Article Overview
Matthew Perry wanted to be remembered as someone who lived well, loved well, and helped others, not just for his role in Friends.
The actor fought against addiction and transformed his Malibu residence into a sober living facility, committing himself to assist those who are grappling with substance abuse. Perry's endeavor to create a meaningful influence beyond his fame adds an additional dimension to his legacy, which should be honored.
In a November 2022 interview on the Q With Tom Power podcast, Matthew Perry expressed his desire for a lasting legacy that extended beyond his iconic role as Chandler Bing in Friends.
In the quote below, Perry speaks candidly about how he wants to be remembered and what he hoped to spend the rest of his life doing:
I want to be remembered as someone who lived a fulfilling life, loved deeply, was a seeker, and prioritized helping others. That is my ultimate goal.
The most valuable aspect of my character is that when someone reaches out to me, seeking help with their struggle to stop drinking, I can confidently answer "yes" and provide the necessary support. It is my wish that, upon my demise, my commitment to assisting others would be recognized as my foremost achievement. I am determined to exemplify this dedication for the remainder of my existence.
Perry Tried to Help Help Others From His Own Struggles
The actor openly discussed his battles with addiction and his journey to sobriety in a memoir released in 2022. In 1997, Perry became addicted to Vicodin following a jet ski accident and entered rehab in 2001. As of 2021, he proudly declared his sobriety and revealed that he had spent $9 million on his recovery.
Furthermore, Perry transformed his former Malibu residence into a sober living facility called the Perry House, which operated until 2015. He also supported All Rise, an organization advocating for innovation in the justice system to address substance use and mental health disorders. In the wake of his passing, numerous stories have emerged detailing how Perry helped others in their times of need, including a mention by his Friends co-star and Simpsons actor Hank Azaria on Instagram.
Perry's performances on Friends undoubtedly brought joy to millions and served as a great help to many. Beyond his celebrity status, he took his personal struggle and used it to create something better. This adds a touch of sadness to a life lost too soon, but also provides an important aspect to remember him for.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I find Matthew Perry's heartfelt confession about his desired legacy to be both inspiring and moving. His determination to help others find solace in their own struggles is admirable, and his commitment to assisting those grappling with substance abuse is commendable. It is clear that Perry is passionate about making a positive impact on the world, and his legacy will undoubtedly live on long after he is gone.
Perry's story is a reminder that even those who have achieved great success can still be affected by addiction and other personal struggles. However, it is also a reminder that it is possible to overcome these challenges and use them to help others. Perry's transformation of his Malibu residence into a sober living facility is a testament to his commitment to helping others, and his work with All Rise is further evidence of his dedication to making a difference in the world.