While the world waited to see him on television again, Matt LeBlanc knew that there was a much more important place where he needed to be.
The actor’s life changed when his daughter Marina, before turning one, began suffering seizures and was diagnosed with cortical dysplasia, a condition that could affect her ability to walk and talk.
Matt had just spent a decade becoming one of television’s most recognizable faces thanks to Joey Tribbiani, but at that moment his career ceased to be a priority. As he has recounted, he called his agent and was blunt: “Lose my number for a few years”.
Over the following years, he stayed away from the studios and focused on everyday life with Marina: making her breakfast, taking her to school, and sharing activities such as horseback riding. The girl’s symptoms gradually diminished over time, and he was able to watch her grow while remaining by her side.
Matt eventually returned to television with Episodes in 2011, a performance that even earned him a Golden Globe. Joey was remembered for always being there for his friends, but offscreen Matt knew exactly who needed him to be there for her.