Matthew Perry Dead At Age 54
'Friends' superstar, known for his role as Chandler Bing, Matthew Perry has died at the age of 54 from an apparent drowning.
Police responded to a call of someone in cardiac arrest in LA, where they found Matthew unconscious in a jacuzzi.
It was later confirmed he had died from an apparent drowning, and it was noted no foul play was involved.
“So much has been written about me in the past. I thought it was time people heard from me. The highs were high, the lows were low. But I have lived to tell the tale, even though at times it looked like I wouldn’t. And it’s all in here. I apologize it’s not a pop up book."
As the news circulated of his death, many were riddled with grief and began sharing their fondest memories of him.
Ian Ziering, who worked with Matthew on 'Beverly Hills, 90210' said, "RIP Matthew. My heart goes out to his family and all who he was dear to. What a great guy, so sad.”
Michelle and Robert King, co-creators of 'The Good Wife' and 'The Good Fight' said, "So many people have talked about Matthew Perry's struggles, and, yes, that's probably true; but can we just go on for a minute about how much fun it was to collaborate with him? Not just on THE GOOD WIFE and GOOD FIGHT, but also on a limited series we tried to develop with each other. Everyone knows that Matthew was funny -- and he was plenty funny -- but he was also deadly serious about his craft."
"He wanted to play a villain because he wanted to stretch himself as an actor. He took his work, but not himself, very seriously. But off the set, he was anything but villainous. Kind, menschy, honest about his issues. We'll miss him a lot."
Elizabeth Hurley said, "RIP Matthew Perry. So sad to hear the news of his passing. He was an incredibly talented comedian and a lovely man."
Morgan Fairchild, who played his on-screen mother in 'Friends' said, "I’m heartbroken about the untimely death of my 'son', Matthew Perry. The loss of such a brilliant young actor is a shock. I’m sending love & condolences to his friends & family, especially his dad, John Bennett Perry, who I worked with on Flamingo Road & Falcon Crest. #RIPMatthew"
Paget Brewster, who played Chandler's love interest, Kathy said, "I’m so very sad to hear about @MatthewPerry. He was lovely to me on Friends and every time I saw him in the decades after. Please read his book. It was his legacy to help. He won’t rest in peace though.. He’s already too busy making everyone laugh up there."
Friends co-creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane, and EP Kevin Bright issued a joint statement that read, "We are shocked and deeply, deeply saddened by our beloved friend Matthew’s passing. It still seems impossible. All we can say is that we feel blessed to have had him as part of our lives. He was a brilliant talent. It’s a cliche to say that an actor makes a role their own, but in Matthew’s case, there are no truer words. From the day we first heard him embody the role of Chandler Bing, there was no one else for us."
"We will always cherish the joy, the light, the blinding intelligence he brought to every moment - not just to his work, but in life as well. He was always the funniest person in the room. More than that, he was the sweetest, with a giving and selfless heart. We send all of our love to his family and friends. This truly is 'The One Where Our Hearts Are Broken.' "
Kaley Cuoco posted, “I knew it was going to be the happiest time of my life and it was.”
“Thank you for the laugh Matt Perry. You were a joy to watch for so many years and a constant lesson in comedic timing. We loved you!! So sad to hear this.”
Brooke Shields, who played Joey’s psycho super fan on 'Friends' wrote that she was "really struggling to find the words. You were so loved, Matthew. I loved you dearly. Thank you for the belly laughs. You brought joy to so many. We already miss you… sending all of my love to your family & friends 💔”
Lea Thompson wrote, "Over the years I have stood in awe of #mathewperry. Way back, when I worked with him when we were both on must see T.V. He was kind, funny and a perfect gentleman. Later my husband @howiedeutch made The Whole 10 Yards with him and Mathew even forgave him for #punking him by coming to our daughters bat mitzvah."
"He was the best. We are so devastated that he is gone to soon. Howie said "the loss of such a special and talented man who brought joy, laughter and hope to so many, including myself is heartbreaking." We send our love to his family in this tragic time."
Sarah Ferguson recalled meeting him when 'Friends' shot portions of Ross and Emily’s wedding in London.
“I remember being thrilled to have met a natural talent, comedian and brilliant actor. It is a tragedy to lose you so early in life, rest in peace dear Matthew … you have given so much joy and laughter to so many."
Rumer Willis, whose father Bruce Willis starred in 'The Whole Nine Yards' and 'The Whole Ten Yards' alongside Matthew said, "I'm so sad to hear about Matthew Perry passing."
