The family of actor Matthew Perry, known for his role in “Friends,” has chosen to share their thoughts following the unexpected news of his passing on Saturday.
In their statement to PEOPLE magazine on Sunday, Perry’s family expressed, “Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend.” They added, “You all meant so much to him, and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love.”
According to Brian Humphrey, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department, they received a call at 4:07 p.m. regarding a potential “water rescue” incident. Upon arriving at the scene, they found Perry to be “unresponsive.”
Outside his residence, Suzanne Perry and John Bennett Perry, the actor’s parents who separated in 1970, were visibly distraught. Suzanne was accompanied by her spouse, Keith Morrison from Dateline.
Warner Bros., the influential company behind many of Perry’s projects, expressed their deep sadness, stating, “We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry. Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an integral part of the Warner Bros.
Television Group family.” They continued, “The impact of his comedic talent was felt worldwide, and his legacy will endure in the hearts of many. This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our love to his family, loved ones, and all his devoted fans.”
Perry’s fellow cast members from “Friends,” with whom he reunited in 2021 for an HBO Max special, have not yet publicly addressed this devastating loss. Perry often spoke of his admiration for his co-stars, including Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer, and Matt LeBlanc. His 2022 memoir, “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing,” delves into the deep bond he shared with them and how they supported him during his struggles with addiction throughout the show’s decade-long run.
