"You were loved": Tributes flow over tragic passing of Matthew Perry
The world was left in shock and mourning as news broke of the tragic death of beloved actor Matthew Perry, best known for his iconic role as Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom Friends.
The 54-year-old actor passed away in an apparent drowning accident at his Los Angeles home, leaving a void in the hearts of countless fans and colleagues.
Emergency services were summoned to Perry's residence in the Pacific Palisades neighbourhood after an assistant found him unresponsive. Initial reports indicated that it was a "water rescue or water emergency". Disturbingly, a 911 call made from Perry's home shortly before first responders arrived mentioned the word "drowning." The actor was found unresponsive in his jacuzzi, where his life was tragically cut short.
In the aftermath of this heartbreaking incident, the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed the death investigation at Perry's residence, marking the untimely end of a talented and cherished actor.
The circumstances surrounding Perry's death remain the subject of public speculation. While law enforcement sources reported that no drugs were discovered at the scene and foul play is not suspected, the investigation continues.
The family, including his mother Suzanne Morrison, father John Bennett Perry, and stepfather Dateline NBC's Keith Morrison, issued a statement expressing their profound grief and gratitude for the outpouring of love from fans.
"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our beloved son and brother," the family said. "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."
In the dispatch audio obtained by TMZ, emergency responders referenced a "drowning" incident. While it is reported that Perry was found in a hot tub, a source later claimed that he had just returned home from a game of pickleball.
Perry's passing has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and beyond. Former colleagues and fellow stars have paid their heartfelt tributes to the actor who brought laughter to millions with his portrayal of Chandler Bing.
Maggie Wheeler, who portrayed Chandler's unforgettable on-again, off-again girlfriend, Janice, in Friends, expressed her gratitude for the joy Perry brought into people's lives. She shared on Instagram, "The joy Matthew brought to so many in his too short lifetime will live on. I feel so very blessed by every creative moment we shared."
Morgan Fairchild, who played Chandler's mother, Nora Bing, described herself as "heartbroken" by the untimely loss of her "son". She acknowledged the brilliance of the young actor and the shock that this tragedy has brought to the entertainment world.
Even Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who knew Perry from their shared history when Perry's mother worked as an aide to Trudeau's father, former Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, expressed his grief. Trudeau remembered the schoolyard games they played and the worldwide joy that Perry brought to fans. He said, "Thanks for all the laughs, Matthew. You were loved – and you will be missed."
Piers Morgan, the renowned broadcaster and journalist, acknowledged Perry's talent as an actor but also recognised the struggles he faced. Perry's candid autobiography about his battle with addiction left a profound impact, and his passing is a stark reminder of the difficulties he endured.
Warner Bros Television Group, which produced Friends for its entire run, released a statement expressing their devastation over the loss of their dear friend. “We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry. Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros Television Group family. The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many. This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our love to his family, his loved ones, and all of his devoted fans.”
NBC, the network that aired Friends, also paid tribute to the late actor, highlighting the immense joy he brought to millions through his pitch-perfect comedic timing and wry wit. They emphasised that his legacy will continue to live on through countless generations.
The passing of Matthew Perry is a loss not only for his family and friends but also for the countless individuals whose lives were brightened by his humour and talent. His portrayal of Chandler Bing on Friends remains etched in the hearts of fans around the world, and his memory will live on as an enduring source of laughter and joy.
Images: Getty / NBC / Instagram