"When I was a kid and I was on Set while he and my dad were doing whole nine and whole 10 yards he was so kind and funny and sweet with my sisters and me and I think his physical Comedy and that movie still makes me laugh so much, I know he had many challenges in his life and brought a lot of joy to people with his comedy I hope he can rest peacefully."
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who was one of Matthew's school classmates, said, "Matthew Perry’s passing is shocking and saddening. I’ll never forget the schoolyard games we used to play, and I know people around the world are never going to forget the joy he brought them. Thanks for all the laughs, Matthew. You were loved – and you will be missed."
Timothy Busfield wrote, "Matty Perry was a gem. I had the great, good fortune to act with and also direct him on Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip."
"He was a good, good man and a sweet, funny soul who will be missed, desperately. Not only by his millions of devoted fans, but by those co-workers and friends who he made crumble to the floor with his fast and searing wit. He told me that he once spent an entire evening entertaining a famous director. Taking him to one club after another, thinking to himself “he really likes me, maybe he’ll hire me." It wasn’t until the following morning, after a great night, that he discovered it wasn’t the famous director at all. He was just some guy. He told that story on himself. That’s what kind of man he was. Happy Trails, brother. I’ll miss you."
Columbus Short spoke of Matthew's talent, kindness and generosity.
"Matthew was not only one of the most talented actors I was blessed to work with but he was equally as kind, generous and took me under his wing during our time on Studio 60."
"I was a rookie amongst veterans and Matthew treated me like we had known each other for years. Funny story, I was a recurring guest star so I had basically a cubicle for a trailer and every lunch break he would invite me to his trailer to play videos, laugh and chill. By the end of the series I was in Matt's trailer more than he was. Taking and playing videos and watching his directv. He is already truly missed and his family, extended family and “Friends” are in my prayers. This is a tough one for everyone. Missing you already. MP love you man."
Ayda Field Williams also shared a tribute alongside a still of herself and Matthew.
"I’ve just read the news that Matthew Perry has passed away and my heart is heavy."
"Many years ago, I had the pleasure of working with Matt on a tv series called Studio 60 On The Sunset Strip. Working alongside him for a year was truly a privilege, personally and professionally. Not only was Matt one of the most talented actors I’ve ever worked with, he was one wickedly funny human being. He lit up a room with his humour and his charm. I feel grateful that I have these memories and am mourning the loss of a really special man. I’ll miss you, Matt 💔xx #rip."
D.L. Hughley, said in a statement, "So very sad. Matthew was a professional; an incredibly funny and wonderful human being. He was always so generous and gracious on set. I learned a lot from him, and I was lucky to have had a chance to work with him."
Minnie Driver shared how "kind" and "funny" he was during their time working together.
"I think you’d finally found peace in your life. I will remember just how much we laughed when we worked together, and how kind and incredibly funny you were," she wrote on Instagram, adding, "rest in peace, rise in glory 🤍"
Olivia Munn shared her condolences for him writing, "He struggled with so much addiction and was brave enough to be open and honest about it. I'm so sorry to his family and friends who are getting this news today. Nothing short of heartbreaking. Rest in love, Matthew Perry 💔"
Shannen Doherty wrote, "We were a gang way back. We all grew up together going to the Formosa, North and constantly laughing. Matt, Roger, David, Roxana. We played dare and Matt had to say ridiculous things to girls at the bar. We just always had fun and supported each other. You would always find us all together in a booth speaking in our own made up language. And yes, Matt always had THAT sense of humor."
"Matt and I had a date and it was on Valentine’s Day. He wanted to get a reservation at a restaurant in Malibu but couldn’t so my dad got the reservation for him. We went and he talked about my dads Irish persuasiveness the majority of the night. Our friendship spanned a long time. A lifetime really."
"I know many are hurting, especially our little gang. He will be missed by many and definitely by us. Yes. I could be more poetic or say things better but right now, shock and sadness prevail."
Alyssa Milano affirmed, "Matty was always the funniest person in the room. And the KINDEST. He was kind."
"Matty, remember when we used to go play bingo at that church in the valley? You made me laugh that painful kind of laugh. A cry laugh. You made me cry-laugh."
"My condolences to all who loved him. 💔"
Valerie Bertinelli posted a tribute on Instagram that read, "Rest in peace, sweet man."
