Fans of Matthew Perry are continuing to deal with the heartbreak of his sudden death. Perry was known for his role as Chandler Bing on the sitcom Friends. On the evening of October 28, 2023, Perry was found dead at age 54 in the jacuzzi in Los Angeles.
Matthew Perry’s Past
Throughout his life, Perry has faced many demons. Perry discussed feelings of loneliness and depression from an early age. His memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, was published in November 2022.
In his book, Perry addressed his addictions and how the cast helped him during his darkest days. Stories of his struggle with alcohol and substance abuse, all of which led to medical issues throughout his adult life.
Following medical issues, Perry was taking over 50 Vicodin each day. Although no drugs were found at the scene, many fans feared that addiction could have played a role in his drowning. Now, a day later, many are reaching out to his family and sharing memories.
Society Sends Condolences
Throughout social media, Hollywood stars and politicians all reached out to send condolences. The Canada Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, was a former classmate of Matthew Perry. Trudeau called Perry’s death “shocking and saddening.” He reflects on playing schoolyard games they used to play together and the joy that Matthew brought to everyone.
Shannen Doherty, who is fighting stage 4 breast cancer, made a heartfelt post on her Instagram following Perry’s sudden death. Doherty discussed how they were close and had a “lifetime” friendship. She reflected on how they always had fun together and supported one another. Finally, Doherty stated, “He will be missed by many and definitely by us. Yes. I could be more poetic or say things better, but right now, chock and sadness prevail.”
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Maggie Wheeler, who played Janice Hosenstein, Chandler’s on-and-off girlfriend from 1994-2004, also took to social media to send her condolences. In her Instagram tribute, Wheeler posted, “What a loss. The world will miss you, Matthew Perry. The joy you brought to so many in your too short lifetime will live on. I feel so very blessed by every creative moment we shared.”
The Industry Says Goodbye
Finally, following Perry’s death, Warner Brothers, the production company behind Friends, released a statement.
“We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry. Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros. Television Group family,” the statement read. “The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many. This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our love to his family, his loved ones, and all of his devoted fans.”
The popular television Saturday Night Live, which he hosted on October 4, 1997, also paid tribute to the actor during the show last evening. The tribute included his name and a black-and-white portrait of Perry.
Mattew Perry touched many through his outstanding performance at Chandler Bing on Friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with Perry’s friends and family during this difficult time.
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