Rider Strong, a prominent actor from the beloved series "Boy Meets World," recently shared insights into his initial reservations regarding Matthew Lawrence's inclusion in the show's cast. Strong recounted his feelings during an appearance on the "Brotherly Love" podcast, hosted by Matthew and his siblings. This candid discussion sheds light on the dynamics of their professional relationship and the unexpected journey from apprehension to camaraderie that characterized their time on the hit sitcom.
During their conversation, Strong confessed that he and his fellow cast members found the Lawrence brothers' established fame and industry presence somewhat daunting. Matthew Lawrence, along with his brothers Joey and Andrew, had already achieved significant recognition in Hollywood prior to his "Boy Meets World" debut. This perceived disparity in their careers initially led Strong to believe that Matthew's casting was a network decision to leverage his popularity rather than a genuine need for his character. However, this initial skepticism quickly dissipated as they began to collaborate, evolving into a lasting friendship that enriched both their personal lives and their on-screen performances.
The Initial Apprehension
Rider Strong candidly discussed his original reservations about Matthew Lawrence joining the cast of "Boy Meets World." Strong admitted that he and the existing cast initially found the Lawrence brothers' established success in Hollywood quite intimidating. He perceived their collective fame as a potential imposition by the network, believing that Matthew's addition was driven by a desire to capitalize on his popularity rather than fulfilling a genuine creative need for the show. This sentiment stemmed from the Lawrence brothers' prior achievements, which had positioned them as highly recognizable figures in the entertainment industry.
Strong explained that the existing cast viewed Matthew, Joey, and Andrew Lawrence as seasoned "Hollywood people" who had already achieved significant stardom through various films and television series, including "Brotherly Love," "Blossom," and "Mrs. Doubtfire." This background created an initial perception among the "Boy Meets World" cast that Matthew's presence was an external directive rather than an organic fit. Strong recounted feeling a sense of, "Oh God, the Lawrences are coming," suggesting that their arrival was met with a mix of awe and trepidation, as they wondered how these celebrated actors would integrate into their established show.
From Skepticism to Enduring Friendship
Despite his initial skepticism, Rider Strong's perception of Matthew Lawrence began to shift once they started working together on set. Strong recalled that Matthew's genuine shyness and introverted nature quickly became apparent, dispelling the initial impression of an overly confident star. This realization helped Strong and the cast move past their preconceived notions and engage with Matthew on a more personal level, fostering a natural bond that transformed their professional relationship into a lasting friendship.
The evolving dynamic between Strong and Lawrence proved crucial for the narrative of "Boy Meets World," particularly in portraying their characters Shawn and Jack Hunter's complex fraternal relationship. The show explored themes of contrasting upbringings, with Shawn navigating financial struggles and adversity while Jack enjoyed a more stable background. This on-screen journey from initial friction to deep camaraderie mirrored the actors' real-life experiences, contributing to the authenticity and emotional depth of their performances. Their bond extended beyond the original series, with both actors reprising their roles in the sequel, "Girl Meets World," further solidifying their enduring connection and the impact they had on each other's careers.