Wendell Pierce wrote, "For 2 years Matthew Perry was my boss, my colleague, and a giving, kind, funny man. I pray and hope he is at peace."
George Takei said in his own tribute, "What a tragic piece of news to read. My heart goes out to his loved ones and long time cast mates."
Laura Benanti shared in a tribute, “Matty was a generous, brilliant man of unparalleled talent. I feel grateful to have known him."
Ami Dolenz, who starred alongside Matthew in the 1989 film 'She's Out of Control' said, "When I heard the news of Matthew's passing, I was stunned. He was incredibly talented and a joy to be around. His comedic timing was impeccable. I'll always remember the Prom/dancing scene we did together in the movie She's Out of Control; it was an absolute blast. He always made me laugh. Matthew will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. Rest in peace, Matthew."
Mira Sorvino also publicly reacted to his death. "Oh no!!! Matthew Perry!! You sweet, troubled soul!! May you find peace and happiness in Heaven, making everyone laugh with your singular wit!!! 💔 💔 💔."
Meredith Salenger also posted a tribute, "Oh no no no no no! Matty! Oh man. My heart breaks. Matty . . . Matthew and I have known each other since were were 16 years old. Oh man. No words. Rest in peace sweet @MatthewPerry. 💔😔."
Tom Green said, "Shocked and saddened to just hear about the passing of Matthew Perry in a tragic drowning. He is one of the many talented and incredible success stories from my hometown of Ottawa Canada. Rest in peace Matthew."
Nancy Sinatra even wrote a tribute to the star, "Happy trails to you, Matt. Thanks for being you. Wishing you a peaceful journey home through the stars. If you loved Matthew Perry as I did read his book. You will learn a lot about him."
"Awful news. RIP brother," Josh Charles wrote.
Selma Blair paid tribute to Matthew, writing, "♥️. My oldest boy friend. All of us loved Matthew Perry, and I did especially. Every day. I loved him unconditionally. And he me. And I’m broken. Broken hearted. Sweet dreams Matty. Sweet dreams."
Josh Gad wrote, "What horrible news to walk out to at the end of my show. No words. Just devastating. 💔💔💔 Love to all of his friends and his entire family."
Octavia Spencer honoured Matthew, too, writing, "I’m incredibly saddened to hear of Matthew Perry’s passing today. His gift to the world will be remembered forever. Sending love to Matthew’s family, friends, co-stars and millions of fans around the world 🤍🕊️."
Viola Davies added that his "heart reigned supreme. This is devastating. Your book shifted so many close to my heart. The people no one sees and most throwaway. It was a gift. Beyond the joy you brought to many, your heart reigned supreme. Rest well.....know that you brought love 💔🕊."
Rainn Wilson wrote that he was "heartbroken" at the news and added he "only got to meet Matthew a handful of times, but he was always sharp and kind."
"He was, and I use this term rarely, a genius. Chandler was one of the all-time great characters and his ability to spin a slightly funny line into absolute comedy gold was unsurpassed. Soar with the comedic angels, Matthew Perry. R.I.P."
During her Las Vegas residency, Adele took a moment out from her performance to speak to the crowd about her love for Matthew.
She told the audience that while she never met him, she felt "so sad" about his death. She recalled a friend doing an impression of Chandler during her youth and told the crowd she would "remember that character for the rest of my life.”
She went on to say "how much I love what he did for us" and added "hopefully now he can rest in peace."
Gwyneth Paltrow also posted a touching tribute, "I met Matthew Perry in 1993 at the Williamstown Theater Festival in Massachusetts. We were both there for most of the summer doing plays."
"He was so funny and so sweet and so much fun to be with. We drove out to swim in creeks, had beers in the local college bar, kissed in a field of long grass. It was a magical summer. He had shot the pilot of Friends but it had not aired yet. He was nervous, hoping his big break was just around the corner. It was. We stayed friends for a while until we drifted apart, but I was always happy to see him when I did. I am super sad today, as so many of us are. I hope Matthew is at peace at long last. I really do.
Hank Azaria paid tribute to his longtime friend of over 35 years, saying he was “the funniest man ever.”
“Matthew was the first friend I made in Los Angeles, when I moved there. I was 21, he was 16. Matthew and I became really good friends and we were really more like brothers for a long time. We drank a lot together, we laughed a lot together, we were there for each other in the early days of our career."
“I really loved him. A lot of us who were close to him felt like we lost him to drugs and alcohol a long time ago because — as he documented in his autobiography — there was so much suffering."
