Initial tests following the sudden passing of beloved actor Matthew Perry, known widely for his role on the hit sitcom "Friends," indicate that neither fentanyl nor meth were present in his system at the time of his death. However, while the world mourns, the exact cause remains undetermined pending a comprehensive toxicology report.
The 54-year-old actor's life took a tragic turn on Saturday, October 28. Perry had earlier been seen enjoying a game of pickleball at the Riviera Country Club. But by the evening, he was found lifeless in the jacuzzi of his Pacific Palisades residence in California. The chilling discovery was made by his assistant, who upon returning from errands, found Perry unresponsive, prompting a frantic call to 911 with reports of a possible cardiac arrest and suspected drowning.
The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed the actor's demise before their arrival, noting, "An adult male patient was deceased prior to first response arrival." Firefighters at the scene pulled Perry from the water, but their medical assessment confirmed the worst.
Briana Brancato, known to have been Perry's close confidante and assistant for seven years, is remembered by Perry in his memoir, "Friends Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing," where he praised her for her support during his rehab stint. Brancato recently took to social media to honor the actor's memory, reminiscing about their shared adventures and expressing her gratitude for the years they spent together. "My heart is heavy, but celebrating my memories is the most profound way to honor his legacy," she wrote.
While no illicit drugs were found on Perry's premises, some reports hint at the presence of prescription medications, including anti-depressants and drugs for anxiety and COPD. Perry had previously been candid about his struggles with substance abuse and had shared his journey to sobriety in his memoir.
Despite past challenges, those close to Perry painted a picture of an actor who had been looking forward to the future. In the days leading to his death, Perry had reportedly been upbeat, dining at the Hotel Bel-Air and even discussing a new acting project. The actor, who had recently relocated to a new home, was also reportedly keen on establishing a foundation to support individuals battling addiction.
The news of Perry's passing deeply affected those who had been close to him both on and off the screen. "Friends" co-creator, Marta Kauffman, shared fond memories of their last conversation, remembering Perry as being "happy and chipper." The cast of "Friends" expressed their collective grief in a statement saying, "We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are a family."
As investigations continue, fans around the world await clarity on the circumstances surrounding Perry's untimely death, while celebrating the legacy of laughter and warmth he left behind.
