In a poignant moment marking the first anniversary of Matthew Perry’s death, his family has come together to share their thoughts and feelings. Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on Friends, was found unresponsive at his Los Angeles home on October 28, 2023. His passing has led to significant legal repercussions, with charges filed against five individuals, including his personal assistant and two doctors, connected to his death. The official autopsy revealed that Perry succumbed to the acute effects of ketamine, which he was using as part of his anxiety treatment.
In an emotional interview on Today, Perry’s family—his mother Suzanne, sisters Caitlin, Emily, Madeline, and stepfather Keith Morrison—discussed their loss and the legacy Perry left behind. They emphasized the creation of The Matthew Perry Foundation of Canada, an organization dedicated to helping individuals struggling with addiction.
Morrison shared the heartbreaking moment they learned of Perry’s death, stating, “Somebody called Suzanne and just said, ‘Matthew’s dead.’” He highlighted Perry’s message that addiction cannot be cured by wealth alone, but requires deeper support. “This is not about us; it’s about those millions of people [affected by addiction],” he remarked, recognizing the widespread pain caused by addiction.
Remembering Matthew Perry
Born in 1969 in Ottawa, Ontario, Perry faced various challenges during his formative years, including a rebellious phase that saw him interact with prominent figures, such as a young Justin Trudeau. Reflecting on their last conversations, Suzanne noted how Perry expressed love and happiness during a recent visit, almost as if he sensed his fate. “It’s been years since we had a conversation like that,” she recalled, revealing the deep bond they shared.
Even a year later, she often reaches for the phone to call him, a testament to the enduring connection they had. “I have more freedom of a relationship with him now than I ever did,” she shared, poignantly expressing her grief.
Perry’s sisters also reflected on their brother’s character. Caitlin remarked that despite his struggles, their pride in him never wavered. Emily remembered him as someone with a big heart: “He was grumpy all the time, but he was funny all the time, and he would do anything for the people he loved.”
A Lasting Impact
The tributes from family and friends underscore the impact Perry had on those around him, with many celebrities echoing sentiments of love and loss since his passing. The establishment of The Matthew Perry Foundation aims to channel his legacy into helping others navigate their battles with addiction, ensuring that his tragic loss serves a greater purpose.
As they continue to honor his memory, the Perry family is committed to raising awareness and support for addiction recovery, providing hope to those who need it most.
