In an interview just days before his death, Matthew Perry revealed his desire to make an autobiographical film with Zac Efron as the lead.
Matthew Perry, who passed away less than a month ago, had plans for an autobiographical film and wanted Zac Efron, his former co-star, to play his character in his younger years.
The Friends actor was eager to create a film about his life, and he had recently shared this aspiration with the tabloid Entertainment Tonight.
“He had said that he wanted to make a film about his life,” recounted the journalist who had interviewed Perry a few days before his death.
“In the past, he had worked with Zac Efron, and he said he wanted Zac Efron to play him in the younger version.”
“He couldn’t wait to share more about his story and his journey towards overcoming addiction, and to truly support that cause to help others. He was so optimistic and happy about everything he had planned to do.”
In response to this news, 36-year-old Zac Efron revealed feeling “extremely honored” that Matthew Perry had chosen him as the “younger and dreamier version” of himself for the film’s cast.
The two actors had previously worked together in the teen fantasy comedy 17 Again, where Perry’s character magically transforms back into his seventeen-year-old self. They portrayed the same character at different ages.
Zac Efron commented, “I feel honored knowing that he was considering me to portray him.”
While expressing his devastation over the loss of the former Friends star, Efron also shared fond memories of filming 17 Again with Perry.
“He was a mentor to me, and together we made a truly fantastic film,” said Zac Efron.
“I admired him, he taught me comedic timing from that guy. I learned so much from him, from his entire life.”
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