Matthew Perry, who died on Saturday, October 28, was one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors, as demonstrated by all the messages and gestures of affection following the news of his death. Both his colleagues and fans around the world have taken to social media to pay tribute.
Helping on the road to recovery
“I would like to be remembered as somebody who lived well, loved well, was a seeker,” Perry said in an interview. “And his paramount thing is that he wants to help people. That’s what I want.”
Although Perry played different roles throughout his life, Friends will forever remain in our collective memory. After watching all 10 seasons on television over and over again, many viewers will always associate him with Chandler Bing.
However, Perry didn’t want to be remembered solely for Friends, for him it was essential to be remembered as someone who helped people when they needed it most — and someone who brought hope when moments in life turned dark.
“The best thing about me, bar none, is that if somebody comes to me and says, ‘I can’t stop drinking, can you help me?’ I can say ‘yes’ and follow up and do it,” Perry said.
“When I die, I know people will talk about Friends, Friends, Friends. And I’m glad of that, happy I’ve done some solid work as an actor, as well as given people multiple chances to make fun of my struggles on the World Wide Web,” he said.
“But when I die, as far as my so-called accomplishments go, it would be nice if Friends were listed far behind the things I did to try to help other people. I know it won’t happen, but it would be nice.”
I thought that was a quote from his book. It’s not, he said it on stage. #matthewperry pic.twitter.com/IzCXAYp9rZ
— Jamie East (@jamieeast) October 29, 2023
Perry was vulnerable and opened up his personal life to make those who have struggled with addiction feel less alone. His legacy will live on with Perry House, the sober living facility he created in Malibu, as well as his book, the actions he took to help people, and his honesty in sharing his experiences.
Mathew Perry talking about his death shattered my heart into pieces.
His legacy was to help as many people as possible through their addiction.
And he did.#matthewperry #ChandlerBing pic.twitter.com/6Rcq29eYuC
— Ghida (@ghidaarnaout) October 29, 2023
“Addiction, the big terrible thing, is far too powerful for anyone to defeat alone, but together, one day at a time, we can beat it down,” he wrote in his book.
How Matthew Perry wanted to be remembered. I think we can honour his wishes today. pic.twitter.com/JccrJOZfKQ
— All That Dazzles (@ATDazzles) October 29, 2023
The one where we lost a Friend too early
Perry’s death shocked showbiz and fans around the world. Many consider the Friends characters as part of their lives, so they feel they have lost a personal friend.
Although Perry wanted to be remembered for helping people through difficult times, his character Chandler was helpful to many as well. Some remember Chandler Muriel Bing as one of the first characters they identified with in their lives: nervous, peculiar, goofy and sweet.
He wasn’t perfect, nor did he want to be, he was just himself.
It’s impossible to pick from 10 seasons, but I keep going back to Chandler and Monica’s proposal as Matthew Perry’s finest moment on Friends because of how deeply felt his performance is. Yes, Perry was a sarcasm god, but his sincerity and sensitivity shines brightly here. pic.twitter.com/cOHMqQ9N4T
— Brandon Lewis (@blewis1103) October 29, 2023
Words to Matthew
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our beloved son and brother,” the family said in a statement. “Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend.”
“You all meant so much to him and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love,” they added.
The official “Friends” social media account posted: “We are devastated to learn of Matthew Perry’s passing. He was a true gift to us all. Our heart goes out to his family, loved ones, and all of his fans.”
Hank Azaria, one of Phoebe’s boyfriends also recognized by the Simpsons, said: “The night I went into AA, Matthew brought me in. The whole first year I was sober, we went to meetings together. I got to tell him this, as a sober person, he was so caring and giving and wise, and he totally helped me get sober. And, I really wish he could’ve found it in himself to stay with the sober life more consistently.”
Maggie Wheeler, who played Chandler’s longtime girlfriend Janice, said: “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.”
Brooke Shields, who had a role in Friends, said: “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.”
Salma Hayek, Perry’s co-star in “Fools Rush In,” said: “Two days ago, I woke up to the shocking news that Matthew Perry is no longer with us. It’s taken me a couple of days to process this profound sadness. There is a special bond that happens when you share dreams with someone, and together you work towards them.”
Actress Christina Ricci encapsulated in one comment the feelings of a large part of the audience: “I burst into tears when I read the news today. I never met Matthew Perry, but I loved him. “Friends” saved me numerous times during hard and lonely times in my life.”
“I downloaded his book and read the whole thing on my cross-country flight today,” she added. “I’m heartbroken… Read his book. It’s another gift he gave us. If you’re struggling with addiction issues it might just save your life.”
“The One Where Our Hearts Are Broken”
“We will always cherish the joy, light, the blinding intelligence he brought to every moment,” said Friends co-creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane. “He was always the funniest person in the room. More than that, he was the sweetest, with a giving and selfless heart.”
“This truly is The One Where Our Hearts Are Broken,” they added.
Matthew Perry hosted SNL on October 4th 1997.
His opening monologue was so funny and charming ❤️#MatthewPerry 💔#Friends pic.twitter.com/vfaWuMMi2s— Sue💚 (@SueTaylor_) October 30, 2023
“We were more than just castmates. We are a family”
Perry’s Friends co-stars Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer and Matt LeBlanc shared a statement: “We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew.”
“We were more than just castmates. 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.”
A cup of coffee at Central Perk
One of Perry’s fans wrote on social media: “I like to think Gunther (James Michael Tyler) was waiting for him with a cup of coffee.” And that’s a very nice thought to have right now.
Images: Policy Exchange Follow and David Shankbone and Fox Broadcasting Company
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