https://www.tmz.com/2023/10/28/friends-star-matthew-perry-dead-dies-drowning/

10/28/2023 5:10 PM PT

Matthew Perry (https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=577516629&sxsrf=AM9HkKmq1iDbGREc-Nm4kYq20zo_56_Mng:1698539596011&q=matthew+perry&tbm=nws&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjn_oaKgZqCAxVHbN4KHX6qDNoQ0pQJegQIJxAB&biw=1920&bih=1065&dpr=1) -- one of the stars of 'Friends' (https://www.reddit.com/r/friends_tv_show/comments/17iqzzl/friends_star_matthew_perry_dead_at_54_after/) -- has died (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matthew_Perry#Death) ... TMZ has learned (https://twitter.com/search?q=%20Matthew%20Perry&src=typed_query&f=live).

Law enforcement sources tell us the actor was found Saturday at an L.A.-area home ... where we're told he appears to have drowned (https://www.lipstickalley.com/threads/friends-star-matthew-perry-dead-at-54-from-drowning.5425328/). Our sources say first-responders rushed over on a call for cardiac arrest. It's unclear where exactly on the grounds this happened.

Our sources say he was found in a jacuzzi at the home ... and we're told there were no drugs found at the scene. We're also told there is no foul play involved.

Perry is most famous for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit '90s sitcom, which ran for 10 seasons ... and with him in all 234 episodes. His character was a fan fave, as was performance -- mannerisms and lines of which have gone on to be recreated and spoofed by fans all over the world. One comes to mind, in particular ... "Could (blank) BE more .."

While 'Friends' was his biggest claim to fame ... MP had starred/guest starred in countless other TV shows over the years -- such as 'Boys Will Be Boys,' 'Growing Pains,' 'Silver Spoons,' 'Charles in Charge,' 'Sydney,' 'Beverly Hills, 90210,' 'Home Free,' 'Ally McBeal,' 'The West Wing,' 'Scrubs,' 'Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip,' 'Go On,' 'The Odd Couple' and more.

He had also acted in a handful of memorable films (mostly comedy) ... like 'Fools Rush In,' 'The Whole Nine Yards,' 'Three to Tango,' 'The Kid,' '17 Again,' 'Getting In,' and many others. He's been off the scene more recently ... not having acted since a TV mini series in 2017.

While his onscreen persona was affable and upbeat, Matthew suffered mightily behind the scenes -- notably, from his addiction to drugs and alcohol ... pain killers, specifically. He was hooked on Vicodin for years -- even while on 'Friends' -- and had been in and out of rehab.

Matthew opened up about this painful chapter of his life in a memoir he put out last year -- where he detailed the struggles he had ... including his clear weight-loss/gain on the show.

During his press run for his book ... Matthew did a number of interviews where he got incredibly emotional -- including one with Diane Sawyer, where he detailed his story.

While Perry appeared to be clean and sober a year ago, the year prior -- when he and the other cast members were plugging the 'Friends' reunion show -- drew concern from fans ... as they felt he appeared unwell, at times slurring his words and looking a bit out of it.

On top of his substance use ... Matthew also dealt with health issues, some of which were serious and required hospitalizations. One such incident stemmed from a gastrointestinal perforation -- which forced him to undergo emergency surgery ... but he luckily recovered.

Matthew never married, but he was briefly engaged to Molly Hurwitz a couple years ago ... which came to an end after only 6 months. Before that, he'd been linked to Lizzy Caplan.

He was 54 years old.

RIP

Just Sad. I Looked at a Pic of Him the other day and thought he was struggling. Just so sad.

Such sad, heartbreaking news... :( :( :(

R.I.P. Matthew

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-10-28/freinds-star-matthew-perry-dead-at-59

“Friends” star Mathew Perry was found dead Saturday in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home, law enforcement sources said.

Authorities responded about 4 p.m. to his home, where he was discovered unresponsive. The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the investigation was ongoing, did not cite a cause of death. There was no sign of foul play, the sources added.

Los Angeles Police Department’s robbery-homicide detectives are investigating the death.

Perry, the son of actor John Bennett Perry and Suzanne Marie Langford, onetime press secretary of Canadian Prime Minister Piere Trudeau, was born in 1969 and grew up between Montreal and Los Angeles after his parents separated when Perry was 1.


He got his start as a child actor, landing guest spots “Charles in Charge” and “Beverly Hills 90210” and playing opposite River Phoenix in the film “A Night in the Life of Jimmy Reardon” in the 1980s and early 1990s. But his big break came when he was cast in “Friends” — originally titled “Friends Like Us” — a sitcom about six single New Yorkers navigating adulthood that premiered on NBC in 1994. It soon became a juggernaut, the anchor of the network’s vaunted Thursday-night “Must-See TV” lineup, and turned Perry and his cast mates, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt Leblanc and David Schwimmer into mega-stars almost overnight.

As Chandler Bing, the handsome, wisecracking roommate of Leblanc’s Joey Tribbiani and, later, love interest of the fastidious Monica Geller, Perry distinguished himself in a crackling ensemble cast with his dry delivery, creating a catchphrase with a mere turn of inflection: Could he be any more Chandler?

There was a dark side to the life of one of television’s most beloved funnymen, however. In his 2022 memoir “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” Perry recounted his lifelong struggle with addiction to alcohol and opioids, which led to multiple stints in rehab and a number of serious health issues, including a five-month hospitalization in 2018 following a colon rupture that left him, he wrote, with a two percent chance to live through the night.

“Nobody wanted to be famous more than me,” Perry told The Times in April, discussing “Big Terrible Thing” at the Festival of Books. “I was convinced it was the answer. I was 25, it was the second year of ‘Friends,’ and eight months into it, I realized the American dream is not making me happy, not filling the holes in my life. I couldn’t get enough attention. … Fame does not do what you think it’s going to do. It was all a trick.”

He was 54. RIP.

He was 54. RIP.

Might have known that one of the major news sources would get his age wrong. :rolleyes:

Zoneboy’s LA Times link no longer works. Here’s their working link

‘Friends’ star Matthew Perry dead at 54 (https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-10-28/freinds-star-matthew-perry-dead-at-56)

"All Of Our Friend To The End": Friends Fans Heartbreakingly React To Matthew Perry's Death (https://screenrant.com/matthew-perry-death-friends-fans-reactions/)

Following the news of Matthew Perry's death, Friends fans are flocking to social media to express their heartbreak for the loss of the Chandler (https://collider.com/friends-matthew-perry-best-chandler-bing-episodes/) actor.

Very sad. It sounds like he had many personal dragons which he struggled with for years.

Hopefully, he can finally rest in peace.

OMG. I'm just shocked. :(

So sad. Rest in peace Matthew Perry.

From Maggie Wheeler (https://www.instagram.com/maggiewheeler_official/) (Janice (https://screenrant.com/friends-janice-best-character-reasons/)) on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy9u6gSxSK6/):
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. ♥️


Maggie Wheeler, 'Janice' Actress on 'Friends,' Mourns Matthew Perry (https://people.com/maggie-wheeler-janice-actress-friends-mourns-matthew-perry-death-8384135)

Matthew Perry's Friends costar breaks silence on tragic death at 54 while sharing she feels 'blessed' to have (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-12684753/Matthew-Perrys-Friends-star-breaks-silence-tragic-death.html)

Matthew Perry's 'Friends' Co-Star Maggie Wheeler Remembers Actor Following His Death (https://www.justjared.com/2023/10/29/matthew-perrys-friends-co-star-maggie-wheeler-remembers-actor-following-his-death/)

Celebrities post tributes to Matthew Perry (https://www.insider.com/celebrities-costars-post-social-media-tributes-matthew-perry-2023-10)

Matthew Perry tributes: 'SNL,' 'Friends' girlfriend Maggie Wheeler (https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/tv/2023/10/28/celebrities-remember-matthew-perry/71368138007/)

Matthew Perry Dies At 54: Maggie Wheeler, Khloe Kardashian, Olivia Munn And Others Mourn Demise Of 'Friends' Star (https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/matthew-perry-dies-at-54-maggie-wheeler-khloe-kardashian-olivia-munn-and-others-mourns-demise-of-friends-star-news-327392)

Selma Blair, Yvette Nicole Brown, Justin Trudeau, Warner Bros. TV Remember Matthew Perry: “His Comedic Genius Was Felt Around the World” (https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/matthew-perry-dead-hollywood-tributes-1235631004/)

Matthew Perry's Friends costar breaks silence on tragic death at 54 while sharing she feels 'blessed' to have (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-12684753/Matthew-Perrys-Friends-star-breaks-silence-tragic-death.html)

Friends co-stars remember Matthew Perry after death: ‘The world will miss you’ (https://uk.news.yahoo.com/friends-co-stars-remember-matthew-052548491.html)

Friends’ Actor Maggie Wheeler Aka Janice And Other Celebs Mourn Death Of Matthew Perry (https://news.abplive.com/entertainment/celebrities/ranveer-singh-warner-bros-tv-justin-trudeau-maggie-wheeler-mourn-friends-star-matthew-perry-1638970)

This is shocking, has Matthew struggled with drugs or have mental health issues?

