Friends fans were devastated following the breaking news of the death of actor James Michael Tyler, who played the beloved barista Gunther on the series for 10 seasons on Sunday night.
Friends fans quickly took to social media to pay tribute to the beloved actor, and now, his former castmates are doing the same in a series of emotional Instagram posts.
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After a battle with prostate cancer, actor James Michael Tyler has died at age 59.
Fans first learned of Tyler’s diagnosis in June after the Friends reunion special on HBO.
“I’m sorry to say that I’m not appearing with you today to announce that there’s going to be a Friends movie,” Tyler joked with the TODAY show at the time.
“Actually, I’m here to let you know that in September 2018, I was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer, which had spread to my bones.”
“I’ve been dealing with that diagnosis for almost the past three years. … It’s stage 4 (now). Late-stage cancer.”
In the months following the announcement, fans sent their love and support virtually to the 59-year-old.
Sadly, it was announced Sunday night that the actor had passed away “peacefully Sunday morning at his home in L.A.” as per TMZ .
Now, Tyler’s co-stars are breaking their silence following his passing.
Actress and Gunther’s on-screen love interest Jennifer Aniston shared a clip from the show alongside an emotional caption: “Friends would not have been the same without you,” she wrote.
“Thank you for the laughter you brought to the show and to all of our lives. You will be so missed #JamesMichaelTyler.”
Courteney Cox also took to Instagram Sunday night to remember the late actor.
“The size of gratitude you brought into the room and showed every day on set is the size of the gratitude I hold for having known you. Rest In peace James.”
David Schwimmer sooned followed with his own sentiments.
“James, thank you for playing such a wonderful, unforgettable role in Friends and for being such a big hearted gentleman and all around mensch off screen,” the actor wrote.
Lisa Kudrow shared equally as heartfelt sentiments.
“James Michael Tyler, we will miss you,” she wrote. “Thank you for being there for us all.”
Matt LeBlanc shared a picture of the two from an episode of the beloved series with the caption: “We had a lot of laughs buddy. You will be missed. RIP my friend.”
We’re thinking of James’ friends and family during this incredibly difficult time.
