Los Angeles, CA – In an unexpected and tragic turn of events, actor Matthew Perry, famed for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit TV series “Friends,” was found deceased at his Los Angeles home on Saturday. Perry, 54, leaves behind a legacy of laughter, struggle, and advocacy.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office stated that determining the cause of Perry’s death requires further investigation. Initially, the autopsy did not conclusively reveal the cause, leading to a “deferred” status as additional tests are being conducted. This standard procedure is followed in cases where the cause of death is not immediately apparent.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, which is overseeing the investigation into Perry’s passing, there are currently no indications of foul play. The actor was discovered unresponsive in his hot tub, and authorities were notified of a water rescue emergency on Saturday afternoon.
Perry’s family, including his parents John Bennett Perry, and Suzanne Morrison, and stepfather, Keith Morrison, a correspondent for “Dateline,” were seen arriving at his residence amidst the unfolding investigation. In a heartfelt statement released on Sunday, the family expressed their profound grief over the loss of a “beloved son and brother,” praising Matthew’s contributions as an actor and a person.
The actor, who bravely shared his battles with addiction, was a source of inspiration for many struggling with similar issues. His memoir, “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” published in 2022, highlighted his commitment to aiding others facing addiction. Perry’s candid nature and dedication to recovery work had earned him considerable respect beyond his acting career.
Tributes poured in from fans and colleagues alike, including a touching statement from “Friends” co-creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane and executive producer Kevin Bright. They remembered Perry as a talent unparalleled, embodying the essence of his character while bringing humor and intelligence to every aspect of his life. The creators expressed their sorrow, describing the loss as heart-wrenching and emphasizing the joy and light Perry brought into the lives of those around him.