This is shocking, has Matthew struggled with drugs or have mental health issues?

It's pretty well documented now, that Matthew struggled with alcohol (https://ew.com/tv/matthew-perry-says-friends-costars-confronted-him-about-his-sobriety/) and opioids (https://www.psychiatrist.com/news/matthew-perry-comes-clean-about-opioid-abuse-in-new-book/) at least dating back to when he was filming (https://www.reddit.com/r/howyoudoin/comments/106ke7x/question_about_matthew_perry_while_filming_friends/) Friends (https://www.reddit.com/r/friends_tv_show/comments/13dzly3/was_matthew_perry_sick_during_the_show/). Perhaps consequently, he had to use a colostomy bag (https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/matthew-perry-addiction-horrors-colostomy-bag-colon-exploded-181032725.html).

From Maggie Wheeler (https://www.instagram.com/maggiewheeler_official/) (Janice (https://screenrant.com/friends-janice-best-character-reasons/)) on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy9u6gSxSK6/):



Maggie Wheeler, 'Janice' Actress on 'Friends,' Mourns Matthew Perry (https://people.com/maggie-wheeler-janice-actress-friends-mourns-matthew-perry-death-8384135)

Matthew Perry's Friends costar breaks silence on tragic death at 54 while sharing she feels 'blessed' to have (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-12684753/Matthew-Perrys-Friends-star-breaks-silence-tragic-death.html)

Matthew Perry's 'Friends' Co-Star Maggie Wheeler Remembers Actor Following His Death (https://www.justjared.com/2023/10/29/matthew-perrys-friends-co-star-maggie-wheeler-remembers-actor-following-his-death/)

Celebrities post tributes to Matthew Perry (https://www.insider.com/celebrities-costars-post-social-media-tributes-matthew-perry-2023-10)

Matthew Perry tributes: 'SNL,' 'Friends' girlfriend Maggie Wheeler (https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/tv/2023/10/28/celebrities-remember-matthew-perry/71368138007/)

Matthew Perry Dies At 54: Maggie Wheeler, Khloe Kardashian, Olivia Munn And Others Mourn Demise Of 'Friends' Star (https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/matthew-perry-dies-at-54-maggie-wheeler-khloe-kardashian-olivia-munn-and-others-mourns-demise-of-friends-star-news-327392)

Selma Blair, Yvette Nicole Brown, Justin Trudeau, Warner Bros. TV Remember Matthew Perry: “His Comedic Genius Was Felt Around the World” (https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/matthew-perry-dead-hollywood-tributes-1235631004/)

Matthew Perry's Friends costar breaks silence on tragic death at 54 while sharing she feels 'blessed' to have (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-12684753/Matthew-Perrys-Friends-star-breaks-silence-tragic-death.html)

Friends co-stars remember Matthew Perry after death: ‘The world will miss you’ (https://uk.news.yahoo.com/friends-co-stars-remember-matthew-052548491.html)

Friends’ Actor Maggie Wheeler Aka Janice And Other Celebs Mourn Death Of Matthew Perry (https://news.abplive.com/entertainment/celebrities/ranveer-singh-warner-bros-tv-justin-trudeau-maggie-wheeler-mourn-friends-star-matthew-perry-1638970)


From Morgan Fairchild (Nora Tyler Bing (https://friends.fandom.com/wiki/Nora_Tyler_Bing)) on Twitter (https://twitter.com/morgfair/status/1718489684379136033):
Thanks! Yes, and he used to visit our sets of Flamingo Rd and Falcon Crest when his dad worked with me there and he was a little kid. Just heartbroken 💔💔💔💔💔

I just read this on FOX News today.

I never watched Friends, it just didn’t seem to be a series I would be interested in, but it was such a cultural phenomenon that I know most of the character’s names and most of their real names. I have a friend from Iceland who loves the show.

It is scary for me now to read about anyone who died younger than me. He was roughly two years younger than me and four years younger than my wife. I for one do not live the healthiest of lifestyles and had a drug problem in the 1990’s and while I did escape that drug did other softer drugs in the 00’s and still drink now to excess once a week. I still smoke and am overweight.

I have read in the past for years that after Friends he was on several network shows that just bombed. I would think that from Friends itself he should have had enough money to live the rest of his life if he never worked again.

But I am 56 now and 54 is too young to go.

It's pretty well documented now, that Matthew struggled with alcohol (https://ew.com/tv/matthew-perry-says-friends-costars-confronted-him-about-his-sobriety/) and opioids (https://www.psychiatrist.com/news/matthew-perry-comes-clean-about-opioid-abuse-in-new-book/) at least dating back to when he was filming (https://www.reddit.com/r/howyoudoin/comments/106ke7x/question_about_matthew_perry_while_filming_friends/) Friends (https://www.reddit.com/r/friends_tv_show/comments/13dzly3/was_matthew_perry_sick_during_the_show/). Perhaps consequently, he had to use a colostomy bag (https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/matthew-perry-addiction-horrors-colostomy-bag-colon-exploded-181032725.html).

I never knew that, that sucks

Yes sad another shock as was Suzanne, one can go any age.

A friend just left at 96 so age is all over the place, my nephew left at 5 yrs old...

I digressed but thinking on the age thing.

Matthew Perry Pulled An Unexpected Stunt To Land Julia Roberts On Friends (https://www.looper.com/1433233/matthew-perry-friends-julia-roberts/)

Matthew Perry and Julia Roberts had an interesting and fun exchange in order to get the latter to appear on "Friends" as a guest star.

Matthew Perry's Best Friends Blooper Is Perfection (https://www.looper.com/1433204/matthew-perry-best-friends-blooper/)

Matthew Perry did such a good job playing Chandler Bing on "Friends" that even his bloopers are perfection. Here's what just might be the best one.

Matthew Perry Almost Broke One Major Friends Rule (https://www.looper.com/1433184/matthew-perry-friends-rule-almost-broke-fourth-wall/)

During its long run, there was a big production rule that "Friends" never broke. That didn't stop Perry from pitching this hilarious scene with Sean Penn.

Matthew Perry's Friends Character Was Almost Played By Another Huge Sitcom Actor (https://www.looper.com/1433175/matthew-perry-friends-character-almost-played-sitcom-actor-jon-cryer/)

Matthew Perry was iconic as Chandler Bing on "Friends," but it turns out that another sitcom star originally auditioned for the role.

Matthew Perry's Sweet Gesture To A Nervous Friends Co-Star Might Melt Your Heart (https://www.looper.com/1433157/matthew-perry-friends-co-star-gesture-aisha-tyler/)

The popularity of "Friends" could make it an intimidating show for newcomers, but Aisha Tyler remembers how Matthew Perry's kind gesture made things easier.

Matthew Perry Awkwardly Interacted With A Co-Star 3 Years Before Friends (https://www.looper.com/1433141/matthew-perry-friends-co-star-jennifer-aniston-meeting-before-series/)

Matthew Perry grew close to all of his "Friends" co-stars, but there was one who helped him through difficult times. However, their early interactions were odd.

Friends Star Matthew Perry Truly Hated One Chandler Bing Feature (https://www.looper.com/1433107/matthew-perry-friends-star-hated-chandler-bing-feature/)

There's one key part of Chandler Bing that Matthew Perry grew to hate, even though it's a favorite aspect for most fans.

Friends Cast Reacts To Matthew Perry's Death & It's Heartbreaking (https://www.looper.com/1433086/friends-cast-react-matthew-perry-death/)

Chandler Bing will forever be the role that the late Matthew Perry is remembered for, and actors who worked with him on Friends are sharing their thoughts.

Matthew Perry's Fans Are Paying Tribute To His Performance In This 1997 Romantic Comedy (https://www.looper.com/1432984/matthew-perry-fans-paying-tribute-performance-fools-rush-in/)

After Matthew Perry's tragic passing, fans have taken to social media to praise one of his movies, a 1997 romantic comedy.

How Matthew Perry's Nerdiest Moment On Ellen Helped Lead To A Role In Fallout (https://www.looper.com/1432974/matthew-perry-nerdiest-moment-ellen-fallout-new-vegas-benny/)

After he wowed the world as Chandler Bing, Matthew Perry entertained gamers with a spectacular performance in the "Fallout" franchise.

