In a shocking and tragic turn of events, beloved “Friends” star Matthew Perry has died at the age of 54, with reports indicating an apparent drowning as the cause. The actor, known for his iconic role as Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom, was found dead in the jacuzzi of his Pacific Palisades home in Los Angeles. In an official statement, the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed they responded to a death investigation at Perry’s address, where no drugs were found, and no foul play is suspected.
Perry’s struggles with drug and alcohol addiction were well-documented, with the actor having gone to rehab 15 times and undergone 14 surgeries due to alcohol and opioid use. In his memoir “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing,” published last year, Perry opened up about his decades-long battle with addiction and his road to recovery.
Throughout his career, Perry was open and candid about his struggles with drug and alcohol addiction. In a promotional interview for his book last year, Perry revealed that he had a near-death experience in 2018 due to gastrointestinal perforation, stating, “The doctors told my family that I had a 2 percent chance to live.” Despite his hardships, Perry triumphed over his addiction, claiming to have spent close to $9 million on his journey to sobriety, finally achieving drug and alcohol-free status in May 2021.
His story is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit, as well as a cautionary tale about the dangers of addiction. Perry’s final Instagram post, a picture of himself in a jacuzzi with the caption, “Oh, so warm water swirling around makes you feel good? I’m Mattman,” is a haunting reminder of the circumstances surrounding his untimely passing.
The news of Matthew Perry’s death is a devastating loss to the entertainment world and the millions of fans who cherished his performances. Perry’s portrayal of Chandler Bing on “Friends” was nothing short of iconic, with his witty humour and heartfelt performances capturing the hearts of audiences around the globe.
Perry’s legacy will live on through his work, and he will be remembered as a talented actor and a brave individual who faced his demons head-on. As we mourn the loss of this beloved star, let us also recognize the importance of reaching out to those struggling with addiction and offering our support, as it is a battle that no one should have to face alone.