David Schwimmer recounts Matt LeBlanc’s ‘genuinely frightening’ injury during ‘Friends’ filming
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: David Schwimmer recalled a harrowing incident from the filming of 'Friends' that left both cast and crew shaken.
During the live taping of an episode, co-star Matt LeBlanc, who played Joey Tribbiani, accidentally dislocated his shoulder while performing a scripted pratfall.
David Schwimmer details Matt LeBlanc being rushed to the hospital
David Schwimmer opened up about the incident in an interview with Entertainment Weekly.
“[Matt] went totally white, and he stood up, and I could see his shoulder was out,” he shared.
“He looked like he was going to pass out,” the actor recounted.
Acting quickly, Schwimmer halted the production, calling for immediate medical attention.
The mishap led to a pause in filming as LeBlanc was rushed to the hospital.
“That was genuinely frightening,” Schwimmer added, reflecting on the seriousness of the injury.
David Schwimmer on turning down blockbuster fame for loyalty
David Schwimmer also revisited a pivotal career decision which was turning down the role of Agent J in 'Men in Black'.
At the time, Schwimmer had committed to directing 'Since You’ve Been Gone' with his theater company.
Despite the allure of working alongside Barry Sonnenfeld and Steven Spielberg, he chose to honor his prior commitment.
“My summer window from 'Friends' was four months,” he explained.
“'Men in Black' was going to shoot during that time. It was an amazing opportunity… but my theater company would probably have ended if I’d taken it,” he added.
The role ultimately went to Will Smith, launching the actor into global stardom.
Reflecting on the decision, Schwimmer admitted, “If you look at the success of that film and franchise, my career would have taken a very different trajectory. But you have to follow your gut and your heart.”
David Schwimmer shares excitement on embracing horror-comedy
David Schwimmer is now set to appear in Disney+ and Hulu’s 'Goosebumps' revival.
The series marks his first major foray into horror-comedy, a genre he has long admired but had limited opportunities to explore.
“I’m a genuine fan of horror,” Schwimmer revealed. “What drew me to 'Goosebumps' was its perfect balance of scares, comedy, and action," he shared.
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"The show manages to deliver good scares without gratuitous violence or gore,” he added.
Schwimmer expressed excitement for the challenge of striking the right tone.
“Horror for a younger audience is such a fine line. You want them to feel safe while still getting scared," he explained.
"It’s brilliant how the series achieves that balance,” the 58-year-old actor noted.