Matthew Perry Showed His Batman Obsession In The Most Epic Way (https://www.looper.com/1432957/matthew-perry-batman-obsession-room-house/)

Matthew Perry embraced Batman in a way that few people could ever imagine, let alone pull off. The word "fan" didn't begin to capture it.

Matthew Perry's Best Movie According To Rotten Tomatoes (https://www.looper.com/1432953/matthew-perry-best-movie-rotten-tomatoes-17-again/)

Matthew Perry's films weren't as beloved as "Friends," but there was one comedy project that stood out as his highest-rated movie on Rotten Tomatoes.

Matthew Perry's Friends Salary Was Likely Much Bigger Than You Think (https://www.looper.com/1432946/matthew-perry-friends-salary/)

Could Matthew Perry have earned more money from "Friends?" Well, probably not. He did well - but he might have earned more than you would expect.

The Last Movie Friends' Matthew Perry Was In Before He Died (https://www.looper.com/1432937/last-movie-friends-matthew-perry-before-died-17-again/)

Although sitcom star Matthew Perry worked on a number of television projects in the past decade and a half, his most recent film project dates back to 2009.

Hollywood Stars React To The Death Of Friends Star Matthew Perry (https://www.looper.com/1432925/hollywood-stars-friends-star-matthew-perry-death-reactions/)

Following the news of Matthew Perry's tragic death, stars from across the world of entertainment shared their condolences and memories of the actor.

Friends Creators Respond To The Death Of Matthew Perry (https://www.looper.com/1433228/friends-creators-marta-kauffman-david-crane-kevin-bright-respond-death-matthew-perry/)

The entertainment world is mourning the sudden loss of writer and actor Matthew Perry, who died on October 28 (https://www.looper.com/1432899/friends-matthew-perry-emmy-nominated-star-dead-at-54/) at age 54. Perry had a long career in Hollywood, appearing in shows like "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip" and "The Odd Couple," as well as films like "Fools Rush In" and "17 Again." But of course, he was most famous for his role as Chandler Bing in the iconic NBC sitcom "Friends," where he gained fans around the world and made lifelong friendships with his cast and crew.

Among the many tributes rolling in for the beloved actor is a group statement from "Friends" co-creators and executive producers Marta Kauffman, David Crane, and Kevin Bright. "We are shocked and deeply, deeply saddened by our beloved friend Matthew's passing," the message starts, per Deadline (https://deadline.com/2023/10/friends-creators-tribute-matthew-perry-marta-kauffman-david-clrane-kevin-bright-1235586618/). "It still seems impossible. All we can say is that we feel blessed to have had him as part of our lives."

From Morgan Fairchild (Nora Tyler Bing (https://friends.fandom.com/wiki/Nora_Tyler_Bing)) on Twitter (https://twitter.com/morgfair/status/1718489684379136033):

From Brooke Shields (https://www.purewow.com/news/brooke-shields-friends-role) (Erika Ford (https://friends.fandom.com/wiki/Erika_Ford)) on Twitter (https://twitter.com/BrookeShields/status/1718726800644157738) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy_vs84RByT/):
Really struggling to find the words. You were so loved, Matthew. I loved you dearly. Thank you for the belly laughs. You brought joy to so many. We already miss you… sending all of my love to your family & friends 💔

Matthew Perry Pulled An Unexpected Stunt To Land Julia Roberts On Friends (https://www.looper.com/1433233/matthew-perry-friends-julia-roberts/)

Matthew Perry and Julia Roberts had an interesting and fun exchange in order to get the latter to appear on "Friends" as a guest star.

Matthew Perry's Best Friends Blooper Is Perfection (https://www.looper.com/1433204/matthew-perry-best-friends-blooper/)

Matthew Perry did such a good job playing Chandler Bing on "Friends" that even his bloopers are perfection. Here's what just might be the best one.

Matthew Perry Almost Broke One Major Friends Rule (https://www.looper.com/1433184/matthew-perry-friends-rule-almost-broke-fourth-wall/)

During its long run, there was a big production rule that "Friends" never broke. That didn't stop Perry from pitching this hilarious scene with Sean Penn.

Matthew Perry's Friends Character Was Almost Played By Another Huge Sitcom Actor (https://www.looper.com/1433175/matthew-perry-friends-character-almost-played-sitcom-actor-jon-cryer/)

Matthew Perry was iconic as Chandler Bing on "Friends," but it turns out that another sitcom star originally auditioned for the role.

Matthew Perry's Sweet Gesture To A Nervous Friends Co-Star Might Melt Your Heart (https://www.looper.com/1433157/matthew-perry-friends-co-star-gesture-aisha-tyler/)

The popularity of "Friends" could make it an intimidating show for newcomers, but Aisha Tyler remembers how Matthew Perry's kind gesture made things easier.

Matthew Perry Awkwardly Interacted With A Co-Star 3 Years Before Friends (https://www.looper.com/1433141/matthew-perry-friends-co-star-jennifer-aniston-meeting-before-series/)

Matthew Perry grew close to all of his "Friends" co-stars, but there was one who helped him through difficult times. However, their early interactions were odd.

Friends Star Matthew Perry Truly Hated One Chandler Bing Feature (https://www.looper.com/1433107/matthew-perry-friends-star-hated-chandler-bing-feature/)

There's one key part of Chandler Bing that Matthew Perry grew to hate, even though it's a favorite aspect for most fans.

Friends Cast Reacts To Matthew Perry's Death & It's Heartbreaking (https://www.looper.com/1433086/friends-cast-react-matthew-perry-death/)

Chandler Bing will forever be the role that the late Matthew Perry is remembered for, and actors who worked with him on Friends are sharing their thoughts.

Matthew Perry's Fans Are Paying Tribute To His Performance In This 1997 Romantic Comedy (https://www.looper.com/1432984/matthew-perry-fans-paying-tribute-performance-fools-rush-in/)

After Matthew Perry's tragic passing, fans have taken to social media to praise one of his movies, a 1997 romantic comedy.

How Matthew Perry's Nerdiest Moment On Ellen Helped Lead To A Role In Fallout (https://www.looper.com/1432974/matthew-perry-nerdiest-moment-ellen-fallout-new-vegas-benny/)

After he wowed the world as Chandler Bing, Matthew Perry entertained gamers with a spectacular performance in the "Fallout" franchise.

Matthew Perry Showed His Batman Obsession In The Most Epic Way (https://www.looper.com/1432957/matthew-perry-batman-obsession-room-house/)

Matthew Perry embraced Batman in a way that few people could ever imagine, let alone pull off. The word "fan" didn't begin to capture it.

Matthew Perry's Best Movie According To Rotten Tomatoes (https://www.looper.com/1432953/matthew-perry-best-movie-rotten-tomatoes-17-again/)

Matthew Perry's films weren't as beloved as "Friends," but there was one comedy project that stood out as his highest-rated movie on Rotten Tomatoes.

Matthew Perry's Friends Salary Was Likely Much Bigger Than You Think (https://www.looper.com/1432946/matthew-perry-friends-salary/)

Could Matthew Perry have earned more money from "Friends?" Well, probably not. He did well - but he might have earned more than you would expect.

The Last Movie Friends' Matthew Perry Was In Before He Died (https://www.looper.com/1432937/last-movie-friends-matthew-perry-before-died-17-again/)

Although sitcom star Matthew Perry worked on a number of television projects in the past decade and a half, his most recent film project dates back to 2009.

Hollywood Stars React To The Death Of Friends Star Matthew Perry (https://www.looper.com/1432925/hollywood-stars-friends-star-matthew-perry-death-reactions/)

Following the news of Matthew Perry's tragic death, stars from across the world of entertainment shared their condolences and memories of the actor.

Friends Creators Respond To The Death Of Matthew Perry (https://www.looper.com/1433228/friends-creators-marta-kauffman-david-crane-kevin-bright-respond-death-matthew-perry/)

Matthew Perry's Chandler Bing Was the Linchpin of 'Friends' (https://collider.com/matthew-perry-friends/)

The impact of Perry's role on 'Friends' cannot be overstated.

Matthew Perry Remembered by Friends Co-Stars: 'The World Will Miss You' (https://www.cbr.com/matthew-perry-remembered-friends/)

Morgan Fairchild, who played Chandler's mother on Friends, is among those paying tribute to Matthew Perry.

Matthew Perry Shared Eerie Image on Instagram Days Before Death (https://www.cbr.com/matthew-perry-final-post-instagram/)

Matthew Perry's final Instagram post makes his unexpected demise all the more tragic.

