Beloved ‘Friends’ Actor Matthew Perry Passes Away at 54: Inside Sources Confirm
Matthew Perry, renowned for his role as Chandler Bing on the beloved TV show “Friends,” passed away at his Pacific Palisades residence on Saturday afternoon. The LAPD received a call at 4:07 p.m. PT regarding an unresponsive male in his 50s. Upon arrival, no ambulance transfer was deemed necessary. Perry was 54 years old.
The Los Angeles police have initiated a death investigation. Law enforcement sources reported no signs of foul play at the scene. The exact cause of death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
NBCUniversal via Getty Images
In addition to “Friends,” Perry was known for his roles in “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip” and his co-creation and acting in the sitcom “Mr. Sunshine.” His filmography included “Fools Rush In,” “Almost Heroes,” and “17 Again.” He was also nominated for a Golden Globe Award for his portrayal in the 2006 TV film “The Ron Clark Story.”
Matthew Perry’s passing deeply saddened Warner Bros. Television Group, the production company behind “Friends.” In their statement, they hailed him as an extraordinarily talented actor whose comedic brilliance left an indelible mark worldwide.
CBS via Getty Images
Born to John Bennett Perry, an actor, singer, and model, and Suzanne Langford, a press secretary for former Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Perry relocated from Ottawa to Los Angeles during his adolescence. Following high school, he landed roles on TV shows like “Growing Pains” and “90210” before skyrocketing to fame at 24 as the witty and neurotic Chandler.
In his memoir, “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” published last year, Perry candidly discussed his battle with and triumph over years of substance abuse. He hoped that by sharing his story, he could challenge the stigma associated with addiction.
NBCUniversal via Getty Images
Reflecting on his journey, Perry disclosed in a recent interview that he underwent detox 65 times, attended rehab 15 times, and narrowly survived a life-threatening hospitalization for a perforated bowel in 2018. He expressed a passionate commitment to assisting others in similar struggles.
As this story develops, please stay tuned for further updates.
