The unexpected death of Matthew Perry shocked the entertainment industry, prompting TV fans around the world to reflect on the life of one of the brightest sitcom stars of the past three decades.
The “Friends” star was found dead in a jacuzzi in his Los Angeles home around 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 28. The 54-year-old actor had remained in the public eye until the very end, appearing in the 2020 “Friends” reunion special and sharing candid stories of his battles with addiction in his 2022 memoir “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing.” His sudden passing caught many of his fans off guard, but shock soon gave way to appreciation of a singular television career.
“We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry,” a spokesperson for Warner Bros. Television Group said in a statement provided to IndieWire. “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.”
On social media, many of Perry’s friends and collaborators used their personal accounts to share memories of the five-time Emmy nominee. Waves of tributes from “Friends” co-stars and famous fans began to roll in on Saturday night, with many praising Perry’s sharp comedic chops and his unending commitment to helping others recover from addiction.
Keep reading for a roundup of social media tributes to Perry.