Yes sad another shock as was Suzanne, one can go any age.

A friend just left at 96 so age is all over the place, my nephew left at 5 yrs old...

I digressed but thinking on the age thing.

Suzanne was not really a shock honestly, she was battling breast cancer for 23 years

Matthew Perry was talented and deeply funny, but he was also unapologetically human (https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2023-10-29/matthew-perry-friends-death-appreciation)

From Brooke Shields (https://www.purewow.com/news/brooke-shields-friends-role) (Erika Ford (https://friends.fandom.com/wiki/Erika_Ford)) on Twitter (https://twitter.com/BrookeShields/status/1718726800644157738) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy_vs84RByT/):

'We are utterly devastated': Friends cast react to co-star Matthew Perry's death in joint statement and say they are 'taking a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss' (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-12690737/matthew-perry-death-friends-stars-pay-tribute.html)

Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer have broken their silence over Matthew Perry's death over the weekend. While speaking about the passing of their Friends costar, at just 54, the castmates released a join statement. 'We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are a family,' they told People. 'There is so much to say, but right now we're going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss.' The stars continued: ''In time we will say more, as and when we are able,' the statement continues. 'For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty's family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world.'

I'm almost worried that some of the nostalgia cable networks like "Decades" "MeTV," "AntennaTV," or whoever might show that Growing Pains episode where he played as Carol Seaver's boyfriend who gets killed in a drunk driving accident as a tribute.

Speaking of which, no tributes from Tracey Gold or Christina Applegate yet?

Very sad........

Matthew Perry was also in a commercial for Pacific Bell in 1987 where he played a telephone operator and I didn't even know Matthew Perry did commercials and I wonder if that's how he got started first in Growing Pains as Carol Seaver's first boyfriend Sandy?

I'm almost worried that some of the nostalgia cable networks like "Decades" "MeTV," "AntennaTV," or whoever might show that Growing Pains episode where he played as Carol Seaver's boyfriend who gets killed in a drunk driving accident as a tribute.

Speaking of which, no tributes from Tracey Gold or Christina Applegate yet?

This is what Tracey Gold recently posted on Twitter (https://twitter.com/TheTraceyGold/status/1718735918629330964). She doesn't specifically mention Matthew Perry, but based on the proximity of the post, it's safe to assume that this is what she's referring to:
“You have been my friend. That in itself is a tremendous thing.”

From Brooke Shields (https://www.purewow.com/news/brooke-shields-friends-role) (Erika Ford (https://friends.fandom.com/wiki/Erika_Ford)) on Twitter (https://twitter.com/BrookeShields/status/1718726800644157738) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy_vs84RByT/):

From Nancy Valen (Lorraine from the "One with the Candy Hearts" (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0583587/) episode (https://friends.fandom.com/wiki/The_One_With_The_Candy_Hearts)) on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/CzDRJlJuK4v/):
I was fortunate enough to work with Matthew Perry (https://www.facebook.com/nancyvalenprivate/posts/pfbid0a2nta6EDc98faWvp2dusaDnHUTMgQERKBFtCvLvycntrABJ5QgA6JYC6HfdGBj3yl?__cft__[0]=AZV5fhaxcGgGbHQWN2jE-j_z8j8pr0hC5JFK2ehn5hreucbCPIsIP0wwWeMLhSveAuTTWIJQgUVRlftnV6xwUzLBkEzHUigmy2mOsoDV91d4baYOLGud5FIC7Gpc6t5G5PX-qANVfzfsCgsDZfVqOE7Kh7AI4n9gaIsb1-8j0zbSxw&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R) on the first season (https://holidayfilmreviews.blogspot.com/2016/02/friends-one-with-candy-hearts.html) of Friends (https://www.facebook.com/mypublicpage/videos/i-got-the-most-out-of-my-valentines-day-date-with-joey-chandler-and-janice-not-s/227059948882767/). I remember the writers asked him to join them for a rewrite, and from my experience that isn’t a common occurrence for writers and actors. I sat in the audience seats for a few minutes and the writers respect and admiration for him was clear. During that week I enjoyed every moment —just in awe of his comedic ability. Even when he was dating a friend of mine and they met us at party, he kept us laughing endlessly. My husband, tennis coach @nelsvanpatten played a celebrity tennis tournament with him once. Seems he was multitalented as he was an incredible player…a top junior in Canada. My thoughts are with my friends who knew him personally; for all of us who shared the common experience of waiting for and watching the show the same time weekly; and for those of you who may just be falling in love with him now. #matthewperry ❤️

Matthew Perry's Chandler Bing Was the Linchpin of 'Friends' (https://collider.com/matthew-perry-friends/)

The impact of Perry's role on 'Friends' cannot be overstated.

Matthew Perry Remembered by Friends Co-Stars: 'The World Will Miss You' (https://www.cbr.com/matthew-perry-remembered-friends/)

Morgan Fairchild, who played Chandler's mother on Friends, is among those paying tribute to Matthew Perry.

Matthew Perry Shared Eerie Image on Instagram Days Before Death (https://www.cbr.com/matthew-perry-final-post-instagram/)

Matthew Perry's final Instagram post makes his unexpected demise all the more tragic.

Friends: Matthew Perry's 10 Best Chandler Moments (https://screenrant.com/friends-matthew-perry-chandler-bing-best-moments-scenes/)

Matthew Perry was a huge part of what made Friends (https://screenrant.com/tag/friends/) so successful, and the late actor left behind an indelible legacy thanks to playing Chandler Bing.

Friends: Matthew Perry's 10 Best Chandler Moments (https://screenrant.com/friends-matthew-perry-chandler-bing-best-moments-scenes/)

Matthew Perry was a huge part of what made Friends (https://screenrant.com/tag/friends/) so successful, and the late actor left behind an indelible legacy thanks to playing Chandler Bing.

Matthew Perry gave Friends' Chandler Bing a quality rare in sitcoms: vulnerability (https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/archive/2023/10/matthew-perry-friends-chandler-bing-remembrance/675839/#:~:text=And%20he%20summoned%20both%20talents,rare%20among%20sitcom%20characters%3A%20vulnerability.)

And he summoned (https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/29/arts/television/matthew-perry-chandler-bing.html) both talents (https://lamag.com/television/friends-matthew-perry-chandler-bing-appreciation) to create a character (https://thenerdstash.com/matthew-perrys-top-moments-playing-chandler-bing-on-friends/) who is indelible precisely because he is so much more than merely funny. Perry gave (https://www.smh.com.au/culture/tv-and-radio/the-darkly-comic-enigma-who-gave-chandler-bing-his-perfect-smile-20231029-p5efvd.html) Chandler (https://www.smh.com.au/culture/tv-and-radio/the-darkly-comic-enigma-who-gave-chandler-bing-his-perfect-smile-20231029-p5efvd.html) a quality that is common among real people and rare among sitcom characters: vulnerability (https://decider.com/2023/10/30/best-chandler-episodes-of-friends-matthew-perry/).

I mentioned the possibility of a reaction from Christina Applegate in my previous post, but I'm not sure everybody here knows why. Perry played Applegate's character's boyfriend in the 1988 made-for-TV teenexploitation flick "Dance 'Til Dawn."
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094941/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_q_Dance%2520%27Til%2520

This movie is no "American Graffiti," "National Lampoon's Animal House," "Porky's," or even "Pretty in Pink," but it's a pretty solid flick for one that was trying to capitalize on a still trendy movie genre at the time. DVD copies of this movie are super-expensive. You can bet they're going to cost more now that Perry is dead.

Very sad........

Matthew Perry's Chandler Bing may be fictional, but the connection is real, so the loss is real (https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/31/arts/television/matthew-perry-death.html#:~:text=Chandler%20may%20be%20fictional%2C%20but,do%20a%20small%2C%20profound%20thing.)

Chandler may be fictional, but the connection is real, so the loss is real. Matthew Perry, of course, had a life and career before and after “Friends.” (https://theconversation.com/the-enduring-appeal-of-friends-and-why-so-many-of-us-feel-weve-lost-a-personal-friend-in-matthew-perry-216626) But with his passing, the most unpresumptuous of good-time comedies again managed to do a small, profound thing.

