Beloved “Friends” actor Matthew Perry tragically passed away on October 28, 2022, at the age of 54. Perry’s cause of death was listed as an apparent drowning in a hot tub at his home in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner is currently conducting an investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding Perry’s death.
Perry skyrocketed to fame through his iconic role as Chandler Bing on the hit television show “Friends,” which aired from 1994 to 2004. His undeniable talent and comedic timing helped cement “Friends” as one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time. In fact, during the final years of the show, Perry and his co-stars were earning an unprecedented $1 million per episode.
Although his success on “Friends” brought him fame and fortune, Perry struggled with substance abuse during the peak of his career. However, he managed to achieve sobriety during the ninth season of “Friends” and dedicated a significant amount of money, approximately $9 million, to his battle with addiction. Perry’s triumph over addiction inspired many, and he chronicled his journey in a tell-all memoir titled “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” released earlier this year.
Following the end of “Friends,” Perry found success on other television shows, earning Emmy nominations for his work on “The West Wing” and “The Ron Clark Story.” In 2021, fans of the beloved sitcom were treated to a much-anticipated reunion special, where each cast member reportedly earned $2.5 million for their participation.
Tragically, Perry’s passing has sparked a renewed interest in his memoir, which has become a bestseller. To honor his memory and continue his advocacy for addiction recovery, the Matthew Perry Foundation was established. The foundation aims to provide support and resources to those struggling with addiction.
As for his estate, the fate of Perry’s sizable fortune is still being determined. Since he did not have a spouse or children, it is likely that his parents will inherit his wealth.
Despite his battles, Perry expressed that his time on “Friends” ultimately saved his life. The legacy he leaves behind is one of immense talent, resilience, and the enduring impact of a beloved character that will continue to bring joy to audiences for generations to come.
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