Following the unexpected passing of Friends star Matthew Perry on Saturday, the actor’s family has chosen to share their thoughts and feelings.
“Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend,” Perry’s family said in their statement to PEOPLE magazine on Sunday. “You all meant so much to him and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love,” the family added.
Brian Humphrey, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department, informed CNN that they received a call at 4:07 p.m. regarding a potential “water rescue” incident. Upon their arrival, Perry was found to be “unresponsive.”
Suzanne Perry and John Bennett Perry, the late actor’s parents who separated in 1970, were visibly distraught outside his residence. Accompanying Suzanne was Perry’s stepfather and her spouse, Keith Morrison from Dateline.
Warner Bros., the prominent entity behind many of Perry’s projects, expressed their grief, saying, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend Matthew Perry. Matthew was an exceptionally talented actor and an integral part of the Warner Bros. Television Group family. His comedic brilliance touched people worldwide, and his legacy will endure in the hearts of many. This is a heart-wrenching day, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and dedicated fans.”
The actor’s fellow Friends cast members, with whom he had a reunion in 2021 for an HBO Max special, have maintained silence on this devastating loss. Perry frequently expressed 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 connection he shared with them and how they stood by him during his battles with addiction throughout the decade-long run of the show.