Friends co-creators say Matthew Perry was sober when they last spoke to him two weeks ago (https://variety.com/2023/tv/news/matthew-perry-death-friends-creator-really-good-place-1235775756/)

“It was great. He was happy and chipper. He didn’t seem weighed down by anything. He was in a really good place, which is why this seems so unfair," Friends (https://www.nickiswift.com/1435162/friends-joke-tragically-eerie-matthew-perry-fans/) co-creator Marta Kauffman said in a joint appearance on Today with fellow co-creator David Crane. When she first heard the news, Kauffman said: “My first impulse was to text him, honestly. It’s hard to grasp: one minute he’s here and he’s happy, and then poof. And doing good in the world, really doing good in the world.” ALSO: Kauffman recalled being "concerned" about Perry at the 2021 taping of Friends: The Reunion (https://nypost.com/2023/11/01/entertainment/matthew-perry-concerned-friends-creator-at-2021-reunion/).

James Burrows says Friends' female stars were "devasted" by Matthew Perry's death: "It’s a brother dying" (https://people.com/friends-director-on-why-matthew-perry-made-perfect-chandler-bing-8386123)

“It’s so sad,” the legendary TV director, who helmed the Friends pilot, said on the Today show this morning (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0z9DQCAEEM). “We were so proud of him these last couple of years that he was making a remarkable recovery.” Burrows added that Perry “was part of a family, and he was the first one to not be part of that family anymore. I texted the girls (Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox and Lisa Kudrow) the day we found out and they were destroyed. It’s a brother dying.” Burrows recalled that his first impression of the actor was, “Wow,” adding: “We were reading around the table. Matthew had a certain way of turning a line. He was inventive with how he did a line.” Perry “was really funny” and a “little awkward” on the set, like Chandler Bing, said Burrows, adding: “It was a perfect, perfect meld.”
ALSO:


The extensive investigation into Matthew Perry's death will likely take a couple of months to complete (https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-11-01/inside-the-investigation-to-determine-how-matthew-perry-died): "In trying to determine the cause of death of the Friends star, authorities have been retracing his steps that day," reports the Los Angeles Times' Richard Winton. "But experts say the ultimate answer will likely come from a team of physicians and investigators working out of the L.A. County coroner’s office on North Mission Road in Boyle Heights. Experts said the team’s work will be extensive and likely take a couple of months to complete. In addition to examining the body, they also will conduct toxicology tests, interview those who were around Perry that day and scour the scene." Craig Harvey, a retired chief of coroner’s investigations, says: “Even the temperature of the jacuzzi will be taken. We do everything you see on TV, but it takes time.” Harvey adds: "The autopsy will reveal any cardiac issues. With the naked eye they will able to look at his heart and see if any of his arteries are clogging."

Matthew Perry reportedly wanted his 17 Again co-star Zac Efron to play him in a biopic (https://www.etonline.com/matthew-perry-wanted-this-co-star-to-play-him-in-the-biopic-he-was-working-on-friend-reveals-214044)

Perry's friend shoots down conspiracy theories over Perry's "Mattman" social media posts before his death (https://www.thedailybeast.com/matthew-perrys-friend-shoots-down-mattman-conspiracies)

He was laid to rest (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-67319475) yesterday in a small ceremony (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-12709865/Matthew-Perrys-family-Friends-stars-tears-Peter-Gabriel-song-funeral.html).

xZ4H38Ea1WU

Matthew Perry (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHusnnvZt9M) was most well known (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmPQ2eiNpdc) for his iconic turn (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRdjlQqzYJs) as Chandler Bing (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wumD0S49osE) on Friends (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9aLg37YBS4), but his real life was of course much more complex, and unfortunately much darker, than the sitcom character he became synonymous with. Following his tragic death at only 54 years old, people are finally starting to take a look back at the more grim realities of his life that Perry had openly shared – and are also uncovering the many ways in which he tried to use his own struggles to help others. So today we’re taking a look into Perry’s real life, the darker facets that many tried to ignore in favor of keeping him in the ‘funny Friend’ box, and the important legacy he really wanted to leave behind.

CHAPTERS

00:00 The legacy Perry fought for
00:42 Perry's difficult childhood
05:18 Reclaiming his narrative
07:58 His many acting roles
10:07 How we should remember him

I just read this on FOX News today.

I never watched Friends, it just didn’t seem to be a series I would be interested in, but it was such a cultural phenomenon that I know most of the character’s names and most of their real names. I have a friend from Iceland who loves the show.

It is scary for me now to read about anyone who died younger than me. He was roughly two years younger than me and four years younger than my wife. I for one do not live the healthiest of lifestyles and had a drug problem in the 1990’s and while I did escape that drug did other softer drugs in the 00’s and still drink now to excess once a week. I still smoke and am overweight.

I have read in the past for years that after Friends he was on several network shows that just bombed. I would think that from Friends itself he should have had enough money to live the rest of his life if he never worked again.

But I am 56 now and 54 is too young to go.

I was reading elsewhere that Friends is a very comforting and fulfilling show to get into because it has a strict, effective narrative structure. Every episode has three stories: the main, the side, and the anecdotal. And every episode has three acts for each story: the introduction, development, and conclusion-denouement.

I never knew that, that sucks

Matthew Perry became addicted to Vicodin after a jet-ski accident in 1997, and he completed a 28-day rehab program at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation that year. His weight reportedly dropped as low as 128 pounds (58 kg), and he took as many as 55 Vicodin pills per day.

He said that from the start, he liked the way Vicodin made him feel and he wanted to get more. He also said in his book that he was an alcoholic at age 14.

Very sad. It sounds like he had many personal dragons which he struggled with for years.

Hopefully, he can finally rest in peace.

Alyssa Milano posted online (https://www.instagram.com/p/CzCQ4_XvnnM/) about how it doesn't matter how Matthew Perry died, what matters if how he lived. I kind of understand what she's trying to say in that's she's going after people who are immediately going to judge and speculate that Matthew brought his death on to himself with his substance abuse history.

Still, I don't understand why it's a bad thing to want to know how a 54-year old man just dies while in a jacuzzi. I mean, Alyssa Milano is 50, so she isn't that much younger than Matthew Perry was. Admittedly, when I first heard about this, I couldn't help but think of Whitney Houston or Aaron Carter, who both appeared to drown while in a bathtub.

And to tell you the truth, when I heard about Matthew's death, I was surprised, but I wasn't that surprised given how clearly worse for wear he had been in recent years. I'm actually shocked that he was the youngest of the main Friends cast and yet, he's the first to die.

I heard an interview with one of the top commentators on NPR and Matthew Perry and not clear how close to his death. Perry talked about how it all started in his life at birth...Perry was open to his life.


He was a colicky baby, and his parents were desperate to get him to stop crying. His doctor prescribed him barbiturates, a depressant drug class that generates addiction. His father remembers Perry as a baby crying inconsolably and then falling asleep immediately after being given the drug.Apr 12, 2023


Personally I can remember parents rubbing a baby's gums with liquor to ease pain when baby was getting teeth.....could be this practice on babies has led to adult addictions.

The Friends Cast Still Gets $20 Million A Year In Residuals. What Will Happen To Matthew Perry's Share? (https://www.cinemablend.com/television/friends-cast-gets-dollar20-million-a-year-residuals-matthew-perry-share)

Friends is responsible for skyrocketing its six stars to fame over its 10-season run from 1994 to 2004. Even nearly 20 years since its final episode, the NBC sitcom is arguably the biggest achievement in the careers of Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer.

Because of its continued popularity, Friends also remains quite the moneymaker for them as well, with the cast reportedly each pulling in a cool $20 million a year in syndication and streaming revenue. Now that Perry has passed away at the age of 54, what will happen to his share of the earnings?

Matthew Perry, best known for his portrayal of Chandler Bing on Friends, died October 28 in a presumed drowning at his home in Los Angeles. The actor never married or had children, calling into question who will be the beneficiary of his estate. Charlie Douglas, a certified financial planner and president of HH Legacy Investments in Atlanta, told CNBC there are three possibilities for inheritance based on California laws.

First, Matthew Perry might have named beneficiaries of his residuals through SAG-AFTRA, which the planner said is similar to employees designating who should receive their 401(k) or retirement benefits in the case of death. Secondly, the actor may have named a trust, rather than a person, to be in charge of how the funds were used. The final possibility is that Perry didn’t name a beneficiary, and state law would determine what happens to his estate.

In most states, Charlie Douglas said, there is a hierarchy of who should receive the benefits in the case that there was no specification by the deceased. That goes in order from spouses and children to parents and siblings. The planner said if Matthew Perry died without named beneficiaries, it’s likely that his parents would inherit his estate, and they could choose whether or not to make a “qualified disclaimer” that would bypass them and give their son’s residuals to his five half-siblings.

Given Matthew Perry’s own wishes for his legacy, it’s also possible that charity will factor into his inheritance, if he did, in fact, have a will. The actor struggled with addiction, writing about it in his memoir Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing and speaking openly about it, especially in what turned out to be the last year of his life. He hoped to not just be remembered as Chandler from Friends but for the help he provided others with issues similar to his.

