Friends Gunther star James Michael Tyler's manager gives hopeful update on cancer battle Mirror 7 hrs ago Victoria Johns Friends fans were saddened to learn that show favourite James Michael Tyler, who played Central Perk's barista Gunther is battling stage four prostate cancer, but his manager has stressed how much the actor "wants to live". Talking about her client's diagnosis, Toni Benson said James has been "through some rough times" but that "he is going to fight this" in regards to his diagnosis. Speaking to People, Benson said: "Lately he's been having amazing days. He's done his second round of chemo and so far he is doing really well. And he's hopeful it will be effective."