. Such a talent."
Die-hard Friends fans have taken a moment to formulate a truly poetic send-off to this beloved actor, by quoting a popular scene in which his love-interest, Rachel Green, is saying goodbye while preparing to move away. They've written the words to this famous skit all over his social media pages, with obvious grief over the irony that today, this scene that was filmed many years ago, rings so true. "... And when I'm in a café, having coffee, or I see a man with hair brighter than the sun, I'll think of you."
RIP James Michael Tyler, and condolences to all those affected by his passing.