Before Matthew Perry captivated audiences as the witty and sarcastic Chandler Bing on Friends, he starred in a lesser-known sitcom that predates his Central Perk days. This early role offers a fascinating glimpse into the actor’s burgeoning talent and the evolution of his comedic style, making Matthew Perry’s forgotten pre-Friends sitcom a subject of intrigue for fans and television historians alike.
The Show Before the Fame
The sitcom in question is called Boys Will Be Boys, later renamed Second Chance, which aired for one season in 1987 and 1988. It featured a unique premise: a man dies and goes to heaven, only to be sent back to Earth in his teenage body to correct the mistakes he made in his youth. Matthew Perry played Chazz Russell, the teenage version of Charles Russell, played by Kiel Martin.
This premise, while somewhat bizarre, allowed for a blend of comedic and dramatic elements. The show explored themes of redemption, second chances, and the challenges of adolescence. However, it ultimately failed to capture a large audience and was quickly canceled.
Matthew Perry’s Role as Chazz Russell
As Chazz Russell, Matthew Perry showcased the comedic timing and charm that would later make him a household name. While the character wasn’t exactly Chandler Bing, there were glimpses of the quick wit and sarcastic delivery that Perry would perfect in his later role.
Perry’s performance in Boys Will Be Boys demonstrated his natural ability to connect with audiences. He brought a likable energy to the character, making him relatable despite the show’s fantastical premise. It’s a fascinating early look at the actor’s development.
Why Was It Forgotten?
Several factors contributed to the obscurity of Boys Will Be Boys. Firstly, the show’s initial concept, while intriguing, may have been too unconventional for mainstream audiences in the late 1980s. The blend of afterlife scenarios with typical teen sitcom tropes might not have resonated with viewers.
Secondly, the show underwent a title change midway through its run, from Boys Will Be Boys to Second Chance. This rebranding could have confused viewers and made it difficult for the show to establish a consistent identity. Title changes can often disrupt a show’s momentum, especially if the underlying content doesn’t fully align with the new title.
Thirdly, and perhaps most significantly, the show simply wasn’t very good, at least according to many contemporary reviews and retrospective analyses. While Matthew Perry’s performance was generally praised, the writing and overall execution of the show were often criticized for being inconsistent and lacking in focus. It lacked the sharp writing and strong ensemble cast that would later define Friends.
The Cast and Crew of ‘Boys Will Be Boys’
Besides Matthew Perry and Kiel Martin, Boys Will Be Boys featured a cast of relatively unknown actors. The show was created by Michael Weithorn, who later went on to write and produce for shows like King of Queens.
While the show didn’t launch any other major stars, it provided valuable experience for the cast and crew. It served as a stepping stone for many involved, allowing them to hone their skills and move on to other projects.
Finding ‘Boys Will Be Boys’ Today
One of the main reasons Boys Will Be Boys remains largely forgotten is its unavailability. Unlike Friends, which is readily available on streaming platforms and in syndication, Boys Will Be Boys is difficult to find. It has never been released on DVD or made available for streaming.
This lack of accessibility has contributed to its obscurity. Without easy access to the show, it’s difficult for new audiences to discover it and for existing fans to revisit it. The only way to watch it now is to hunt down old VHS recordings or rely on occasional clips that surface online.
The Show’s Impact on Matthew Perry’s Career
Despite its short run and lack of popularity, Boys Will Be Boys played a crucial role in Matthew Perry’s career. It provided him with his first major television role, giving him valuable on-screen experience and allowing him to develop his comedic skills. This experience undoubtedly helped him land the role of Chandler Bing on Friends.
The show also allowed Perry to learn from his mistakes and to understand what works and what doesn’t in a sitcom. He was able to observe the production process firsthand and to gain insights into the art of comedic acting. These lessons would prove invaluable as he moved forward in his career.
Matthew Perry’s Forgotten Pre-Friends Sitcom: A Time Capsule
In many ways, Boys Will Be Boys serves as a time capsule, offering a glimpse into the television landscape of the late 1980s. The show’s premise, its humor, and its overall production style reflect the trends and sensibilities of that era. It’s a reminder of how much television has changed over the years.
The show also provides a fascinating contrast to Friends, which defined the sitcom landscape of the 1990s. By comparing the two shows, viewers can gain a deeper appreciation for the evolution of comedic television and for Matthew Perry’s growth as an actor.
Early Roles and Development
Before landing the role of Chazz Russell, Matthew Perry had several smaller roles in television shows such as Charles in Charge and Silver Spoons. These early experiences helped him to hone his acting skills and to gain exposure in the entertainment industry. While these roles were relatively minor, they were important stepping stones in his career.
Lessons Learned from ‘Boys Will Be Boys’
While Boys Will Be Boys wasn’t a critical or commercial success, it provided Matthew Perry with valuable lessons that he would carry with him throughout his career. He learned the importance of strong writing, a cohesive ensemble cast, and a clear vision for a sitcom. These lessons helped him to make better choices in his future roles and to contribute to the success of Friends.
The Legacy of Matthew Perry
Matthew Perry’s legacy extends far beyond his role as Chandler Bing. He was a talented actor, a gifted comedian, and a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. His work on Friends touched the lives of millions of people around the world, and his impact will be felt for generations to come. Exploring Matthew Perry’s forgotten pre-Friends sitcom allows us to appreciate the breadth of his career.
While Boys Will Be Boys may be a footnote in his career, it’s a reminder of his early talent and his dedication to his craft. It’s a testament to his perseverance and his willingness to take risks. It’s a piece of the puzzle that helps us to understand the man behind the iconic character of Chandler Bing.
Matthew Perry passed away on October 28, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and entertainment. His work continues to bring joy to audiences around the world, and his memory will live on through his performances. He will be remembered as one of the greatest comedic actors of his generation.
The show may be largely forgotten, but it remains a part of Matthew Perry’s story. It is a reminder that even the most successful actors have had their share of early struggles and that every role, no matter how small, can contribute to their growth and development. It’s a piece of television history worth remembering, not just for its own merits (or lack thereof), but for its role in shaping the career of one of the most beloved comedic actors of all time.
