Iconic television star Matthew Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing in the '90s megahit sitcom "Friends," has passed away at age 54. The actor was found unresponsive in a jacuzzi at his Pacific Palisades residence in Los Angeles on Saturday afternoon. While the exact circumstances remain under investigation, initial reports suggest an apparent drowning, and no foul play is believed to be involved.
An LAPD statement confirmed they responded to "a death investigation on a male in his 50s" at an address in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood around 4:10 p.m. No drugs were discovered at the scene.
Perry's struggles with addiction were well-documented, but his wit, humor, and vulnerability made him a beloved figure both on and off the screen. His candid memoir, "Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing," released last year, offered readers an intimate look into his battles with substance abuse. In it, Perry shared harrowing moments like when he was given a "2 percent chance to live" following a severe gastrointestinal issue in 2018. He stated, "I was put on a thing called an ECMO machine, which does all the breathing for your heart and your lungs. And that's called a Hail Mary. No one survives that."
However, despite his tumultuous journey, Perry had often showcased his resilience. In a recent interview with People, he reflected on his life, stating, "What I'm most surprised with is my resilience. The way that I can bounce back from all of this torture and awfulness." He proudly declared he was now a "pretty healthy guy."
Perry's final Instagram post eerily portrayed him in an infinity pool with the caption, "Oh, so warm water swirling around makes you feel good? I'm Mattman." As tributes flood in from fans worldwide, it's a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
Aside from "Friends," Perry's talent graced many television shows and films over the years. His roles spanned across beloved series such as 'The West Wing,' 'Scrubs,' and 'Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip,' among others. His film portfolio included memorable performances in movies like "The Whole Nine Yards" and "17 Again."
Perry's absence from the acting scene had been noticeable in recent years, with his last performance in a TV mini-series in 2017. Throughout his career and even in moments away from the limelight, Perry's commitment to authenticity and vulnerability set him apart in a Hollywood landscape often characterized by facades.
He never married but had previously been engaged to Molly Hurwitz, a relationship that ended after half a year. Over the years, he had also been linked to actresses like Lizzy Caplan.
The entertainment world and fans globally mourn the loss of an artist who brought joy to millions through his performances. Matthew Perry's legacy as Chandler Bing and beyond will undoubtedly remain etched in the annals of television history.
