The surviving stars of the iconic sitcom Friends have come together for a touching holiday-season project to remember their late co-star Matthew Perry, marking two years since his accidental passing in October 2023 at age 54.

Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow, and David Schwimmer each signed limited-edition artworks created in partnership with the Matthew Perry Foundation, Soundwaves Art, and artist Tim Wakefield. The pieces transform the soundwaves of the show’s beloved theme song, “I’ll Be There for You” by The Rembrandts, into vibrant designs inspired by the main characters.

The foundation announced the collaboration on Instagram earlier this week, sharing photos of the cast members personally autographing the prints. “Exciting news! The cast has teamed up with @soundwaves_art and artist Tim Wakefield for a very special collection of artwork this holiday season,” the post read. It explained that the designs draw from the actual audio waves of the theme tune, with each actor signing a small run tied to their character.

A very limited selection also features an embossed version of Perry’s official signature, produced in collaboration with his estate. Signed editions are available for $600, while unsigned versions sell for $100. All profits will benefit charities selected by the cast, including the Matthew Perry Foundation, which supports individuals facing addiction challenges.

Fans quickly flooded the comments with emotional responses, many expressing how the images of the cast reunited evoked nostalgia and sorrow. “Seeing them together again but missing Matthew… my heart,” one wrote. Another added, “This is beautiful. Friends forever.”

Perry, who portrayed the sarcastic yet endearing Chandler Bing across all 10 seasons of Friends from 1994 to 2004, had long been open about his struggles with substance use. His 2022 memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, detailed decades of battles with alcohol and painkillers, including near-fatal experiences. The foundation, established posthumously, reflects his desire to help others, often quoting his wish that aiding those in recovery would define his legacy over his acting fame.

The cause of death was ruled acute effects of ketamine, with contributing factors including drowning, coronary artery disease, and buprenorphine effects. Investigations led to charges against five individuals involved in supplying the substance, with recent court developments including sentences for some defendants.

Aniston, now 56, has spoken candidly about the cast’s efforts to support Perry during his difficulties. In interviews, she described feeling they had been grieving him for years due to his ongoing challenges, yet found some solace knowing he was no longer in pain. Cox, 61, who played Chandler’s on-screen wife Monica Geller, marked anniversaries with personal posts, calling him kind and funny.

LeBlanc, 58, Kudrow, 62, and Schwimmer, 59, have similarly shared memories over the years, emphasizing the family-like bond formed on set. The 2021 HBO Max special Friends: The Reunion featured all six together, revisiting iconic locations like the Central Perk set – Perry’s final on-screen appearance with the group.

Friends remains a cultural staple, with generations discovering the series through streaming. Its departure from Netflix at year’s end has prompted renewed viewings, amplifying the timing of this tribute. The show’s theme of chosen family resonates deeply, as evidenced by fan reactions to the artwork project.

The collaboration highlights Perry’s impact beyond Chandler’s quick wit and memorable lines. His portrayal earned an Emmy nomination in 2002, and he directed episodes while advocating for recovery causes. Post-Friends, Perry starred in shows like Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip and The Odd Couple remake, but his memoir brought renewed focus to his personal journey.

Foundation representatives noted the project’s alignment with Perry’s values. Proceeds will fund programs aiding recovery, echoing his philanthropy. Some funds go to other cast-chosen organizations, underscoring their continued unity.

Social media buzzed with appreciation, with hashtags like #FriendsForever trending. Viewers shared clips of favorite Chandler moments, from pivot scenes to Thanksgiving mishaps. The artwork’s character-inspired designs – incorporating elements like Rachel’s fashion, Ross’s dinosaurs, or Phoebe’s quirks – offer fans a tangible keepsake.

Industry observers see the initiative as a fitting homage, blending nostalgia with purpose. Similar celebrity-backed art fundraisers have succeeded, but this one’s personal ties elevate it. Availability is limited, with the foundation linking to purchase options.

As holidays approach, the tribute provides comfort amid reflection. Perry’s family, including parents Suzanne and Keith Morrison, have supported the foundation’s growth, recently announcing expansions like recovery housing.

Cast members maintain active careers: Aniston in The Morning Show, Cox in horror franchises, LeBlanc hosting Top Gear variants, Kudrow producing and acting, Schwimmer directing and voicing. Yet Friends endures as their shared pinnacle.

Fan communities organize virtual watch parties, discussing episodes’ timeless appeal. The show’s New York backdrop, despite filming in Los Angeles, inspires tourism, with replica sets drawing visitors.

This artwork effort reinforces the message that friendship persists. As one foundation caption noted, profits support “helping those struggling with the disease of addiction” – Perry’s enduring mission.

Two years on, the cast’s gesture affirms their pledge from initial statements: more than co-stars, a family. For millions, Chandler’s humor lives on, now paired with a legacy of compassion.

The project closes a poignant chapter while opening doors for aid. In Perry’s words from his book, recovery involves community – a theme his friends continue championing.