James Michael Tyler aka Gunther from Friends passes away at 59

In sad news, actor James Michael Tyler aka Gunther from popular sitcom Friends has passed away at the age of 59 on October 24, 2021. The actor was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018 and as per the reports, it spread to his bones. As per BBC News, Tyler's family released a statement about his demise. It read as "The world knew him as Gunther… but Michael’s loved ones knew him as an actor, musician, cancer-awareness advocate, and loving husband."

The family statement further read that Michael loved live music, cheering on Clemson Tigers and would often find himself in fun and unplanned adventures. 

They concluded by writing, "If you met him once you made a friend for life."

Tyler played the role of Gunther in Friends throughout the series from 1994 to 2004. He was considered as the 'seventh' Friend who made an appearance in almost every episode of the show. 

In the series, he was known to have a major crush on Jennifer Aniston's character Rachel Green and his presence was hilarious as ever. 

The official Instagram page of Friends and Warner Bros mourned the death of Tyler by paying condolences on their social media pages. The caption read as "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."

Maggie Wheeler who played the role of Janice in Friends even commented on the post by writing, "So Grateful to have known this kind and gentle man. James Michael Tyler will be dearly missed. My thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time."

The star cast of Friends namely Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow and Matt LeBlanc paid condolences to James on their Instagram pages. 

Tyler made his final appearance earlier this year at the Friends: The Reunion but virtually. Soon after the airing of the much-awaited reunion, it was known that the actor has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and was undergoing treatment.