The entertainment world is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of beloved actor Matthew Perry, who passed away over the weekend at the age of 54. Many will remember him for his iconic role as Chandler Bing in the hit US sitcom Friends, which aired for a decade from 1994 to 2004. Perry’s talent extended beyond Friends, with notable performances in films like 17 Again, Fools Rush In, and Serving Sara.
A Tragic Loss
Matthew Perry was found lifeless in a jacuzzi at his Los Angeles residence, and his cause of death was determined to be drowning. While investigations continue, no drugs were found at the scene, and foul play is not suspected. Perry had returned home after a pickleball session and asked his assistant to run an errand. Sadly, when the assistant returned a few hours later, they found the actor unresponsive and immediately called 911.
Law enforcement described the incident as a drowning, though there have been rumors of a cardiac arrest as well. Perry had openly discussed his battles with addiction and substance abuse in the years leading up to his passing. It was a constant struggle, and his decision to embrace sobriety stemmed from a deep fear of losing his life.
Fighting Alcoholism
Throughout the majority of the Friends series, Perry battled alcohol addiction, with the exception of the entire ninth season during which he stayed sober. While he had periods of sobriety in between, his inability to control his drinking raised concerns about his well-being. Perry’s triumph over alcohol addiction and substance abuse was something he was proud of.
In his memoir titled “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” Perry shared his struggles and aimed to offer encouragement and hope to others on their own sobriety journeys. The book also recounted the terrifying effects of his alcoholism, including a near-fatal incident where his colon ruptured, resulting in a two-week coma and life support. Perry believed he survived to share his story and be a lifeline for those facing similar challenges.
In 2019, Perry experienced another harrowing ordeal when his heart stopped for five minutes during a medical procedure. While undergoing surgery for a stomach issue, his heart completely stopped, but he was resuscitated thanks to CPR. The incident left him with eight fractured ribs.
A Lasting Legacy
Above all, Matthew Perry wanted to be remembered for his efforts in helping people overcome alcoholism and drug addiction. In a heartfelt interview in November 2022, less than a year before his passing, Perry expressed his desire for his battles with addiction to be the first thing mentioned about him after his death. He wanted to spend the rest of his life proving that.
Perry’s unwavering commitment to the fight against alcoholism defined his legacy. He aimed to be remembered as someone who conquered his demons and paved the way for others facing similar struggles. As we remember Matthew Perry, let us honor his final wish and celebrate his incredible journey.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Matthew Perry’s family, friends, and fans during this heartbreaking time.
