Known worldwide as the coffee shop manager who was secretly in love with Rachel Greene, “Gunther” became a household name worldwide, especially among fans of the hit sitcom Friends.
James Michael Tyler brought the character to life and in some cases, was unofficially referred to as the “Seventh Friend”.
Tyler passed away at his home on Sunday, according to CNN, quoting a statement from his representative Toni Benson.
The 59-year-old had been battling prostrate cancer which was first diagnosed in 2018.
Tributes began pouring in on social media for Tyler.
The official Friends Twitter page wrote: “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.”
The sitcom recently aired their 25th anniversary reunion show, after much delay caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The reunion show was initially scheduled for 2020.
“Gunther” was also present in the reunion show via a video call.
Friends first went on air in 1994 and went on to enjoy 10 seasons of success. Tyler was among the supporting cast who consistently featured in the show from the beginning until it wrapped.
Source: New Straits Times