“I’m a sober guy for 17 years, and I wanna say that, the night I went into AA, Matthew brought me in. The whole first year I was sober, we went to meetings together. He was so caring and giving and wise. And he totally helped me get sober. And I really wish he could’ve, you know, found the – found it in himself to stay with the silver life more consistently.”
David Beckham posted two photos of Matthew, saying "“it’s just so sad. We will miss this smile.”
Elizabeth Reaser remembered how he was there for her many years ago, when she was having a "rough time" in her life and needed a friend.
"He said it would be nice if people would remember him for how he tried to help other people. So I would like to add to the conversation that when I was going through a really tough time in my life, around 2008, Matthew happened to text me and say how are you - and I was sad enough in that moment to tell him."
"I was surprised then and I still am that he made a big effort to make me feel better and try to uplift me. And he was just so so kind. And because he cared so much, it did help. At one point we lived in the same apartment building and he would run lines with me for big auditions, encourage me, take me to spinning classes, dinners with his friends. He was just a nice person. And empathetic. And so so so funny. Obviously. I know I’m one of millions who feel sad to know he’s gone."
Ione Skye shared the sweet last text conversation with him.
Matthew says, "Hi! I hope all is well. I was meditating (I meditate now) and ‘In Your Eyes’ starting playing. And I instantly thought of how beautiful you are,” he wrote, referencing the song from her film Say Anything."
"My last exchange a week ago. I’m very very sad. Loved this guy," she wrote.
Scroll down to read more tributes to Matthew Perry.
Bradley Whitford
"I want his parents to know that Matt was kind. Not just to his costar. To everyone. To honor Matt, I hope we can continue the work that mattered most to him: to open our hearts to so many who share his vulnerabilities, to encourage them to get the help they need, and to give them the love and the support they deserve."
Kate Hudson
"We played tennis and played more tennis, talked endlessly about trials and tribulations of love and then would talk some more as we would laugh our asses off and then laughed some more. I share the same sadness with all our film and TV community who shared time with Matthew. As you can see, to know him was to adore him. I send my love and condolences to his family and his work families. We love you Matthew.”
Rosanna Arquette
“He was kind, he was lovely, he was funny, he was sweet. He was a dream to work with. There was no bad vibe. It was just fun."
Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer
"We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are a family. There is so much to say, but right now we’re going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss. In time we will say more, as and when we are able. For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty’s family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world."
Fran Drescher
"So sad that on the eve of the brightest moon we lost one of our brightest stars. A brilliant comedian but a sad clown. I didn't know him but as Chandler he will always be a 'friend' May you RIP dear one. Your talent will continue to make us laugh... health is wealth."
Maggie Wheeler
"What a loss. The world will miss you Matthew Perry. The joy you brought to so many in your too short lifetime will live on. I feel so very blessed by every creative moment we shared."
Doug Draizin
"We were at the premiere and he's surrounded by Jennifer [Aniston] and the Friends cast and he comes over to me and gives me a hug and says, 'I hope I did you proud.' I looked at him and gave him this big hug and said, 'Thank you,' because it was about my family and my life, and I knew he really wanted to do a good job."
Yvette Nicole Brown
"Our #OddCouple family suffered a great loss today. The entire entertainment world has. I am too sad about the news to say more than this: @mattyperry4 was a sweetheart who deserved more peace in this life. 54 is too young to go. We love you, Matty!"
Adele
"It is always so shocking, especially someone that made you laugh and who brought so much joy to your life that you don’t know. This is what I find so strange, I never met him in my life. There is something, you feel so sad about it especially because you don’t necessarily know what was going on."
“I’ll remember that character for the rest of my life. He’s probably the best comedic character of all time.”
Nina Dobrev
"My heart hurts. Still in disbelief."
Taylor Lautner
“I have respected this man’s journey through the life he was blessed to live, laughs he so graciously shared and lessons he was vulnerable enough to speak about. It was a goal of mine to sit down and thank him for that vulnerability and perspective he was brave enough to share. I know one day we will be able to have that conversation. Rest in absolute paradise, Mr. Perry.”
Lucy Hale
"Rest easy."
Delilah Belle Hamlin
"Rest in peace."
Lisa Ann Walter
"In The Whole Nine Yards - Matthew Perry runs full force into a patio door - that and the scene that followed is one of the top comedic moments I’ve witnessed. I told him so when I recurred on The Odd Couple. He smiled so big I thought he’d crack his face It was beautiful."
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