Matthew Perry Dies at 54: A Beloved “Friend” Gone Too Soon
The world is in mourning today as we receive the devastating news of the passing of Matthew Perry, the talented actor known and adored by millions for his iconic role as Chandler Bing in the beloved TV series “Friends.” Perry was found dead on a Saturday at his Los Angeles home, leaving behind a legacy that spans nearly four decades in the world of entertainment. He was 54 years old.
Matthew Perry’s Acting Journey
Matthew Perry’s journey in the world of television began in 1979 when he was just a young child, with an appearance in the cop show “240-Robert.” Over the years, he continued to shine in various television shows, capturing the hearts of fans with his charismatic and relatable characters.
In the 2010s, Perry starred in “Mr. Sunshine,” a 2011 ABC comedy, where he portrayed Ben Donovan, the manager of the Sunshine Center, a San Diego sports and entertainment arena. He later took on the role of Oscar Madison in a remake of “The Odd Couple,” which ran on CBS from 2015 to 2017, alongside Thomas Lennon as Felix Unger.
However, it was his role as Chandler Bing (Chandler Bong) in the TV show “Friends” that made Matthew Perry a household name. “Friends” was a staple on TVs across the world from the mid-90s up until the early 2000s, it even made a comeback with the newer generation. As the sarcastic but lovable Chandler, he brought laughter and joy to millions of viewers worldwide. His portrayal earned him a Primetime Emmy nomination in 2002.
The Loss of a “Friend”
Matthew Perry’s passing has left the entertainment world in shock and grief. The news was confirmed by Capt. Scot Williams of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide division. Authorities found him unresponsive in his home, with no immediate cause of death cited. There was no evidence of drugs at the scene, and foul play is not suspected. The Los Angeles Police Department’s robbery-homicide detectives are conducting an investigation, while the coroner’s office will determine the official cause of death.
Perry’s recent memoir, titled “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir,” shed light on his struggles with addiction which he faced even during the peak of his career. He shared, “I was taking 55 Vicodin a day, I weighed 128 pounds, I was on ‘Friends’ getting watched by 30 million people.” Perry said in a CBC interview last year. “I didn’t watch the show, and haven’t watched the show, because I could go, ‘Drinking, opiates, drinking, cocaine,’” he said. “I could tell season by season, by how I looked. That’s why I don’t wanna watch it because that’s what I see.”
Matthew Perry’s Tributes
Tributes have started pouring in for the beloved actor.
Warner Bros. Television Group, which produced “Friends,” released a statement saying, “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 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 verified Instagram account for “Friends” posted a heartfelt tribute to Perry on Saturday night, writing, “We are devastated to learn of Matthew Perry’s passing. He was a true gift to us all.”
Maggie Wheeler, who played Chandler’s on/off again girlfriend Janice on the show, wrote on her Instagram, “What a loss.”
“The world will miss you, Mathew Perry,” she continued. “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.”
Selma Blair, who also appeared on “Friends,” called Perry her “oldest boyfriend” on her Instagram. “All of us loved Matthew Perry, and I did especially. Every day. I loved him unconditionally. And he me. And I’m broken. Broken hearted. Sweet dreams Matty.”
Michael Rapaport, who played Gary in four episodes of the show, wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that Perry was “Always so nice, cool, chill & talented.” He added, “You are a part of American Culture and will live on forever.”
Perry’s “Odd Couple” costar Yvette Nicole Brown wrote on X that the show’s “family suffered a great loss today. The entire entertainment world has.”
She also wrote that Perry “was a sweetheart who deserved more peace in this life. 54 is too young to go.”
Perry’s talent and his portrayal of Chandler Bing in “Friends” have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment and the hearts of fans. He will always be remembered as the man who made us laugh, even when facing his battles. Today, we mourn the loss of a talented actor, a resilient individual, and a cherished friend to many. Rest in peace, Matthew Perry. You will be deeply missed.
All images are sourced from twitter
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