The family of beloved actor Matthew Perry, best known for his iconic role in Friends, has released an exclusive statement expressing their profound grief following his sudden death at the age of 54. Perry passed away on Saturday in what appears to be a drowning accident, leaving his family “heartbroken” by the “tragic loss,” as they shared with PEOPLE.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our beloved son and brother,” the Perry family stated, highlighting the deep personal impact of his passing. They further emphasized Matthew’s widespread positive influence, noting, “Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend.”
Acknowledging the immense outpouring of support from fans globally, the family added a message of gratitude: “You all meant so much to him and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love.” This statement underscores the significant connection Perry had with his audience and the reciprocal affection they held for him.
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News of Matthew Perry’s death sent shockwaves through Hollywood and among fans worldwide. Reports from TMZ indicated that he was found unresponsive in a jacuzzi at his Los Angeles residence, and emergency services were called for cardiac arrest. While investigations are ongoing, initial reports suggest no foul play and no drugs were found at the scene.
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed responding to a death investigation at Perry’s address, involving a male in his 50s, although they did not officially confirm his identity at the time. The news quickly spread, prompting an immediate wave of tributes and condolences from colleagues, friends, and admirers.
Warner Bros. TV, the production company behind the hit series Friends that catapulted Perry to international fame, issued a heartfelt statement reflecting on his immense talent and legacy. “We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry,” they stated. “Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros. Television Group family. The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many.” Their words emphasized his profound contribution to television and the lasting impact of his comedic performances.
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Matthew Perry’s upbringing was rooted in a close-knit, albeit somewhat unconventional, family dynamic. He was raised by his father, actor John Bennett Perry, his mother Suzanne Morrison, and his stepfather, Dateline NBC journalist Keith Morrison. While his parents, John and Suzanne, divorced when Matthew was young, both remarried and expanded their families. Suzanne married Keith Morrison in 1981, the same year John Bennett Perry married his wife Debbie, further illustrating the interconnectedness of Matthew’s family life.
He also had five siblings from his parents’ subsequent marriages, highlighting a large and supportive extended family. Perry spent his early years in Ottawa, Canada, with his mother before relocating to Los Angeles to live with his father during his teenage years. Following in his father’s footsteps, he embarked on an acting career, with the two even sharing screen time on several occasions, most notably in a guest appearance by John Bennett Perry on Friends in 1998.
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Throughout his well-documented struggles with addiction, Matthew Perry’s family remained a constant source of support. He openly spoke about their unwavering presence during his most challenging times, including when he was hospitalized in 2018 after a near-fatal colon rupture due to opioid abuse. Recounting the experience to Diane Sawyer in 2022, Perry shared the poignant image of his parents at his bedside, a stark reminder of the severity of his condition and the importance of his family’s love and support during his journey to recovery.
The heartfelt statement from Matthew Perry’s family serves as a touching tribute to a man who brought laughter and joy to millions. Their words resonate with the collective grief felt by fans worldwide, while also celebrating the enduring legacy of a talented actor and cherished friend.
