The renowned actor Matthew Perry passed away on Oct. 28 due to unknown reasons, at least at the moment. Perry, 54, has had quite the career, starring in many movies and television shows, and of course, in his widely beloved role of Chandler in the hit TV show Friends. So, apart from grieving over this unquestionably tragic loss of life, it would be nice to look back on the actor’s star role in “Friends” and its impact on the world, for it is certainly one that is like no other.

“Friends” is truly a show unlike any other. It earned tremendous success not only in the U.S. but also all around the world, generating a huge viewership. In fact, on the day of its last airing (May 6, 2004), the program was watched by a whopping 52.5 million American viewers, making it one of the most-watched TV show episodes in history.

First released on Sept. 22, 1994, the show became an instant hit, with the first episode being watched by 22 million people. It quickly gained traction and became one of the most popular TV shows of all time, in the United States and abroad. Its storyline is relatively simple; the show follows a group of friends as they reside in a New York City apartment, in the Manhattan borough.

From the start of the show, Perry’s Chandler Bing character was introduced as an everyday guy, someone with whom many fans could resonate with. His on-again, off-again smoking addiction, his wild relationship with lover Janice Hosenstein, and more all serve as small nuances in Chandler’s life that add real-world intricacy to his life and make his story that much more interesting and relatable.

Most of all, however, Perry’s Chandler was remembered for his likable and calm personality. As compared to the rest of the show’s characters, Chandler definitely stands out as the one who is most down-to-earth, good to talk to, and loyal. From accounts of the other show’s actors and actresses, in real life, Perry was just that kind of guy, as well. Despite having an incredibly severe drinking and drug-related problem, Perry was likable, relatable, and a good friend. These are all qualities that everyone should strive to have, and if anything else, the great actor’s death should remind us of this. May his legacy live on forever, remembered not only by those who knew him but by the millions of fans who almost knew him.