Whoever ends up in possession of Matthew Perry’s residuals, it seems like Friends will continue to be a big part of that. While Warner Bros. would not comment on how much the Friends cast gets paid in royalties, Perry himself indicated that his residual checks were substantial, joking to Andy Cohen in 2022 that he “bought Iowa.” Knowing how the six main cast members famously negotiated to make $1 million apiece per episode on Friends, it does make sense that they would have secured a good deal when it came to syndication.

I thought I read a quote by Mathew that he was unhappy at the peak of his career (2nd season of Friends). If that's how he felt when he's on top of the world then he really struggled with depression.

If any of you have dealt with depression, then you'll understand how difficult it is to feel unhappy when everything in your life might be going your way.

TV Shows That Eerily Predicted Real Life Deaths (https://www.looper.com/1439539/shows-strangely-predicted-real-life-deaths/)

Friends

https://www.looper.com/img/gallery/tv-shows-that-eerily-predicted-real-life-deaths/friends-1699295007.webp

Since news broke on October 28, 2023, of Matthew Perry's death, "Friends" fans have been reeling over the loss of the man behind the sarcastic and loveable Chandler Bing (https://www.looper.com/420016/chandler-bings-friends-timeline-explained/). For many, their comfort show now has a dark cloud over it, especially since two episodes eerily foreshadow his death.

In Season 9, Episode 8 ("The One with Rachel's Other Sister"), Chandler suggests to Monica (Courteney Cox) that they use their expensive wedding plates for Thanksgiving dinner. She's hesitant but obliges. Though the plates survive the tense meal, it's Chandler who accidentally knocks over the entire box of them, shattering the dishes on the floor. He tells his friends, "Well, what do you know? I guess I'll be the one who dies first." While intended as a gag, this line takes on a whole new meaning now as Perry is the first of the core six cast members to pass away.

Similarly, in Season 7, Episode 5 ("The One with the Engagement Picture"), Chandler struggles to smile properly for a professional photo to announce his and Monica's engagement in the newspaper. Monica, frustrated, tells her fiancé, "Chandler, what is the matter with your face? This picture is supposed to say, 'Geller and Bing to be married,' not, 'Local woman saves drowning moron.'" Though Perry's exact cause of death is yet to be determined at the time of this writing, drowning has not been ruled out as he was found in his hot tub. Given the circumstances, some fans are calling for Monica's comment to be cut from the episode.

Matthew Perry Official Death Certificate Leaves More Questions Than Answers (https://www.looper.com/1442141/matthew-perry-official-death-certificate-cause-of-death-deferred/)

BY Looper Staff/NOV. 8, 2023 4:33 PM EST

The official death certificate for "Friends" star Matthew Perry has been revealed.

Fans of Matthew Perry were devasted to learn on Saturday, October 28 that the "Friends" star had died (https://www.looper.com/1432899/friends-matthew-perry-emmy-nominated-star-dead-at-54/). When news of the actor's passing broke, details were slim regarding the cause of death. The 54-year-old actor was reportedly found in his jacuzzi in what appeared to be a drowning incident. Now, The Blast (https://theblast.com/553455/matthew-perry-death-certificate-revealed-cause-of-death-deferred/) has obtained Perry's death certificate, however, the certificate lists Perry's cause of death as "deferred." According to the outlet, the official cause of death will remain unknown pending further toxicology reports.

Authorities say that foul play wasn't suspected and that no narcotics were found near Perry at the time of his death. Additionally, initial toxicology reports revealed no evidence of meth or fentanyl (https://www.looper.com/1436203/matthew-perry-death-fentanyl-meth-report-negative/) in his system. While no drugs were found at the actor's Hollywood home, bottles of prescription medication for depression and anxiety were found. Testing is underway to determine if these prescription drugs were in his system at the time of death. The "Friends" actor previously had issues with drugs and alcohol. The actor's friend, Athenna Crosby, one of the last individuals to see him before his death, says that Perry was sober.

Matthew Perry is missed

Matthew Perry's (https://www.looper.com/1433823/untold-truth-late-matthew-perry/) death certificate lists his stepfather Keith Morrison as the individual who provided information for said death certificate. It also confirms that the actor was never married. It's expected that a cause of death will be revealed in subsequent weeks, as further testing is said to be underway.

Following the actor's passing, fans, family, and friends took to social media to mourn the Emmy-nominated "Friends" star. In a statement to People (https://people.com/matthew-perry-friends-costars-speak-out-after-his-death-exclusive-8384107), the actor's "Friends" castmates Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, Matt LeBlanc, Courteney Cox, and Lisa Kudrow mourned the actor. "We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are a family," they wrote. "There is so much to say, but right now we're going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss."

TMZ (https://www.tmz.com/2023/11/08/matthew-perry-buried-other-stars-gravesite-flowers-removed/) says that Matthew Perry was laid to rest in a private ceremony on November 3. He was buried in the Hollywood Hills, with his "Friends" castmates in attendance.

Matthew Perry and the End of the Monoculture (https://www.nathanrabin.com/happy-place/2023/11/9/matthew-perry-and-the-end-of-the-monoculture#google_vignette)

Many, many years ago I wrote a wildly unsuccessful column for Rotten Tomatoes called The Simpsons Decade (https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/the-simpsons-decade/). The Simpsons Decade’s premise was anything but simple or commercial.

In a failed column that began life as a failed book proposal before dying an early, premature but eminently predictable death I posited the 1990s as a unique time in both comedy and American pop culture.

It was a time of peace and prosperity. The internet was going to make all of our lives perfect and we no longer had to worry about those pesky Commies because the United States had won the Cold War.

Everything was great! That’s in sharp contrast to now, where everything is terrible.

Because we had solved all of our problems, American pop culture looked inward and became deeply post-modern and meta-textual, particularly where television was concerned.

The Simpsons Decade depicted the 1990s as the final decade that television ruled triumphant as the all-powerful motor of American pop culture and, by extension, American life itself.

In the decades ahead the internet would fill the role formerly occupied by television, in no small part because the internet allowed us to watch television in new, exciting and revelatory ways.

The 1990s was also the last hurrah of the monoculture. After the turn of the century we would fracture into a million little niches but in the 1990s there was still pop culture that EVERYONE knew and EVERYONE had an opinion about.

When I think about the 1990s monoculture two television shows spring to mind: Seinfeld and Friends. If you weren’t alive during the height of Friends’ popularity it can be hard to understand just how huge it was.

Friends was massive. And because Friends was massive its cast was similarly massive, individually and collectively. The sitcom was so important culturally that, as with Keeping Up with the Kardashians, some obnoxious souls defined themselves by their unwillingness to watch even a single episode.

I’ve said it before and I will say it again. You’re not special for not liking Friends or Taylor Swift or Keeping Up with the Kardashians. Not liking popular things doesn’t make you interesting, or original. It also does not mean that you have good taste.

Yet people nevertheless took pride in being indifferent to a popular television sitcom. That’s the other thing about Friends. It wasn’t just mainstream or commercial: it damn near defined the mainstream.

Because the show was so insanely popular audiences became deeply invested in its characters and their relationships as well as the actors in the cast.

Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer, Matthew Perry, Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow and Courtney Cox were a huge part of people’s past. Even if you did not watch Friends you knew about it. You knew the catchphrases, the romances, the drama.

Friends was so huge that it dwarfed the individual careers of its cast-members. That was the blessing and the curse of being part of one of the most successful television shows of all time: Matthew Perry was doomed to always be Matthew Perry from Friends no matter who he played.

Perry’s biggest, most ubiquitous role followed him everywhere he went. No matter what he did he would always be Matthew Perry from Friends.

So when Perry died both unexpectedly and expectedly part of our individual and collective past died with him.

I suspect a similar dynamic will be at play when the first Seinfeld cast-member dies. There’ll be a surprisingly vast explosion of grief and mourning and despair because of the huge role the show played back in the distant past, when EVERYBODY watched, or at least knew, about the most popular sitcoms.

When we mourn Matthew Perry, part of what we’re mourning is the end of the monoculture, the idea that there’s one big mainstream that everybody knows about instead of an endless assortment of little subcultures.

Perry was a very successful television actor and a less successful movie star but he represented something much bigger than himself and that is why his death is having such a big impact on a culture that never forgot Friends or the six household names in its cast.

Matt LeBlanc says goodbye to Matthew Perry (https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2023/nov/14/youre-finally-free-matt-leblanc-pays-tribute-to-matthew-perry)

On Tuesday, more than two weeks on from Perry's death, LeBlanc posted a poignant message to his Instagram page saying goodbye to his friend.

