LOS ANGELES, Nov 13, (Agencies): Michael J. Fox fondly reflects on his meaningful friendship with the late Matthew Perry, sharing a special memory during this year's A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To Cure Parkinson's Gala. The event, an annual fundraising benefit for The Michael J. Fox Foundation, took place at Casa Cipriani in New York City.

Recounting their connection, Fox, 62, reveals, "Matthew and I had spent some time together over the years. He was a hockey player, a good hockey player, and we played hockey together." In a 2022 interview, Perry had expressed how he admired Fox's career as a young, aspiring actor, turning to it for inspiration.

As their friendship deepened, Perry played a significant role in supporting Fox's charitable endeavors. Fox discloses that during the time Friends co-stars signed their record-setting contracts, Perry exhibited remarkable generosity by making a substantial donation to Fox's foundation.

In Fox's words, "I hope this isn't indiscreet... but when they first made their big sale [on their Friends contracts] and were made millionaires for the rest of their lives, he wrote a big fat check to the foundation." Fox, touched by Perry's gesture, reflects on the encouragement it provided during the foundation's early stages, emphasizing Perry's modesty and genuine support: "And it wasn't accompanied by any self-aggrandizing or anything, he was just like, 'Take it and do your best.' I loved that."

Acknowledging Perry's impact, Fox states, "He was just a funny guy, and if I was ever as funny as him -- I mean, he was the funniest -- I'm happy I had an impact on him. He was a funny guy." This heartfelt reminiscence highlights the camaraderie and genuine friendship shared between two celebrated actors.