Matthew Perry's Extraordinary Battle: Lisa Kudrow Praises His Remarkable Triumphs
Lisa Kudrow beautifully commended Matthew Perry's remarkable strength in her heartfelt forward for his memoir, published a year before his tragic passing
Matthew Perry and Lisa Kudrow Jason Kempin/Getty Images
Lisa Kudrow wrote a heartfelt foreword for Matthew Perry's memoir a year before his sudden passing.
"During those years, I refrained from trying to interfere or confront him, as my understanding of addiction taught me that his sobriety was beyond my control," Kudrow, aged 60, expressed in Perry's book, Friends, Lovers & The Big Terrible Thing, which was released in November 2022. "Nevertheless, I would occasionally question if I should have taken further action, done something more. However, I eventually comprehended that this illness persistently fueled itself and was unwavering in its course."
In the book, Perry reveals new details about his struggle with addiction during the filming of Friends. He wrote about how his co-stars, including Kudrow, Aniston, and Cox, made efforts to support and help him. Kudrow specifically mentioned her focus on Matthew, who had the ability to make her laugh so intensely that she would cry and struggle to breathe. Despite his personal battles, Matthew remained the same charming, intelligent, and rational person who could lift everyone's spirits during the challenging night shoots, such as the one at the fountain for the opening titles.
Kudrow revealed that she gained a deeper understanding of the struggles her friend endured only after reading his book.
After surviving numerous difficult situations, she admitted that she was oblivious to the countless near misses he experienced.
Expressing her gratitude, she expressed her relief that her friend is still alive and thriving. Lastly, she concluded with a heartfelt declaration of love towards him.
Lisa Kudrow and Matthew Perry Ron Davis/Getty Images
Perry passed away on October 28th, Saturday, at the age of 54 in his Los Angeles residence. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has postponed the determination of the cause of Perry's death due to inconclusive initial findings.
Although the primary cast of Friends has not yet expressed their thoughts on Perry's death, numerous guest stars from the show, such as Maggie Wheeler who portrayed Janice, Chandler's on-and-off girlfriend, have shared heartfelt tributes in his memory.
Wheeler, 62, expressed her sadness via Instagram on Saturday, mourning the loss of Matthew Perry. She recognized the joy he brought to countless lives during his unfortunately brief existence and felt grateful for the creative moments they shared together.
On Sunday, October 29, Matthew's family issued a statement conveying their heartbreak over the devastating loss of their dear son and brother. They acknowledged the immense happiness he brought to the world as both an actor and a friend, and expressed gratitude for the overwhelming display of love and support from all who held a special place in his heart.
