Matthew Perry famously played the loveable, wisecracking Chandler Bing on "Friends." Before joining the legendary sitcom, he was a rising star who appeared in television shows like "Sydney" and "Beverly Hills, 9021." But Perry yearned for more and, through "Friends," he achieved his lifelong dream of becoming famous. During and after the show, Perry dominated the industry, starring in several more successful films and television series.
Despite having reached meteoric fame, Perry suffered behind the scenes. In his memoir, "Friends, Lovers, and The Big Terrible Thing," the actor opened up about the untold truth of his life — including his addiction to opioids and alcohol, which nearly killed him. After getting sober, Perry aspired to be an anchor for those facing similar struggles. In April 2023, he told the Los Angeles Times he'd like to be remembered: "As a guy who lived life, loved well, lived well and helped people."
Sadly, the beloved "Friends" actor died at his Los Angeles home on October 28, 2023, as the result of an apparent drowning. He was 54. Fans and fellow entertainers shared an outflow of tributes and memories in his honor. On October 30, his co-stars responded to his death and reflected on their real-life relationship with one of the most iconic "Friends" of all time. "We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are a family," the cast said in a shared statement to People.
If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
