The news of James' death was first confirmed by his manager, Toni Benson, who released a statement announcing the news. "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," Toni's statement said.
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“Michael loved live music, cheering on his Clemson Tigers, and would often find himself in fun and unplanned adventures," she continued. "If you met him once you made a friend for life. [Tyler] is survived by his wife, Jennifer Carno, the love of his life.”
James' manager wasn't the only one who weighed in on his legacy following the news. Jennifer Aniston, who played Gunther's obsession Rachel Greene on the show, also offered a message of mourning.
"Friends would not have been the same without you," Jennifer wrote on Instagram. "Thank you for the laughter you brought to the show and to all of our lives. You will be so missed #JamesMichaelTaylor."
Jennifer's co-stars also wrote posts honoring him.
"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," Courteney Cox, who played Monica on the show, wrote. "Rest In peace James."
"James Michael Tyler, we will miss you," Lisa Kudrow, who played Phoebe Buffay, wrote on Instagram. "Thank you for being there for us all."
