Netflix’s three-part docuseries exploring the life and death of Matthew Perry, which premiered recently, does not feature interviews with his five Friends co-stars, who declined to participate. The series, released just days before the third anniversary of Perry’s passing, examines his rise to fame through the iconic sitcom, his personal struggles with addiction, and the circumstances surrounding his death at age 54 from acute ketamine toxicity.

Director Mary Robertson confirmed that Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer were all invited to join the project but chose not to appear. Robertson told media outlets that the cast members remain close to Perry in real life and are still mourning his loss. She added that many of those close to Perry have been trying to process and understand the reasons behind his death, which contributed to their decision to decline participation.

Instead, the series includes contributions from friends and family within Perry’s inner circle, including his sister Mia Perry Bowick, who publicly shares her perspective for the first time. Robertson praised those who agreed to take part early on for their willingness to engage with the documentary’s thoughtful and candid approach, describing the series as both a “love letter” to Perry and a tribute grounded in loyalty and honesty.

The docuseries also sheds light on a private moment at Perry’s funeral, which was attended by close friends and family. Mia Perry Bowick recounts the somber occasion in the series, recalling how the Friends cast entered together, holding hands, and gathered around Perry’s casket in a display of grief. She described receiving consoling embraces from the cast members, including Jennifer Aniston, highlighting the enduring bond between Perry and his former co-stars despite their absence from the project.