David Schwimmer Recalls ‘Frightening’ Moment During Live Taping that Hospitalized Co-Star
David Schwimmer, at 58, recently shared a chilling memory from the set of the iconic show “Friends.” The incident involved his co-star, Matt LeBlanc, being rushed to the hospital during a live taping.
The Terrifying Incident
During the filming of the show, LeBlanc was supposed to execute a comedic fall, but unfortunately, he dislocated his shoulder in the process. Schwimmer vividly remembered the moment when LeBlanc turned pale, stood up, and his dislocated shoulder was visible. The panic was palpable as Schwimmer shouted for the cameras to stop rolling, realizing the severity of LeBlanc’s injury.
Schwimmer emphasized the frightful nature of the situation, highlighting how visibly injured LeBlanc was. The filming had to be halted for the night, and LeBlanc was immediately taken to the hospital for treatment. It was an incident that left everyone on set shaken.
The Reveal
The revelation of LeBlanc’s on-set injury came during the “Friends” reunion on HBO Max. The specific episode being filmed was “The One Where No One’s Ready,” where LeBlanc’s character, Joey, and Matthew Perry’s Chandler fight over a chair in the apartment. LeBlanc had successfully executed the scene multiple times before the unfortunate fall occurred.
The Impact on Filming
LeBlanc’s injury ended up being incorporated into the show’s storyline, with the episode “The One With the Jam” being crafted around it. The production team had to adjust filming schedules to accommodate LeBlanc’s recovery before completing the episode. Executive producer Kevin Bright noted how a seemingly straightforward episode turned into a lengthy and challenging shoot due to the unexpected turn of events.
A Lasting Bond
Despite the challenges faced during filming, the cast of “Friends” has maintained a strong bond over the years. The tragic passing of Matthew Perry in 2023 further solidified their connection. The actors, who were all relatively young during the show’s first season, have continued to support each other through life’s ups and downs.
The Legacy of “Friends”
“Friends,” which premiered in 1994, quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its portrayal of friendship and life in New York City. The show ran for a remarkable 10 seasons, leaving an indelible mark on television history.
In a recent interview, Jennifer Aniston reflected on the show’s enduring legacy and the bond shared among the cast members. She reminisced about the excitement surrounding the premiere and the unexpected mishaps that occurred behind the scenes, illustrating the camaraderie that defined their time together.
As fans continue to celebrate the timeless appeal of “Friends,” the memories shared by the cast serve as a testament to the enduring power of friendship and camaraderie both on and off-screen.
