'Matthew Perry's Passing Leaves 'Friends' Creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane in Heartbreak'
Marta Kauffman and David Crane, co-creators of 'Friends,' express their heartfelt sorrow over the untimely passing of the exceptionally talented Matthew Perry A touching tribute to the beloved actor who brought life to the iconic character of Chandler Bing
Martka Kauffman and David Crane, the cocreators of the show Friends, along with fellow executive producer Kevin Bright, have shared a joint statement expressing their shock and profound sadness over the sudden death of Matthew Perry. They describe him as a beloved friend and a brilliant talent, emphasizing that he truly made his role his own. They feel blessed to have had him in their lives.
They added, "Ever since we first heard him bring the character of Chandler Bing to life, we were captivated. We will forever hold onto the happiness, the positivity, and the brilliant wit that he brought to every occasion - both professionally and personally. He consistently stood out as the funniest individual in any setting. Moreover, he possessed the kindest spirit, constantly giving of himself without hesitation.”
Reports emerged on Saturday, October 28, announcing Perry's passing at the age of 54. He was discovered unconscious in a hot tub at his residence in California.
The Los Angeles Times reported that there were no indications of any wrongdoing in the case. The cause of death remains undisclosed.
Confirming Perry's demise on Sunday, the medical examiner of the county mentioned that the investigation was still ongoing and an autopsy has been planned.
Marta Kauffman and Matthew Perry. Mathew Imaging/FilmMagic)
Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends. This is a heartbreaking moment for us all, reminiscent of the emotional episodes of Friends. Kauffman, Crane, and Bright, who cast Perry as the witty Chandler Bing, brought us this beloved show that aired from 1994 to 2004.
"I had this overwhelming fear that if they didn't laugh, I would literally die. It's definitely not a healthy mindset, but there were times when I would deliver a joke and there would be silence, causing me to break out in a sweat and have physical tremors," Perry shared during the Friends: The Reunion special in April 2021. "If I didn't receive the expected laugh, it would send me into a panic. I experienced this every single night."
Perry starred alongside Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer in Friends. The strong bond they formed onscreen extended into their personal lives, and they provided unwavering support for Perry as he battled addiction, always encouraging his journey towards sobriety.
Perry expressed his gratitude to Jennifer for being the most supportive. An insider revealed that Aniston always made time to listen to him, even when she was busy or dealing with her own problems. According to the source, Perry believes that Jennifer and others who stood by him during his difficult times saved his life without hesitation.
