Obituary: Matthew Perry (1969 - 2023)

Beloved "Friends" Actor

Early Life and Career

Matthew Perry was born on August 19, 1969, in Williamstown, Massachusetts. His parents were Suzanne Marie Langford, a Canadian journalist, and John Bennett Perry, an actor. Perry showed an early interest in acting and began performing in local theater productions as a teenager.

Breakthrough Role on "Friends"

Perry's career took off in the 1990s when he was cast as Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom "Friends." The show became a global phenomenon, and Perry's portrayal of the sarcastic but lovable character made him a household name. "Friends" ran for ten seasons and concluded in 2004.

Personal Struggles and Addiction

While Perry was enjoying immense success on screen, he faced significant personal challenges. He struggled with alcohol and drug addiction for decades, and his substance abuse issues were widely publicized. Perry's addiction led to several stints in rehab and health problems.

Later Career and Legacy

Despite his struggles with addiction, Perry continued to act. He starred in several movies and television shows after "Friends," including "17 Again," "The Odd Couple," and "The End of Longing." While his later roles were not as well-received as his work on "Friends," Perry remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Matthew Perry died on October 28, 2023, in Los Angeles. He was 54 years old. The cause of death was attributed to the acute effects of substance abuse.

Remembering Matthew Perry

Matthew Perry's passing is a sad reminder of the devastating effects of addiction. Despite his personal struggles, he left behind a legacy of laughter and joy through his memorable performance as Chandler Bing. Perry will be remembered as a talented actor and a compassionate individual who inspired others with his resilience.