X

James Michael Tyler, 'Gunther' in Friends, dies aged 59

The actor died following a battle with prostate cancer.

Mark Serrels Editorial Director
Mark Serrels is an award-winning Senior Editorial Director focused on all things culture. He covers TV, movies, anime, video games and whatever weird things are happening on the internet. He especially likes to write about the hardships of being a parent in the age of memes, Minecraft and Fortnite. Definitely don't follow him on Twitter.
See full bio
Mark Serrels
gettyimages-455563378

James Michael Tyler passed away, aged 59.

 Paul Zimmerman/Getty Images

After a battle with prostate cancer, James Michael Tyler, who famously played Gunther on the long-running sitcom Friends, has died aged 59.

Friends producer Kevin Bright announced the news on Twitter.

"James Michael Tyler Our Gunther passed away last night," Bright tweeted. "He was an incredible person who spent his final days helping others. God bless you James, Gunther lives forever."

Tyler first revealed his diagnosis shortly after the Friends reunion show earlier this year. On NBC's Today show said the cancer had left his lower body paralyzed, preventing him from appearing on the reunion show.

The official Friends Twitter account also posted a tribute to Tyler.

"The world knew him as Gunther, the seventh 'Friend,' from the hit series Friends, but Michael's loved ones knew him as an actor, musician, cancer-awareness advocate and loving husband," his manager said, in a statement.

As Gunther, Tyler played a barista at the fictional, now iconic, Central Perk coffee shop. His role revolved around a long unrequited crush on Rachel, the character played by Jennifer Aniston. It was a reoccurring role that accounted for some of the most memorable -- and hilarious -- moments on the show.

Tyler also made appearances on shows like Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Scrubs. He's survived by his wife, Jennifer Carno.