Matt LeBlanc, who played Joey on “Friends,” resurfaced at 57 with a new look. He surprised fans with his Hollywood return after years, sparking conflicting emotions online.
LeBlanc was famous for his wit, attractive looks, and memorable quips as Joey Tribbiani on “Friends.” However, LeBlanc began to fade once the show finished.
Let’s look at Matt LeBlanc’s path from playing the charming Joey Tribbiani on “Friends” to his recent public appearance that worried some social media users.
1994 – 2000
Matt LeBlanc rose to fame in the mid-1990s as Joey Tribbiani on “Friends.” The 1994 show became a global hit, making LeBlanc famous.
LeBlanc played Joey, a struggling actor with a large heart who was noted for his sense of humor, simple yet charming nature, and catchphrase, “How you doin’?” Joey was the ladies’ guy of the group, with attractive looks and childlike charm that won his fans.
LeBlanc’s strong jawline, thick dark hair, and infectious smile made him appealing. Joey’s charisma and youthful innocence made him accessible and irresistible to fans.
2004 – 2006
After “Friends” ended in 2004, LeBlanc wanted to continue Joey Tribbiani’s journey with “Joey.” The series attempted to emulate “Friends,” but it failed to engage viewers.
After two seasons of low ratings and reviews, “Joey” was discontinued in 2006.
LeBlanc’s personal troubles made these years harder. He was stressed by his traumatic divorce and trying to preserve the show.
“My marriage was maybe doomed anyway, I don’t know,” LeBlanc said. In addition, his young daughter was diagnosed with a health concern, adding to his mental burden.
Sadly, problems persisted. A nanny sold a lie about his daughter’s health to the media, betraying LeBlanc.
He was split between his fatherhood and his efforts to make “Joey” a success during this worst era of his life.
LeBlanc struggled to be hilarious on set due to his daughter’s health and personal issues.
He persevered, eventually reflecting on how these hardships shaped him. “But I survived. He said, “Don’t they say, ‘What doesn’t kill us, only makes us stronger?”
2007-2011
The 2006 cancellation of “Joey” caused LeBlanc to unexpectedly depart the entertainment world. He took a five-year hiatus from the spotlight to focus on his personal life.
LeBlanc recalled, “For years and years, I barely left the house. I was exhausted. I desired no timetable or place. That was possible for me.”
LeBlanc describes this period as a gloomy moment where he nearly had a psychological breakdown. “My agent was sad. Most performers call their agents to ask, ‘What’s up?’ I’d call my and beg, ‘Please delete my number for a few years,'” the actor said.
LeBlanc returned to television in 2011 as a fictionalized version of himself in “Episodes.” None of it’s me. LeBlanc said cryptically, “Even my parts are not me.”
In “Episodes,” LeBlanc showed off his comedic talent, a major element of his personality. I enjoy laughing. Just like this my whole life. My bones are odd. In times of strain, I’ll try to be witty to lighten the mood, he said.
2017
LeBlanc left “Episodes” in 2017 after eight years as his unique persona. After reflecting, he said, “I’ve just been so, so lucky to be a part of it.”
LeBlanc’s appearance changed significantly. His silver hair and bigger body made him look more rough than Joey.
LeBlanc made one of his last public appearances in 2022 before retiring. He looked distinguished, combining his casual appeal with mature grace.