Courteney Cox remembers Matthew Perry (https://ew.com/tv/courteney-cox-honors-matthew-perry-friends-outtake/)

In a touching Instagram tribute posted Tuesday, Cox wrote, "I am so grateful for every moment I had with you Matty and I miss you every day.

Friends' Jennifer Aniston Pens Emotional Goodbye To 'Lil Brother' Matthew Perry (https://www.looper.com/1447544/friends-jennifer-aniston-goodbye-matthew-perry/)

Following the "Friends" cast's joint statement paying tribute to Matthew Perry, Jennifer Aniston has shared her own emotional message to honor the late actor.

Lisa Kudrow's Final Thank You Note To Matthew Perry Is So Touching (https://www.nickiswift.com/1447918/lisa-kudrow-thank-you-note-matthew-perry-touching/)

Lisa Kudrow has broken her silence on the death of her "Friends" co-star, Matthew Perry. She posted a tribute on Instagram thanking the actor.

David Schwimmer Reflects On Matthew Perry's Legacy With Nod To Chandler Bing (https://www.nickiswift.com/1447598/david-schwimmer-reflects-matthew-perry-legacy-nod-chandler-bing/)

After the "Friends" cast released a joint statement about the death of Matthew Perry, David Schwimmer posted a solo tribute to his late co-star.

5 Revelations From Matthew Perry's Memoir That Are Even More Tragic Now (https://www.nickiswift.com/1450479/5-revelations-matthew-perry-memoir-more-tragic-now/)

In the wake of Matthew Perry's death, interest in his memoir skyrocketed. There were several heartbreaking revelations the actor shared within its pages.

Julia Roberts FINALLY breaks her silence on he ex BF Matthew Perry's death (https://people.com/julia-roberts-calls-matthew-perry-death-heartbreaking-8410288)

The actress had "all good thoughts and feelings," when reflecting on her time with the comedian. “The sudden passing of anybody so young is heartbreaking," Roberts, 56, told Entertainment Tonight. "I think that, you know, it just helps all of us just appreciate what we have and to keep going in a positive way as best we can."

Friends' Jennifer Aniston Pens Emotional Goodbye To 'Lil Brother' Matthew Perry (https://www.looper.com/1447544/friends-jennifer-aniston-goodbye-matthew-perry/)

Following the "Friends" cast's joint statement paying tribute to Matthew Perry, Jennifer Aniston has shared her own emotional message to honor the late actor.

Lisa Kudrow's Final Thank You Note To Matthew Perry Is So Touching (https://www.nickiswift.com/1447918/lisa-kudrow-thank-you-note-matthew-perry-touching/)

Lisa Kudrow has broken her silence on the death of her "Friends" co-star, Matthew Perry. She posted a tribute on Instagram thanking the actor.

David Schwimmer Reflects On Matthew Perry's Legacy With Nod To Chandler Bing (https://www.nickiswift.com/1447598/david-schwimmer-reflects-matthew-perry-legacy-nod-chandler-bing/)

After the "Friends" cast released a joint statement about the death of Matthew Perry, David Schwimmer posted a solo tribute to his late co-star.

Jennifer Aniston Opens Up About Matthew Perry Loss, Shares Touching Remembrance Message (https://screenrant.com/friends-jennifer-aniston-matthew-perry-last-days-reflection/)

Jennifer Aniston opens up about the tragic loss of her former Friends co-star Matthew Perry, sending a heartfelt message about his legacy.

Matthew Perry’s Cause of Death Revealed as "Acute Effects of Ketamine"
by Jordan Moreau
Dec. 15, 2023


Matthew Perry died from “the acute effects of ketamine,” according to the toxicology report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Contributing factors in the actor’s death included drowning, coronary artery disease and the effects of buprenorphine (used to treat opioid use disorder). The manner of death was ruled an accident.

https://variety.com/2023/tv/news/matthew-perry-cause-of-death-ketamine-1235772053/

I have never watched an episode of "Friends" but this makes me sad.

Everything going for him - looks, money, career - addiction got him.

Its so sad!!

Matthew Perry’s Cause of Death Revealed as "Acute Effects of Ketamine"
by Jordan Moreau
Dec. 15, 2023


Matthew Perry died from “the acute effects of ketamine,” according to the toxicology report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Contributing factors in the actor’s death included drowning, coronary artery disease and the effects of buprenorphine (used to treat opioid use disorder). The manner of death was ruled an accident.

https://variety.com/2023/tv/news/matthew-perry-cause-of-death-ketamine-1235772053/

The autopsy lists (https://variety.com/2023/tv/news/matthew-perry-cause-of-death-ketamine-1235772053/) COPD, emphysema, and diabetes among his many health problems. Also, that he had been “clean” for 19 months.

George Clooney recalls Matthew Perry as a "funny, funny, funny kid" who was "wasn't happy" (https://ew.com/george-clooney-remembers-matthew-perry-friends-er-8418072)

Clooney says the ER and Friends casts grew very close says their shows premiered three days apart in fall 1994 and filmed near each other on the Warner Bros. Studio lot. "I knew Matt when he was 16 years old," Clooney tells Deadline (https://deadline.com/2023/12/george-clooney-the-boys-in-the-boat-matthew-perry-150m-sagaftra-gesture-brad-pitt-sequel-wolfs-1235677436/). "We used to play paddle tennis together. He’s about 10 years younger than me. And he was a great, funny, funny, funny kid. He was a kid and all he would say to us, I mean me, Richard Kind and Grant Heslov, was, I just want to get on a sitcom, man. I just want to get on a regular sitcom and I would be the happiest man on earth. And he got on probably one of the best ever. He wasn’t happy. It didn’t bring him joy or happiness or peace. And watching that go on on the lot — we were at Warner Brothers, we were there right next to each other — it was hard to watch because we didn’t know what was going through him. We just knew that he wasn’t happy and I had no idea he was doing what, 12 Vicodin a day and all the stuff he talked about, all that heartbreaking stuff. And it also just tells you that success and money and all those things, it doesn’t just automatically bring you happiness. You have to be happy with yourself and your life."

Matthew Perry's Omission From In Memoriam Segment Gets BAFTA Response After Backlash (https://www.cbr.com/baftas-matthew-perry-response/)

An official response has been issued after Matthew Perry fans cried foul over the Friends star's omission from the BAFTAs In Memoriam segment.

Matthew Perry’s Death from Ketamine Sees LAPD & DEA Team-Up for Investigation on “Circumstances”
by Dominic Patten
May 21, 2024


The book is far from closed on Matthew Perry’s death

Over six months after the actor died and was laid to rest in LA’s Forest Lawn Memorial Park, the Los Angeles Police Department and the federal Drug Enforcement Agency are still looking into what happened last October.

“There is an open investigation with the DEA,” an LAPD spokesperson told Deadline today.




While details such as when this phase of the probe officially started and which department is taking lead have not been made public yet, a law enforcement source tells Deadline:

“There have been concerns for a while about how that much ketamine was in the deceased system.”

https://deadline.com/2024/05/matthew-perry-death-investigation-lapd-1235926157/

Unnamed female celebrity linked to Matthew Perry's death (https://www.intouchweekly.com/posts/cops-seize-phone-of-celebrity-questioned-in-matthew-perry-death/)

While not arrested, police seized her laptop and other electronic devices. Supposedly, they met in rehab.

Friends Creators Address Matthew Perry's Passing Making 30th Anniversary 'A Little Fraught' (https://www.cbr.com/friends-creators-matthew-perry-passing-30th-anniversary/)

Friends (https://www.cbr.com/tag/friends/) is celebrating its 30th anniversary without the most beloved star.

Matthew Perry's Mom Shares The Four Haunting Words He Said To Her Shortly Before Tragic Death (https://www.thelist.com/1697915/matthew-perry-mom-four-haunting-words-before-tragic-death/)

When looking back on the time before her son Matthew Perry's death, Suzanne Morrison said that she realized there was something different about his attitude.

Matthew Perry's mom is still mourning her son on the one-year anniversary of his death (https://people.com/matthew-perry-mother-says-it-hits-her-so-hard-that-hes-not-there-1-year-after-his-death-8735014)

Peacock documentary to delve into Matthew Perry's death (https://people.com/matthew-perrys-shocking-death-investigation-explored-in-new-peacock-documentary-exclusive-11681447)

Watch the trailer for Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy, which will delve into the late Friends star's final days before his October 2023 death. Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy premieres Feb. 25.

