Matthew Perry Death

"Goodbye Chandler Bing" - Matthew Perry's Death Strikes the World 

Written By Cali Brancato


On October 28th, 2023, Matthew Perry who is well known around the world for his role of Chandler Bing on the very iconic show, Friends, was found dead in his hot tub at age 54. Law enforcement believes his cause of death was drowning. 


As many people know, the star struggled with substances such as pain killers while filming Friends. In his book, he stated that at one point he was taking up to 55 painkillers a day while he was also abusing alcohol. However, there were no drugs found in his system when he passed away. 


The six stars of Friends including Matthew Perry, Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer, Matt LeBlanc, and Courtney Cox considered each other family. Many Friends fans are very concerned about the five stars who are grieving the unexpected loss of their co-star and very good friend. Fans are especially concerned about Matt LeBlanc as the two had an on screen and off screen relationship like no other. 


The five made a joint statement about Perry's death. “We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are family. There is so much to say, but right now we’re going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss.” The cast says. “In time we will say more, as and when we are able. For now, our thoughts and love are with Matty’s family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world.” 


The group had just been back together on the set of Friends in the HBO Max release of Friends: The Reunion on May 27, 2021. 


The actors were spotted attending Perry's funeral on Friday, November 3rd, at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Los Angeles near Warner Bros. Studio where Friends was filmed. 


Perry as well as his character, Chandler Bing was known for his humor and ability to always make people laugh. However, in an interview with CBC News, Perry stated “When I die, I don't want to be Friends to be the first thing that’s mentioned- I want helping others to be the first thing that's mentioned.” he expressed “And I'm going to live the rest of my life proving that.”


Perry also stated in the interview, “I would like to be remembered as somebody who lived well, loved well, was a seeker, and his paramount thing is that he wants to help people.”


Besides his role on Friends, Perry was well known for helping people who are struggling the way that he struggled for most of his life. He lived his life after the show ended proving that he was more than just the guy who played Chandler Bing, but that he is someone who made a difference in the world; in people's lives. 


Perry wrote his own book, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, where he took readers along his journey from a little boy, to fame, to addiction, and to recovery. The book was written in hopes to give those struggling hope and courage. 


Less than a week after the actor's death, the Matthew Perry Foundation launched in his honor. The foundation's website stated “ The Matthew Perry Foundation is the realization of Matthew's enduring commitment to helping others struggling with the disease of addiction. It will honor his legacy and be guided by his own words and experiences and driven by his passion for making a difference in as many lives as possible.”  


Perry’s family spoke out about his death to People saying, “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our beloved son and brother. Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend.” 


Matthew Perry will continue to make a difference in people's lives even when he is no longer here on earth. His story has touched so many lives and will continue to as his foundation and legacy grows. 


The star will also forever be remembered by the millions of Friends fans all over the world as Max has already added his remembrance to the beginning of each episode. His character Chandler Bing will continue to make people laugh and the show will continue to touch the hearts of many.