When you think of coffee shop managers, particularly in sitcoms, who is the first person that comes to mind? Think about it. Yes, that’s right – Gunther from Friends!
Gunther declaring his love for Rachel in the final episode of Friends. Aww.
For years, ‘Gunther Friends’ (James Michael Tyler) slaved away in Central Perk, sprinkling and serving up cappuccinos ad nauseam to be guzzled ungratefully by Ross, Monica and the gang. He didn’t do it for the money; the money was rubbish. He did it for love. And cos he fancied Rachel.
According to Friends folklore, Tyler was cast as the coffee shop because he was on the only extra on set who could work the coffee machine. And it
just so happened he was perfect.
But what became of Friends’ most popular supporting actor? Did he try his hand at soaps (like Gunther)? And has he had a haircut? Let’s take a look…
Things were relatively quiet for Mr Tyler after hanging up his Central Perk apron, with only a few minor TV roles to speak of. He had brief appearances in Just Shoot Me, Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Scrubs, in which he played a therapist.
He also appeared in a couple of small movies: a short called Live With It about the consequences of a dangerous affair and Jason’s Big Problem – the story of a shy man with a tragically small penis (medically known as ‘micropenis’) who takes a fringe herbal remedy that makes him “grow and grow and grow.” Yes, really.
James celebrated 15 years of Friends with...Mat Horne?!
Beyond that, James spends a lot of time concentrating on his music. Yes people, Gunther is a rock star (okay, he writes nice songs at home on his keyboard but he’s still a serious musician!). He’s also an active trooper for the Lili Claire Foundation and AIDS Project charities in L.A.
For kicks, Tyler loves his tennis, golf and jogging with his hot personal-trainer wife, Barbara.
Sounds like Gunther’s done alright for himself. Oh and he’s had a haircut.
More ‘Friends’ ‘Where are they Nows’:
Where are they now? Eddie Cahill aka Tag from ‘Friends’
Where are they now? Janice from ‘Friends’ aka Maggie Wheeler
LOVE YOU Gunther and MISS THE WHOLE SHOW SO MUCH !
Gunther was such a funny character! I would love to see James on TV again!