Matthew Perry Was Given 27 Ketamine Shots Before Death (https://www.ndtv.com/feature/matthew-perry-was-given-27-ketamine-shots-before-death-claims-new-documentary-7800945)

His death was attributed to "acute effects of ketamine" with accidental drowning as the manner of death.

A recent documentary has shed light on the final days of Matthew Perry, revealing that the actor received 27 ketamine injections in the three days leading up to his tragic death at 54 in October 2023. The documentary, 'Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy,' features insights from US Attorney Martin Estrada. Mr Perry, who played Chandler Bing on the hit TV sitcom 'Friends' from 1994-2004, died after having been found unconscious in a swimming pool at his house in Los Angeles in October 2023. According to the autopsy report, his death was attributed to "acute effects of ketamine" with accidental drowning as the manner of death.

According to the documentary, Martin Estrada, who previously supervised the investigation into Mr Perry's death, revealed that the actor had been administered 27 doses of ketamine by "people who should have known much better," the New York Post reported.

Five people have been charged in connection with his death, including two doctors, his assistant, and an alleged drug dealer known as "the Ketamine Queen." An unsealed indictment from August alleges that Perry's assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, and acquaintance Erik Flemingcollaborated with doctors Salvador Plasencia and Mark Chavez to obtain large quantities of ketamine for Perry before his overdose death.

Jasveen Sangha, the "Ketamine Queen," is specifically charged with supplying the ketamine that ultimately led to his death. According to the indictment Iwamasa administered the final three doses of ketamine purchased from Sangha to Mr Perry on the day of his death, using needles provided by Dr Plasencia.

"Dr Plasencia was very clear in text messages… that he saw this as an opportunity to make a lot of money in a short amount of time, and he allegedly did just that," Mr Estrada said in the new documentary.

Dr. Plasencia and Jasveen Sangha have entered not-guilty pleas and are scheduled to stand trial on March 4 in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Kenneth Iwamasa, Erik Fleming, and Dr. Mark Chavez have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.

"In the past, we used to call these things overdose deaths and do more blaming of the victim. We don't do that anymore. We blame the drug dealers, the drug sellers, for taking advantage of those addiction issues to cause death or serious injury, and that's why we bring these cases. The big takeaway from this case is that when people involved in reckless activity, whether that be drug dealing or other activity, cause the death of others, there needs to be accountability," the attorney added.

What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a potent anaesthetic sanctioned by US health authorities for surgical use, administered either through intramuscular injection or intravenous (IV) delivery. Chemically related to the recreational substance PCP, ketamine has also been used recreationally for its euphoric properties. However, it can induce hallucinations and may adversely affect respiratory and cardiac functions.

Notably, the FDA approved the drug in 2019 as a medication for treatment-resistant depression. While some experts and patients call it lifesaving, others say it's addictive and causes bladder ailments. Long-term, heavy use, of ketamine can cause severe, irreversible damage to the bladder and kidneys and excruciating abdominal pain. The drug should only be obtained and administered by a licensed and experienced medical doctor.

Matthew Perry’s Ketamine-Supplying Doctor Pleads Guilty to Drug Distribution, Faces 40 Years in Prison
by Dominic Patten
July 23, 2025


The reverberations of Matthew Perry’s overdose death continued Wednesday when one of the doctors who supplied the "Friends" star with ketamine entered a long-expected guilty plea to four counts of distribution.

Following up on a deal with the feds last month, Dr. Salvador Plasencia showed up in Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett’s downtown Los Angeles courtroom this morning to formally enter his plea. Saying little beyond direct responses to the judge’s questioning, the Santa Monica physician, who called Perry a “moron” when the actor was his client, is looking at a long stretch behind bars when he is sentenced later this year.




“He will face a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison for each count at his sentencing hearing, which is scheduled for December 3,” said Ciaran McEvoy of the U.S. Attorney’s office for the Central District of California.

“He remains free on bond and has indicated through his lawyers that he intends to surrender his medical license within the next 30-45 days. We will have no further comment.”




To that, the lawyer for the soon-to-be ex-doctor did have a comment after this morning’s hearing.

“Dr. Plasencia is profoundly remorseful for the treatment decisions he made while providing ketamine to Matthew Perry,” attorney Debra White said. “He is fully accepting responsibility by pleading guilty to drug distribution. Dr. Plasencia intends to voluntarily surrender his medical license, acknowledging his failure to protect Mr. Perry, a patient who was especially vulnerable due to addiction.”




Plasencia could also end up paying more than $1 million in fines under the plea deal with prosecutors.

Having said that, the feds made it clear in their June plea deal announcement that the ketamine dose that killed Perry was not from Plasencia.

Of the individuals named by authorities in Perry’s death, Plasencia’s plea today leaves only Jasveen Sangha, aka the “Ketamine Queen,” remaining. With a trial set to start next month, Sangha, who has pleaded not guilty, faces charges of conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and more.

https://deadline.com/2025/07/matthew-perry-doctor-pleads-guilty-ketamine-1236466408/

"Ketamine Queen" to plead guilty in Matthew Perry death (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62wnp7622po)

A woman dubbed the "Ketamine Queen" has agreed to plead guilty (https://www.google.com/search?q=%22Ketamine+Queen%22+to+plead+guilty+in+Matthew+Perry+death&sca_esv=9446e84d06c941b7&sxsrf=AE3TifM72wTShf5LwgXfPu0D_ocE6hj8kg%3A1755575586290&ei=IvWjaOK_EbK-p84P193G8AQ&ved=0ahUKEwji2MnZ_JWPAxUy38kDHdeuEU4Q4dUDCBA&uact=5&oq=%22Ketamine+Queen%22+to+plead+guilty+in+Matthew+Perry+death&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiNyJLZXRhbWluZSBRdWVlbiIgdG8gcGxlYWQgZ3VpbHR5IGluIE1hdHRoZXcgUGVycnkgZGVhdGgyBRAhGKABMgUQIRigATIFECEYoAEyBRAhGKsCSKMTUNoMWNoMcAF4AJABAJgB1QGgAdUBqgEDMi0xuAEDyAEA-AEB-AECmAICoAKLBKgCEMICBxAjGCcY6gLCAhQQABiABBiRAhi0AhiKBRjqAtgBAcICGhAuGIAEGJECGNQCGLQCGMgDGIoFGOoC2AEBmAONAvEFUPFucXeKefO6BgYIARABGAGSBwMyLTKgB9wEsgcDMi0xuAf-AcIHBzMtMS43LTHIB5QC&sclient=gws-wiz-serp) of selling the drugs that ultimately killed Friends actor Matthew Perry.

Matthew Perry's Tragic True Life Story (https://www.looper.com/1433391/matthew-perrys-tragic-true-life-story/)

Following the shocking death of the "Friends" star in October 2023, we take a look back at some of the details of Matthew Perry's tragic true life story.

Doctor Responsible For Supplying Matthew Perry With Ketamine Sentenced After Friends Actor’s Tragic Death (https://screenrant.com/matthew-perry-friends-death-doctor-salvador-plasencia-sentenced/)

One of the doctors responsible for Matthew Perry's tragic death gets sentenced to prison for the Friends star's fatal overdose.

Its good he was paid his!!

This is shocking, has Matthew struggled with drugs or have mental health issues?

Watching Matthew in Season 3 (https://jacksonupperco.com/2018/07/24/the-ten-best-friends-episodes-of-season-three/) is particularly depressing (at least, with the benefit of hindsight) if not uncomfortable because he looks really thin and emaciated. This was presumably, around the time that his pain killer issues really began to take a toll on his physical appearance.

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“Ketamine Queen” Sentenced for Matthew Perry's 2023 Overdose
by Dominic Patten
April 8, 2026


Having plead guilty more than six months ago in the death of Matthew Perry, the so-called “Ketamine Queen” has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Jasveen Sangha appeared Wednesday in federal court in downtown Los Angeles to hear her fate. The Mark Geragos-represented Sangha, who shifted her plea in September, is the final defendant to be sentenced in the actor's October 2023 death.



Although the decade and a half behind bars is no country club membership, Sangha received far less than the 65 years and millions in fine she could have faced under maximum sentencing guidelines.

Instead, taking lead from the prosecution’s recommendations, District Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett gave Sangha the 180-month sentence, plus three years probations once she’s out.

https://deadline.com/2026/04/matthew-perry-death-ketamine-queen-pleads-guilty-1236491088/

Its good they found who did this to him!!

Things We Learned About Matthew Perry Only After His Death (https://www.nickiswift.com/2150919/matthew-perry-things-we-learned-about-him-only-after-his-death/)

Matthew Perry's passing left an indelible mark around the world. Since then, so much has been revealed about his controversial death, including his final days.