In a recent interview with the creators of the iconic TV show “Friends,” Marta Kauffman and David Crane, they shared their last conversations with Matthew Perry, who portrayed the beloved character Chandler Bing. The interview, which aired on the Today show, revealed that Perry was in a happy and positive state during their conversation.
Kauffman expressed her shock and sadness upon hearing the news of Perry’s passing. She mentioned that her first instinct was to text him, highlighting the deep friendship they shared. She described Perry as being emotionally in a good place and commended his efforts to help other addicts, which had given him a sense of purpose.
Perry, aged 54, was found unresponsive in his Los Angeles home. The cause of his death is still under investigation, with the toxicology results pending. The actor rose to superstardom through his role as Chandler on “Friends,” which aired from 1994 to 2004. He went on to star in movies and other TV shows, but his battle with substance abuse remained a constant struggle throughout his life.
During the interview, Crane mentioned Perry’s prior quote about people being shocked but not surprised by his passing. Given the journey Perry had been on, there was always a sense of anticipation for such news. Crane found it difficult to believe that someone as vibrant as Perry was no longer with them.
Kauffman revealed that she had been aware of Perry’s addiction journey over the years. She had spoken to him about it after the reunion special in 2021, where he was open about his struggles. However, she expressed concern about the cycle of pain medication he had to go through due to surgeries, which could potentially trigger a relapse.
The creators, along with Perry’s co-stars Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer, released a joint statement expressing their devastation and emphasizing that they were more than just castmates; they were a family. They requested time to grieve and process the loss before sharing more about their memories of Perry.
The impact of Perry’s passing extends beyond the show’s cast and crew. Fans around the world have also expressed their grief and shared their memories of the actor. Kauffman acknowledged the outpouring of love from fans and hoped that Perry could feel it wherever he may be.
The loss of Matthew Perry is a heartbreaking moment for the “Friends” family and fans alike. His talent, humor, and generosity will always be cherished. The impact he made through his portrayal of Chandler Bing will forever be remembered. As the world mourns his loss, his family and friends appreciate the tremendous love and support they have received.
